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 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.
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.
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.
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.
C&K Basildon Ladies moves back to within a point of leaders Crystal Palace Ladies in the FAWPL Southern Division with a narrow 1-0 home win over 4th placed Lewes FC Women on Sunday. Ex-Lewes defender Hayley West finding the back of the net following in a scramble for the ball inside the box from a Zoe Rushen free-kick on the half hour. C&K Basildon maintaining their 100% winning home record in their penultimate game at Canvey Island FC. Have a game in hand on leaders Crystal Palace.
Just a point further back behind C&K Basildon 3rd placed Charlton Athletic Women have 3 games in hand of Crystal Palace picking up their 7th away win of the season at Coventry United Ladies on Sunday. Kit Graham netting a goal midway through the 1st half to give Charlton a 1-0 advantage at half-time. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Graham struck again to make it 2-0 with her 31st goal of the season. The points made secure in the last 10 minutes with Hope Nash firing in her 3rd goal of the season to make it 3-0.
West Ham United Ladies incredible run of form continues as they recorded a convincing win at home to 5th place Portsmouth FC Ladies this Sunday. Unbeaten in 2018 defender Hannah Wheeler set West Ham on their way heading home from a corner in the 16th minute. Kelly Wealthall doubling the lead midway through the 1st half. Rosie Kmita adding a 3rd goal with 8 minutes of the 1st period to play. 3-0 up at the break. West Ham started the 2nd half brightly creating further chances before Jasmine Auguste found the back of the net for her 1st West Ham goal to make it 4-0 on 55 minutes. Wealthall struck again for her 2nd of the game soon after to make it 5-0. Daisy McLachan pulling a goal back for Portsmouth from a free-kick with 10 minutes left. West Ham going on to add a further 2 goals in the final 5 minutes to win the game 7-1, Leanne Mabey getting on the scoresheet with Wealthall completing her hat-trick in the final minute.
Playing their penultimate game of a very tough season bottom side Swindon Town Ladies without a point on the board travelled down south to play Chichester City Ladies on Sunday. The visitors holding the advantage at half-time Swindon Town a goal to the good thanks to a strike from Sophie Roberts. Chichester City finding a leveller on the hour with Jade Widdows scoring to make it 1-1. Deep into injury time just as it looked like Swindon might hold on to claim their 1st point of the season Chichester City found the winner, Jess Lewry sending the ball home to win it at the death 4 minutes onto stoppage time.
Gillingham FC Ladies pull further away from the danger zone at the bottom of the Southern Division with a home win against 2nd bottom Queens Park Ladies on Sunday. Gillingham going into the lead on the stroke of half-time awarded a penalty kick, Kallie Balfour from the spot sending the ball into the back of the net. Gillingham then saw themselves reduced to 10 10 minutes into the 2nd period with Courtney Gibson red carded for dissent. Despite the player advantage Queens Park Rangers couldn’t capitalise, Gillingham doubling their lead with 12 minutes left on the clock captain Jade Keogh on target. Keogh making it a brace on the final minute to see Gillingham win the game 3-0.
FAWPL South East Division One
Two matches played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday. 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies hosting 6th placed Luton Town Ladies. The host side taking an early lead in the match with midfielder Cassie Craddock scoring the goal to make it 1-0. Natasha Thomas doubling Ipswich Town’s lead midway through the 2nd half. A 2-0 lead at the break Luton were far from out of the game both sides creating opportunities Luton were awarded a penalty in the 66th minute a chance to make it 2-1 lost the ball put wide. Goalkeeper Sian Fagg with some excellent saves to keep Luton at bay the visitors finally pulling a goal back in stoppage time Funmi Babalola with the goal. Ipswich moving 4 points clear of 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC both with 3 games left to play.
Games running out at the other end of the table for Norwich City Ladies too as the 2nd bottom side 8 points adrift of 10th placed Denham United suffered a narrow loss at home to Actonians Ladies on Sunday. Sara Lopez Ezzahiri with her 1st goal for the 1st team in her 2nd appearance of the season winning it 1-0 for the visitors who climb up to 7th as a result pulling well away from the bottom having slipped down the table now back amongst the sides clustered in mid-table with a 3rd straight league win.
