Category Archives: Norfolk Ladies Plate

The Round-Up – Norfolk 11/03/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A few waterlogged pitches around Norfolk this weekend affecting the women’s football fixtures with just 3 matches getting played some big games nevertheless with a semi final in the League Cup and a quarter final in the League Plate both featuring Sprowston who are on top of everything at the moment. 

  One league match in Norfolk Division One at the weekend with 3rd placed still uneaten in the league at home to 5th placed Gorleston FC Ladies looking to close the gap to 2 points on 2nd placed Bungay Town Ladies. A close first half seeing Thorpe United holding a 2-1 advantage the hosts when on to score 3 more goals in the 2nd half to win the game 3-2 with Shanice Sutton scoring a hat-trick that sees her move onto 27 goals for the season from just 11 appearances. Leonie Daulby also on the scoresheet scoring her 1st 2 goals for Thorpe United’s senior side. Sophie Gillett and Nicola Sheldrake with the goals in each half for Gorleston FC Ladies.

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

The first of the semi-finals of the League Cup were played this Sunday with Division Two leaders FC Sprowston Ladies travelling to Rivers Park to play Division One side Stalham Town Ladies. The visitors unbeaten in league and cup so far this season were up against higher league opponents for the 1st time this season. The Division Two side coming out on top clinching a narrow 2-1 win to book there place in the final. Rebecca Kirby and Nicole Read netting the winning goals. FC Sprowston Ladies will meet either Thorpe United Ladies or League Cup holders Bungay Town Ladies in the final their semi-final scheduled for this coming Sunday.

Norfolk Women’s League Plate

Also advancing to the semi-finals of the League Plate are Sprowston Ladies, currently leading Division One were drawn at home to Division Two side Beccles Town Ladies in the quarter finals. 2nd in Division Two, Beccles Town were trailing 2-0 at half-time before a strong 2nd half performance from Sprowston saw them score 4 more goals to win the tie 6-0 to advance. Rebecca Russell scoring a brace their goals to for Chelsea Pettifer, Georgia Cushion, Chelsea Brister and Victoria Leyer. 

  The other 3 quarter finals all scheduled for this Sunday too were all called off.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 07/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th January

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

A weekend of cup football to start 2018 in Norfolk with the quarter finals of the Ladies League Cup being played along with 3 ties from the 1st Round of the Ladies Plate Competition. 

   It was an emphatic win at home for current League Cup holders, Bungay Town Ladies as the Division One side ran out double figure winners over their Division Two opponents, Bure Valley Wildcats. Emily Leach netting a double hat-trick in the game, Samantha Walker was just one goal behind with 5 to her name. Selina Rowland also getting herself a brace. Nicola Hazell also getting a goal in a 14-0 win to book their place in the semi-finals.

   Thorpe United Ladies were last season beaten League Cup finalists and they also reached the semi-finals of the competition this Sunday however they needed to come from behind to do so at home against Fakenham Town Ladies who were leading 1-0 at half-time. Shanice Sutton netted a brace in the 2nd half with a goal too for Alice Ford to see Thorpe edge Fakenham out with a 3-2 victory. Sam King and Rochelle Woods with the goals for Fakenham Town.

Also reaching the League Cup semi-finals are Stalham Town Ladies as they narrowly beat fellow Division One side Gorleston FC Ladies away from home on Sunday. Joanne Hooper getting a brace for Stalham Town at Emerald Park with Sophie Lubbock also grabbing a goal as the visitors edged Gorleston out with a 3-2 win. Leanne Smith and Samantha Hunn with the Gorleston goals.

The league Cup semi-final line-up is completed by FC Sprowston Ladies leading the Division Two table. Were at home to fellow league side Tavern Ladies in the quarter finals this Sunday the sides involved in a 7 goal thriller, Sophie Fuller getting a brace for Tavern with Lucy Kean scoring the visitors 3rd goal. It wasn’t enough however as FC Sprowston thanks to goals from Tammy Graves and Katie Fray along with a brace for Rebecca Kirby won the match 4-3 to progress.

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

3 games played in the 1st Round of the Ladies Plate competition this Sunday. North Walsham Angels Ladies winners of the Plate competition two seasons ago were drawn away to fellow Division One side Long Stratton Ladies. Progressed with a comfortable win leading 1-0 at half-time went on to score 3 more in the 2nd half with Mary-Anne Hoy, Luci & Hope Middleton and Rachel Bussey all getting in the scoresheet.

   Bungay Town Ladies weren’t the only side to score 14 goals on their way to victory at the weekend as Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves also matched that result in the 1st Round of the League Plate away to Division One side Toftwood United Ladies. The Division One side proving too strong as they overwhelmed their opponents to progress.

  An all Division Two tie in the 3rd 1st Round League Plate game played this Sunday with Freethorpe Ladies hosting Beccles Town Ladies. Kiera Squires scoring for the hosts in the 1st half it was Beccles Town who held the lead at half-time 2-1 up going on to add another goal 2nd half to progress with a 3-1 win. Jordan Duke, Lucy Robbens and Grace Storey their goalscorers. 

