Category Archives: Match Reports

Match Report – Bedford Ladies v Millwall Lionesses

Sunday 23rd February

ERWFL Cup

 Left it to the last minute before committing to a game this weekend with another band of rain falling overnight, the two previous weekend it by Storm’s Ciara and Dennis respectfully as it was I headed to the game I planned on seeing a fortnight ago, the ERWFL quarter final match between Bedford Ladies and Millwall Lionesses.

 Mind you if I’d have known how bad the roadworks would be between Norfolk and Bedfordshire I might have headed in the opposite direction as it was it was a trip well worth making as you shall read on later on.

 The ERWFL Cup into the quarter final stage put on hold this past fortnight with the bad weather virtually no football played teams keen to get back at it this weekend. A strong line-up in the last eight of the competition the ERWFL Premier Division in particular highly competitive, Millwall Lionesses the only Division One side left from outside the division.

  Bedford Ladies coming into the game in a good run of form winning 6 straight games in league and cup a run that has seen them climb up to 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division. An long established side at this level briefly playing higher well amongst the sides battling for a top 4 finish anyone down to 9th position still in contention. Bedford reached the final of the League Cup last season eventually losing out on penalties to Cambridge City Ladies completing a league and cup double last season. A 2-1 away win against Division One North side Newmarket Town Women saw then advance into the last 8 of this season’s competition.

  Millwall Lionesses a new face in the ERWFL. Virtually a new side rebuilding after the women’s section broke away from Millwall in go independent as London City Lionesses keeping their FA Championship status as a result. Millwall Lionesses left to start over a fresh. Know a little of what that’s like myself having been a Lincoln Ladies fan in the FAWSL before they ‘rebranded’ still every cloud has a silver lining and without that Women’s Football East would never have been born. This is about Millwall Lionesses however a new side, has great support from Millwall FC, a strong and passionate fan base and excellent media coverage as they look to start again in the 6th tier of the women’s football pyramid.

Playing in ERWFL Division one South are top of the table with 8 games played unbeaten and aiming for the title, Essex side Hutton Ladies with a 100% and games in hand their main rivals can’t afford to take their foot off the gas. The ERWFL Cup featuring a group stage for the Division One sides this season 4 groups of 4 with the winners going on to the knockout stages joined by the 12 Premier Division sides. Millwall Lionesses neck and neck with Division One North leaders in Group B a play off match needed to decide the winner Millwall Lionesses progressing to play AFC Dunstable Women in the 1st knockout round a single goal enough to win the game netted by top scorer Shannan Drewe setting up an away trip to Bedford in the quarter finals the clubs sternest test yet.

 The Eyrie the venue for today’s match home of Bedford Town FC, just off the A421 into Bedford, my first trip to the stadium featured a large clubhouse leading into the ground with a bar serving hot food and drink. A large wall mounted TV screen great for showing sports events. Leading out onto a stadium itself a seated stand on one side a terraced stand the other cover at both goal ends. A nice layout a good sized pitch in good condition despite the recent bad weather. Cloudy but the rain had passed the sun setting behind one side of the stadium would cause a few issues during the game… but I can’t really complain about the sun can I.

 Bedford Ladies starting XI – Lauren Webb, Mollie Robinson, Nina Regolo, Gemma Franklin, Ashley Emerton, Jasmine Ajayi, Priya Bhatti (C), Shianne Swarres, Matilda Fidler, Maya Sidhu & Natasha Fensome. Subs – Alicia Cobb, Chelcie Alleyne, Lauren Murray & Setor Acolatse.

 Millwall Lionesses starting XI – Kelly Webster, Millie Connell, Alyssa Miranda, Elena Stonebrook, Sian Fitzpatrick, Libby Stubbs (C), Katie Klosinski, Kaitlyn Lewis, Olivia Gregory, Shannan Drewe & Molly Hawkins. Subs – Jansu Mentesh, Samantha Middleton, Daniella Correa.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Bedford to get the cup tie underway kicking off the 1st half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Millwall lined up opposite in their away colours white shirts and shorts with navy blue socks with white hoops. The ball played back in their defence Millwall rush on to close the ball down quickly preventing Bedford getting out the ball pinging around in the middle, Millwall captain Libby Stubbs sets Olivia Gregory away free on the right wing to chase the ball down, Gemma Franklin coming across to get back on her slide in to make the tackle and send the ball out for an early corner.

  Bedford defending the corner look to counter attack bringing the ball on Millwall close the ball down keeping the pressure in their attacking third a diagonal ball played out to the right of the area a shot clipped in taking a deflection putting it wide for a 2nd corner. This time on the left attacked at the near post behind for a third corner. Bedford goalkeeper Lauren Webb coming out from her near post to catch the ball. Millwall lively early on aren’t letting Bedford out of their half Stubbs playing Gregory in to space on the right takes the ball on into the area flashing a dangerous ball across the top of the six yard box, Ashley Emerton defending against Molly Hawkins at the far post brings a 5th Millwall corner. 

Millwall Lionesses captain Libby Stubbs looking to get the better of her Bedford Ladies counterpart Priya Bhatti

  5 minutes played and Bedford finally get the ball over the halfway line Jasmine Ajayi bringing the ball on through the middle tackled by Millwall’s Katie Klosinski the ball sent out to the left Shannan Drewe taking it on wins another corner, again not beating the keeper at the near post. The action frantic at times Millwall winning the ball back on halfway Stubbs in possession plays it on down the left Drewe racing on fires a cross into the near post skipping up in front of Hawkins at the near post can’t get a shot away lays it back to the top of the box dinked back in a stooping header prodding the ball goalwards Webb flying to her right pushing it away wide of goal smashed back in by Drewe, blocked on the goal line by Bedford. 

Bedford Ladies, Jasmine Ajayi

  Bedford getting some joy through the middle now captain Priya Bhatti playing the ball up top to Natasha Fensome back to goal 20 yards out rolls her mark before unleashing a shot the attempt off target flying wide past the Millwall far post. Ajayi battling for possession in the middle of the park for Bedford takes it on before passing forwards to Maya Sidhu away on the left. Millie Connell getting back on her to slide in and put the ball out before a cross can be played. Bedford turn play around in the middle Millwall caught on the back foot Bhatti attempting to find Matilda Fidler making a move clear to the right, a timely interception made by Millwall centre back Sian Fitzpatrick. 

  Shaping into a good contest Bedford getting forwards well in attack the midfield looking to get the ball out to Sidhu and Fidler running the channels, Sidhu put in by Bhatti in the middle sends an early cross in from the wing towards the top of the a the clearance sliced by Millwall defender Alyssa Miranda falls behind her into the area Fensome sharp skipping in behind onto it the keeper to beat sends her shot narrowly wide of the near post. Millwall work the ball on through the middle direct play almost pays off the ball in behind seeing Hawkins get a yard on the Bedford back-line takes aim from the top of the area the shot lacking power runs safely through to Webb in goal. 

Molly Hawkins bringing the ball on in attack for Millwall Lionesses.

 The action end to end now both sides getting forwards quickly Bedford feed the ball on for Fidler moving forwards on the right into the area, Miranda stays with her the full back doing well under pressure to scramble the ball away. Gregory receiving the ball in her own half on the right brings it forwards riding a tackle skipping infield runs in prodding the ball into the path of Hawkins coming from centre to right in the box turns to shot gets no power behind it Webb saving easily. An even contest Millwall edging it in the first 20 minutes if anything Connell and Elena Stonebrook link up at the back right side up to Gregory on down the line a dangerous cross into the six yard box dealt with by Bedford’s Nina Regolo. 

 GOAL! Millwall score the opening goal midway through the first half, scoring from a corner. Haven’t made the most of their opportunities so far several not beating the keeper at the near post this delivery much better higher clearing Webb as she goes for in inswinging dropping at the far post close in Gregory on hand to bundle it over the line to put the visitors into the lead 0-1.

The build up to Millwall’s opening goal missed by the keeper, Olivia Gregory poised at the far post to score

Bedford go straight up the other end from the restart and score… the goal however ruled out for offside. Getting forwards the ball played diagonally into Ajayi top of the area she screws her shot wide away from goal, turns into a good ball nonetheless as Fidler right side races onto it driving on into the area and angle tight gets a shot away under challenge past the keeper striking the base of the near post spins across the face of goal put in at the far post by Fensome but the flag is raised won’t count.

Bedford on the front foot, Bhatti away with the ball in the middle forwards for Fensome leading the attack, pushes on into the box, Fitzpatrick making a fine tackle for Millwall to regain the ball. Attacking Bedford come forwards in numbers Fensome drifting out to the right laying the ball central for Sidhu bursting forwards holds it up 20 yards out, Fensome not standing still has rushed forwards to make herself available inside the box, Fitzpatrick closing her down the loose back latched onto by Bhatti right of the D, her first time strike inches wide.

Gemma Franklin bringing the ball out of defence for Bedford Ladies

  Hawkins up the other end put clear into the area left of goal closing down the keeper momentum sees the pair come together Hawkins effort wide across the face of goal, Webb stays down is badly hurt follows a long pause in play as she receives on field treatment lot of concern and unfortunately can’t continue the goal keepers jersey handed over to Regolo the defender going in goal as Webb is carried off the pitch by her teammates with what looks to be an ankle injury Bedford bring on Alicia Cobb to join the defence.

Play resumes after a long delay, Bedford get on the offensive Fidler getting away right side, Miranda recovering inside the area pressuring her shot the ball gathered by Millwall goalkeeper Kelly Webster. Franklin brings the ball out from the back for Bedford allowed to travel with it lays it on for Fensome, Fitzpatrick intercepts. Ajayi combining well with Sidhu out on the left side, Connell with the defensive work for Millwall, Bedford press the ball inside the Millwall half keep it in the final third Sidhu receiving the ball top of the box left turns beating her marking, the left foot strike on doesn’t fancy it looks to lift the ball goalwards with the outside of her right boot, Webster close by then catching the ball.

Bedford’s Alicia Cobb with Millwall’s Olivia Gregory

 Millwall yet to test the replacement keeper, Bedford’s back-line preventing anything getting through. Gregory with an ambitious half volleyed attempt sends a shot over from outside the box. Fensome with a great crossfield ball to find Sidhu up in attack left of the D controls the ball well turning into the box closed down quickly, stabs a shot wide of the post. 

Half-time Bedford Ladies 0-1 Millwall Lionesses

 The first half ends with Millwall Lionesses holding the narrow advantage leading 1-0. An entertaining first half Millwall more than matching their higher league opponents starting well giving them confidence scoring the opening goal. Bedford responding well both side creating great chances in front of goal and on another day could be a 3-2 scoreline to either side. As it is the game still very much in the balance all to play for in the 2nd half.

No changes for either side, Millwall get the 2nd half underway, Drewe taking the ball gets in behind the Bedford defence, Franklin back sliding in to take the ball away from her inside the box the loose ball coming back to Hawkins 20 yards out right of the D puts her first time strike wide. Bhatti getting forwards for Bedford inside the D as the ball comes in to her from the right wing catches it on the half volley the shot scooped up over the bar. Bedford winning a free-kick wide on the left  good delivery fired long towards the right side Fidler with the headed ball put back across the top of the six yard box, Fensome quick to react, the ball closer to Webster she can get her gloves firmly around it.

Bedford captain Priya Bhatti clearing the ball

Sidhu a threat wide left in attack for Bedford taking the ball on is brought down, another free-kick for Bedford out wide, Ajayi to put the ball into the area Franklin forwards attacks it just over her, Fitzpatrick winning the header clearing for the visitors. Strength on the ball from Drewe as she takes the ball on down the left whilst holding off the pursuing defender wins Millwall a corner. Takes it herself played in central the ball headed over the bar a goal kick awarded. Drewe again drifting inside 20 yards out central as the ball is fired in to her from the right brings it down well turning to knock it on into the area, Emerton getting back on her able to run it out of play.

  Bhatti on the ball for Bedford right has support ahead of her from Fensome, a give and go out to Fidler wide as she bursts into the area in behind Fidler picking her out closes in on goal opts to cross instead of pull the trigger squaring the ball across the six yard box leaving Webster stranded Sidhu racing in, Connell with the diving tackle lunging in to clear the ball. The game stretched at times both sides wanting to get forwards quickly Bedford turning play around getting on the offensive Shianne Swarres taking the ball on through the middle passing forwards into Sidhu she in turn sends it on for Fensome making a run central can’t quite take it in her strike, Stonebrook getting hold of it for Millwall 20 yards out.

Bedford Ladies, Shianne Swarres

Bedford win another free-kick wide left, make a change before it is taken Setor Acolatse on for Ajayi. The ball flighted in towards the top of the area half cleared back to the left, scooped back in again dropping at the far post 8 yards out Acolatse taking a swing, doesn’t connect, Miranda scrambles clear for Millwall. 

GOAL! Bedford equalise with 20 minutes gone in the 2nd period, Fensome making several great runs in attack throughout the game get’s half a yard on the Millwall defence as the ball is put long from midfield bouncing inside the box right of goal Fensome chasing it down closing in on the keeper, chips the ball over her looping beyond to drop in at the far post 1-1.

Natasha Fensome chipping the keeper to equalise for Bedford

Millwall make their first change Daniella Correa entering the field for Klosinski. Stubbs getting hold of the ball lays it forwards for Drewe to race away on the left crosses into the box early looking for Hawkins, Regolo doing well donning the gloves off her line sharply to claim the ball. Bedford getting players forwards to support Fensome in attack left side the ball crossed in low into Acolatse not closed down scoops her attempt up over the bar. Franklin with a couple of great defensive tackles at the back to deny Hawkins an opportunity on goal. 

 Ajayi returns to the field for Bedford replacing Fidler. Fensome drifting away to the right channel as Bedford bring the ball on through the middle play into her feet she sends a superb crossfield ball out to Sidhu left side takes it on into the box momentum seeing the angle closed down close range hits it low and hard, Webster saving well with her legs the ball deflected out to the left wide fired back in the keeper beaten this time the ball smashing down off the bar into the six yard box, Fensome pounces stabs it over the top. 

Jasmine Ajayi battling for possession with Millwall’s Kaitlyn Lewis

 The game entering the final 10 minutes have the feeling it could go either way as Millwall bring on Samantha Middleton to join the attack replacing Gregory. Bhatti combining well with Acolatse and Ajayi as they trio work the ball on down the right Lewis tackling for Millwall. On the left side for Millwall Drewe is prepared to take the defence on at every opportunity racing on fires a cross into the six yard box, Regolo in bravely to catch the ball near side. Not long left of the 90 now Gregory returning to the field for Hawkins as Millwall as they win a corner the ball in headed clear by Franklin, Bedford break forwards Fensome getting hold of the ball, both Stonebrook and Fitzpatrick close her down to regain possession top pf the area. 

GOAL! Into the final minute and Bedford score again taking the lead late in the game, Fensome in again with her 2nd of the game bursting in behind the Millwall defence off a long range pass her touch taking it to the left of goal strikes it back across the keeper and low into the bottom corner 2-1.

A 2nd goal of the match for Bedford’s Natasha Fensome putting the hosts into the lead in the 90th minute

 The hosts coming back from a goal down to lead 2-1 with 5 minutes stoppage time to play. Drewe twisting and turning on the ball outside the Bedford area drops her shoulder getting into the box screws her shot wide at the near post. Bedford bring Fidler back on for Sidhu. 

 PENALTY! Millwall press the attack Correa getting hold of the ball 25 yards out threading it into the box with Middleton racing on right side of goal, Regolo racing out to meet her has the ball in her gloves stooping in front of the attacker, Robinson racing back on Middleton shoves the attacker in the back causing her to fall awkwardly colliding with the keeper, the referee pointing to the spot. Robinson booked, Middleton has stayed down clearly in alot of pain, on field treatment seeing a long delay can’t continue helped off unable to put any weight on her leg, Hawkins coming back on.

GOAL! A long delay between the penalty being given and taken, Connell placing it on the spot isn’t affected as she strikes it sweetly lifting it right wide of the diving Regolo to nestle in the back of the net 2-2. Virtually the last kick of the game no time for either side to mount another attack the game heads into extra-time. 

Millie Connell wheels away in celebration having scored a last gasp penalty for Millwall.

Full time Bedford Ladies 2-2 Millwall Lionesses

extra-time 

  30 additional minutes to be played for either side to try and find a winning goal 2 15 minute halves or the tie will be decided on penalties. Has been a fantastic contest so far. Bedford thinking they’d won it at the death, Millwall scoring a last gasp penalty to force extra-time. Bedford to get the first half of extra play underway. Fidler bringing the ball forwards plays in to to Acolatse left side she clips it infield to Fensome inside the D back to goal controls well before threading it inside the box to Acolatse continuing her run, the angle against her fires her shot wide at the near post.

Libby Stubbs with Bedford’s Setor Acolatse

Bedford starting extra-time well on the front foot the ball fed on by Bhatti into Fensome central holding off her marker looks to see the ball run on past her into Acolatse’s path just not enough pace on the ball to carry. Connell in an advanced position for Millwall on the right joining the attack takes aim from 30 yards out hit well skipping through across the goal Regolo diving to her right the strike however past the far post. Sidhu returns to the field for Fidler. Regolo snatching up the ball inside her box just before Hawkins can latch onto it racing forwards having been put in by Gregory central. 

  Drewe sees a shot pushed behind by the keeper for a corner on the left, Millwall make a change before it is taken Jansu Mentesh on for Correa. Dropped in near post an easy claim for Regolo. Stubbs playing the ball long up to Hawkins in attack the Millwall attacker’s header cushioning the ball down outside the D, shoulder to shoulder wit Emerton looks to drive on the pair leaving the ball behind, latched onto by Mentesh passed across to Gregory right, can’t get a shot away before Franklin closes her down. Bedford counter attack plenty of energy shown still by both sides, Bhatti picking out Ajayi in space on the left she puts it back inside for Bhatti coming on 25 yards out takes on the shot drops wide of goal. 

Franklin lunging in to block a shot from Hawkins at the far post as she drags the ball inside from a free-kick flighted in from the right. Fitzpatrick defending for Millwall against Sidhu as Fensome plays it long from halfway. 

Half-time extra-time Bedford Ladies 2-2 Millwall Lionesses

 All action an intriguing contest could yet go either way Millwall to get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. Miranda coming on from defence in to win the ball high on the left sends Drewe away with it on the left travelling with the ball her cross come shot bouncing wide beyond the far post. 

GOAL! Bedford retake the lead early in the 2nd period possession on the right the ball put on into Fensome plays it in across the top of the area not cleared, Sidhu racing in getting hold of it left of the D strike the shot on the turn hit well wide of the diving keeper into the bottom corner 3-2. 

Maya Sidhu fires Bedford back into the lead in extra-time.

Millwall straight on the attack from the restart commit bodies forwards the ball struck from range by Mentesh rattling the crossbar down and cleared. The visitors press winning a corner, cleared by Cobb Bedford look to get forwards on the counter. Millwall get the ball back played long picking out Hawkins in the box right lines up a shot on the angle straight at Regolo.

GOAL! 5 minutes left to play and a knock out blow for Millwall as Bedford score another goal, the hosts awarded a free-kick wide left top of the area players forwards a Swarres places the ball a fantastic strike fired in across the face of goal high evades everyone creeping inside at the far corner 4-2.

 Millwall keep going getting forwards, Franklin in to deny Hawkins top of the area, a change made Emerton off late on with Chelcie Alleyne coming on. Stubbs getting the ball on for Hawkins peeling right her low cross in cut out at the near post. 

GOAL! With the visitors committing players in search of a goal Bedford hit them on the counter attack to score a 3rd goal in extra-time the ball sent in early from the left Acolatse forwards making a run far post bringing the ball under control sending it back across the face of goal for Fensome to turn in from close range to score her hat-trick 5-2. The last action of the match Bedford finishing strong to win in extra-time book their spot in the last 4 of the ERWFL Cup.

Full time extra-time Bedford Ladies 5-2 Millwall Lionesses

  Bedford with face Royston Town Women in the semi-finals after the Hertfordshire beat Wroxham Women 2-0 at home this afternoon. A really entertaining match Millwall the underdog giving a good account of themselves making a bright start to the game gaining confidence scoring the opening goal, both sides could have had more goals in the first half. The 2nd carrying on in the same vain, Bedford coming back to level then take the lead in the 90th minute. Gave away a penalty to see Millwall score a last gasp equaliser to send the game into extra-time. The first period coming to a close it could still have gone either way. Millwall losing out in the finish Bedford getting their noses in front going on to score another getting a 2 goal cushion, a 5th goal coming at the death with Millwall pushing on. An entertaining match as I said at the start of the report well worth the trip.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances to mention, for Millwall Sian Fitzpatrick was superb at the back making several vital tackles. Shannan Drewe too on the left of attack never stopped running a threat on the ball taking players on creating opportunities. For Bedford, Priya Bhatti with a strong game in the middle of the park. Gemma Franklin was excellent in defence made several crucial challenges and blocking the ball. The award though goes to Natasha Fensome in attack leading the line well, showing fantastic movement on and off the ball sees options all over the pitch took her goals well.

Enjoyed my first trip to The Eyrie a really entertaining match to watch always competitive in the ERWFL, my thanks to both sides for the team details and Bedford captain Priya Bhatti with a couple of other enquiries. Nasty injuries picked up by Bedford’s Lauren Webb and Millwall’s Samantha Middleton wish both well for a speedy and full recovery.