This Sunday saw the final of this season’s FAWPL League Plate being played at Hednesford Town FC. A late change in the line-up with Southern Division side West Ham United Ladies taking on South East Division One side, Luton Town Ladies after their semi-final opponents Fylde Ladies were removed from the competition. A first ever National final for Luton Town Ladies.
Luton Town the underdogs coming up against higher league opponents West Ham United who had had a terrific 2018 to date unbeaten in the year so far. Winning their 1st piece of silverware too this season the Isthmian Cup. West Ham United taking the lead midway through the 1st half Amber Stobbs striking the ball from 25 yards out the ball kissing the crossbar on its way in. 4 minutes later Kelly Wealthall was on hand to capitalise on a defensive error to make it 2-0. That the advantage at the break.
Ellie Zoepfl running through on goal to extend the lead early in the 2nd half. West Ham United in control of the game went on to score twice more, Rosie Kmita curling a great shot into the back of the net and Zoepfl with her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. West Ham United Ladies this season’s FAWPL League Plate winners. Congratulations to everyone at the club.
West Ham United Ladies 2017/18 FAWPL League Plate Winners (picture credit West Ham United Ladies)
FAWPL Southern Division
In the FAWPL Southern Division it was a meeting between the top two with 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies travelling to Crystal Palace Ladies, a point between the sides. A close game between the sides few chances created in the 1st half the stalemate broken with just 3 minutes left on the clock Ellie Bailes scoring to give Crystal Palace a narrow half-time lead. Crystal Palace started the 2nd half well creating chances C&K Basildon keeping them at bay looking to find a leveller at the other end the lead for Crystal Place made more secure with just 5 minutes left to play the home side awarded a penalty which was coolly dispatched by the clubs top scorer Gemma Bryan. A win for Crystal Palace seeing them go 4 points clear of C&K Basildon who still have two games in hand.
Charlton Athletic Women in 3rd position in the Southern Division table have 4 games in hand on Crystal Palace as they close the gap to 5 points with a victory on home turf on Sunday. A close one however as they left it late to grab a winning goal against 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies. Just 5 minutes left to play when the dead lock was finally broken Kit Graham sending the ball into the corner of the net for the 3 points.
4th placed Lewes FC Women travelled to the capital on Sunday to take on 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Came home with the 3 points secure in what was a bruising encounter! The visitors taking the lead on the half hour top scorer Rebecca Carter netting her 12th goal of the season. Into 1st half stoppage time and the lead was doubled Victoria Carleton making it 2-0 to Lewes at half-time. On the hour Lewes further extended their lead Danielle Lane with her 11th goal of the season making it 3-0. That the winning score.
Coventry United Ladies climb back up into the top half of the Southern Division table with a home win against Chichester City Ladies this Sunday. Alison Hall scoring twice midway through the 1st half to see Coventry United leading 2-0 at the break. Hall securing her hat-trick on the hour for her 20th goal of the season and 3-0 lead for Coventry United. Chloe Tucker netting a late goal for Chichester City on a 3-1 loss.
Cardiff City Ladies move up above Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division table into 9th as they won against the Kent side this Sunday. Cardiff City getting of f to a fantastic start Kelly Issac making it 1-0 in the 7th minute. Estelle Randall with some fine saves keeping Gillingham out. The visitors getting it back to 1-1 eventually in the 25th minute Millie Waud with the goal. 1-1 at half-time Cardiff City started the 2nd half well capitalising as the retook the lead in the 57th minute captain Cori Williams with the goal. Again Gillingham came back to level the scores Maddison Farrand with her 1st goal. Five minutes later and Cardiff City took the lead for the 3rd time in the match Ella Powell seeing the ball cross the goal line to make it 3-2. This time Gillingham could find no reply as Cardiff City won the 3 points.
FAWPL South East Division One
A healthy lead still in FAWPL South east Division One for AFC Wimbledon Ladies however they are stuttering a bit towards the end of the season as they suffer a 2nd successive loss in the league away to 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC this Sunday. New signing Lisa Fulgence was making her first start for Leyton Orient and grabbed her 1st two goals for the club to put the home side 2-0 up against the league leaders inside the opening 25 minutes. Caroline Bisson getting it back to 2-1 for AFC Wimbledon 10 minutes before half-time. No more goals 2nd half as Leyton Orient worked hard to keep their lead and claim the 3 points. AFC Wimbledon Ladies have two games left to play lead the table by 10 points that lead can yet be overhauled if maximum points can be won elsewhere… I won’t say by who…
Ipswich Town Ladies in 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table continue to enjoy a strong season with a confident win away to Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The visitors getting off to a blistering start Zoe Cossey putting Ipswich Town into the lead in the opening 30 seconds. Cossey striking again midway through the 1st half to see Ipswich Town hold a 2-0 lead at the break. Ipswich Town creating chances went further ahead early in the 2nd half awarded a penalty captain Amanda Crump stepping up to score from the spot. Gemma Moore grabbing herself a goal with 20 minutes left to make it 4-0. Lauren Cox pulling a goal back for Denham United with 15 left. Natasha Thomas scoring a 5th goal for Ipswich Town with 5 minutes left to play Cossey going on t complete her hat-trick in the closing minutes and seal a 6-1 win.
Norwich City Ladies were hosting 6th placed Stevenage Ladies on Sunday the game looked to be heading for a 0-0 with minutes left to play Stevenage creating chances but not converting one. Norwich coming close up the other end striking the post. The visitors grabbing a late late winner Nicole Emmings striking the ball into the back of the net with a 25 yard shot. The 1-0 win taking Stevenage back above Luton Town into 5th spot in the table.
Victory for Crystal Palace Ladies away to Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday sees them maintain the lead in the FAWPL Southern Division a point clear of 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies with the Essex side also clinching a narrow home win on Sunday both sides pulling away from 3rd placed Charlton Athletic Women who weren’t in action this weekend.
A trip to Wales for Crystal Palace Ladies this Sunday Amy Green with the only goal in the 1st half to see the visitors leading Cardiff City Ladies by a goal at the half-time interval. Sarah Jones with a strike early in the 2nd half to double Crystal Palace’s lead. Cardiff City captain Cori Williams getting it back to 2-1. Top scorer Gemma Bryan restoring Crystal Palace’s 2 goal lead. Ellie Stenning getting on the score sheet to make it 4-1 to Crystal Palace. Williams with her 2nd of the match reducing the deficit for Cardiff City. Stenning claiming a 2nd goal of the game too late on seeing Crystal Palace win the match 5-2.
C&K Basildon Ladies were hosting Coventry United Ladies at Canvey Island FC on Sunday. Knew this one would be a close one. Proved to be the case goalless at the break the deadlock was broken early in the 2nd half captain Zoe Rushen putting the ball into the back of the net in the 48th minute for CK Basildon Ladies. Coventry United pushed hard to find a reply as C&K Basildon defended resolutely to keep their goal intact and despite a fair bit of stoppage time the hosts claimed their 14th league win of the season to keep pace with Crystal Palace. Coventry United due to results elsewhere slip down to 7th in the league but have plenty of games left to play still having 10 left postponements and cup runs leaving them playing catch up.
4th placed Lewes ladies were at home this Sunday taking in Kent side Gillingham FC Ladies. A goal from Danielle Lane on the half hour putting the hosts into the lead heading the ball into the back of the net from inside the box. 1 nil the advantage for much of the 2nd half Lewes creating chances, Gillingham defending it wasn’t until the final 3 minutes of the match that the result was made more secure the lead doubled as Lane got forwards to send home her 2nd goal of the game a clinch a 2-0 win for Lewes.
A 2nd successive win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies see’s 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies keep up the pressure on Lewes the gap just a point. 5-0 at home to Swindon Town last Sunday Portsmouth were on the road this weekend. Swindon Town still without a point aren’t going out with a whimper however holding Portsmouth to a goalless 1st half the stalemate wasn’t broken until midway through the 2nd half a goal from Daisy McLachlan. Heading into the last 10 minutes Portsmouth doubled their lead Katie James with the goal. The 3 points secured in 88th minute with substitute Samantha Quayle sending the ball home to make it 3-0.