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Ipswich Town Women

Wednesday 19th February

FAWNL South East Division One

Straight back up the A47 this Wednesday evening to watch Norwich City Women for the 2nd time in 3 days as they host the East Anglian derby agianst Ipswich Town Women.

  Norwich coming into the match fresh from securing their place in this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup final beating Wroxham Women with two devastating spells in each half to win 8-1. Back at Plantation Park this evening returning to league action up to 8th in the FAWNL South East Division One table pulling away from the scrap at the bottom of the table looking to end the season on a positive note push on to secure a mid-table finish. Tough going in the league in recent seasons towards the wrong end of the table have a good crop of talented youngsters to complement the senior players within the squad. Chelsea Garrett top scoring in fine form in front of goal this season with 20 goals. Jordan Arnoup resigned by the club last week makes her first start tonight good to see her back playing after a break from the game.

 Ipswich Town Women in action too at the weekend playing the biggest game in the clubs history away to FAWSL leaders Manchester City Women in the Women’s FA Cup reaching the last 16 of the competition the Suffolk side’s magical run brought to an end with a bump by the current FA Cup holders a clinical display seeing Manchester City win 10-0. That result in no way reflecting Ipswich’s season so far rising high at the top of FAWNL South East Division One with just one loss so far this season. The Women’s FA Cup dominating 2020 to date the league title the ultimate goal and with it promotion to the 3rd tier of the women’s football pyramid.

  A strong youth section playing in the FAWSL academy bearing fruit Ipswich’s senior side benefiting with a host of young players stepping up and performing well week in week out. Natasha Thomas leading goalscorer with 23 goals so far this season with captain Amanda Crump with over 200 appearances for the club now on 17 for the season. Haven gotten the better of Norwich twice this season already the East Anglian derby the perfect game for them to get over the weekends loss. A rapidly growing fan base with plenty making the trip this evening.

  Plantation Park the venue for this evenings game under the lights. The ground filing up nicely the main stand along one side of the pitch full. The weather terrible once again rain falling for several hours before kick-off the large pitch showing standing water would make for difficult playing conditions once again heavy going muddy the pitch having seen alot of action. The biggest crowd of the season without a doubt the carpark full a good atmosphere umbrella’s needed for those out of the cover of the stand.

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Brooke Osbourne, Lauren Cullum, Jordan Arnoup, Laura Thacker, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss (C), Rosie George, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Tigi Robson, Sian Douglas, Reeanna Cook, Josie Jarvis & Abbigail Tate.

 Ipswich Town Women starting XI – Lucy Williamson, Eva Hubbard, Ellie Rossiter, Lucy Egan, Paige Peake, Blue Wilson, Amanda Crump (C), Anna Grey, Zoe Cossey, Natasha Thomas & Eloise King. Subs – Nicole Pannifer, Maddie Biggs, Paige Wakefield & Sophie Peskett.

   Norwich wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts to get the game underway kicking-off first half. Ipswich lined up opposite wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. A late change to the starting XI for the visitors with defender Lindsey Cooper pulling up in the warm-up, Lucy Egan starting instead in the heart of the defence. Alot of surface water feet squelching in the mud as players make runs the early exchanges cagey ball forwards on the flanks a sliding tackle mis-timed seeing Ipswich awarded a free-kick out wide in the Norwich half on the left, Paige Peake to play the ball in a dangerous delivery almost catching out Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong. 

  Norwich captain Millie Daviss coming across to slide into the tackle to stop Ipswich’s Zoe Cossey breaking away down the right. Ipswich lively from the off turning play round quickly looking to exploit the width. The hosts pushing up on the left Rosie George pressing the ball high, Ellie Rossiter denying the cross from Ipswich, full back Lauren Cullum up preventing Ipswich from counter attacking puts the ball on for Chelsea Garrett up top 20 yards out turns looking to feed the diagonal pass to Aimee Durrant making a run on the right, Lucy Egan heading clear for Ipswich. Players from both sides moving in quickly to close the ball down playing conditions awful with the rain still falling.

  Anna Grey with a pacey run away on the left side sends the ball into the box, Norwich clear. Up the other end Durrant showing a good turn of pace to as Jodie Drake wins the ball in the middle the ball put on finding Durrant racing on down the wing taking on the full back the angle against her as she delivers the cross into the side netting. Cossey keeping hold of the ball on the right skipping in field lays it into the middle for Blue Wilson who in turn switches play out to the left wing for Grey bursting on cuts inside before blasting a shoot outside the box over the bar. 

  Cullum races on with the ball left linking with George for Norwich the full back continues her run beyond George as she sends the ball on, runs into Rossiter top of the area the Ipswich full back winning the ball back. Laura Thacker stepping out of defence to challenge Natasha Thomas as the Ipswich attacker brings the ball forwards. A rash sliding challenge in the middle sees Wilson upended in the middle and the offender shown a yellow card. Peake on the set-piece her delivery into the box cleared for a throw. Ipswich getting a corner kick the ball cleared inside the area latched onto by Eloise King at the top of the area smashes the loose ball over.

  Thomas gathering the ball into her feet 25 yards out drives towards the Norwich area Thacker in to tackle the ball send wide out for the throw. Cossey dances away on the right wing turning in field sends a low ball towards the top of the area cut out by Thacker. The Norwich defence on the back foot as Ipswich build momentum winning the ball back inside their opponents half and looking sharp with good movement off the ball. Thomas drives forwards with the ball Brooke Osbourne across her to play the ball back for Armstrong to clear. Egan at the back for Ipswich bringing the ball on to halfway her pass finding grey surging on down the left a vicious cross put across the face of goal, Ipswich captain Amanda Crump furthest forwards can’t turn it in. 

 GOAL! 20 minutes gone and Ipswich’s pressure tells as they score the opening goal of the match. The ball fed through to Grey left channel breaks forwards with pace jinking inside pulling the trigger 20 yards out left of the D a powerful low strike Armstrong down can’t keep it out the ball nestling in the bottom corner 0-1.

GOAL! 2 goals in as many minutes for Ipswich as the ball is won back in the middle Wilson out to Grey on the left races away down the line firing in a cross towards the near post met by King her touch sending the rising ball inside the post to make it 0-2.

 The rain at last starting to ease can abandon the umbrella which makes note taking alot easier, just aswell a fast paced game despite the undoubtedly heavy pitch. Ipswich lively showing good energy Norwich on the back foot can’t get hold of the ball not allowed any time in possession. The visitors winning a corner on the right the ball swung into the area cleared by Arnoup. Grey continues to cause havoc on the left her heels clipped a free-kick given along with a yellow card. George looking to get forwards on the left for Norwich Rossiter in to tackle brings the ball on aiming to pitch out Thomas making a run through the middle Norwich intercept. 

GOAL! Half an hour gone and Ipswich’s dominance brings them a third goal Cossey with a mazy run with the ball on the left pushing on towards goal lays it on for King top of the D, meets it perfectly blasting a high shot into the back of the net 0-3.

 All Ipswich, Norwich not yet registering a shot on target Lucy Williamson in the Ipswich goal with very little to do. Norwich get hold of the ball inside the Ipswich half Daviss out to the right a high ball put early into the area headed down by Peake falls straight to the on rushing Garrett 20 yards out blasts over as she strikes the ball on the half volley. 

GOAL! Ipswich break forwards the ball put into the path of King left of the area a strong run forwards carrying the ball on puts the diagonal ball low across the box for Thomas out to the right strikes it back across goal from close range to put Ipswich into a 4 goal lead 0-4.

 Cossey running with the ball at her feet cutting inside shooting from the top of the area Armstrong down well diving at full stretch to push the ball wide behind for a corner. Ipswich with some dangerous deliveries from their corners in swinging towards the near post the ball headed down across goal cleared by Norwich at the back post. 

GOAL! Ipswich cut Norwich open to extend their lead further, players breaking on as Wilson gets hold of the ball into the ball delivers it towards the near post Cossey arriving lifting the ball over the keeper to score 0-5.

  Norwich struggling to get any foothold in the game, with five minutes left in the first half Osbourne makes ground on the right combining with Durrant the ball up the line wins her side a corner players up from the back but the delivery disappointing put behind. Durrant latching onto a loose ball 30 yards out does catch it cleanly frustrated as the ball races wide of goal. Crump and Wilson on top of the game in midfield for Ipswich the ball fed out to Grey bursting on down the left flank her cross flashed along the face of the Norwich goal. 

  Natasha Snelling able to get on in support of Garrett up top in attack for Norwich late in the first half combine well through the middle finding George up on the left her diagonal ball back into the box the flag up before anyone can look to chase it down. Snelling with the pass again giving Garrett a ball to chase up the left, Williamson coming out of her box to win the race clears the ball high into the trees shielding that side of the ground. Off the throw in Cullum drops the ball into Garrett’s feet inside the box she holds off her marker to turn inside and shot the ball dragged wide of the near post.

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-5 Ipswich Town Women

 A dominant first half display from Ipswich sees them with a comfortable 5-0 lead at the break. Have looked the sharper on and off the ball, plenty of energy keeping Norwich off the ball good runs down the flanks from Grey and Cossey keeping the Norwich defence pinned back, Wilson and Crump not letting much through the middle, Garrett leading the attack for Norwich isolated the hosts not settling on the ball at all alot of work still to do if they want to get anything from the game Ipswich will be looking to add to the scoreline.

  A change at the break for Ipswich Grey coming off on the left wing, Sophie Peskett coming on. Ipswich to get the 2nd half underway the rain hopefully stopped for the rest of the evening. The last thing Norwich would want was to concede an early goal 2nd half, very nearly do as a penalty is given away by Arnoup just inside the box as Peskett presses on looking to twist inside. Peake up to take it sets the ball on the spot opts for power he rising shot smashing the underside of the crossbar bouncing down inside the six yard box and scrambled clear by Norwich. 

  Cossey breaking on in attack wide right delivers a cross under challenge from the byline held by Armstrong down low at her near post. Not long after Cossey goes down off the ball play stopped, on field treatment but can’t continue an ankle injury is helped off the pitch on races Maddie Biggs. Norwich making a change too Osbourne coming off replaced by Tigi Robson at the back. The Ipswich substitute straight in to win the ball races on into the box  left side squared into the six yard box intercepted by Thacker behind for a corner.

 GOAL! Peake with another top drawer delivery from a corner inswinging under the bar a glancing header from Egan sending the ball over the line to put Ipswich 6-0 up scoring her first senior goal for the club in the process.

Peskett and Biggs both adding renewed pace and energy to Ipswich who remain charged at the start of the 2nd half not letting their opponents settle on the ball at all. Eva Hubbard closing down Durrant as she receives the slid pass from Drake in the centre. The Ipswich substitutes combine on the left as the visitors turn play around the ball brought on Peskett rolling it on for Biggs taking the ball inside top of the area Arnoup stepping out to prevent the shot Biggs forced to play it back to her midfield. 

Robson rising to intercept as Egan fires the ball forwards aiming to pick out Peskett moving on down the left wing. Durrant offering an option on the right her cross into the box easily cleared by the Ipswich defence. Thomas coming on right side winning Ipswich a corner. The delivery spot on once again in close to the near post congested as players go for the ball an infringement spotted played halted Norwich with the free-kick.

 King comes inside from the left pushing the ball into Peskett top of the area a curling shot looped over as she strikes it first time. Snelling getting on pressuring the Ipswich defence winning a corner kick. The visitors clear and look to break quickly Biggs no at all amused as she is flagged offside. Ipswich as a whole frustrated then as they are on the wrong end of what they feel are some questionable offside decisions with 25 minutes of the 2nd half played.  

 Armstrong racing out of her box to try and clear as Ipswich get away on the right King knocking the ball on past her into the area races after it, Arnoup recovering to get back on her the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Ipswich making a final change before the corner is taken Paige Wakefield on for Wilson in midfield. A high ball put in towards the near post Armstrong coming through bodies gets a fist on the ball. Norwich with a rare counter attack get on down the right side Durrant’s cross into the box defended at the near post. George seeing the ball into her feet 20 yards out back to goal turns and lays it across the D to Garrett leaning into the shot screws her attempt wide.

GOAL! Ipswich winning a corner on the right side Peake to take her deliveries causing problems all night. The ball looped higher this time evading Armstrong as she jumps to save at the near post falls centrally inside the six yard box smashed home at close range by Egan a 2nd senior goal following hot on the heels of her first 7-0.

Reeanna Cook comes on for Norwich with 20 minutes left to play. 

GOAL! The ball given away in midfield by Norwich Biggs racing onto it speeding on towards the top of the box, King to her right prods the ball into her path and King strikes it low past the keeper to complete her hat-trick 0-8.

The Ipswich fans ecstatic calling for 10, Ipswich showing no let up, Grey and Cossey in the first half, Biggs and Peskett causing as many problems 2nd half. Durrant getting a little joy down the right for Norwich a deep cross landing in the roof of the net the hosts though very much on the back foot.

GOAL! A 9th goal soon added as Peskett brings the ball on from inside her half on the left allowed to go on cuts inside towards the top of the box the Norwich defence standing off her she strikes a fierce ball low across the diving keeper to score 0-9.

 Rossiter has picked up a knock needs to come off for treatment, Ipswich down to 10 temporarily. Norwich with a change bringing off Arnoup for Sian Douglas who scored her first goal for Norwich at the weekend. Durrant gathering the through ball from Snelling 25 yards out pushed on towards the box crowded off the ball by 3 Ipswich defenders. Rossiter back on for the visitors the game moving into the final 10 minutes. 

 A ball over the top for Peskett to go after on the left takes it on into the area looks for options rather than pulling the trigger herself her cross cut out for a corner by Thacker. The initial delivery headed out for a 2nd corner Peake’s 2nd delivery whipping in close again headed off the line by Norwich before being cleared. Peskett skips away on the left taking the ball on flashing a cross in along the six yards box the ball cleared falls to Wakefield who strikes it from 30 yards out a powerful strike smashes against the crossbar. 

  A fantastic cross field pass from left to right setting Durrant away to attack the box the angle against her strikes it early as she is closed down the ball landing in the side netting. Thacker defends for Norwich standing up to Biggs as she carries the ball on the loose ball fired in low Armstrong seeing it late down well to save pushing the ball wide of her goal Robson back to clear. 

GOAL! Into stoppage time and Ipswich get that all important 10th goal as the keeper comes and loses the race for the ball outside the area Thomas sharper taking it past her on the right and sending the ball on the angle into the empty net beyond 0-10. The final action of the game Ipswich with a crushing win against their East Anglian rivals.

Full time Norwich City Women 0-10 Ipswich Town Women 

  A totally dominant display form Ipswich’s youngsters getting into their strike early on the pitch wet and slick not deterring them lively on and off the ball making good runs out wide Wilson and Crump controlling the middle of the park 5-0 up at half-time, adding to their tally 2nd half 10 not the target I am sure but once it became apparent it might be on was a symbolic final scoreline after losing by 10 goals themselves just 3 days before against Norwich the icing on the cake. Can be little complaints from Norwich themselves totally out played on the night after collecting a big win themselves at the weekend. Little you can do but move on and try and put thing’s right next game. Ipswich remain top of the league but are certain to be pushed for the title all the way their young side looking good however. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Picking this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match not an easy task, clearly and Ipswich player but as a unit were impressive a strong togetherness working well on and off the ball. Anna Grey outstanding on the left in the first half opening the scoring. Zoe Cossey lively too. Sophie Peskett coming on 2nd half a constant threat going forwards. Paige Peake’s set-piece deliveries on the money all night. Blue Wilson controlling the midfield. The award nicked though by Eloise King, superb in attack 3 well struck balls to claim a hat-trick.

 Ipswich and Norwich poles apart tonight, many thanks as always for providing me with the team details.

 

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 16th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Storm Ciara blew through the country last weekend wiping out the women’s football fixtures lists and hot in it’s Storm Dennis arrived promising another weekend of disruption this time around, a case of leaving it to the last minute to see what games might hold out, Norwich City Women announcing their game was on it was a short trip to The Nest in the north of the city to watch their Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-final clash against Wroxham Women.

 The Norfolk Women’s County Cup final played at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road ground for the first time last season the trophy won for a 2nd successive season by Wymondham Town Ladies, the holders were looking to make it 4 county cup final appearances on the bounce as they took on Sprowston Ladies in the other semi-final match beating the weather this weekend. Carrow Road to host the final once again this season a huge opportunity for both today’s opponents. 

  Norwich City Women dominating the County Cup in Norfolk at the start of the decade withdrew from the competition for a couple of season’s returning to compete a couple of seasons ago falling in the early stages on the previous two ocassions against King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Acle United Women last season now Wroxham Women. Norfolk’s leading league placed sides competing in FAWNL South East Division One are in a period of transition to a degree bringing in alot of youthful players with a strong experienced spine within the squad. Striker Chelsea Garrett amongst the goals this season has 18 to her name so far. Reaching a Carrow Road final would be a dream come true.

  Wroxham Women are a new name for an experienced side making the move from Acle United an established side in the ERWFL Premier Division a league below the FAWNL South East Division One. Have been warmly embraced and supported by Wroxham FC as they look to push on further within the women’s football pyramid. Have a striker too prolific in attack this season Grace Birchall leading the line netting 27 goals already this season from just 12 appearances. Have been frustrated by postponements in recent weeks today’s game thier first competitive action since the 19th January. Injuries to affecting the squad whilst new players coming in are ineligible to play in today’s game.

  The Nest in Horsford to the north of Norwich close the the airport the venue for today’s semi-final. Norwich playing here a few times are keen advocates for seeing the side fully developed building work ongoing in very early stages has the potential to add to good sporting facilities already dotted about the county. Had this game earmarked early on but the weather forecast meant I daren’t commit until late on and with the rainfall heavy over night had my doubts but the game was on still with rain falling all the way still wasn’t convinced, wind blowing too, very unpleasant as I headed out to the pitch, but passing inspection by the officials was in surprisingly good shape holding up well with no standing water. A good walk from the clubhouse hot drinks available. No cover wind strong and rain sweeping across not ideal playing conditions. Women’s football supporters have a tendency to appear out of nowhere 5 minutes before kick-off and a surprising number had braved the elements. Wroxham bringing a small but hardcore following who were in loud voice singing throughout the match.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Brooke Osborne, Lauren Cullum, Tigi Robson, Kate Parsons, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss (C), Rosie George, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Keunna Dill, Abbigail Tate & Sian Douglas.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Kayleigh Holloway, Chloe Shields, Lauren Bailey, Victoria Pleavin, Ciera Flatt, Lauren Bullard, Naomi Cooper, Kirstie Kindred & Grace Birchall. Subs – Kate Pasque, Mary-Anne Hoy & Leanne Symonds.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Working out how best to wield an umbrella, notepad and camera without a stand to hide in the wind was blowing the rain across the pitch so having at my back worked well abandoned the umbrella altogether with the rain lightening up somewhat the wind still strong would be a factor in the game along with a slick pitch. Norwich licking off the game wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts. Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence launched forwards, Wroxham goalkeeper, Amy Bell getting her gloves on the ball early on. 

   Bell’s kick out of goal high carried by the wind, difficult to bring under control Norwich regain possession the ball put out long on the diagonal to the left Rosie George on the flank, checks back playing it inside the ball lifted towards the box dealt with by the Wroxham defence. The early exchanges scrappy conditions difficult the wind swirling across the pitch. Wroxham make ground on the right getting forwards the cross standing up in the wind Grace Birchall inside the box can’t bring under control, the visitors pressure in the final third drawing the foul a free-kick out wide, players up from the back into the box, the ball delivered towards the near post Lauren Bailey attacking it for Wroxham can’t direct her effort on target wide behind goal. 

  Norwich play the ball out from the back a push in the back on captain Millie Daviss as she looks to head the ball on from halfway, referee Stuart Jessop playing the advantage as the ball is gathering into her stride by Natasha Snelling running on puts it through the Wroxham defence for Chelsea Garrett breaking in behind, Bell quickly out of her area winning the race for the ball launching it up field. 

Naomi Cooper playing the ball on for Wroxham Women

 Wroxham getting joy on the right captain Anna Larkins getting forwards to support the attack with Naomi Cooper a dangerous ball whipped in close to the near post cut out by Norwich’s Lauren Cullum. Wroxham quick to close down Norwich as they look to carry the ball out from the back. The wind playing it’s part ball running on for Wroxham as they attack, Norwich counter Jodie Drake sliding in to win the ball on half way forwards into Garrett’s feet, turns sees Snelling making a run the forwards past carrying too mach weight allowing Bell to come and claim. Garrett with a strike on the volley from 25 yards out racing wide of the left post.

 George on the ball good close control coming inside from the left slides the ball through central for Snelling top of the area, going a fraction too soon the flag up against her. Kayleigh Holloway back in defence for Wroxham being kept busy by Norwich’s Aimee Durrant pushing on from the right. Wroxham hustling the ball inside the Norwich half Ciera Flatt combining with Birchall and Cooper win a corner on the right. the wind getting stronger the corner delivered towards the top of the box attacked by Bailey, Durrant with her challenging bringing the ball away for the hosts can’t make any headway.

Grace Birchall getting the better of Norwich’s Kate Parson’s

  George getting on with the ball left side checking inside 25 yards out puts in a low diagonal ball looking for Snelling in the middle, Chloe Shields misses it for Wroxham allowing the attacker to steal in behind, Bell diving as she shoots stabs her attempt wide of goal. Holloway defends for Wroxham playing the ball on well pushed through for Kirstie Kindred right channel plays it on for Birchall the wind taking it on allows Norwich goalkeeper to come and claim before Birchall can latch onto it. 

  An even match both sides finding openings creating chances looking for space, Garrett this time away into the left corner with the ball flashes a cross into the box Durrant near side can’t adjust her body to get a telling touch gathered by Drake out on the right turns back to cross low fires the ball into the side netting. Birchall with an audacious attempt from just beyond the centre circle turning as she receives the ball looking to catch Armstrong unawares the ball landing wide of goal. Space fro Holloway on the left inside the Wroxham half lines up a shot her curling effort dropping safely into Armstrong’s gloves.

 GOAL! The visitors open the scoring a strong attack on the right wing Larkins away in behind bursting on drives a rising sot in on the angle Armstrong flashes up a glove to keep in out deflects the ball across her goal face dropping at the far post Birchall sliding in puts it in from close range 0-1.

Grace Birchall putting Wroxham Women into the lead

 Norwich come straight on from the restart Daviss out to Durrant on the right takes the ball on looping a high ball into the area caught cleanly by Bell. Wroxham counter coming on down the right Lauren Bullard linking with Cooper a corner kick won. A difficult one for the keeper put in under her bar Armstrong deflects it out into her six yard box comes straight to Birchall, on her quickly an instinctive header sends the ball over the crossbar. 

Grace Birchall with the instinctive header put over the bar for Wroxham

 GOAL! Norwich get straight back on level terms the ball direct put through the middle sees Garrett race away in behind the defence, Bell starts to come but realises she can’t get there, can’t get back into position in time is caught in no mans land as Garrett clinical lobs the ball over her into the back of the net 1-1.

  A good contest between Birchall in attack and Kate Parson’s in defence for Norwich the Wroxham attack always looking to get away when the ball is played forwards. Norwich pushing on gaining some momentum Brooke Osborne travelling out from the back with the ball trying her luck from distance. Drake sending a shot wide. 

GOAL! On the attack Durrant is brought down on the right outside the box the ball played into the centre of the area evades everyone comes out to the left still inside the box a vicious strike fired back in charged down deflected straight to Garrett top of the area left of the D she smashes her shot home to score her 2nd of the game and fire Norwich into the lead 2-1.

Norwich City Women’s striker Chelsea Garrett (taken in sunny times) (photo credit Brian Coombes)

GOAL! No sooner have Norwich taken the lead then they race into a 3-1 lead, cutting Wroxham open on the counter attack Durrant with space to exploit on the right drives a fierce strike low into the six yard box Birchall lurking at the far post the ball is turned into the back of their own net by the Wroxham defence.

Wroxham make the first change of the game Kate Pasque coming on at the back for Bailey. Wroxham attack on the right Kindred on for Birchall turning inside the box is adjudged to foul Cullum as she goes past her. Tigi Robson cutting out a diagonal pass from Bullard as Wroxham build through the middle. 

GOAL! A devastating spell from Norwich sees them further extend their lead the ball played forwards the game somewhat stretched to the right Durrant closing down Shields at the back as Bell comes towards the right hand corner of her area wanting the ball, defender and goalkeeper close Durrant reads it and steals in on Bell to rob the ball and walk it into the back of the net beyond 4-1.

Aimee Durrant steal in to win the ball and put Norwich 4-1 ahead (photo credit Brian Coombes)

  Wroxham well and truly on the back foot tempers flare in the middle a foul leading to pushing and shoving, Flatt and Drake both shown a yellow card. Flatt letting her frustration out with a strike from distance 35 yards out the ball looping into the box caught by Armstrong. Daviss coming on for Norwich as they press the ball on the left side fires a 20 yard shot over the bar. At the back Cullum recovers well showing good pace to catch kindred as she almost gets away from her following a great through ball from Flatt.

  A mis-hit from George top of the area, Durrant able to latch onto it her shot in held by Bell. Wroxham counter attack quickly Bullard with a good ball through for Larkins away on the right her strike from the angle hitting the top of the crossbar.

Half-time Norwich City Women 4-1 Wroxham Women

  Norwich with a devastating 15 minute spell coming back from a goal down to lead at the end of the 1st half 4-1. A even contest up to that point both sides creating opportunities coping well despite the terrible playing conditions the rain light the wind strong throughout. Norwich capitalising on some Wroxham errors with a strong advantage to carry into the 2nd half, Wroxham with alot of work to do to get back into the game will need a goal back quickly in the 2nd half.

Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway no changes for either side that I can see, the skies are brightening a little the rain easing. Wroxham straight on the attack Birchall turning on the ball looks to release Kindred ahead of her, Cullum on her shoulder muscles her off the ball. Durrant with a ball on from the right aiming to get Birchall in on the box this time Armstrong out of her box to clear the danger. Wroxham starting the 2nd half well a high ball forwards headed clear by Parsons. Lots of high ball, no one getting hold of it Drake spreading play to Durrant on the right her cross in intercepted by Pasque for Wroxham.

Kate Parsons winning the ball for Norwich City.

Wroxham win a free-kick out wide on the left Holloway on the ball played short back to Larkins lets fly from 30 yards out looks wide from where I’m standing on halfway but maybe not as Armstrong dives to her right to glove the ball behind for a corner kick. The ball from the left into a crowded near post area put wide of goal a 2nd corner awarded. This ball dealt with by the head of Parsons. 

Wroxham’s Victoria Pleavin

 Victoria Pleavin brings the ball on from the back for Wroxham allowed to drive on comes into the middle before Norwich numbers force her off the ball. The rain has stopped at last just makes the wind feel stronger. Bell with a good claim in the middle of her six yard box as Norwich flung a cross in from the right. Norwich make their first change of the match Keunna Dill coming on for Durrant, George switching to the right side. Wroxham make another change too with Mary-Anne Hoy on for Pasque. Flatt carries the ball forwards for Wroxham a strong run putting it on for Birchall giving her a run into the left channel, Robson showing great pace to get back on her and put in the challenge.

Norwich City Women’s, Keunna Dill

Space opening up as Wroxham commit in attack Norwich playing the ball though the centre for Garrett she turns playing the diagonal ball to Dill in acres of space on the left takes the ball on into the box the angle closing fires in a low strike Bell saving fantastically with her legs the ball deflected behind for a corner on the left. 

 Chances at both ends Flatt up to Birchall left 25 yards out Bullard rushing on through the centre the ball put inside she robs it off the Norwich defence stealing into the box, the final shot tame in the finish easy for Armstrong going to ground to smother the shot. George away on the right for Norwich down the line fires in a low cross at the near post Garrett there turn into the shot puts it straight at Bell. Wroxham need to get back into the game Norwich ready to capitalise going forwards. 

Wroxham Women’s Lauren Bullard

Bullard through the middle again takes the ball round the grounded keeper top of the area, Parsons back on her to put the ball behind for a corner before she can get a shot away. The corner put in near side havoc in the box Armstrong beaten as the shot comes in, Cullum keeping it out on the goal line clearing for Norwich. Larkins defending up the other end for Wroxham as Garrett looks to send the ball on through the middle. Wroxham make a third change with Leanne Symonds coming on for Bullard. 

Kayleigh Holloway looking to get after the ball for Wroxham Women

  End to end Garrett stealing in on the ball in the final third robbing the Wroxham defence into the area the angles going away from her she sends in a fierce strike Bell saving with her legs again putting the ball behind for another corner. Norwich making a change before the corner is taken Abbigail Tate coming on for Osborne, Sian Douglas on for Garrett shortly after. Bell holding onto the corner the ball forwards Birchall fouled by Robson outside the box 20 yards out to the left takes on the shot herself fires over.

Birchall determined in attack getting away from Parsons letting fly from 25 yards out central her shot swerving through the air Armstrong diving full stretch to her right the ball narrowly wide of the post. The game entering the final 10 minutes.

GOAL! Drake winning the ball as she has done all game in the middle bringing it on right side 35 yards out striking the ball sending her shot in over the keeper to seal the win 5-1.

Norwich City midfielder Jodie Drake makes it 5-1

GOAL! A blow for Wroxham late in the game and they are delivered another sucker punch straight away possession lost in the middle the ball put out to Dill clear on the left taking the ball to the byline whipping in a pacey cross into the six yard box Norwich players racing in  Snelling there to turn the ball in from close range 6-1.

Natasha Snelling further extends Norwich’s lead

Norwich with a late burst of energy tails up push forwards Daviss getting on winning a corner kick on the right.

GOAL! The corner taken short up the line on the right fired in on the angle a powerful strike clearing the keeper to smash against the far post and deflect over the line across goal. Sian Douglas with the strike to make it 7-1 scoring her first Norwich goal.

GOAL! Wroxham blown away at the end of the match as Norwich go on to score an 8th goal. Dill a constant threat on the left since being introduced to the game put clear into space to run on central releasing a shot top of the area looping over Bell her shot cannons back of the cross bar, Bell off balance tries to claim, Snelling running in on top of her nicking the ball and running it on into the empty net. 8-1.

Wroxham come on minutes left beaten keep going in attack Birchall has run herself into the ground moves out to the right to receive the ball fires in a cross along the top of the six yard box, Cooper rushing forwards at the far post can’t quite get there. Flatt advancing through the middle putting the ball onto Birchall, Robson getting across her in the box seeing the ball back to her keeper. The final whistle blows up and Norwich City Women with a comfortable final score advance to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final.

Full time Norwich City Women 8-1 Wroxham Women

  A game played in terrible weather conditions a credit to both sides for making a competitive contest out of it. An even start to the match chances for both sides Wroxham taking the lead, Norwich coming straight back to level the scores and a devastating spell saw them race into a 4-1 lead at half-time. Wroxham had to attack 2nd half and needed an early goal if they wanted to get back into the game Norwich defending well ready to hit on the counter going 5-1 up with 10 minutes to play a 2nd spell of destruction saw them hammer home the result taking them through to a Carrow Road final a truly special occasion for the club especially their senior players who have long deserved the opportunity. A disappointing end result for Wroxham but they matched Norwich for long periods of the game and created chances.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few players to mention, firstly for Wroxham, Lauren Bullard with some superb passing and runs in attack. Grace Birchall too in attack worked tirelessly to create goal scoring opportunities. For Norwich, their defence was excellent as a unit, Lauren Cullum in particular, Rosie George out wide too, today’s award though goes to central midfielder Jodie Drake a strong performance in the centre of the park breaking up play making tackles and getting forwards well to support the attack plus scoring a well taken goal.

  Norwich City Women will player the holders Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final after they beat Sprowston Ladies 4-0 this afternoon. The Final to be played on Sunday 19th April at Carrow Road an 11am kick-off, looking forwards to it already.

  Suppose it was good to get back to it after missing last weekend through Storm Ciara, enjoyed the football but certainly didn’t enjoy the weather, the notepad was well and truly soaked, along with the writer but both dried out now. My thanks to both sides for giving me the team details always appreciated.

Match Report – Haverhill Rovers Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

Sunday 2nd February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A top of the table clash from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and a match between two debutants on Women’s Football East as 2nd placed Haverhill Rovers Ladies host league leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves.

  The Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League growing considerably this season and influx of new sides seeing the Premiership expanded to 13 teams, the Championship below starting the season with 15 sides competing. Alot of football to be played. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves leading the Premiership by a point, Haverhill Rovers Ladies playing catch up a point behind in 2nd with 3 games in hand. Several sides keeping an eye on this top of the table clash too well placed below to mount a challenge on the title themselves.

  My first look at Haverhill Rovers Ladies the club re establishing it’s women’s side last season. Strong recruitment seeing alot of experienced and talented players joining the club a 2nd Development side formed originally competing in the Suffolk Women’s Division now in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship. The first team winning promotion from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South last in their debut season pipped to the title by St Ives Town Ladies Development. Joining the expended Premiership this season have made a strong start just one defeat from their opening 8 matches. Playing catch up just a third of their fixtures played a busy few months loom in what is likely to be a hard fought run for the title.

 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division forming a new Reserves side last season. One season in the Northamptonshire Women’s Football League they make the switch over to Cambridgeshire this season a strong start winning 7 of their opening 11 games getting their matches in where others haven’t seeing them move to the top of the league. In a good position to push on for the remainder of the season.

 The New Croft the venue for today’s match the game played on the 3G pitch beside the main stadium. One the outskirts of Haverhill multiple pitches is very much a community club. The 3G pitch itself a good size offering plenty of width, a wide viewing area for spectators with a small seated stand. Tea and coffee available aswell as hot food. A wet start to the day remained overcast a chilly wind building that would get stronger as the afternoon progressed. The 3G pitch seeing plenty of use games earlier in the day over running delaying kick-off by half an hour to allow the sides to warm-up properly.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies starting XI – Chelsea White, Ella Blowes, Georgina Westrope, Beth Harding, Amy Evans, Julie Brown, Kayleigh Steed, Emma Barnes, Kayleigh Nolan, Joely Kirby (C) & Sian Cottrell. Subs- Clair Andrews, Hannah Doyle, Sophie Wing & Jenna Wright.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves starting XI – Karla Durham, Fran Peeling, Demi Fox, Leah Barnes (C), Sarah Beard, Catherine Ray, Eve Lomasney, D’Lacy Phillips, Georgia Clarke, Eleanor Spendlow & Ella Gavaghan. Subs- Shannon Hilton, Kimberley Fairweather & Katie Henry.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Peterborough to get the first half underway wearing black an white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. Haverhill all in red. The ball pressed in the middle early on both sides rushing to get the ball played out with little accuracy in the early exchanges. Eve Lomasney sending it forwards for Eleanor Spendelow to chase up the left side, Ella Blowes back on her to defend win the ball back for Haverhill at the back.

  Spendelow looking to make runs out wide left in attack for Peterborough ready to go whenever the midfield regains possession. Haverhill with 3 at the back, Spendelow crossing the ball into the box long across the penalty spot Ella Gavaghan can’t reach it before Haverhill clear. 

  Haverhill getting numbers back to support the defensive won back Julie Brown carries it forwards left side playing it forwards down the wing Joely Kirby captaining the side giving chase on her shoulder Peterborough captain Leah Barnes a race to the touch line Kirby looking to keep it in Barnes aiming to hold her up run out of room as they come together, Kirby’s momentum seeing her collide with the metal fence surrounding the pitch. Stay’s down hurt play stopped immediately a head injury blood pouring from a wound can’t continue, an early substitution made Jenna Wright on to join Sian Cottrell in attack. Kirby up walking back to the changing room to get her wound attended too.

Haverhill defender Georgina Westrope clearing the ball before Peterborough’s Ella Gavaghan can close her down

   The early exchanges remain tentative neither side properly settled as they test each other out. Peterborough making ground on the right wing Georgia Clarke racing with the ball to the touchline squaring a cross into the area Spendlow closing far post cushion the ball down to Gavaghan top of the area her first touch heavy allows Georgina Westrope the chance to get to the ball and clear. 

  GOAL! The hosts open the scoring good work on the right the ball played forwards to Jenna Wright strong on the ball getting it to Cottrell positioned inside the box right of the D, unmarked, sees the ball into her feet tuning into the striking falling back as she does so aiding her strike sending it up over goalkeeper Karla Durham into the back of the net beyond 1-0.

Sian Cottrell opens the scoring for Haverhill Rovers Ladies

  Peterborough get on the offensive straight from the restart Spendelow keeping possession well over halfway left side playing a great crossfield pass spotting Catherine Ray breaking forwards from the middle. Beth Harding standing her ground well top of the area tackling to get the ball away from her.  Wright making making an impact since coming on strong on the ball moving out to the left running on flicking a cross into the box with the outside of her boot Kayleigh Nolan closing in on goal from the right the ball too close to the keeper, safely in Durham’s hands.

Peterborough’s Fran Peeling

  Coming forwards from the back Fran Peeling looks to combine with Clarke and Ray on the right, Harding breaking up the attack the ball one end than the other neither side holding onto it for long.  Lomasney closing down in the middle sending the ball long looking for Spendelow racing on left side into the box, Chelsea White in goal for Haverhill to it first. Kayleigh Steed with a superb pass from midfield Nolan after the ball on the right into the corner, gathers Spendelow tracking back in defence challenging to win the ball. 

Kayleigh Steed playing the ball on fro Haverhill

  Between then Steed, Brown and Amy Evans are getting hold of the ball on the middle breaking up Peterborough attacks, preventing players getting up to support Gavaghan leading the attack. The hosts pushing forwards winning a corner, keep the ball in their opponents half Brown out to Wright top of the area right side sends in a low strike, Durham having the angle covered down to collect the ball safely. Gavaghan coming back to steal the ball right side turns and heads towards goal, Harding closing in to tackle for Haverhill. White up to claim the ball at her near post as the ball is swung in from a cross on the right. 

  Lomasney making several well times tackles to get hold of the ball always looking for a forward option from midfield plays the pass out to Spendelow giving chase on the left, Blowes coming across concedes the throw in. Into Gavaghan’s feet coming towards the ball turns looking to power her way into the box outnumbered the ball with Haverhill the break on the ball launched forwards Wright after it, bouncing an awkward one fro Peterborough full back Demi Fox to deal with keeps her eye on the ball as she jumps in front of the onrushing Wright making the clearance off balance falls bashing her head painfully on the 3G surface. another pause in play. Up after treatment able to continue.

Demi Fox playing the ball for Peterborough

 A cagey game neither side getting the better of the other fairly even, Peterborough making runs out wide not capitalising in the middle, congested at times Haverhill constantly looking to spread the play. Both sides quick to recover in defence, Harding coming across the back line to deal with the threat of Spendelow as she gets in behind into the box from another good ball from Lomasney aiming to pick out Gavaghan central, Harding intercepts her block deflecting the ball safely back to her keeper.

  D’Lacy Phillips bringing the ball on for Peterborough setting up an attack finding Spendelow left side players rush up from midfield to out number the Haverhill defence Spendelow firing the ball inside taken into her stride by Ray has Gavaghan running ahead of her, feeds the ball on into the box, Westrope having gone with Gavaghan lunging in with the challenge to take the ball away from her. Peterborough prevent Haverhill counter attacking the ball fired into Spendlow 25 yards out on the left of the fires in a shot the ball plucked down and caught by White.

Peterborough midfielder, D’lacy Phillips

  Brown bringing the ball on through the middle played forwards for the pacy Nolan to chase, quick by the ball picks up speed on the 3G and is away from her before she can keep it in play. Peterborough make a double change bringing off Phillips and Fox coming off, Katie Henry and Kimberley Fairweather coming on further positional changes seeing Spendelow pushed up to join Gavaghan in the attack Ray going into the defence. The visiting side applying some pressure towards the end of the first half up on the right the cross into the six yard box Spendelow jumping with the keeper the ball loose a shot fired in on goal blocked on the line.

Haverhill defender, Ella Blowes playing the ball up field

 Emma Barnes on the move with the ball left side for Haverhill her cross in cut out by Sarah Beard deflected behind goal for a corner. Fired in low very nearly an own goal the ball sent in towards goal at the near post cleared straight to Barnes a shot lashed back in Peterborough turn to block on the line. Brown getting across to tackle Ray as she comes on with the ball turning infield, possession quickly regained the ball launched out to the right taken on by Clarke her cross from the byline comfortably dealt with by Westrope.

Half-time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 1-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

  Half-time and Haverhill hold a narrow lead 1-0 up takes to an early goal from Sian Cottrell. Few clear cut chances over all both sides working hard cancelling each other out to a degree, Haverhill strong in the centre of the park making it hard for Peterborough to get numbers forwards Ella Gavaghan often isolated in attack. Peterborough on the whole solid at the back themselves neither keeper tested. Perfectly set up for the 2nd half.

  Getting very chilly now the wind picking up swirling across the ground. Peterborough staying out on the pitch during the interval. Haverhill back out taking kick-off no changes for either side. Peterborough quick out of the blocks the ball closed down Fairweather playing it out to the right a throw won inside the Haverhill half from that Henry sending a cross into the area cleared by Westrope. Haverhill bring it forwards, Peterborough across the close down preventing the break Ray played onto the ball left side charges forwards cutting inside into the box run off the ball by Blowes.

Haverhill’s Julie Brown winning the header against Peterborough’s Eleanor Spendelow

 Great work by Brown strong to win the ball back in front of her defence turn looks up sees Nolan on the move right side sends the diagonal ball in her direction, Durham seeing Nolan’s run to racing out of her area to get her foot through the ball first. Wright is proving a handful in attack for Haverhill strong on the ball shaking off her marker getting on in behind, Beard comes across to challenge put the ball away from a throw. Is becoming an end to end encounter Peterborough launch it forwards through the middle Gavaghan 25 yards out, back to goal with a glancing header to knock it down to Spendlow to her left, the attackers then with a one tow Spendelow into Gavaghan’s feet she lays it back for Spendelow to strike swinging through the air off target White across her line to gather. 

Eleanor Spendelow constantly looking for an attacking opportunity for Peterborough

 Evan’s on the ball for Haverhill coming forwards sends i on for Nolan out wide on the right looks to take on Ray jink inside her the full back sticking a leg across snatching the ball just in time. Peterborough coming forwards better now Gavaghan benefiting from the support able to impose herself on the game more. Haverhill busy in defence but between them, Blowes, Westrope and Harding are standing firm. The hosts make their 2nd change of the game Steed coming off, on in her place club captain Clair Andrews making her return to full fitness after spending the last 5 months out through injury.