West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continued this weekend as they won big to move up into the top half of the FAWPL Southern Division for the 1st time this season. Were on the road on Sunday taking on Queen’s Park Rangers Ladies. Came into the match fresh from winning the Isthmian League Cup Final coming back for 1-0 down to beat Charlton Athletic Women 2-1. West Ham hit the ground running against QPR taking the lead in the 10th minute Amber Stobbs with the goal. Chantelle Mackie doubling the lead just 3 minutes later. Kelly Weathall putting West Ham 3-0 with just 20 minutes played. A goal from Ellie Zoepfl seeing West Ham leading 4-0 at half-time. The goals continued to flow 2nd half Zoepfl with her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. A 2nd goal for Weathall was quickly followed by a goal for Rosie Kmita on 70 minutes to make it 7-0.Into the final 10 minutes and Weathall wrapped up her hat-trick. The final score 10-0 as Stobbs claimed her 2nd of the game and a strike from Andria Georgiou saw West Ham keep up their unbeaten form since the start of the year.
FAWPL South East Division One
A couple of matches falling foul of the weather in the FAWPL South East Division One at the weekend a very late call off for Stevenage Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies. The hosts missing out on a chance to build on their midweek win over Luton Town Ladies, a goal from Amy Makewell securing a 1-0 making it all very tight in the middle of the table. Stevenage moving above Luton into 5th position after that result.
Luton Town Ladies were away this Sunday against bottom side Haringey Borough Women a big win seeing them reclaim 5th position. Natasha Fensome top scoring in the game as she found the back of the net for 5 goals. Jess McKay close behind grabbing 4 goals. Nicola Henman also scoring a brace with a goal a piece for captain Zara Carroll, Dionne Manning and Funmi Babalola in a 14-0 success.
More good news for Luton Town Ladies as they are reinstated to the FAWPL Plate competition and going to be competing in their 1st ever national final after their semi-final opponents Fylde Ladies who narrowly beat them 2-1 were removed from the competition for fielding an ineligible player. Luton Town Ladies with now take on West Ham United Ladies this coming Sunday 15th April in the FAWPL Plate Final to be played at Hednesford Town a 3pm kick-off.
Cambridge United Ladies are another side contested those positions in the middle of the FAWPL South East Division One table and saw another result go against them in their final home match at Mildenhall Town FC this season (a game at The Abbey Stadium to look forwards too) Taking on Actonians Ladies the visitors taking their chances to see them win the game 2-0 Carla Williams and Katrina Duncan Marshalleck scoring the goals. Actonians form improving towards the end of the season now right up with the mid-table battle 2 points behind Cambridge just 4 points separating the sides placed 4th to 8th now.
Charlton Athletic Women were the only side left from outside the FAWSL left in the FA Women’s Cup reaching the last 8 a great achievement for the side leading the FAWPL Southern Division going into the quarter final on Sunday up against 14 times winners of the FA Women’s Cup, Arsenal Women at Borehamwood. Postponed from last Sunday it was a special occasion for Charlton Athletic striker, Kit Graham making her 200th appearance for the club. A big test up against Arsenal the FAWSL club taking an early lead in the tie awarded a penalty in the 4th minute, Scottish International, Kim Little stepping up to score. Arsenal created further chances throughout the 2nd half Charlton working hard in defence keeping the score down to 1-0 at half-time.
10 minutes into the 2nd half Arsenal doubled their lead Heather O’Reilly sending the ball home to make it 2-0 then 5 minutes later it was 3-0 to the hosts with Dutch International Vivianne Miedema scoring the goal. As Charlton Athletic began to tire towards the latter stages of the match Arsenal took advantage to further extend their lead in the final 5 minutes with England’s Danielle Carter and Jordan Nobbs both getting their names on the scoresheet to send Arsenal into the semi-finals. An away trip to Everton Ladies awaits on the 15th April with Chelsea Ladies at home to Manchester City Women in the other semi-final and for the 1st time in history both games will be shown live by the BBC.