 

Eve Lomasney bringing the ball on attacking for Peterborough

 Lomasney operating out on the left now picking the ball up running at the Haverhill box lines up a strike from 20 yards out the ball charged down by Westrope. Has been a frustrating afternoon for Nolan so far a willing runner the ball just won’t run favourably for her, a heavy tough letting her down this time. An intriguing contest time running out, Peterborough looking likely to find a goal, Haverhill you think need a 2nd to give themselves some breathing room. A corner won by Wright on the left fired into the area Peterborough defending headed behind for a corner on the right. Put into the six yard box chested down by Brown swings into the shot struck hard blocked, Fairweather onto the loose ball brings it away for the visitors.

Haverhill’s Beth Harding

 GOAL! 15 minutes left on the clock and Haverhill get that much needed 2nd goal. Peterborough are attacking play broken up Evens getting hold of the ball keeping it well before turn and playing a great ball out to the right wing for Nolan, all previous frustration forgotten as she collects the ball into her run surges on into the area and blasts a shot goalwards on the angle driven in low Durham on her line down well to save gloving the ball out towards the top of her area, Wright forwards getting hold of it smashing a shot back in takes a deflection send it past the stranded keeper to nestle in the back of the net… an own goal? I don’t think so and nor does Wright as she celebrates her first goal for the club 2-0.

  Peterborough make a change bringing on Shannon Hilton for Spendelow. The visitors awarded a free-kick outside the Haverhill box on the right side Clarke on it attempts for goal her shot wide at the far post. Harlow’s turn to make a change Evans the player coming off on comes Hannah Doyle. Wright lively in attack away in behind as Peterborough push up, Durham out of her box to win the ball. Fairweather in with a strong challenge to win the ball outside the Haverhill box pushed onto Gavaghan, Harding diving in to close her down get the ball for the hosts. 

Haverhill’s Amy Evans bringing the ball forwards

  Fairweather in again to get hold of the ball keep Peterborough in the final third out to Lomasney on the left her first touch sending the ball on into the area a race with Westrope the defender winning it concedes the corner kick. Taken short up the line to Peeling, Westrope races out of the box to close her down charging down her attempted cross. Time running out Peterborough with a double change, Phillips and Spendelow back on, Lomasney and Gavaghan taken off.

  Game management needed from Haverhill late on keep hold of the ball inside the Peterborough half don’t invite pressure. A quickly taken free-kick on half way from Peterborough launched up towards the area headed out of the box drops straight to Hilton 25 yards out slices her 1st times shot drops wide of goal. Up the field late on in stoppage time Peterborough fire a cross in from the right brought down comfortably by Brown back in defence carries the ball away from danger as the final whistle blows. Haverhill winning 2-0 to return to the top of the Premiership table.

Full time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 2-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

  A hard fought victory for Haverhill Rovers Ladies taking an early lead in the game, Peterborough making them work of the 3 points coming on strong in the 2nd half chances for both Haverhill looking solid in defence really needing that 2nd goal late on to dull their opponents attack. A good contest and both will face several more before the season’s over alot of football still to be played. Haverhill top by 2 points with 3 games over Peterborough others not far behind either the expanded league proving intriguing.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Several contenders once again and like last weekend another tough decision to decide this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Peterborough, Eve Lomasney was excellent in midfield especially first half looking to get thing’s going further forwards for the visitors. Eleanor Spendelow too lively out wide on the left making good runs and looking to set up others. Haverhill were impressive as a unit especially at the back particularly Georgina Westrope and Beth Harding. Julie Brown in midfield  breaking up several Peterborough attacks not letting much get away from her. Today’s award though goes to attacker Jenna Wright coming off the bench early on made an impact straight away strong on the ball good work leading up to setting up Sian Cottrell for the opening goal. A threat all game scoring the 2nd goal.

Enjoyed my first outing to The New Croft. My thanks to both teams for giving me those all important team details always appreciated will be a keen observer watching the battle for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title unfold.

Match Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies

Sunday 26th Jan

ERWFL Cup

Wasn’t the intention to have a two week break from the football a weekend off and then a game postponed late on seeing no action on Women’s Football East for a fortnight, keen to get back at it this Sunday, the action from the 1st Round of the ERWFL Cup, Wymondham Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies.

 The game itself originally due to be played a fortnight ago, cancelled on the day due to Harlow Town Ladies mini-bus being hit by a lorry whilst parked up at the services on route to Norfolk. The game rearranged for this Sunday, a group stage played in the first half of the season between the Division One clubs the 4 group winners going on to the knockout stages of the ERWFL League Cup joined by the 12 Premier Division sides.

The ERWFL Cup is certain to be hotly contested if the league itself is anything to go by, Harlow Town Ladies are well clear at the top but beyond that just 7 points separate 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies down to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in 9th. Wymondham Town Ladies in amongst those currently in 7th spot well placed to push on for a top half finish. Everyone capable to taking points off each other going on a run. 

Wymondham Town Ladies promoted two seasons ago along with Harlow, doing well despite having an awful injury list to contend with, several players out with long term injuries including captain and vice-captain Rachel Cossey and Leah Newcombe both suffering bad knee injuries during last season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup win at Carrow Road. Both on the road to recovery Newcombe in particular close to a return. Long term injuries to hitting their defence with Bethany Fretwell, Chardonnay Johnston and Summer Ward all out. New players arriving in the summer, Mia Etheridge from AFC Sudbury and Jennifer Codman from Fakenham Town Ladies. Freya Symonds too with a trio of ex-Ipswich players, Cassie Craddock, Jac Ball and goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Plenty of goals within the squad captain and striker Hannah Waters with 19 to her name top scoring.

  Harlow Town Ladies have enjoyed alot of success in their short history regularly winning promotions moving up the women’s football pyramid the Essex side are currently 9 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division and in a strong position to go on and win the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL for the first time in their history. Undefeated have won all but one of their 12 league matches so far this season. The only points dropped way back on the opening day a 1-1 draw with today’s cup opponents Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow coming back to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture. Have brought in several players to add experience to their young squad, goals too, Becky Shephard one of those new arrivals netting 22 goals so far this season.

Ketts Park the home to Wymondham Town Ladies a new venue on the outskirts of the town close to the A11. My first visit to the ground a smart facility offering a main 3G playing surface available for hire. Grass pitches beyond. The clubhouse offering hot drinks with plenty of parking outside. The 3G pitch itself a good size with adequate room for spectators to stand beside the pitch. Overcast conditions rain forecast not expected to arrive until after the game a stiff breeze making it feel chilly. A hot cup of tea welcome.

  Both sides with absentees through injury and unavailability on the day. Harlow frustrated having travelled with two new signings but both ineligible to play under league cup rules, alos missing the experience of players such as Nicole Farmer, Georgia Box and Amy Nash, only able to name one substitute. Wymondham likewise having a few missing having just the one on the bench. 

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Danni Clarke, Becca Russell, Chelsea Clarke, Lauren Kett, Jac Ball, Katie Knights, Jennifer Codman, Mollie O’Callaghan, Freya Symonds, Mia Etheridge & Hannah Waters (C) Subs – Cassie Craddock.

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Tayla Handscombe, Fran Gamble, Kaydee King (C), Mel Jones, Chloe Bassett, Abbey Dell, Beth Chambers, Lucy Edmeades, Becky Shephard & Liv Steele. Subs – Evie Love.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wymondham wearing red shirts and shorts with black shorts to kick-off the first half. Harlow in their away colours yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The hosts playing the ball back into their defence Harlow rushing forwards to press the ball Abbey Dell involved straight away, a long punt forwards cleared by Harlow captain Kaydee King gathered by Wymondham goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Harlow build down their left winning a throw deep in the Wymondham half controlled the cross lifted high towards the top of the area, Freya Symonds up to head clear for Wymondham.

   A bright start from Harlow pressing the ball, Wymondham look to break the ball into Mollie O’Callaghan’s feet left side of midfield looks to take it on chopped down inside the Harlow half. A fee-kick given the ball put across the park to Becca Russell forwards on the wing lifts it on for Mia Etheridge the flag goes up against her. O’Callaghan bringing the ball on once again is brought down as she sends it on for Symonds play brought back for the fee-kick, further forwards Chelsea Clarke over it into the box, caught by Harlow goalkeeper, Charlie Orwell. 

 GOAL!  6 minutes played and an early break through, Harlow take the lead Beth Chambers getting hold of the ball left side inside the Wymondham half playing a dangerous looping diagonal ball in towards the top of the area Chelsea Clarke stretching to clear can only push it into the onrushing Becky Shephard’s path takes it on a yard before driving a powerfully struck shot past Danni Clarke into the back of the net 0-1.

Becky Shephard with the opening goal for Harlow Town Ladies after 6 minutes

  Wymondham go on the attack straight from the restart players up and around the 18 yard box, O’Callaghan tries her luck from range 25 yards out off target, Orwell able to come across her goal to collect. Harlow’s Chloe Bassett receiving the ball centrally off a throw in on the left turns and hits a shot goalwards from 25 yards out swearing through the air Danni Clarke back on her line keeps her eyes on it catching safely. Gamble with a great tackle to stop Etheridge from stealing in behind her with the ball on the right side for Harlow. 

GOAL! Harlow caught with a high line as Wymondham play the ball forwards Lauren Kett winning it at the ball bringing it on firing a low pass forwards over half way captain Hannah Waters getting away from King to latch onto the ball a carry it on towards the area Orwell coming to the top of her area to close the angle Waters shaping to shot shifting to her right to get wide of the keeper and send the ball on to score. Wymondham back on level terms just 6 minutes after conceding 1-1.

Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters levels the scores

Wymondham with their tails up strong in the middle of the park Etheridge getting hold of the ball taking players on central looks to play a one two with Katie Knights run on in behind as Knights attempts to lift the ball over the defence, Bassett reading it in to take the ball away for Harlow. The visitors looking to make use of the flanks Beth Chambers left side has Dell racing into space on the wing sends the ball in for her to take on down the line a strong run cuts back inside to deliver the cross near post with Shephard making the good run, the attack rising aiming to flick the ball with her boot in across goal doesn’t get enough on it the ball put behind wide.

Beth Chambers striking the ball for Harlow Town Ladies

Lucy Edmeades away into space on the opposite wing sending a dangerous cross into the six yards box too high for Danni Clarke to save, no one coming in at the back post for Harlow. Danni Clarke with an excellent and brave piece of goalkeeping soon after as Harlow thread a long ball through the middle with Liv Steele attacking the area right, Clarke rushing out sliding in to make the blocking save at Steele’s feet, the striker coming off worse for the clash. Harlow win a free-kick wide right a good delivery into the box Steele positioned on the penalty spot cushioning the ball down looking to swing into the shot the Wymondham defence rush in to block at close range. 

 Steele has take a couple for knocks needs to come off from treatment Harlow making the first change of the match, Evie Love coming on to join Shephard up top. O’Callaghan is certainly in the wars for Wymondham getting clattered again the free-kick striking the wall set up by Harlow Symonds though retrieves for the hosts left side sends in a cross, Orwell coming near post to claim. A competitive game played at a fast past both sides giving free-kicks away Harlow turn with a set-piece inside the Wymondham half, Gamble over the ball towards the left a good way out nevertheless goes for goal a high ball in dropping late Danni Clarke can’t get it the ball clatters against the ball drops back into play stabbed back towards go Clarke back on her line down smartly to save on the line.

Katie Knights on the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies

 Katie Knights making several good runs with the ball through the middle for Wymondham sends in through for Waters to chase in attack, Orwell out of her area early trapping the ball with her legs inside the D clearing before Waters can get it. O’Callaghan with a shot from distance bouncing low through towards goal left side Orwell down to save the ball behind for a corner kick. Defending the ball Harlow clear up to half way Evie Love looking to break is fouled by Kett a free-kick awarded. Gamble to play it forwards players up into the box King bringing it down her tough too strong allowing Wymondham to steal in and clear top of the area. 

Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble

 Is getting a little heated out there a bit of pushing and shoving going on quickly dealt with by the referee the game continues to set a furious pace challenges strong at times. Several players talked too already. A quick free-kick by Gamble into Steele central puts it on quickly Shephard away but adjudged offside as she shoots. Mel Jones turning play around quickly in the middle for Harlow forwards for Shephard beating the offside trap this time can’t control her shot top of the area, Jac Ball back to win possession for Wymondham. Pressuring the ball inside the Wymondham half Harlow’s Bassett gets away on the right crossing from the corner Shephard coming near side sends it wide. 

Mollie O’Callaghan weighing up her passing options for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Wymondham making ground on the right win a throw the ball into the feet of Waters right corner of the box plays the pass infield to Knights central has O’Callaghan to her left gives her the ball Harlow back defending their area O’Callaghan comes back in central looking to get a shot away finds a way through but not past Orwell as she drops to save the ball. Etheridge and Chambers clash going for the ball, Chambers down landing awkwardly play stopped so she can receive treatment up gingerly play resumes with a free-kick to Harlow to the bemusement of the home support.

Harlow captain Kaydee King clearing the ball

 Into the closing moments of the first half, Wymondham also frustrated at the number of offside decisions going against them Waters a constant threat enjoying a fantastic battle with King intriguing to watch Waters thinking she’s got half a yard only to be pulled back by the flag. Dell covering alot of ground across the park for Harlow setting the tone for the game for much of the first half wants to be in the thick of the action breaking up a number of Wymondham moves. The offside flag up against Edmeades on the right a decision that infuriates the Harlow bench. Knights sneaking in to take the ball plays Waters through central not catching her strike cleanly the ball straight at Orwell catch after the initial save pops out of her gloves. The last action of the half.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies

  A fast paced game so far competitive not alot between the sides, the pace leading to several mistimed challenges plenty of free-kicks given away and knocks being picked up. Harlow with an early goal Wymondham coming straight back to level has remained even Harlow hitting the bar from a free-kick. Changes for both sides at half-time. Cassie Craddock on for Wymondham the players off goalkeeper Danni Clarke suffering a hand injury the tall Freya Symonds donning the gloves for the 2nd period. Chambers off for Harlow with Steele back on. 

Harlow to get the 2nd half underway the temperature dropping considerably very chilly on the sidelines now. The visitors getting an early set-piece on halfway King to play the ball out to Edmeades on the right side in space cuts inside no shot on lays the ball across the top of the area for Bassett laying it back to Gamble she floats a high ball in towards goal safely caught by Symonds. Handscombe brings the ball on through the middle for Harlow pushing on towards the D is closed down by three Wymondham defenders Craddock putting in the final tackle to get the ball away O’Callaghan away on the left forwards for Waters to chase Orwell can come to the edge of her area an collect.

Harlow’s Chloe Bassett looking to get the ball away chased by Wymondham’s Mollie O’Callaghan

Codman playing the ball on for Knights in the middle plays it forwards with O’Callaghan forwards on her left cuts back inside, 25 yards out closed down Gamble and King combining. O’Callaghan and Jones with a crunching 50/50 in the middle both hurts but quick to acknowledge the ball was there to be won. Harlow over half way the ball played long to the left side a cross whipping on at pace Chelsea Clarke central sticking a foot out to intercept almost scores an own goal inside the six yard box the ball flashes up to strike the cross bar bouncing down grabbed by Symonds before anyone can follow up from Harlow to score. 

Abbey Dell bringing the ball on for Harlow Town Ladies

Wymondham have Etheridge on the ball attacking right a strong run her cross in cleared play brought back for an earlier foul on the winger. Players forwards taken short into the top of the area with O’Callaghan coming for the ball the shot in hesitates shifting it before pulling the trigger a deflection sending it wide for the corner kick. King up well at the near post to defend for Harlow. A flowing attack from Wymondham Knights doing well once again bringing the ball on support from Craddock out to Etheridge on the right plays it back to Russell she swings in the cross long, King up at the far post to win the header for Harlow clearing the threat.

Harlow’s Evie Love ends up riding Wymondham defender Lauren Kett as she slides in to tackle

   Kett stepping out of defence sliding in strongly to win a number of tackles for Wymondham is down with an injury, a pause in play Harlow make the change bring Chambers back on for Love on the left. Play resumes Waters doing well to win a corner on the right the ball in cleared firmly by the head of King at the near post. King with the interception and touch back fr her keeper to clear as Knights almost sends the running Waters and Etheridge in on goal for Wymondham. Harlow bring Jones off sending Love back on. 

Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe

Wymondham pressure O’Callaghan closing in on the area closed down, Waters almost in Harlow look to play out from the ball O’Callaghan giving chase goes down in agony play stopped straight away the Wymondham midfield in clear distress has hurt her knee, a long pause in play on the field treatment hobbles off can’t continue Wymondham to end the game with 10 with no more substitutes over 15 minutes left to play. Gamble carries the ball on for Harlow up to Steele in attack, Clarke closing her down to tackle for Wymondham the hosts break quickly the ball put through the middle King intercepting.

  Wymondham actually upping their intensity despite being a player down, renewed energy to close down the ball Waters keeping King busy the clash of the captains King lunging in to win the ball this time. Chambers finding space on the right incensed at being flagged offside with Harlow playing the ball crossfield from the left. Edmeades forwards on the left sends a cross in attacked near post by Steele up to head the ball plays it over the bar. Love and Shephard combined on the right the former with the back heels Shephard’s cross in bringing a corner kick. Swung into the box central blasted goalwards saved on the line by a combination of defender and goalkeeper. 

Wymondham Town Ladies, Mia Etheridge

Etheridge storming on down the right side for Wymondham in attack the angle going against her as she unleashes a powerful shot the ball rising smashing against the crossbar falling into the box players in on the follow so too King putting her body in the way to block. The tie on a knife edge could go either way Harlow bring Edmeades off late on sending Jones back into the fray. King with a last ditch tackle to deny Waters inside the box the clock running down Harlow get forwards the ball fed along the ground into Shephard’s feet outside the box left turns and shoots the ball flying over the crossbar. Russell defending late on as Love tries to lift a ball into the box for Steele to run onto. The final whistle blows the cup tie heading into extra-time.

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies

  A really enjoyable game lots of action not much between the sides neither on top, defending well committed and lively in the middle on the cusp of boiling over but both sides want to get on with it. Neither keeper overly tested in the 2nd half clear cut chances at a premium Wymondham doing well at the finish despite their player disadvantage could have snatched a late win. Now another 30 minutes awaits.

Extra-time

 Into extra-time Wymondham back up to the full 11 on the field, Danni Clarke able to take up an outfield role comes on to the left wearing Symonds no 18 shirt. Wymondham to get the extra period of play underway 2 15 minute halves for either side to try and find a winning goal or the tie heads to penalties. Good to see O’Callaghan up on her feet her knee iced up. Gamble on the ball for Harlow coming forwards long up to Chambers making a run right side the ball collected by Symonds. Chambers lively at the start of the half picking the ball up has pace drives on Wymondham closing her down.

A long diagonal ball left to right finds Etheridge stealing through into the box on the right she shot sliced though swerves wide of goal. Steele spinning on the ball as it is played into her feet very nearly has Shephard in on goal but for a raised flag. Wymondham get on down the right win  corner kick players forwards the ball long beyond the far post knocked down into the path of Danni Clarke, the goalkeeper turned outfield player with a snap shot the ball running wide of the post. Harlow with a corner up the other in inswinging cleared off the line. 

  Harlow attacking the ball fed into the box a race between Steele and Kett shoulder to shoulder Steele getting a shot away flashes over the bar. All action both sides going for it Etheridge winning Wymondham a corner.

  GOAL! Wymondham get their noses in front late in the first period of extra-time the corner taken long over the player rising well at the far post gathered as players rush out towards the ball a cross in flicked on and met by Waters jumping to get her foot on the ball in the centre of goal a yard out couldn’t miss 2-1.

Russell defending as Harlow fling a cross into the area from the right. Bassett gathering the ball deep for Harlow bringing it on well Chambers on the move right side Bassett looks to pick her out but to Chambers dismay she’s flagged offside once again.

Half-time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies

  Advantage Wymondham with 15 minutes to play leading 2-1 as Harlow get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. A few spots of rain in the air the visitors on the attack Dell put through right into the box the angle tight drives in a shot the ball held well by Symonds in goal. Harlow pressing at the start of the half looking to put Wymondham on the back foot. Kett stepping out well from the back to win the ball. 

  Waters sensing space may open up behind moving across the back line getting free momentarily on the left side after the ball, King doing well to get back on her make the challenge. Chelsea Clarke stopping Chambers as she drives towards the box. A Harlow free-kick won 22 yards from goal on the left played into the box cleared Harlow have it back driven into the box deflected wide for a corner. Symonds coping well to get something on the ball to get it away inside a congested six yard box. 

  Less than 5 minutes left Wymondham attempting to keep possession run the ball into the corners frustrate Harlow. Bassett brings the ball out from the back on for Love, but too much on the ball. Waters across to charge down King as she attempts to launch the ball up field. Time almost up Kett winning another tackle Harlow can’t get a clear chance on goal late on no way through. The final whistle blows and Wymondham are through to the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup beating Harlow 2-1 in extra-time.

Full time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies

  Another close contest between the two sides both short on numbers on the day a committed and entertaining cup tie. Early goals the game played at a fast pace several strong challenges and tempers frayed at times but never boiling over. A few bruises to show for the cause the following day I think. Wymondham holding on well with 10 getting back up to 11 for extra-time getting their noses in front. Harlow frustrated a lack of options from the bench not helping out of cup competitions in successive weeks, the focus now on the league and in a strong position to push for the title.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders it has to be said and narrowing it down to one wasn’t easy. Starting wit the stand out performers for Harlow, an excellent game at the back for Kaydee King strong and had her hands full with Hannah Waters. In the middle of the park great energy shown by Abbey Dell covered alot of ground and her energy set the tone for the game. For Wymondham was impressed by Katie Knights in the middle several great runs and setting up attacks, Waters leading the line well. The defence doing well as a unit Freya Symonds didn’t look out of place in goal 2nd half. The award though goes to Lauren Kett won numerous challenges in the centre of defence and set up the opening goal.

An enjoyable first trip to Ketts Park, an entertaining game just what was needed after two weeks without a game. Played at a fast pace two committed teams could have gone either way Wymondham finding the winner in extra-time. My thanks to both teams for today’s starting line-ups.

Match Report – Ipswich Town Women v Portsmouth FC Women

Sunday 5th January 2020

Women’s FA Cup

 First game of the New Year, a new decade in fact a trip down into Suffolk to watch a game from the 3rd Round of the Women’s FA Cup, Ipswich Town Women leading FAWNL South East Division One taking on higher league opponents Portsmouth FC Women.

 The winners of today’s tie going on to potentially face FAWSL opposition as the clubs from the top tier and Championship below enter the competition. Ipswich looking to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time in their history.

  Having a fine season to date leading the way in FAWNL South East Division One 4 points clear at the top of the table unbeaten winning 8 of their 9 matches played so far. A host of sides in the hunt to chase them down can’t afford to let their foot off the gas. Starting 2020 with a cup tie against higher league opposition will fancy their chances. Ipswich are currently the dominant force in women’s football in Suffolk and that looks unlikely to be contested for some time with manager Jo Sheehan having previously looked after their U21s side bringing in a host of new talent to boost the 1st team and their is plenty of talent coming through as not just I but anyone who has seen them in action will testify. 

 A well organised and committed media team established to promote the women’s side the Tractor Girls are building a solid fan base with numbers in attendance up. Their local derby with Norwich City Women seeing over 700 in attendance earlier in the season. A good crowd building before today’s match have played 3 games in the Women’s FA Cup to date entering in 2nd Round Qualifying, beating ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women 7-0. A 6-1 home win against Norwich followed, with another home win 5-0 agianst fellow league side AFC Basildon Women following in the 1st Round Proper. A trip to the South Coast to face Southern Premier Division basement side Chichester City Ladies in the 2nd Round came home with a 6-0 to set up today’s home clash with Portsmouth.

  Portsmouth FC Women a long established side in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. A side capable of beating anyone on their day. Their form up and down this season with just 7 league games played so far have games in hand on everyone in the league 4 wins and 3 losses so far. Have saved their best form for the cup reaching the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup including a couple of extra-time wins. The Southern Premier Division sides entering the competition in the 2nd Round, Portsmouth were at home to FAWNL South East Division One opposition a tricky tie on paper with Leyton Orient WFC on the pitch Portsmouth were comfortable running out 6-1 winners. 

 Felixstowe & Walton FC’s Goldstar Ground the home of Ipswich Town Women a newly build clubhouse and changing room facility leading out to the pitch beyond. A bar and kitchen serving hot food and drinks available. The pitch a good side well used fairly bobbly in places. Offers good width. An overcast day with some light rain in the air prior to kick-off none forecast. 

 Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Paige Peake, Lindsey Cooper, Lucy Egan, Anna Grey, Sophie Peskett, Blue Wilson, Amanda Crump (C), Abbie Lafayette, Eloise King & Natasha Thomas. Subs – Lucy Williamson, Nicole Pannifer, Eva Hubbard, Maddie Biggs, Zoe Cossey, Ellie Rossiter & Molly Sutherland.

  Portsmouth FC Women starting XI – Hannah Haughton, Rebekah Tonks, Laura Ingram, Jazz Younger, Danielle Rowe, Jade Bradley (C), Mia Adaway, Katie James, Hayley Bridge & Charmaine True. Subs – Mel Burns, Amelia Southgate, Tamsin De Bunsen & Molly Clark.

 Mia Adaway making her full debut for Portsmouth this afternoon wearing their all purple away kit as they switch ends at the coin toss, Ipswich to kick-off the first half wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Referee Stacey Fullicks leading an all female officiating team this afternoon. Portsmouth pressing in midfield the ball put on down the right progress made before Lucy Egan puts her foot in to win the ball back for Ipswich the hosts playing the ball up to Natasha Thomas leading the attack for Ipswich on halfway her header under challenge seeing the ball knocked on for captain Amanda Crump to chase, Laura Ingram defending that side for Portsmouth putting the ball out for a throw.

 A lively start from both sides neither settling on the ball passes rushed, Charmaine True in attack for Portsmouth playing the ball out to Eilidh Currie breaking into space on the left to the byline whips a high ball into the box comfortably taken above her head by Ipswich goalkeeper, Nikita Runnacles. Currie getting some joy out wide left for Portsmouth finding space again puts a squared ball across the top of the Ipswich area the ball cleared by Lindsey Cooper. 

 The visitors pushing forwards joy on the flanks, Ipswich winning it back unable to get an attack going Jazz Younger stopping their advance on halfway keeping Portsmouth inside their opponents half. True coming out to the right flicks the ball inside for her captain Jade Bradley, a superb crossfield ball to send Ingram away with the ball on the left taking it on, Crump with the sliding tackle to halt her advance for Ipswich the ball out for a throw. 

Laura Ingram carrying the ball forwards for Portsmouth FC Women

Ingram with the ball at her feet on the attack for Portsmouth down the left sends it on for True back to goal 25 yards out looks to spin in behind her marker, Paige Peake in close challenges to prevent the attacker getting into the box beyond. Ipswich taking longer to settle have seen little of the attack in the opening quarter hour standing firm at the back as Portsmouth come on. Crump is brought down on the right giving Ipswich a chance to put players forwards as they are awarded the free-kick. Peake over the ball plays it in towards the crowd at the top of the box far post running in, headed goalwards but high onto the roof of the net. 

Natasha Thomas and Jazz Younger challenge for the ball

Portsmouth giving free-kicks away their bench unhappy as decisions go against them. Peake over another set-piece out wide the ball played long into the box, controlled well and cleared by Younger for Portsmouth. Ipswich finding a bit of momentum going forwards Abbie Lafayette going out to the left taking the ball on pace before sending in a dangerous ball across the face of goal Sophie Peskett running in far post pressure on the defender who slices the ball behind for a corner kick. An inviting delivery from the corner players up no one can get a telling touch. 

Blue Wilson bringing the ball down for Ipswich

Portsmouth launch a rapid counter attack True deep on the right into the box with the back heel out Currie making a central run 20 out has support coming from Bradley on the overlap to her left rolls the ball into her path, Peskett running back sliding into the tackle for Ipswich before Bradley can unleash a shot. All action, challenges coming in from both sides pace can’ take your eyes off it for a second. Causing both sides to rush their passes a little no one taking their time on the ball. Currie coming back to defend for Portsmouth as Crump with support from Peskett and Thomas looks to make ground on the right. Crump brought down again another free-kick awarded Peake to play the ball in towards the top of the area the ball knocked down runs wide for a goal-kick.

Portsmouth captain Jade Bradley shielding the ball

  Adaway races forwards for Portsmouth on the left into space as Currie finds her with the pass taking it into the corner cuts back to cross the ball finding the side netting. Hayley Bridge on the ball right for Portsmouth over halfway puts the pass infield for Bradley 30 yards out pulls the trigger her shot falling wide of the far post. Peskett picks up the ball for Ipswich right taking players on skips past one into space turning inside is closed down before she can get a cross away. 

Sophie Peskett on the attack for Ipswich Town Women

An even contest both side cancelling each other out somewhat, Portsmouth taking the ball on down the right wing, James with support from Bridge getting a corner kick. The ball put into the box played back to the taker her 2nd cross in cleared by Crump central. Portsmouth keep coming another corner the ball cleared straight to Bridge passed into Rowe inside the D she sends in a curling shot the ball confidently caught by Runnacles. Half and hour played. Thomas for the majority of the match so far has been close guarded by the Portsmouth defence, moving out to the left as Ipswich build in attack the ball rolled into her turns well to get inside attack the box shooting the ball flying wide across goal. The fouls mounting up Anna Grey the first player to go into the referees book with 36 minutes played.

GOAL! Ipswich send players forwards as they win a free-kick wide on the left inside the Portsmouth half. Peake coming over to take plays in a fantastic delivery racing through the six yards box players running to try and meet it, Thomas closest, the ball finding it’s way through everyone into the bottom corner. No doubt about the scorer as the Ipswich players race over to congratulate Peake the defender with her 7th goal of the season.

Paige Peake opens the scoring for Ipswich Town Women

Portsmouth frustrated pressing the attack Ipswich battling well to close the ball down Adaway seeing an effort charged down, Currie’s left wing cross long at the far post with James racing in. Currie again on the ball a driving run into the final third Ipswich coming back on her to crowd her off the ball. Would talk about someone else but Currie dominates the notes right now a determined run with the ball central is finally brought to a halt by Ipswich’s Blue Wilson 25 yards from goal. Currie with a crack from distance moments later 30 yards out the shot held by Runnacles.

Eilidh Currie on the ball for Portsmouth FC Women

Portsmouth coming on at the end of the first period Currie pulling up in frustration as she is caught offside, just, as Rowe plays a great through ball in behind the Ipswich defence. The visitors seeing the woodwork struck in injury time True having latched onto a misplaced goalkick sending in a looping strike from 20 yards out the ball cannoned off the bar.

Half-time Ipswich Town Women 1-0 Portsmouth FC Women

  A fast paced first half comes to an end with Ipswich holding a narrow advantage, Paige Peake’s 37th minute goal the difference between the sides. Both sides slow to settle Portsmouth finding momentum in attack getting forwards, space out wide Currie in particular finding joy in the left, Nikita Runnacles hardly tested however. Likewise Hannah Haughton up the other end for Portsmouth. Ipswich taking longer to settle hardly had any attack early on defended well, closing down free-kicks given away eventually taking advantage of one to score. Competitive, Portsmouth frustrated just a single goal in it however all to play for 2nd half. Extra-time and penalties if required.

  No changes for either side at the break the Portsmouth getting the game restarted on the attack, Adaway getting forwards on the left to support Currie, Peskett back to help Peake the pair preventing a cross coming in. Currie comes again on the left sending in a low cross the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Put in high the ball cleared Eloise King aiming to send Lafayette away Portsmouth recovering to prevent the break. 

Ipswich’s Abbie Lafayette looking to close down Portsmouth’s Jade Bradley

  Ipswich build through the middle Wilson the Crump out to Lafayette she releases Grey bursting away into space on the left, Younger coming across puts in the challenge for Portsmouth the ball sent out for a throw. Ipswich from the throw the ball to King’s feet plays it central for Crump a brilliant chip over the top sees Thomas in behind left into the box fires in a vicious ball across the six yard box attacked far post, a corner the result despite Portsmouth protests for a foul on their defender. The corner swung into the box headed clear. 

Ipswich Town Women’s Natasha Thomas

 Ipswich lively at the start of the 2nd half have Portsmouth on the back foot pressing the attack looking for a 2nd goal, Grey, Lafayette and Crump all making good runs. Run the risk of being caught out the other end, Rowe working hard on the ball in the middle for Portsmouth sending it forwards for True making the run, Cooper reading it at the back giving herself room to intercept and clear for Ipswich. Peskett’s turn to get on the attack for Ipswich a surging run with the ball on the left runs into traffic. 

Anna Grey looking to turn in behind for Ipswich

 King links up with Thomas in attack for Ipswich rolling the ball on for Thomas to take on into the box makes a run towards the far post Thomas left putting a pacey cross through the six yard box defended at the far post Ipswich quick to retrieve Crump putting it inside with King free, her shot charged down. Ipswich winning a corner on the right the ball pinging around inside the box Portsmouth struggling to get it clear Ipswich unable to latch onto a shot. The hour fast approaching and Ipswich make the first change of the match King the player coming off in attack to be replaced by Maddie Biggs.

Eloise King racing after the ball for as Ipswich break

 Haughton with a fantastic save for Portsmouth, as Peskett right robs the ball from Currie and charges in behind to shoot on the angle her low driven shot deflected wide across goal as Haughton gets down to it at her near post a corner awarded. Ipswich on top Portsmouth respond with their first change of the match, Molly Clark on for Adaway. Lafayette plays the ball up to Biggs and Thomas in attack for Ipswich 20 yards out the pair combine Thomas with the lay off, Biggs with the turn left of the D screws her shot wide. 

Danielle Rowe in the thick of the action for Portsmouth FC Women

Peake winning the header at the back for Ipswich as Bradley getting room in the middle plays it up to for Currie left side. Thomas on the ball central for Ipswich turns playing it on for Biggs to run in on goal one on one with the keeper, commits Haughton to the dive takes the ball around her to the right as players race back to cover the goal, the angle tight Biggs sets herself to strike, Tonks on the line making a superb block for Portsmouth, Thomas closing in on the loose ball, is scrambled away.

Rebekah Tonks saving on the line for Portsmouth

Into the final 20 minutes play getting a little stretched, both sides needing a goal Ipswich to give themselves breathing room albeit a little and Portsmouth to get back on level terms, despite being frustrated throughout the match confident they will come back. Amelia Southgate entering the game for Portsmouth in place of Bridge. A minute later Tasmin De Bunsen comes on for the visitors replacing James. Wilson goes into the book for Ipswich. Clark with a shot from all of 40 yards out drops wide of the Ipswich goal.

 

Currie a constant threat out left for Portsmouth gets away on the ball taking it on towards the box preparing to pull the trigger Peake gets back on her to make a brilliant last ditch tackle to put the ball out for a throw. The game into the final 8 minutes. Ingram pushing on for Portsmouth in the latter stages Lafayette back to help in defence for Ipswich the pace of the match showing no let up. Ipswich determined as Portsmouth commit more players forwards Bradley on for De Bunsen has support with Ingram right her cross into the box just over the jumping Clark in the middle. 

 True left side gathering the ball turns to run at goal shooting on the angle an comfortable save at her near post for Runnacles. The visitors on the attack in the closing minutes, Ipswich making a change in the 89th minute Zoe Cossey on for Thomas. Ipswich with a free-kick in stoppage time Peake with the ball in Lafayette central inside the box almost clear to nod home, Haughton with the ball firmly in her grasp. Younger sent up top in attack at the death Ipswich though keeping the ball up the other end the final whistle blows and the hosts celebrate wildly as they make history reaching the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time in their history.

Ipswich celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Ipswich Town Women 1-0 Portsmouth FC Women 

 A fantastic result for Ipswich Town Women beating Portsmouth 1-0 to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time. Paige Peake’s 37th minute goal proving the difference over a tough 90 minutes. Portsmouth for their part never at any moment out of the game just couldn’t find that telling goal that could have sent the tie into extra-time. despite soaking up alot of Ipswich pressure early in the 2nd half as the hosts looked to build on their narrow lead. Well contested fast paced, little time to settle on the ball, lots of free-kicks given away but no malice shown through out. A great advert for the game. A fantastic crowd of 368 there to watch the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few contenders as always and a difficult decision. For Portsmouth, Danielle Rowe was outstanding in the middle covering plenty of ground to win and keep hold of the ball set up attacks, out of the left Eilidh Currie a constant threat, Jazz Younger and Rebekah Tonks in defence. A great all round team performance from Ipswich battled at times got forwards well, Amanda Crump in the middle with some good challenges and runs. Anna Grey too getting forwards in attack. The award though goes to Paige Peake scoring the winning goal of course but some fantastic ball in from her set-pieces aswell as several fantastic challenges in defence.

  Congratulation to Ipswich Town Women on their historic win all ears now on the draw for the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup live on Talksport radio tomorrow at 5pm. A great game to start the decade many more to come thanks to everyone for their help today.

 

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Leyton Orient WFC

Sunday 15th December

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip west to St Neots this Sunday to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC taking on Leyton Orient WFC. 

  A highly competitive league once again, Ipswich Town Women’s young guns leading the way as we head towards the end of the year, but the Suffolk side has a host of sides hot on their heels well positioned to challenge for the top, amongst those Leyton Orient WFC in 4th just 4 points off the leaders. 

 Cambridge United WFC  find themselves at the wrong end of the table, 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board so far this season winning just one league match. Not the start they wanted as they moved to a new home this season, St Neots Town FC hosting their first team and Development sides games now aswell as their new training base. The loss of several key players during the summer hasn’t helped with a few more departures the squad found itself battling for points. Have yet to keep a clean sheet this season whilst frustratingly the majority of their defeat have been by a single goal margin. 

  Wanted or not Cambridge United WFC have had an enforced lay off of six weeks without a league game, this though has seen others pulled into the battle at the bottom, A chance to get others back from injury notably midfielder Amber Cantwell. Returning to action last weekend was always going to be a tough ask away to leaders Ipswich who had scored 28 times during Cambridge’s down time come into their final match of 2019 off the back of a 5-0 defeat.

This afternoon’s match is also Leyton Orient WFC’s first in the league for over a month, albeit for different reasons as the London club has been involved in several cup competitions, reaching the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup were knocked out by Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women last weekend. A strong start to the league season now an established side in South East Division One have lost just the one game so far this season up in 4th amongst the sides challenging the leaders themselves. Otesha Charles amongst the goals for Leyton Orient early in the season top scorer with 14, was unavailable for today’s match.

Knew yesterday as the men’s league game had fallen foul to a waterlogged pitch the game was under threat this Sunday, St Neots Town FC though boasts a large 3G pitch beside the main stadium. The game switched to that pitch the stadium itself situated in a new development on the outskirts of St Neots. The 3G pitch fairly new offering plenty of width and space around it. The weather bright but chilly calm, a few clouds around but no chance of rain the low sun behind one end would cause problems during the match for the players.

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Jemma Moore, Albany Hodgson, Gisela Otten, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Jessicer Thsibanga & Chloe Armstrong.

  Leyton Orient WFC starting XI – Latoya Smith, Cheryl Anderson, Jasmine Auguste, Leyre Bastyr, Ria Collins, Egle Trezzi, Lisa Holmback, Francesca Ali, Sophie Le Marchand (C), Hayley Barton & Ellie Stenning. Subs – Connie Montiel-McCann, Michelle Young, Pinja Piira & Allison McCann.

 A change of ends at the coin toss with Leyton Orient captain Sophie Le Marchand opting to have the sun at her sides backs in the first half. Cambridge then to get the first half underway, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Leyton Orient in an all blue kit, The ball closed down quickly by both sides straight away not getting out of the middle third Leyton Orient with a throw in on the right trying to make in roads behind their opponents defence.

The ball staying that side Cambridge get a throw on halfway, into Amber Cantwell she brings it down well turning to pass to striker Kelley Blanchflower central, she sees Amy Howlett breaking away down the right wing into space puts a great diagonal pass into her run takes it on before whipping a cross into the box the ball won and cleared by Leyton Orient’s Cheryl Anderson. A lively start to the game energy from both sides snapping in to make challenges Cambridge coming out on top in the early 50/50 exchanges. 

  Hayley Barton gathering the ball into her feet for Leyton Orient left side plays the pass infield into Egle Trezzi she spreads play up the left for Le Marchand to attack driving on towards the box, Abi Davies tackles for Cambridge to regain possession. Leyton Orient quick to get the ball back a cross fired into the area from the left side, Ellie Stenning up to challenge for it central knocks it down for Le Marchand to hit top of the box left side struck well the ball races wide across goal. 

Hayley Barton in to winning the ball for Leyton Orient

  Cantwell and Blanchflower combining once more the ball passed into the middle as Gisela Otten moves forwards plays a superb weighed pass out to Howlett on the move down the right taking on the full back gets inside to lift in a cross the ball too close to the keeper, Latoya Smith claiming high at her near post. Albany Hodgson does well tackling to prevent Leyton Orient bringing the ball out from the back keeping the pressure on in the final third for Cambridge.

Kelley Blanchflower and Amber Cantwell looking to get the better of the Leyton Orient defence 

  Francesca Ali strong into the challenge winning the momentum for Leyton Orient sets Le Marchand away on the left, Cambridge’s defence pushed back. Barton latching onto a stray goalkick lets fly from the angle a long way out her shot over. Jemma Moore doing the defensive work for Cambridge seeing the ball out on the right for a goalkick as Anderson looks to play in Stenning. A even start to the game both sides competing well Cambridge have a throw left side into Blanchflower the Cambridge attacker turns well and looks to take the ball on a determined run into the area, stopped as Ria Collins goes into challenge the ball deflected out to the right picked up by Howlett who lashes it goalwards, Smith with a smart save a glove up at her near post to tip the ball on away across goal. 