FAWPL Cup
At last Coventry United Ladies got to play their semi-final in the FAWPL Cup on Sunday after several postponement due to the weather and other fixtures. A long trip up to Lancashire to play Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies the winner meeting Leicester City Women in the Final. Keeley Davies getting the goal to put Coventry United into a 1-0 half-time lead. A screamer into the top corner from Helen Dermody in the 2nd half doubling Coventry United’s lead before Saffron Jordan pulled a goal back for Blackburn Rovers with 20 minutes left. The host pushing hard for an equalising goal broke Coventry United’s resistance in stoppage time Jordan with her 2nd of the match to take the tie into extra-time. A tense half hour followed with neither side able to win the game in open play the tie heading to penalties, heartbreak for Coventry United joy for Blackburn Rovers as they won the shootout 3-2 to reach the FAWPL Cup Final.
FAWPL Southern Division
With Charlton Athletic Women in action in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was another opportunity for 2nd & 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies to move back above them at the top of the Southern Division table. Crystal Palace making to trip down south to play Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors celebrating an early goal and a fabulous milestone too for Crystal Palace’s Gemma Bryan as she scored her 100th goal for the club.
Ellie Bailes also on target in the 1st half to make it 2-0 to Crystal Palace who were awarded a penalty as the game closed in on the half hour, Bryan stepping up to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 the advantage at half-time Crystal Palace made sure of the win extending their lead with 20 minutes left, Bryan going on to complete a hat-trick taking Crystal Palace back to the top of the Southern Division table.
C&K Basildon Ladies were also on the road travelling to Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies the 3rd placed side taking the lead with Paige Wakefield on target. 1-0 became 2-0 with Therese Addison putting the ball past the keeper. Cardiff City getting it back to 2-1 before the half-time whistle. A diving header from Angela Addison restored Basildon’s 2 goal lead. Again Cardiff City pulled a goal back to make it 3-2. Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match to make it 4-2 and see Basildon win all 3 points taking them into 2nd position in the table. Sophie Thomas and Cori Williams scoring the goals for Cardiff City.
At home in the league for the 1st time since November, Chichester City Ladies were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division this Sunday. The sides going in all square at the break a single goal was enough to secure all 3 points the goal for the hosts with Jess Lewry sending the ball into the back of the net on the hour to put Chichester City in front and seal the win.
Fourth placed Lewes FC Women were also finally back in league action after cup competitions had kept them busy since the end of November. At home were taking on Queens Park Rangers this Sunday. Chances not taken it looked as though the sides would be going in level at the break, Lewes breaking the deadlock with a minute of the first half left to play, Rebecca Carter with her 11th goal of the season. Danielle Lane doubling Lewes lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. The result made comfortable midway through the 2nd half as Sarah Kempson put the ball home to make it 3-0.
West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they extend their unbeaten run to 9 games, a fourth straight win this Sunday away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. A narrow lead for the visitors at half-time Leanna Mabey with the goal. A blistering start to the 2nd half with youngster Kelly Wealthall netting with 22 seconds after kick-off to make it 2-0. Ellie Zoefpl scoring on 65 minutes to extend the lead to 3-0. Molly Clark then scoring to make it 4-0 her first goal for West Ham United. Weathall getting her 2nd of the game for a 5-0 lead with Zoefpl also getting her 2nd of the game in the final minute to see West Ham United win 6-0.
FAWPL South East Division One
Plenty of action too this Sunday in FAWPL South East Division One. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were a massive 16 points clear at the top of the table as they travelled to rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on Sunday the 4th placed side with plenty of games in hand could yet catch AFC Wimbledon if they could claim maximum points in the run in. Women’s Football East was there to see all the action and the full match report can be found under this post. A competitive and tense affair between two committed sides had a derby feel to the match neither wanting to give anything away led to few opportunities being created in the final third the sides going in all square at 0-0 at half time at Newport Pagnell FC.
Milton Keynes, Alice Hughes with AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield
The deadlock broken early in the 2nd half the high tempo pace of the 1st half continuing Milton Keynes broke the ball out to striker Heather McDonnell moving wide left good hold-up play drawing players towards her the cross whipped into the box found Kim Farrow running in on goal her header taking the ball wide of the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0 a goal on her debut for the club. Milton Keynes working hard at the back and midfield to keep AFC Wimbledon at bay the visitors pushing for an equaliser striker Caroline Bisson coming closest putting her header just wide of the near post. Milton Keynes winning the game 1-0 move up into 3rd position behind Leyton Orient WFC. AFC Wimbledon despite the set back remain 14 points clear at the top of the table.