Leyton Orient WFC’s Ria Collins

 Stenning is brought down bringing the ball on through the middle for Leyton Orient a free-kick awarded, Barton over it a floated ball into the box Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt up highest getting her head on the ball knocking it down outside the area falls to Lisa Holmback strikes the ball on the volley her attempt over the bar. Cambridge mount an attack Emma Jenkins winning the ball in the middle Cantwell and Blanchflower ahead of her a good one two the ball played out to Howlett right her shot saved by Smith.

Cambridge winning a corner the ball initially defended by Leyton Orient, it’s Hodgson again who prevents the visitors breaking in attack the ball staying in the final third Jenkins is fouled 35 yards out left side, she is up to take it herself goes for goal a curling ball falls wide of the right post. Trezzi battling for possession gets the ball forwards for Le Marchand left side her early cross defended by Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett. Barton does well for Leyton Orient attacking right to win a corner. The ball played in towards the top of the area Trezzi inside the D meets it first time her strike angling wide races past the far post.

Ria Collins and Emma Jenkins challenge for the ball

Le Marchand left side in attack the ball fired up to her controls well on her chest to turn and strike the ball on the angle, read by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin down to claim at her near post. Ali with good work in the middle for Leyton Orient looks to pick put Holmback making a run ahead of her, Moore stepping in the tackle and win the ball for Cambridge. Free-kicks being given away Hodgson brings down Holmback central, Trezzi puts her attempt over. Up the other end play is brought back after Cantwell is pulled down with no advantage. Hodgson to play the ball forwards, Leyton Orient defend, somewhat unfairly as far as Blanchflower is concerned protesting she was held down, her appeals waved away.

 One too many for Hodgson as she is eventually booked after a long lecture from the referee. Left side Barton to float the ball into the box, Collins with the run the ball knocked on into the mix scrambled behind for a corner. Taken from the right a good delivery met by Collins 10 yards out a looping header goalwards straight at Pamplin catches it high. Leyton Orient started to get on top getting the ball into the final third well Ali on for Stenning 20 yards out across to Barton right side into the box, Cambridge closing down the hosts looking to attack quickly through the middle Ali in to break it up. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Albany Hodgson

  Leyton Orient’s Holmback getting her side a corner on the right played long to the far post the ball headed clear outside the area picked up by Leyton Orient’s Leyre Bastyr strikes in a low shot Pamplin diving makes the save. Stenning’s turn for a lecture from the referee as she goes into the book. Jenkins fouled for Cambridge on the left Hodgson on the delivery long to the far post runners attacking it Smith with the instinctive save at close range a scramble inside the box the ball coming out to Jenkins her shot blocked. 

  Jenkins on the left turning on the ball good work to get in behind swings in a cross along the face of the Leyton Orient area, Otten racing forward striking it 1st time the Dutch players effort racing narrowly wide. Plenty of energy being put in by both sides Barton bringing the ball on in attack left side looks to come infield taking it across the top of the area looking for room to shoot lets fly the ball taking a deflection off a Cambridge leg the sting taken off the shot Pamplin can safely claim. Leyton Orient pressing late on win a corner on the left put long across the six yard box, Ali beyond the far post heading it back across goal a vital clearance by the defender covering the post for Cambridge.

Francesca Ali’s header put back across goal

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten preparing to tackle Leyton Orient’s Lisa Holmback

  GOAL! Cambridge break late into the first half Howlett away into space on the right Blanchflower with her getting the edge on the defence in the middle the ball from Howlett rolled on into her path right of the D into the box Blanchflower pulls the trigger early to fire her shot low past Smith before she can properly set herself 1-0.

  Time in the first half for Cambridge to mount one last attack Jenkins fouled somewhat painfully a free-kick awarded 40 yards out central, Hodgson on it tries her luck from distance on target Smith moving across her goal needed to keep her eye on it but drops before it an cause her trouble brings it down safely. 

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Leyton Orient WFC

  A narrow lead for Cambridge at half-time, Blanchflower slotting the ball past the keeper late in the first half. A fairly even contest, lively players competitive across the pitch. Several robust challenges nothing malicious however the game played in good spirits. Cambridge gaining confidence Leyton Orient building well creating opportunities nothing clear cut yet though. 

Sophie Le Marchand bringing the ball down for Leyton Orient

No changes for either side at half-time. The sun very low now light starting to fade, Leyton Orient to get the 2nd period underway Cambridge defending a 1-0 lead. Davies at right back for Cambridge dealing with a high ball forwards. Leyton Orient pressing from the off in the 2nd half Trezzi supporting Le Marchand left side the pair getting a throw in deep, put into Le Marchand edge of the box she heads it on into the centre, Burt getting it clear for Cambridge. Up the other end Collins putting in the tackle defending against Jenkins as she looks to break for Cambridge. 

Le Marchand gathering the ball wide left turns infield 30 yards out is lining up a strike, blocked by Otten as she throws herself into the block in front of her. Leyton Orient press the attack left side a cross whipped into the area nodded out by Moore central falling straight to Stenning right of the D her shrike back blocked by Burt deflected out to the left Trezzi latching onto it firing a shot in on the angle Pamplin down at her near post to save.

  Cambridge quick to get up the other end win a corner on the right, the ball into a crowded six yard box, Smith rising well amongst the melee to punch down the ball still in play inside the box, Auguste blocking Cambridge force a 2nd corner. The ball cleared Cambridge win it back inside the Leyton Orient half Blanchflower and Jenkins combine the latter seeing her shot from 20 yards out blocked. Blanchflower picking out Howlett getting away on the right her low cross cut back across the six yard box snatched into her body by Smith. 

A lively contest still very even, Cambridge can’t afford to sit on a 1 nil lead. Le Marchand providing a good outlet in attack for Leyton Orient on the left Trezzi picking her out with the pass, Davies sticking out a foot just taking the ball away from her as she looks to turn in behind. Leyton Orient’s Holmback right puts the ball into the box for Le Marchand who checks back before shooting a curling effort headed over by Burt for a corner. The corner defended the ball dropping for Holmback right of the D, her shot sliced falls wide of goal.

  Barton bringing the ball on through the middle looks to put Le Marchand through on goal as she breaks central, right side Burt stays on her making a fine tackle inside the box to take the ball away from her. Auguste has a go from distance 30 yards out well struck but not troubling Pamplin in the Cambridge goal. Leyton Orient continue to press breaking quickly right in attack the ball launched into the area Stenning and Le Marchand the runners, Stenning near post looking to shoot on the volley does quite get enough on the ball helping it on towards goal Pamplin is down on it bravely as Le Marchand goes over her.

Jasmine Auguste looking to get in behind for Leyton Orient

 The visitors continue to knock on the door Barton with great work on the ball getting inside the box to shoot from the right her attempt headed away in front of goal by Davies. Trezzi putting the ball forwards for Stenning in the box heads it down for Auguste bombing on from the left her run blocked keeps possession to win a corner. Cambridge look to break Cantwell stooped by Bastyr a good challenge to deny her. Blanchflower patient leading the line for Cambridge ready to go should the ball be presented to her. 

 GOAL! That patience rewarded as Cambridge get the ball out from the back long into her making a run left channel getting free to attack the keeper rushing out to met her corner of the area Blanchflower lifting the ball over Smith, wheeling away in celebration even before the ball has bounced into the empty net beyond 2-0.

Striker Kelley Blanchflower puts Cambridge into a 2 goal lead

 25 minutes left to play Cambridge with a 2nd goal, Leyton Orient look for an immediate response Anderson with a strike from distance wide across the area. Howlett tracking back in defence to support Davies as Le Marchand looks to get the ball down and drive into the area. Alot of effort put in by Cambridge, Leyton Orient creating chances just aren’t getting the rub of the green in the final third. Play paused as Hodgson requires treatment but okay to continue the floodlights switched on getting very dull with the sun fallen below the ground. 

Leyton Orient captain, Sophie Le Marchand

  Cambridge winning a free-kick wide on the right level with the penalty spot Cantwell to take a well struck ball flying in towards goal smashes against the bar an out of play. Le Marchand strong on the ball puts it on for Stenning looking to get into the area, Moore diving in to make the tackle puts it out for a throw in for Cambridge. Blanchflower picking the ball up on halfway turns and looks to drive on with it towards the Leyton Orient area closed down 20 yards out the ball is played back towards Smith picking it up the referee blowing up for a foul handling from a back pass.

 GOAL! Cambridge with an indirect free kick inside the Leyton Orient box left of goal 8 yards or so out Cantwell and Jenkins close by Cantwell with the touch back to Jenkins to smash towards goal, through everybody finding its way into the back of the net putting Cambridge 3-0 up late in the game.

  The visitors straight on the attack Le Marchand left side winning a corner the ball put into a congested six yard box the flag up against Collins as she rises to head the ball. Leyton Orient make the first change of the game Holmback coming off to be replaced by Connie Montiel-McCann she goes to right back Anderson switching to the left.

Abi Davies bringing the ball out from the back for Cambridge

  Cambridge tiring but a call to arms to keep a clean sheet now the game into the closing 10 minutes Leyton Orient comes forwards Barton shooting from outside the box Pamplin down to her left making the save the ball out for a throw left Le Marchand inside the box turning to shoot wide across goal. Leyton Orient bring on Pinja Piira for Barton. Cambridge make their first change, Cantwell coming off to be replaced by Chloe Armstrong. A strike from distance from Cambridge Otten I think 30 plus yards Smith moving across her goal catching comfortably. 

   Armstrong back to defend well for Cambridge initially then commits a foul outside the box left side bringing down Ali. Trezzi on it goes for goal deflected off the wall spins wide across goal for the corner kick. Leyton Orient push on late in the game looking for a goal Cambridge battling at the back, Le Marchand played in by Piira on the left comes inside to shoot Pamplin unsighted as the ball finds it way through her defence with a great save getting down low to her right to push the ball away. 

  The visitors attacking right the cross put in across the top of the area, falls to Le Marchand left of the D strikes it on the half volley fired wide of goal. Into the final 5 minutes, Auguste and Le Marchand combine left side a throw in brings a foul and free-kick in the corner players forwards the ball sent in Moore injured as she goes up to defend for Cambridge play stopped a head injury. After treatment can’t continue brought off on in her place Jessicer Thsibanga. It just won’t happen for Leyton Orient in front of goal as they mount one last attack Auguste left on for Le Marchand puts in inside for Stenning to shoot outside the box her effort wide across the six yard box.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Leyton Orient WFC 

  A massive 3 points won by Cambridge United WFC just their 2nd league win of the season enough to lift them 2 places up to 9th in the South East Division One table. Leyton Orient suffering just their 2nd league defeat of the season. A even game for the majority Cambridge capitalising on individual errors from Leyton Orient to score leading 1 nil at half-time needed a 2nd goal to take the pressure off Blanchflower taking her chances well a 3rd goal coming late on and from a defensive perspective a first clean sheet of the season. Plenty of chances created for Leyton Orient it just wasn’t to be their day in front of goal.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders once again. Picking out a few performances, Francesca Ali and Egle Trezzi in the middle for Leyton Orient, and Sophie Le Marchand really did deserve to be on the scoresheet having carved out several opportunities. For Cambridge the defence with an huge effort, Kelley Blanchflower with two well taken goals had her hand in the third too. Amy Howlett with some great runs on the right in midfield Gisela Otten with solid game but edging it for me is Albany Hodgson put in some good tackles and prevented Leyton Orient getting forwards on a number of ocassions.

 Another entertaining game from the FAWNL, an even contest Cambridge finding the goals to win the game. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today. 

Match Report – Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 8th December

ERWFL Premier Division

 Back on the road this Sunday, a trip down to Essex to watch a game from the ever competitive ERWFL Premier Division, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies.

Highly competitive in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, Harlow Town Ladies leading the way opening up a gap at the top with 9 straight wins unbeaten so far this season. Incredibly close behind with just 5 points between the sides 2nd to 9th in the table. The standard improving year on year. 

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies playing at the highest level the club has been at winning promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division last season following a 2nd placed finish in Division One collecting their first piece of silverware too the Essex Women’s Trophy. Going from strength to strength since becoming Bowers & Pitsea having previously been Little Thurrock Dynamo’s. The main club itself housing excellent facilities that ground undergoing redevelopment. The core of the squad made up of players who have been with the club since it started this season bringing in a few new faces to bolster the ranks, Donna Fletcher from Hatfield Peveral, also joining from Hatfield Peveral attacker Yasmin Cowley who scored plenty of goals for her previous club as Hatfield rose through the league injured for much of last season undertaking a scholarship in America come the end of the season. Danni Jennings and Megan Harley from Rayleigh Town Ladies also coming in  along with Sade Walters and goalkeeper Violet Hickman. 

 Made a promising start in the Premier Division winning three of their opening 4 matches a run of poor results followed but the club have improved getting back to winning ways back to back wins putting them back amongst the chasing pack well clear of the bottom. Announcing this week an addition to their management team, Terry Harrison coming to the club from Harlow to work along side Darren Fraser and Daniel Foord.  Brings with him coaches Scott Chickelday and Ray Wells as the club looks to kick on.

Luton Town Ladies suffering relegation from the FAWNL last season. Following a period of relevant success in South East Division One challenging for a top 4 finish on several ocassions. Lost a few experienced players blooding alot of young players. Continue to do so have a strong youth set-up with several doing well for the first team. Have brought in defenders Elly Wade and Tanya Blacksley to give experience at the back. Set the early pace in the Premier Division as they look to bounce back straight away. A run in the FA Women’s Cup seeing them fall away from the top, amongst the chasing pack have lost just the once this season. Jess McKay top scorer on 11 goals not available today. Missing a few other presenting opportunities for younger players manager Nikki Baker giving 16-year-old Ellie Sargeant her first start. The sides meeting already this season in the FA Women’s Cup, Luton winning 3-0.

The Len Salmon Stadium the venue for today’s match the ground undergoing redevelopment a state of the art 3G playing surface and surrounding barrier already installed plus seated stands either side of the dugouts. The new addition the main stand a new one being build. Covered seating above the new changing rooms with plans ongoing for more improvements. The old clubhouse with bar and large function room. The weather overcast but dry little threat of rain the sun low in the sky quite a strong wind blowing from one goal mouth to the other.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Violet Hickman, Keira Adcock, Holly Moore, Donna Fletcher, Danni Jennings, Taylor Adcock (C), Yasmin Cowley, Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Georgia Fraser & Megan Harley. Subs – Danielle Styles, Sade Walters, Sophie Dowman & Atlanta Fuwa.

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Kezia Hassall, Rebecca Ferris, Tanya Blacksley, Anne Folan, Elly Wade, Zara Carroll (C), Ellie Sargeant, Erica Byron, Olivia Abraham, Funmi Babalola & Rebecca Kane. Subs – Jade Horsley, Kelsey Gibson & Leah Tomlin.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  An accident on the M25 causing heavy delays affecting Luton’s journey kick-off put back 10 minutes. Luton switching ends at the coin toss to have the wind at their backs first half, Bowers & Pitsea to get the game underway wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. Luton in their all navy away kit. The ball pressed in the middle Luton gain possession play the ball out to the left wing, Olivia Abraham looking to take the ball on Keira Adcock across to defend gets fouled in the process winning a free-kick. 

Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on through the middle Yasmin Cowley on for Courtney Fraser she spreads play to the right, Ebony Moore looking to get in behind is tackled by Luton’s Tanya Blacksley. Bowers & Pitsea getting players up to press Luton in their final third, captain Taylor Adcock in to win the ball Ebony Moore almost through to the right can’t quite take the ball in her stride. Cowley fouled inside the Luton half a free-kick to Bowers & Pitsea players up as Donna Fletcher sends it in towards the top of the area the ball running through to Georgia Fraser right of the D, aims to turn into the shot Rebecca Ferris throwing out a leg defending for Luton, Bowers & Pitsea press the ball not cleared out to the right Taylor Adcock winning a corner taken short a shot blocked on the edge of the area, Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on the ball put across to Georgia Fraser left of goal curls a ball in towards goal, Kezia Hassell with a low catch claiming the ball in goal for Luton.

Olivia Abraham battling for possession of the ball with Bowers & Pitsea’s Keira Adcock.

A good start from the hosts closing the ball down well spreading play. Luton come forwards Ferris on the right putting the pass on for Rebecca Kane running into the channel, Danni Jennings going with her for Bowers & Pitsea putting in a great tackle to win the ball back. Jennings called into action at the back moments later for Bowers & Pitsea again against Kane as a fortunate deflection sees the attacker run in behind taking the ball into the area forced left by Jennings recovering well the defender preventing the cross. Luton beginning to find some momentum of their own Ferris forwards as the visitors attack making a run into the box as the ball is helped on Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeper Violet Hickman down bravely to save at her feet.

Taylor Adcock captaining Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on

Courtney Fraser with a long range shot struck 30 yards out off target as a defensive clearance is put straight to her. The wind behind then Luton have pace in attack with Kane and Funmi Babalola looking to make runs central and into the channels. Erica Byron getting forwards from a central position as the ball is fed through to her left side outside the box good close ball control jinks inside getting a shot away as she is closed down the ball put wide across the face of goal.

GOAL! 15 minutes gone and Luton open the scoring with a goal that is as route one as you’ll ever get. The ball in the hands on Hassell at the back launches it forwards wind assisted the Bowers & Pitsea centre backs both go for it and both miss bouncing on in behind Kane is clear to take it on into the box and set herself to send it wide of the keeper 0-1.

The tail wind strong and Luton are looking to use it to their advantage, a high clearance from Ferris on the right puts Kane away on the flank and she races after it, the angle against her as she strikes the ball on the volley her cross/shot put across the face of goal. Byron left side strikes a shot from 25 yards out the ball racing wide past the far post. Bowers & Pitsea build through the middle Taylor Adcock out to Ebony Moore right side down the line cuts it back for Georgia Fraser to fire in a diagonal ball low towards the near post Cowley with the run, Elly Wade defending for Luton.

Courtney Fraser playing the ball for Bowers & Pitsea

 Kane a constant threat in attack for Luton getting in behind after the ball put long on the left wraps her foot around the ball crossing the ball in towards the near post, Hickman able to get her gloves around the ball first not put off by Babalola running in. Folan defending for Luton, firstly stepping out from the back to break up a Bowers & Pitsea move through the middle, the 2nd time heading behind for a corner as the ball is crossed in from the right. The delivery from the corner over Fletcher jumping near post falls to Georgia Fraser no shot on lays it back to the top of the area for Courtney Fraser her ball fizzed back in collected by Cowley can’t dig it out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down.

Luton’s Funmi Babalola challenging for the ball

  Abraham is brought down on the left attacking for Luton a free-kick awarded. Luton captain Zara Carroll a dead ball specialist to take out wide players forwards into the box she takes on the shot struck well the ball smashing against the crossbar dropping down into the area presented to Byron outside the six yard box her instinctive shot sent over on the volley.

Zara Carroll’s free-kick striking the bar for Luton

 The game quite open Bowers & Pitsea enjoying the better possession getting the ball forwards well the final ball lacking at times Luton keeping a good shape at the back. Kane in attack for Luton getting hold of the ball 25 yards out drives on twisting and turning to get into the area, Jennings getting back on her lunging in to make the tackle prevent her shooting the ball loose comes to Abraham to strike outside the area fires it wide across goal 

Rebecca Kane breaking in behind for Luton Town Ladies

 Half an hour gone and Bowers & Pitsea make the first change Fletcher coming off at the back to be replaced by Danielle Styles. Hassell kicking the ball long again bouncing on through Kane looking to get it under control, Jennings having given herself space to adjust getting to her to make the challenge and win the ball back. Megan Harley taking the ball on down the left makes ground winning a throw in in the corner, the ball headed on from the side of the area looping up, Hassell can claim above her head no one coming in, her resulting kick up field running on getting Luton a corner. 

Megan Harley bringing the ball forwards for Bowers & Pitsea

  Ellie Sargeant solid in the middle along side Carroll for Luton gets forwards running into space right as players are attracted to the left firing in a low cross Hickman down well at the top of her six yard box to pluck the ball into her body. 

  GOAL! 35 minutes played and Luton double their lead, Byron making some useful runs from midfield forwards in the left as Luton build 25 yards out strikes the ball well, a looping shot that flies over the keepers head and into the back of the net 0-2.

Erica Byron doubling Luton’s lead

  Harley with a great ball forwards cuts inside Luton defend, Cowley regains possession central presses on closed down top of the area plays it wide to Ebony Moore who wins Bowers & Pitsea a corner. Whipped in central taken confidently by Hassall. Attacking right side a throw in high up the pitch Keira Adcock plays in Ebony Moore tuning inside the box to get a shot away drilled wide at the near post. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying a strong spell towards the end of the first half another corner won left side Georgia Fraser putting in across the face of goal met on the volley at the far post by Jennings send over. 

 Entering the closing 5 minutes of the first half Bowers & Pitsea on the attack Harley on the ball left side playing the pass on for Courtney Fraser making the run into the channel cuts inside well to deliver a cross central into Georgia Fraser her first touch wrong footing the defender giving her space to shot set to pull the trigger Carroll dives in get a foot in to block the ball. Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on a throw won deep on the left Georgia Fraser crossing in Cowley can’t get it under control cleared out to the top of the box Keira Adcock latching onto it her shot held by the keeper. 

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll.

  Luton always ready to break hit Bowers & Pitsea on the counter Kane peeling off the defence onto a through ball to turn and strike left of the D, Hickman making a good save with her legs keeping the ball out. Carroll fouled bringing the ball forwards 35 yards out picks herself up to take it put in on target Hickman behind it palming the ball up clattering into the post as she pushes it away from the advancing attacker chasing in on the follow up. Okay after treatment. Bowers & Pitsea with one last attack in the first half Courtney Fraser winning the ball her pass forwards unable to fin Georgia Fraser running clear on the right, cleared straight to Cowley right outside the area can’t get a clean strike of the ball her scuffed shot gathered by the keeper.

Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-2 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton leading 2-0 at the break have created the better opportunities in front of goal using the wind to their advantage. Solid at the back Bowers & Pitsea unable to get in behind have enjoyed the majority of the possession looking to move the ball around get players forwards the final ball lacking at times and the clinical finish lacking. Trailing by 2 goals pressure late on to try and find a goal to narrow the advantage Luton always ready to hit on the counter attack.

 A change for Bowers & Pitsea at half-time Sade Walters on for Courtney Fraser. The light starting to fade and with it the wind as Luton get the 2nd half underway. Taylor Adcock putting her foot in to win the ball in the middle for Bowers & Pitsea passes the ball forwards for Fraser she looks to release Ebony Moore on the right in behind the ball running into the box, Hassell quickly out able to claim first for Luton. Bowers & Pitsea pushing forwards at the start of the 2nd half Harley’s shot from outside the box taking a deflection as it runs wide across the six yard out out for a corner. The delivery into a congested six yard box, Luton scramble it away to safety. 

Tanya Blacksley looking to clear the ball for Luton

 Bryon takes hold of the ball in attack for Luton right side has support from Babalola out wide plays her in she takes on the shot on the angle Hickman down in front of goal central pushing the ball wide past the far post for a corner kick. Folan putting the ball in over.

  Jennings busy at the back for Bowers & Pitsea winning the race with Babalola to take the ball as Kane flicks it on. Kane beating the offside trap runs in behind central into the box, Jennings with a great recovery to get back on her putting in a challenge six yards out to prevent the shot getting the ball back to her keeper. Cowley up the other end 30 yards out with time and space not closed down encouraged to shoot puts the ball wide. Up the other end Kane is played through central into the box gets a shot away Hickman sliding in to block saving well the rebound out favouring her defence to clear. 

Ellie Sargeant battling in midfield for Luton Town Ladies

  Sargeant on the ball for Luton spots Abraham moving on the left the pass into her feet the flag goes up as she strays offside. Play stopped for an injury as Sargeant and Holly Moore collide the latter coming off worse is okay after receiving treatment. A higher line from Bowers & Pitsea now as they look to get a goal back Kane finding room in behind as she moves across the field away to the right strikes a shot on the half volley on target fizzed in Hickman palms the ball up into the air taking the catch even as Byron closes her down on the line. Hickman catching well from another Kane ball in from the right as she moves across the back line to get in behind beating the flag. 

  Sargeant putting the ball on for Abraham breaking left her diagonal ball into Kane top of the area, Styles in to make the tackle win it for Bowers & Pitsea. Luton make a change with just over 20 minutes left to play, Abraham coming off on the left, coming on Jade Horsley to make her Luton debut. Sophie Dowman on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore. Jennings with more superb work in defence for Bowers & Pitsea first defending against Kane as she looks to get away then standing up to block Babalola as she looks to drive on with the ball. The floodlights needed are switched on. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Danielle Styles

 Horsley on the left picking out Kane as she makes the run ahead of her into the channel Holly Moore defending for Bowers & Pitsea. The hosts get forwards to win a corner the ball played in near post defended by Luton’s Blacksley. The game open both sides looking for the next goal Bowers & Pitsea to pressure Luton late on, the visitors to make the 3 points safe Luton’s Horsley adding pace to the attack runs into space on the ball whips a great cross in across goal Babalola racing in heads over from six yards out. 

  Carroll back to cut out a cross put in from the left, Harley getting a 2nd opportunity to put the all in lands on the roof of the net. Byron brought down in the middle a free-kick for Luton another opportunity for Carroll to put the ball forwards knocked down well by Kane central top of the area into the path of Babalola her shot from 20 yards out straight into the gloves of the keeper. Ebony Moore back on for Bowers & Pitsea with a good piece control central lays the ball back for Holly Moore to curl in a shot from 25 yards out doesn’t trouble the keeper the game entering the final 5 minutes.  

 The wind returning getting decidedly chilly too. Harley firing in a shot from range drops short controlled by Fraser turns to lay it back to Dowman top of the box leaning back her attempt put over the bar. 

GOAL! Into the final minute and Luton hit Bowers & Pitsea with a late sucker punch to kill off the game. Byron lifting a great pass forwards Kane having beaten the offside trap on several ocassions is offside this time but no flag raised continues her run carrying the ball to the top of the area right of the D puts her foot through the shot sending a fiercely struck low drive past the keeper 0-3.

2 goals for Luton’s Rebecca Kane

  From the restart Fraser takes on the long range effort in an attempt to catch the keeper off guard, falls short however Hassell gathering. Kane and Babalola combining in attack on the right winning Luton a corner kick, defended by Fraser, Bowers and Pitsea race forwards on the counter attack Holly Moore carrying the ball forwards on to Ebony Moore inside to Dowman 25 out lays it back to Holly Moore to hit first time the ball racing narrowly wide of the post. 

Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-3 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton winning 3-0 to claim the 3 points lift them up the Premier Division table. A solid performance keeping it tight at the back waiting for their opportunities to attack, 3 clinical finishes to win the game. Tight at the back hard to break down. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying good spell of possession moving the ball well, just lacking in the final third, good opportunities created just not exploited. 

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders as usual. For Bowers & Pitsea no doubting has to be Danni Jennings put in a real shift at the back on hand on several ocassions to put in the vital tackle. Overall hard to single out an individual for Luton the defence solid keeping a good shape. Carroll in the middle and Kane up front with some good runs the award though goes to Erica Byron several timely runs through the middle setting up Kane for her 2nd goal and a superb hit for her goal.

Always competitive in the ERWFL the Premier Division a strong league this year. Good to get a trip down to Essex in been a while. Safe to say I haven’t missed the M25 though. My thanks to both clubs for the team details as ever much appreciated.

Match Report – Needham Market Women v Newmarket Town Ladies

Sunday 24th November

ERWFL Division One North

 League action this weekend on Women’s Football East, a game from the ERWFL Division One North, newly promoted Needham Market Women hosting Newmarket Town Ladies.

 A meeting between two sides that have several similarities, a young talented squad looking to make an impact. Needham Market Women just over a year old formed during last summer made a great start one of several new sides competing in an expanded Suffolk Women’s Division. Made a strong debut pushing eventual champions East Bergholt United Ladies all the way in the title race aswell as reaching the finals of both the League and County Cup. Moving straight up to join the ERWFL along with East Bergholt, the club setting up a new Reserves side to compete the the Suffolk Women’s Division, going well with a 100% record after 7 games played.

Freya Louis one of the youngest managers around looking after the 1st team and pretty much involved with everything to do with the club. Passionate about her role and loving it to the max, writes the Happy Gaffer blog in her spare time and most recently has set up the #WeAre twitter account with the aim to celebrate females in all roles within the game and to encourage more participation, to find out more go to and follow @UK_WeAre

 Stepping up to the regional set-up Needham Market into Division One split into two divisions this season North & South. Are in the North league along with East Bergholt, Cambridge City Ladies Development and Gorleston Ladies also new this season with AFC Sudbury, Histon, King’s Lynn and Newmarket seeing 8 competing. Has been a stop start season so far for Needham Market which can often be the case for ERWFL in the first half of the season. 3 league  games played so far yielding 4 points. Cup games dominating for the large part the early stage of the League Cup seeing the Division One teams divided up into 4 groups of 4 playing each other once with the group winners going on to join the Premier Division sides in the knockout stages, Needham Market topping Group C. Lois Balfour featuring for the first team today, prolific in front of goal for the Reserves so far this season with 28 goals from just 7 appearances.

Newmarket Town Ladies beginning their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL made a solid debut upon stepping up into regional league football, quickly found their feet in a highly competitive single division last season eventually finishing in fifth spot. On top of that won silverware as they reached the final of the ERWFL Plate beating Histon Ladies to lift the trophy. Reestablishing a Development side this season, Craig Boneham coming in to take charge of the 1st team as the club looks to push on once again. The ERWFL Division One North looking a strong league this season Newmarket have 7 points from their opening 5 games, young striker Annabel Cuthbert finding her form in front of goal early netting 16 goals so far this season from 10 played.

 Bloomfields the venue for today’s game home of Needham Market FC, it’s women’s sides part of a wider club and academy. The Hub cafe & bar was in construction the last time I visited now build dominating as you enter the ground the grass pitch beyond overlooking the 3G pitch where today’s game will be played. Two stories the ground floor home to the changing facilities, the upper floor housing a conference room and the cafe itself serving hot and cold food and drinks a balcony for viewing surrounding it. A smart looking set-up. A hive of activity very much a community feel to the place. Pity the weather was rubbish, dull and overcast, the rain though should stay away. A game taking place on the 3G on arrival would run into the next game causing a delay in kick-off so both sides can get warmed up properly.

Needham Market Women starting XI – Freya Louis, Jodie Sharp, Ashleigh Goddard, Maria Smith, Amy Dunn, Sasha Diston (C), Taylor Cooke, Amber Sparkes, Francesca Rainbird, Lois Balfour & Annie Northwood. Subs – Megan Stock.

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Elli-Rai Quinn-Nichols, Rebecca Towler, Holly Dryland, Beth Woodfield (C), Chloe Slater, Jess Linger, Antonia Smith, Laura Brame, Molly Agnew, Lauren Deller & Annabel Cuthbert. Subs – Yasmin Woodfield, Hannah Rogers, Jordanne Sillitoe & Layla Weston.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A few players missing for Needham Market only able to name the one substitute, manager Freya Louis donning the goalkeeping gloves today with 1st choice keeper Amber leeks out injured. Newmarket naming two 16-year-old Development players amongst their squad today Rebecca Towler and Layla Weston. Needham Market to get the first half underway wearing an all red kit with yellow trim. Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. Back to the defence Newmarket quick to close down on the right forcing a throw, Needham market build again through the middle captain Sasha Diston bringing a wealth of experience to Needham Market having joined in the summer playing the ball forwards into Lois Balfour she lays it out to the left wing, Francesca Rainbird racing down the line fizzing in a cross towards the near post Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield racing in clearing despite goalkeeper Elli-Rai Quinn-Nichols well placed to pick up.

   Newmarket bring the ball out from the back central forwards into attacker Lauren Deller, spots Molly Agnew making a run on the left putting the pas into her feet she takes it on Jodie Sharp, another of Needham Market’s summer recruits playing right back getting back across Agnew to defend and play the ball back to her keeper to clear. Woodfield plays a fantastic pass from the back out long to the rights to set Laura Brame away recently joining Newmarket was at Needham Market at the beginning of the season. Against her former club takes the ball in behind a good turn of pace letting fly from the angle her shot over the bar.

Newmarket Town Ladies captain, Beth Woodfield

 Brame played in again on the right after another superb ball from Woodfield at the back taking the ball on travelling into the box Maria Smith sliding on to tackle brilliantly for Needham Market the ball sent behind for a corner kick. The corner delivered near side Woodfield running forwards to meet it getting a firm header on the ball looming high into the air dropping over the goal. 

  Rainbird getting hold of the ball for Needham market left side threads a pass through to Annie Northwood in attack, joining from rival East Bergholt United scoring 40 goals last season. Northwood touching the ball looks to shift inside to get a shot away inside the box, well read and defended by Newmarket centre back Chloe Slater. Maria Smith with another fine piece of defending on Annabel Cuthbert central as Deller almost slides her through in behind, the ball put back to Louis to kick clear. Holly Dryland up on halfway as Newmarket lose the ball does well defensively to stop Needham market getting away on the wing. 

Holly Dryland in to win the challenge for Newmarket

 Needham Market win the ball back central put forwards into Amber Sparkes she plays the ball forwards with the outside of her boot scooping it over the Newmarket defence for Northwood getting in behind moving to the right into the area sends a shot in low across the keeper, Quinn-Nicholls down well throwing out a glove to push the ball wide of the far post for a corner. A god delivery in from the right through the six yard box, Diston the target gets no contact retrieved by Sparkes hooks the ball over her head back across the face of goal Diston inches away again. 

Needham Market Women’s Amber Sparkes

  Diston with a strike from distance off a throw in on the left side sets her sights from 40 yards out on target one bounce in the box, Quinn-Nichols catching safely right behind it. Newmarket pressing well showing good movement intercepting more than one mislaid Needham Market pass and getting it forwards quickly, Deller finding room coming for the ball, Brame and Agnew outlets on either flank. Nearly pays off as Agnew is played in right side squaring a cross into Cuthbert top of the area a great piece of skill to wrong foot the defence and get into the box, Maria Smith recovering fantastic to dive in make the challenge put the ball away for the corner before Cuthbert can pull the trigger.

Molly Agnew looking for a passing option as she gets hold of the ball for Newmarket

GOAL! Closing in on the opening 20 minutes and Newmarket open the scoring. From the corner kick put in from the right Woodfield making the run once again closer in across goal, forcing the error Diston getting her head on the ball to her dismay sends it into her own goal 0-1.

  Needham Market haven’t settled not giving themselves enough time on the ball in the early stages Sparkes gets hold of the ball 40 yards out and battles her way forwards riding a couple of tackles before shooting from the top of the box, the ball straight into Quinn-Nicholls back on her line. Sparks has Sharp making a run on the overlap right side puts her in taking it to the line sends in a cross along the top of the six yard box the ball cut out by Slater. 

Amy Dunn clearing the ball for Needham Market

  Sparkes showing intent in attack getting on for Needham Market a great pass forwards putting her in by Diston central Sparkes quick takes the ball into the area, right of goal has it in her sights Slater coming to close opts to take another tough into the six yard box wide of the post turns inside looking to knock it past the keeper and shoot, Quinn-Nicholls down at her feet makes the save. Needham Market creating opportunities now have a free-kick wide on the left the ball flighted in goes long Taylor Cooke hooking it back in across goal beyond the far post met first time by Northwood fired over. 

  Antonia Smith and Jess Linger working well together in the centre of Newmarket frustrating Needham Market as they look to play the ball though the middle, Rainbird always ready to break on the left for Needham Market almost in behind, Rebecca Towler getting in close to tackle and deny the cross. Louis races out of her area to get to the ball first as Cuthbert is played in behind by Antonia Smith getting forwards as Brame wins the ball. Amy Dunn coming to help Sharp on the right as Agnew receives from Deller in the middle. 

Laura Brame playing the ball for Newmarket

  Balfour on the ball high on the right for Needham Market passing central for Diston getting forwards good work on the ball dinks it over the top into the area for Northwood great control with her first before shooting lifting the ball high but straight at Quinn-Nicholls, gloves up palms it down coolly. Cuthbert has been almost gotten away from the Needham Market defence on a few ocassions playing off the shoulder of the last defender, more often than not Maria Smith has been the defender making the vital tackle. The home sides turning play around quickly look to get Sparkes away central as she comes inside, Dryland getting her toe on the ball to deflect it away from her into the box for Quinn-Nichols to clear. 

   GOAL! Late in the first half Newmarket double their lead Brame running with the ball on the right in behind crosses into the box, Louis coming out to that side gets her fists on the ball, pushes it out of her area, but it well out of position as the ball falls straight to Deller 20 yards out puts her foot through the ball rifling it into the back of the empty net 0-2.

Lauren Deller fires Newmarket into a 2-0 lead

  Sparkes seems intent on taking the whole Newmarket defence on at once as she picks up the ball 35 yards out central forces her way forwards checking back inside the D, spots Rainbird to the left breaking in behind attempts to chip the ball to her, Woodfield getting hold of it clearing for Newmarket. 

 GOAL! Time almost up first half, Needham Market frustrated so far getting a late lifeline on the attack Balfour lifting the pass forwards for Rainbird racing on into the box, Quinn-Nichols to the ball first knocking in away from the winger, does claim however as Rainbird gets back on her to steal possession and roll the ball into the empty net beyond 1-2.

  On last attack for Newmarket Deller taking the ball on down the left, Sharp quick staying with her for Needham Market putting in a good challenge to win the ball back.

Half-time Needham Market Women 1-2 Newmarket Town Women

  2-1 to Newmarket at half-time, a late life line for Needham Market giving them something to take into the first half. Good chances created by both sides the goals however all coming from errors. An intriguing contest, Newmarket settling the quicker looking a threat out wide and Deller picking up the ball finding space. Needham Market frustrated passes not finding their marked have more time on the ball than they are giving themselves. The game still very much there for the taking.

  No changes at the break the floodlights coming on Newmarket to get the 2nd half underway. Sparkes on the attack straight away forcing her way forwards brought down 30 yards out winning a free-kick. On the set-piece herself goes for goal on target finds its way through but not troubling Quinn-Nichols. A positive start from the hosts on the offence driving forwards Sharp running in behind on the right delivering a low cross into the area takes a deflection sending it behind for a corner.

   GOAL! Needham Market straight back on level terms at the start of the 2nd half an inswinging corner falling into the six yard box takes an unfortunate deflection of a Newmarket defender sending it straight into the path of Diston close in to stab over the line and equalise 2-2.

Needham Market captain, Sasha Diston

  Needham Market fired up now coming forwards a fantastic through ball to set Northwood away into the area clear left of goal fires a low drive across goal, Quinn-Nichols down well to save pushing the ball wide well away from danger. Newmarket win the ball central Linger into Brame left forwards to Cuthbert making a run into the channel the striker carrying the ball inside looking for a shooting opportunity tackled by Dunn, the ball spins loose to Deller central her first time strike charged down. 

Jess Linger, Newmarket’s dead ball specialist

  Newmarket make a double change Towler and Agnew coming off on come Yasmin Woodfield and Jordanne Sillitoe. Linger a threat from any dead ball situation, over a free-kick 40 yards out, plays the ball into the box swinging towards the far post, Louis doesn’t catch the ball dropping wide of goal. Diston plays a nice crossfield pass 30 yards out left into Sharp advancing into the area on the right catching it on the volley blasts into the side netting. Needham Market make a change Sparkes the player off Megan Stock on comes over to left back with Goddard switching to the right Sharp pushed forwards. Goddard called into action right side straight away defending well as Cuthbert controlling the ball 25 yards out looks to shift and shoot. 

Needham Market’s Ashleigh Goddard

Anyone’s game at the moment Needham Market coming back well, both sides looking to get forwards. Sharp getting clear on the right into the corner does well to get a cross towards the top of the six yards box, think it’s Balfour racing in near post stooping into the header, sends the attempt wide across goal. Stock linking up with Rainbird bringing the ball out from the back the latter crossing along the top of the area Northwood receiving looks to tie up Balfour inside the box, Beth Woodfield in between the strikers intercepts the pass. Newmarket make another change Layla Weston coming on for Deller. 

Development player, Layla Weston on for her senior team debut for Newmarket

  Goddard shown the first yellow card of the game for a somewhat ungainly challenge on Cuthbert as she attempts to break into the box. The free-kick in a dangerous position 20 yards out left of the D, Linger over the ball takes on the shot, on target Louis with a superb save tipping it over the bar, is rather pleased with her effort. The resulting corner sees Slater almost steal in around the back to poke out a boot stab towards goal her shot blocked. Needham Market hit Newmarket on the counter Northwood carrying the ball down the left all the way into the area closing in on goal drags her shot wide of the near post. The game entering he  final 15 minutes Sharp causing problems for Newmarket on the right in attack a surging run with the ball towards the ball Slater tackling the ball behind for the corner. 

Needham Market’s, Jodie Sharp

 GOAL! Needham Market come back from 2-0 down to take the lead for the first time in the match. The corner from the right into a congested six yard box Quinn-Nichols up amongst bodies gets her fist on the ball knocks it down and straight at Rainbird back on the penalty spot an instinctive hit lifts her shoot back in an down off the underside of the crossbar 3-2.

  Newmarket respond straight away with a substitution, Hannah Rogers on Brame coming off. Needham Market lively getting players forwards Rainbird continuing to carry a threat on the left winning a corner. Diston making thing’s tick in the middle for Needham Market now coming inside of a throw in right side drags a shot narrowly wide from 20 yards out. The game open Needham Market on the attack, Newmarket still carrying a threat up the other end Cuthbert pushing the ball central for Sillitoe can’t get a clean connection as she throws herself into the shot. 

Newmarket come forwards Antonia Smith playing it on for Cuthbert on the left comes infield is challenged the ball deflected spins out to Sillitoe right comes inside top of the area into a shooting position a shot curled in low Louis diving to her right making the save.

GOAL! Needham Market get down the other end win a corner on the right the delivery in with pace attacked near side missed runs across goal, Balfour racing after it to retrieve left side turns an fires the ball in towards the near post, Northwood sticking out a leg meets the ball turning it into the back of the net to give the hosts a 2 goal cushion late in the match 4-2.

Annie Northwood battling for the ball with Antonia Smith.

Needham Market come forwards Balfour playing her pass out to Rainbird advancing on the left shoots towards the near post Quinn-Nichols down to make the save. Sharp on the opposite flank striking the ball on the run blasting it wide across goal. Time running out Needham Market starting to put everyone behind the ball Newmarket press forwards, Dunn and Maria Smith solid through out the game. 