Leyton Orient WFC took all 3 points ta home on Sunday to climb above Ipswich Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Were hosting Norfolk side, Norwich City Ladies. Leyton Orient getting off to a fantastic start going 1-0 up inside the 1st minute top scorer Sophie Le Marchand on target. 10 minutes later Leyton Orient were presented with an opportunity to double their lead from the penalty spot Le Marchand stepping up to put the ball into the back of the net for 2-0. Le Marchand then completed a 1st half hat-trick with 4 minutes left to play to take her onto 22 goals for the season and see Leyton Orient leading 3-0. Norwich City pulled a goal back 7 minutes into the 2nd half Millie Daviss scoring to make it 3-1. On the hour Hayley Barton got on the scoresheet for Leyton Orient to see them lead 4-1 and go on to claim all 3 points.
It was 5th versus 6th as Luton Town Ladies travelled to Cambridge United WFC on Sunday 2 points between the sides. Luton Town creating several chances in the first half but unable to breach the Cambridge United defence. The hosts continued to defend well 2nd half, going in front with Amber Cantwell scoring the goal it was enough for Cambridge United to win the match and as a result move above Luton Town into 5th position in the table.
The battle in mid-table looks incredibly close with Stevenage Ladies continuing their recent good form to close the gap to 6th placed Luton Town to just 2 points. Fresh from winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Stevenage were on the road at the weekend taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. Leah Littlechild top scoring in the game got 4 more goals to her name taking her onto 14 for the season. Not quite enough to make her top scorer but amongst the contenders, Amy Makewell was also on target for a goal to take her also onto 14 but a brace from captain Donna McGuigan keeps her nose just in front with 15 so far this season. Goals to for midfielders, Chloe Gunn and Amy Josland along with an own goal to see Stevenage win 10-2. Shanice Nourrice and Jonea Peter on target with a goal each for Haringey.
Actonians Ladies were back in league action for the 1st time in a month at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. A goal from Alessandra Barreca late in the 1st half seeing Actonians leading 1-0 at the break. A close contest it wasn’t till the final 10 minutes before Actonians made their lead more secure Barreca on target for her 2nd went on to complete her hat-trick 3 minutes into stoppage time scoring from the penalty spot to take her onto 17 goals for the season.
Another weekend sadly affected by postponements albeit not as heavily as last weekend where only 4 games survived in the East. The FAWPL fairing better than most Charlton Athletic Ladies returning back to the top of the Southern Division after being over taken by Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies in recent weeks, the top two due to face each other this Sunday their top of the table clash falling foul of a water logged pitch.
Not so at Thamesmead Charlton took on Cardiff City Ladies. A good start for the hosts, goals from Kit Graham and Charlotte Gurr putting them into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Cardiff pulling it back to 2-1 after they were awarded a penalty Cori Williams stepping up to score. Gurr quickly restoring Charlton’s 2 goal lead on 32 minutes sending home a free-kick after Graham was fouled outside the area. A good first half for Charlton with Graham netting her 2nd of the match in the 41st minute to see the hosts leading 4-1 at half-time. Gurr moving onto 32 goals for the season as she completed her hat-trick 15 minutes into the 2nd half with Charlton going on to win 5-1 taking them back to the top.
That defeat for Cardiff coupled with a victory on the road away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies saw Gillingham FC Ladies move up a place into 9th in the Southern Division table. Gillingham enjoying a good first 45 minutes against their opponents going into the half-time interval leading 3-0. Top scorers Kallie Balfour scoring twice on 20 and 31 minutes with the 3rd goal coming from captain, Jade Keogh. Balfour going on to complete her hat-trick scoring her 3rd and Gillingham’s 4th with 20 minutes left.
West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they remain unbeaten in a run of 7 matches in league and cup. Following up from booking their spot in this season’s FAWPL Plate Final last weekend were at home in the league this Sunday taking on Chichester City Ladies. A goal from Amber Stobbs midway through the 1st half giving West Ham a narrow advantage that they held onto for much of the game the 3 points secured 2 minutes from time as Stobbs found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game. 2-0 the final score.