Needham Market centre backs, Maria Smith and Amy Dunn

  GOAL! Into stoppage time a last gasp free-kick wide on the right for Newmarket Linger to delivery played long to the far post knocked down back across goal, defended on the line the block putting it straight into Sillitoe to smash home from close range pull a goal back 4-3. 

  No time left however for another attack the final whistle blows and Needham Market record back to back wins in the league to join Newmarket on 7 points.

Full time Needham Market Women 4-3 Newmarket Town Ladies

  A thoroughly entertaining match this afternoon, Needham Market coming back from trailing 2- to win the game 4-3. Newmarket having the best of the 1st half causing Needham market problems creating chances forcing errors. A vital goal coming late in the 1st period for Needham Market began the 2nd half strongly straight back on level terms. The game wide open for a spell, Needham Market taking the lead and getting a 2 goal cushion, Newmarket never out of it pulling one back late hadn’t enough time left to find another.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders out there. Lauren Deller for Newmarket scoring their 2nd goal, finding pockets of space between midfield and defence almost had Cuthbert in on goal on a couple of ocassions. For Needham Market I’ve mentioned the centre backs a few times, Maria Smith in particular with some great tackles first half to prevent Newmarket shooting. Jodie Sharp in defence but mostly in attack a threat on the right as was Francesca Rainbird on the left. Have gone for Sasha Diston overall strong in the middle the engine for Needham Market a good range of passing bringing others into play and winning the ball.

  An enjoyable trip to Bloomfields, an entertaining match, always competitive in the ERWFL, never disappoints. My thanks to both clubs for the team line-ups much appreciated.

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 17th November

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

 A game from the 2nd Round of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup this Sunday for Women’s Football East, the venue The Walks Stadium to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Wroxham Women.

 Plenty of action across the county to take in this weekend the first official Women’s Football Weekend where fans of all ilks are encouraged to come watch a game of women’s football. A county cup weekend for many with several tasty looking ties thrown up. None more so than today’s fixture between two sides who have ambitions for reaching the final itself.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies reaching the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup last season for the 1st time in their history. An historic day too in that it was the first time the County Cup final had taken place at Norwich City FC’s Carrow Road stadium played in front of a record crowd. A tough draw for King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the 2nd Round of this season’s competition but then the club only needs to look back to there recent successes in the competition and a memorable 2nd Round defeat to Norwich City Ladies (the highest league placed side in the Norfolk) a couple of season’s ago. Playing in ERWFL Division One North this season beginning to find some form are playing higher league opponents once again.

 Wroxham Women a new name to women’s football in Norfolk but a familiar side the new guise for Acle United Women making the switch this season to join  forces with Wroxham FC as the clubs first women’s side, plying their trade in the ERWFL Premier Division, a strong league are amongst the title challengers aiming for promotion to the FAWNL. Like King’s Lynn will fancy their chances in the County Cup finalists two seasons ago, winners as Acle back in the 2014/15 season. The higher league placed sides not seeded in the County Cup meeting they can meet early on sees Wroxham pitted against King’s Lynn this time around but again as Acle faced Norwich City Ladies at this stage last season beating the FAWNL to go on eventually knocked out in the semi-finals by Wymondham Town Ladies. Currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table, Grace Birchall leading the attack with 27 goals already this season.

 Another opportunity for King’s Lynn Town Ladies to showcase their football at The Walks Stadium home of King’s Lynn Town FC, the large stand overlooking the pitch housing the clubs facilities, the cafe open a bar along with the changing rooms. Covered terracing opposite, a large pitch a good nick, the rain dying down earlier in the week to leave the game safe. A dull overcast sky above but any rain should stay away until later.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Chloe Witt, Georgia Freeman, Shanice Burch, Charlee Griffith, Emma Corbyn, Becky Russell (C), Rachel Skinner, Tegan Wheeler, Deva Rawlings & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Lily Porter, Katie Ward & Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Olivia Mungham-Grey, Victoria Pleavin, Chloe Shields, Ciera Flatt, Naomi Cooper Kayleigh Holloway, Mary-Anne Hoy, Lauren Bullard & Grace Birchall. Subs – Kirstie Kindred, Leanne Symonds & Grace Parker.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wroxham to get the 1st half underway wearing their away colours orange shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. King’s Lynn line up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts and shorts with yellow trim and yellow and blue socks. Played back to the defence Wroxham look to play it forwards on the right Grace Birchall looking to get the ball down and take on the King’s Lynn defence, the tackle seeing the ball out for a throw. King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell carrying the ball on through the middle looks to release Rachel Skinner on the right her early ball crossed into the box headed clear back to Skinner to play in another high ball this one caught by goalkeeper Amy Bell.

Grace Birchall bringing the ball on attacking for Wroxham Women

  A pacy start to the game both sides closing the ball down quickly looking to get going. Newly signed Ciera Flatt joining Wroxham last week plays the ball from the middle out to the right Kayleigh Holloway on down the line to cross into the box the ball headed clear of the area, Wroxham regather a strike fired in from distance on the right, caught high by King’s Lynn goalkeeper Bryony Robinson. 

 King’s Lynn get on the attack the ball threaded through to Chloe Witt getting forwards on the right taking defenders on gets in behind squaring a cross into the box the ball just behind striker Tiffany Forshaw, the Wroxham defence clearing at the far post. Wroxham come on the right a throw won deep in the corner put back up the line to Mary-Anne Hoy level with the top of the area fires a ball in central Flatt can’t take in her stride runs on through to Birchall positioned left of the D 20 yards out curls a low shot in, lacking power Robinson down to gather is right behind it. 

Wroxham Women’s Mary-Anne Hoy

  Wroxham settling quickly, Naomi Cooper in the middle with a strong challenge to win the ball her pass aiming for Holloway breaking right comes inside tackled by King’s Lynn defender Georgia Freeman. Forshaw coming high to get hold of the ball strong against the Wroxham centre backs plays the forwards pass out to Emma Corbyn getting away on the right on behind crosses early no one in the box however to met the ball Wroxham able to bring it forwards. Forshaw getting on down the left wing doing well to win a corner. The ball played in to the near side defended.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Georgia Freeman

  Wroxham build through the middle a direct attack Hoy with the ball on almost has Birchall making the run ahead of her through on goal, a great tackle from Shanice Birch at the top of her area to deny her. Very competitive no one settling on the ball passes played quickly both sides looking to exploit the width. Wroxham get numbers forwards as Holloway and Lauren Bullard combine on the right the ball in cleared straight to Cooper tries her luck from distance a powerful shot low races wide across goal. 

Charlee Griffiths heading the ball clear for King’s Lynn

 Russell latching onto Bell’s clearance from 35 yards out central strikes it on the half volley rushed the shot bends away from goal wide past the left post. A lively game both sides up for it a good atmosphere, Charlee Griffiths stepping up to intercept as Cooper tries to send Birchall through on the left. Skinner driving on down the right for King’s Lynn in attack her cross into the middle of the box, Witt furthest forwards to attack it can’t get enough contact headed away at the far post back to Skinner on the right closing in on the area her shot charged down. 

  A respite in the play a Wroxham player down injured. Some strong tackles from both sides two fully committed sides Tegan Wheeler having her ear bent by the referee. (*A case of mistaken indentity Rawlings with her ear bent) Birchall played through the centre in on goal gets a shot away past the rapidly closing Robinson but before it can reach it’s target the whistle blows for offside. Russell taking the ball on down into the right corner gets King’s Lynn a throw in, the further good player brings the hosts a corner the ball in defended near side by Wroxham won back on the left, the visitors defence out well to catch the King’s Lynn attacker offside.

Tiffany Forshaw sliding into the tackle for King’s Lynn

 Forshaw getting on down the left played in on the ball a strong run holds off her marker coming inside to blast in a shot on the angle a fierce drive rising across the goal face cannons down of the upright into the path of the advancing Corbyn coming at her quickly an instinctive slash at the ball, slices it wide, Wroxham scramble the ball clear. Up the other end Hoy shoots over from 22 yards out for Wroxham. The visitors win a free-kick wide right the ball lifted in towards the near post Russell back defending for King’s Lynn heading the ball up into the air put wide of goal Birchall quickest to react latching onto the ball fires it in low a blocking  save by Robinson before her defence gets it away.

Forshaw carrying a threat attacking on the left for King’s Lynn a powerful runner with the ball at her feet aims to put Corbyn in central the ball won and cleared put straight back to Forshaw left of the box shoots firing the ball wide. Russell comes away with the ball right side fires it in on the angle, Bell down low in front of goal pushes it away in front of her straight at the on rushing Skinner, the block coming in as she pulls the trigger the ball cannoning back off her over the bar.

Wroxham’s Hoy challenging King’s Lynn’s Deva Rawlings

  Holloway and Birchall switching flanks the former now on the left wins her side a corner, taking it the ball is cleared back to her, shifts it as she takes it up the line before driving in a shot towards the near post through bodies Robinson is across to cover the angle gathering the ball. On the opposite side Birchall gets her head down pushes on with the ball down the line before whipping in a dangerous ball on the angle, Robinson up at her near post to push the ball behind for the corner. On the right an inswinging delivery headed away by Griffith. Birchall straying clear through the centre shoots early the ball right of the D put wide across goal. Wroxham make a change, Kirstie Kindred on in attack replacing Bullard. Holloway on the attack left for Wroxham lifts a cross into the box Flatt racing forwards can’t quite take it in her stride but deflected the ball runs behind for a corner on the right.

GOAL! 5 minutes left to play in the first half and Wroxham open the scoring players congregating at the near post the ball flighted into the pack is knocked on central comes straight through to Flatt unmarked in the middle of the box, takes a touch before smashing the ball home into the the back of the net Robinson left stranded 0-1.

Wroxham Women’s Ciera Flatt

King’s Lynn look for an immediate response getting a cross into the Wroxham box from the right Forshaw attempting the header close in can’t quite get the required contact. King’s Lynn press the attack left side winning a corner kick in near side headed clear gathered by Russell outside the box turns inside before shooting looks off target heading wide across goal but into the six yard box a dangerous ball almost turned past Bell by her own defender makes a timely grab.

GOAL! Forshaw has already fired one warning shot across the Wroxham bows and injury time fast approaching in the first half fires her side back level receiving a good pass from Birch at the back out to her on the left side all of 30 yards out on the angle strikes the ball hard over the keeper and into the goal beyond to make it 1-1. The Walks letting out a roar of celebration.

Tiffany Forshaw on the ball bringing the scores back level for King’s Lynn late in the 1st half

   A lively end to the half Skinner away on the right for King’s Lynn wins a throw high up the pitch put into Wheeler dragging the ball inside her cross cut out Wroxham break Birchall away with the ball on the right then Kindred racing into the the area, dispossessed, Birchall onto the ball to shoot, Robinson holding onto the ball.  

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-1 Wroxham Women

 A lively first half, between two committed sides fast paced highly entertaining two late goals seeing it level at 1 goal each at half-time. Both sides creating opportunities looking a threat going forwards, no one given much time on the ball, a few strong tackles throw in a great first 45 minutes of football and both sides will fancy their chances of getting the win 2nd half. 

King’s Lynn to get the 2nd half underway don’t think any changes have been made at half-time Rawlings playing the ball from the middle long up to Forshaw, crossed in cleared by Pleavin for Wroxham. King’s Lynn with a strong opening to the 2nd period up on the right Russell on the ball top of the area right can’t find a way through closed down plays it back across to Skinner central gets her foot up to strike the ball the shot 20 yards out bouncing inside the ball caught cleanly by Bell. Forshaw attacking left has support from Wheeler, Shields lunging in makes the tackle for Wroxham before she can get inside to shoot.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tegan Wheeler

  Wroxham captain Anna Larkins at right back kept busy by Forshaw steeping ahead of he King’s Lynn attacker to intercept a diagonal pass put in from midfield. Russell coming on to link up with Forshaw crosses early aiming for Witt making a near post run, Larkins gets across her to defend for Wroxham. King’s Lynn pressing the advantage at the start of the 2nd half the ball worked inside played into Forshaw to strike 20 yards out right of the D put wide of the post.

  Birchall brought down somewhat brutally as she charges forwards with the ball, strong tackling a feature of the game, both sides guilty however but both getting on with it not making a fuss, part of the fast paced nature of the game. King’s Lynn making a change Witt coming off on comes Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. The free-kick taken by Birchall claimed at the near post by Robinson an infringement bringing play back for a free-kick to King’s Lynn. Wroxham with a throw high on the left the ball gathered by Birchall struck on the angle narrowly over the bar.

Kayleigh Holloway bringing the ball under control for Wroxham Women

  Kindred in attack helping the ball on to Holloway getting free on the right into the box a mazy run on the ball blasts a shot in towards goal, Robinson with the parrying save. An open game now the result wide open, Skinner sending the ball on for Rawlings making a central run, Cooper back to defend for Wroxham. Russell right looks to send Forshaw through central, Bell winning the race to intercept the ball. Griffith with a superb tackle to deny Birchall an opportunity to get through into the box. Cooper is covering alot for ground in the middle of the park for Wroxham winning the ball back sends it on for Hoy who in turn threads it in behind for Birchall to chase too much on the pass allows Robinson to get out to claim. 

Wroxham Women’s Naomi Cooper

Kindred bringing the ball on right in attack for Wroxham squares her cross along the top of the area finding Birchall left side 20 yards out stretching as she shoots the ball in lacking the pace to evade the keeper. Cooper with a crunching challenge in the middle to get the ball for Wroxham out to Larkins right down the line for Holloway dribbles into the box one drag back too many as she attempts to get a clear shot Birch with the lunging tackle to take the ball. Lily Porter joins the game for King’s Lynn in place of Skinner. Birchall out to Larkins on the right the full back travelling forwards the give and go attempted with Holloway out wide, Larkins not catching the shot as she looks to hit it first time from distance.

  Changes for both sides, Grace Parker on for Mungham-Grey at the back for Wroxham, Katie Ward on for Corbyn for King’s Lynn. 

  GOAL! King’s Lynn take the lead in the County Cup tie with 15 minutes to play a fantastic strike from the captain too, the ball out left put in on the diagonal towards Forshaw top of the D, controls and lays it back for Russell to hit first time from all of 40 yards out rifled in on target a powerful hit over Bell before she can get anything on it 2-1.

Becky Russell firing King’s Lynn into the lead with a superb strike

 Wroxham make a change straight away with Leanne Symonds on for Hoy. Holloway driving inside from the right is tackled by Freeman, the defender down injured the trainer called on a pause in play can’t continue, hobbles off, Witt sent back on Forshaw now dropping into defend at full back. Tensions starting to rise challenges still robust time starting to run out. Griffith and Flatt tangle a free-kick to Wroxham wide right curled out at the far post put in by Birchall. 

  Wheeler advancing for King’s Lynn moving right with the ball out to Witt keeps with her getting the return pass inside to Russell to hit from distance, the shot held by the keeper. 

  GOAL! From a throw in on the right inside the King’s Lynn half Wroxham get a late equalising goal, Birchall gathering the ball into her feet turning infield heading towards the area sends the cross in central missed by Cooper, met by Flatt beyond her 20 yards out on target parried up into the air in front of her by Robinson, Kindred quickest to pounce close in to knock it past her and over the line 2-2.

  A blow for King’s Lynn conceding late on they respond well unleashing an all out offensive on the Wroxham defence pushing forwards Witt seeing a shot charged down 20 yards out. Larkins putting a clearance straight into the path of an advancing attacking the ball rebounding off her straight into Bell’s gloves. King’s Lynn press the attack Wroxham’s defence stand firm the final whistle blows the tie heading into extra-time.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women

Extra-time

  Light beginning to fade the floodlights coming on at The Walks, Wroxham to get the 1st period of extra play under way two 15 minute halves for either side to try an find a winner or the tie will be settled on penalties nothing to separate the sides so far. Birchall away on the left taking the ball into the area top corner foot through the ball blasts high and wild, goes down with injury looks in alot of pain, trainer and stretcher on after a pause in treatment Birchall denies the latter but can’t continue helped off the pitch Bullard races on to replace her. 

 Symonds with a half chance inside the box for Wroxham a defensive clearance put straight into her struck on the half volley fired wide. Cooper still full of running for Wroxham across to win possession looks to send Holloway through right side, Forshaw defending for King’s Lynn. Kindred bringing the ball on for Wroxham central lifts it forwards for Symonds in behind 20 yards out attempts to lob the advancing keeper the ball over her falls wide of goal. 

  Wroxham getting forwards Cooper winning the ball central passing to Bullard in towards the box the defence forced to clear as Robinson can’t get there coming out from goal. Off the resulting throw right Holloway fires in a cross close to the near post, Griffith in front of Symonds defending for King’s Lynn. Symonds forwards on the left inside to Kindred top of the box helped onto Holloway right side her ball in cut out and cleared struck back in from distance the shot racing wide of target. 

  Ward brought down by Shields sliding in just outside the box as she comes inside from the right. The free-kick in a dangerous position past the wall low narrowly wide of the post. Wroxham with one final attack in the 1st period of extra-time Kindred on for Cooper racing through the middle the King’s Lynn centre backs sliding in together to stop her run the ball deflected out to Symonds getting forwards left side controls and curls in a shot towards goal played straight into Robinson gloves. 

Half-time extra time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women

King’s Lynn to get the 2nd period of extra play underway 15 minutes left for either side to find what they hope will be the winning goal. Penalties looming. Forshaw moving back into an attacking role up top. Flatt on the ball for Wroxham 30 out looking for a position to shoot moving across goal before cutting back to unleash a shot goes wide as Flatt falls injured. Up gingerly is able to continue. Kindred with Flatt on the right attacking for Wroxham, King’s Lynn win the ball attempt to break quickly the ball forwards intercepted by Parker out to Holloway right comes inside tackled by Griffith. 

  Alot of energy expanded players on both sides tiring but no one giving up still a fully committed affair an intriguing game. King’s Lynn attacking left Forshaw taking the ball on towards the corner of the box, the ball loose Shields sliding in to win the brings Forshaw down. A free kick for King’s Lynn put in on the keeper, Bells claiming well, runners either side of her ready to pounce should the ball be spilled. King’s Lynn with a corner on the right flighted in towards the six yard box Parker up at the near post to clear. Hopkins-Duckhouse gathering 35 yards out right takes on the distance strike the ball caught by Bell. 

  Ward’s crossing from the right sees the ball deflected behind for a corner kick to King’s Lynn. The delivery finding its way through to Forshaw central inside the box turns into the shot blazes over. Ward retrieves the ball on the left of the area a Forshaw sees a shot blocked following a strong run on the right side put back in across goal cleared by Cooper. Into the closing minutes both sides tired now, determined not to concede whilst trying find a way through. The final whistle blows however and who advances into the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup will be decided on penalties!

Penalties

 I hate penalties as I’ve told you before a monumental effort from both sides but nothing to separate them after 2 hours of football now 5 spots kicks each and then if necessary sudden death.

  King’s Lynn up for the 1st penalty captain Becky Russell to take taken well a confident penalty high to the keepers left. 1-0.

  Cooper to take Wroxham’s 1st penalty, hit with power low to the keepers right 1-1.

  Hopkins-Duckhouse up next taking King’s Lynn’s 2nd penalty. Missed the ball fired over the bar 1-1.

  Wroxham captain Anna Larkins to take their 2nd penalty Robinson diving the right way the ball placed well into the bottom corner 1-2.

  Forshaw up next for King’s Lynn a confident strike fired low into the bottom right corner 2-2.

  Flatt up next for Wroxham she sends her strike over to see it remain all square after 3 penalties each 2-2.

  King’s Lynn’s 4th penalty taker is Emma Corbyn scores it as she plays it wide of the diving keeper 3-2. 

  Parker up next for Wroxham, again Robinson goes the right way the penalty well hit wide of her dive 3-3.

  Ward with the 5th penalty for King’s Lynn agony as she sees it fly over the crossbar. 3-3.

 A chance for Wroxham to win the shoot-out, Bullard up to take the 5th penalty has to score places it low past the keeper into the corner of the net and wheels around in celebration her teammates racing to join her. 4-3.

 Ecstasy for Wroxham, heartbreak for King’s Lynn at the end of the shootout a cruel way to lose a match but it needs to be decided on the day a huge effort from the hosts a real contest more than matched Wroxham. On top for large spells of the game coming back from a goal down to lead only to concede late on. A fully committed contest. The aim of #WomensFootballWeekend to showcase the women’s’ game and it certainly was at The Walks a great advert for the sport watched in front of a good sized crowd. King’s Lynn Town Ladies love a game at The Walks. It’s Wroxham Women though who advance to the quarter finals.

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 more often the case and entertaining match. Stand out performers for both sides, Becky Russell with a superb strike to fire King’s Lynn into the lead with a strong performance in midfield. An excellent goal too for Tiffany Forshaw to bring the scores level late in the first half a constant threat in attack on the left strong on and off the ball reading the game well. The award though goes to a Wroxham player thought Naomi Cooper was tremendous operating in midfield today lost count of the number of tackles she won get about the pitch making some well timed runs setting up several attacks.

 What a game was fantastic entertainment at The Walks this afternoon, a fully committed contest that neither sides deserved to lose a great advert for women’d football in Norfolk and beyond, look forwards to the quarter final draw. My thanks to both clubs for all their assistance today.