FAWPL Cup
Postponed from last weekend due to the bad weather, Lewes FC Women travelled up to the East Midlands on Sunday to take on Leicester City Women in the semi-final of the FAWPL Cup. A good start for Lewes as they took the lead against the side they knocked out of the FAWPL Plate at the same stage last season, Amy Taylor scoring to give the visitors the lead in the 10th minute. Leicester though were soon back on level terms Leigh Dugmore scoring the equaliser just 2 minutes later. 4 minutes later the hosts had turned it around to lead 2-1 Holly Morgan getting on the score sheet to make it 2-1 holding onto the advantage until half-time a bright start to the 2nd half put Leicester in control of the tie a 2 goals in 6 minutes from Sophia Domingo making it 4-1. Lewes could not find a response as Leicester held firm, Sarah Kempson getting a goal late in stoppage time too little too late as Lewes were defeated 4-2, Leicester City Women will play either Blackburn Rovers Ladies or Coventry United Ladies in the final that will now be played on the 25th of March after the tie was postponed for the 2nd time this Sunday.
FAWPL Plate
The finalists for this season’s FAWPL Plate Final were confirmed this Sunday as Luton Town Ladies match at home to Fylde Ladies postponed from last Sunday took place this Sunday with West Ham United Ladies already there. Luton Town Ladies in the league below Fylde Ladies taking the lead in the match a goal from Nicola Henman and despite Fylde creating opportunities then hosts looked like they might hold out for the victory until the final 12 minutes as Fylde turned the game completely on it’s head, Olivia Wild levelling the score before Alys Hinchcliffe netted what would prove to be the winning goal to send the Northern Division side into the Plate final
This season’s FAWPL Plate Final between West Ham United Ladies & Fylde Ladies will be played at Hednesford Town FC’s Keys Park Stadium on the 15th of April.
FAWPL South East Division One
A 16 point lead now at the top of FAWPL South East Division One for AFC Wimbledon Ladies after winning on the road away to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. The sides meeting recently in the reverse fixture Wimbledon winning comfortably 8-2, Norwich City have improved since then and ran there opponents much closer this time around. The opening goal coming just past the half hour with Georgia Heasman netting the goal to give Wimbledon the lead. Caroline Bisson doubling their advantage in the closing stages of the 1st half. Norwich pulling a goal back 5 minutes into the 2nd half, a strike from Chelsea Garrett. Making for a tense end to the match Wimbledon have won a good percentage of their matches by a single goal advantage and held on once again to claim all 3 points.
The fight for for places below them is extremely hot with Ipswich Town Ladies, Leyton Orient WFC and Milton Keynes Dons all the hunt for runners-up spot. Milton Keynes with games in hand could yet chase Wimbledon down if they can gain maximum points, were away to 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies this Sunday in a tight and scrappy game the win coming from a wonder strike from Milton Keynes, Charly Clarke 3 minutes from time. Ipswich Town’s faint hop of catching the leaders looking over. 2 points between 2nd placed Ipswich and 4th placed Milton Keynes now.
Sandwiched in between them Leyton Orient WFC also failed to pick up any points on Sunday after they were defeated at home by Cambridge United WFC in a battling and determined performance. The visitors taking the lead in the 21st minute Faith Hewitt arriving in the box to put home Lauren Cartwright’s cross. 1-0 the lead at the break Cambridge United’s defence of their advantage was made all the harder as they were reduced to 10 players 10 minutes into the 2nd half Cartwright picking up two quick yellows to see her afternoon finish early. Cambridge United worked hard determination to keep their lead and win all 3 points.
At the other end of the South East Division One table Denham United Ladies were in danger of getting caught up in the battle at the bottom as Norwich City Ladies winning last weekend had closed the gap on them to 5 points. At home to Enfield Town Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Sophie Cheadle and Alissa Down putting the hosts into a 2-0 half-time lead. Enfield Town pulling it back to 2-1 10 minutes into the 2nd half with Regan Coleman getting the goal. An incident soon after seeing Enfield reduced to 10 with Nuala McKevitt shown a red card. Denham taking full advantage of their superior number on the field, as Kayleigh Currivan shot to make it 3-1. Down adding her 2nd of the match too to see Denham win 4-1 taking them 8 points clear of Norwich.