The Round-Up – Norfolk 30/04/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 30th April

A slightly different Round-Up for Norfolk this week, just the 3 games played over the weekend all of them Cup Finals! Starting with the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final on Friday night with defending cup holders, Thorpe United Ladies up against Wymondham Town Ladies appearing in their 1st ever County Cup Final. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was there to cover that game then onto Sunday for the Leagues own finals day at Plantation Park 3 finals played in total the SWF Blog covering 2 the Ladies League Plate Final between King’s Lynn Town Ladies & Sprowston Ladies followed by the League Cup Final with Bungay Town Ladies taking on Thorpe United Ladies playing again less than 48 hours after their County Cup game. As all 3 finals will be published here anyway I figured I’d make it a Round-Up special.

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

First published Friday 28th April

Cup Final Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

 

  For the 2nd Friday in row the Supporting Women’s Football Blog is covering another final under the lights, this time at The FDC Field of Dreams to watch the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final between Wymondham Town Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies the current holders of the trophy.

  Two sides that have featured regularly on the SWF Blog since it began featuring on the post match reports after it’s launch in 2013. In that time Thorpe United have always been a force in the women’s game in Norfolk. Regular visitors to The FDC too having appeared in 4 of the last 5 finals, finally winning the trophy after 3 losses the last in the 2014/15 season losing on penalties to Acle United Ladies. Last season it was an all Norfolk Women’s Division One clash with Thorpe United playing Aylsham FC Ladies a 2-0 victory final seeing them collect winners medals and lift the trophy. 

  Ahead in the Norfolk Division One table this season, have the possibility of claiming a treble this season as not only have Thorpe United reached the final of the County Cup but also the League Cup, a good test for Martin Francis’ squad however as the finals are less than 48 hours apart with the League Cup on Sunday afternoon. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies have come a long way to in that time, progressing each season, Manager Alex Guy seeing them to League Cup success in 2015, went on to win the Norfolk Division One title the next season and take promotion to the Eastern Regional Women’s Football League (ERWFL) building a squad to compete at a higher level a successful campaign saw Wymondham Town clinch 3rd spot in Division One aswell as reach the semi-finals of the League Cup where they were knocked out by Haringey Borough Women who would go onto become the ERWFL Premier Division Champions. Have reached the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time in their history, looking to end the season with silverware.

Road to the Final

   Both sides with a bye in the 1st Round of the County Cup this season. neither was to kick a ball in the 2nd Round either as both were awarded the away win against lower league opponents. Thorpe have  seen an unusual amount of games called off against them this season and as it was progressed all the way to the semi-finals without kicking a ball awarded the win in the quarter finals with their opponents unable to field a team. 
  Wymondham were drawn at home to Norfolk Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies breezed into the semi-finals with a 7-1 victory. Onto the semi-finals a repeat of last season’s final for Thorpe as they were drawn at home to Aylsham FC Ladies the score the same as in that final a 2-0 win for Thorpe making it a 5th County Cup final appearance. A clash between the two ERWFL sides in the other semi-final with Wymondham away to Acle United Ladies playing in the league above them challenging for the Premier Division title. 1-0 down at half-time, Wymondham came back with a strong 2nd half performance to get themselves into a 4-1 lead before Acle United found a goal late on 4-2 the final score Wymondham reaching the final of the County Cup for the 1st time in their history.
  The Football Development Centre (FDC) in Bowthorpe on the outskirts of Norwich the venue for tonight’s final the sun setting over the pitch opposite the small mainstand as the teams warmed up. A good sized pitch in good condition plenty of people coming in to watch what should be an intriguing final. Changeable weather all week was nice and dry after a warm today for the match. Modern technology being embraced by Norfolk FA as a flying drone buzzed over head as the two sides walked out for the opening presentations.
Buzzing above the pitch, Norfolk FA’s drone capturing the opening presentation from a new angle
  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Chelsea Clarke, Gemma Sanders, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Laura Nicholls, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.

  subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Lily Ray & Ella Swift.

Wymondham Town Ladies

  Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Bethan Sommerfield, Olivia Mungham-Gray, Lisa-Marie Riches, Lauren Kett, Alice Ford, Jade Powell, Shanice Sutton, Vivian Moyo, Laura Hedtke & Rebekah Lake (C)
  subs – Nicole Read, Chelsea Clark & Edie Wright.

 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Thorpe United Ladies
    Wymondham to take the kick-off 1st half wearing red shirts and black shorts with black and red hooped socks with Thorpe lined up opposite in their away colours luminous green shirts with black across the top of the chest and sleeves. Black shorts and socks. Wymondham play the ball out to the right as they attack right from the off, Laura Nicholls that side taking the all down the line before firing a cross into the box, too close to the goalkeeper, Cara Anderson claims for Thorpe.
  Building from the back Thorpe play the ball into Alice Ford in the middle on for Shanice Sutton on the left the ball at her feet looks to run at the Wymondham defence coming inside is tackled by Leah Newcombe before she can fashion a shot outside the box. Wymondham waste no time in getting the ball forwards targeting ex-Thorpe striker, Laura Wiseman who is Wymondham’s top scorer with 20 goals this season making a run through the centre, Lauren Kett steps up from the defence to intercept the ball. 
  A positive start from both sides, Thorpe in particular looking to close the ball down early on squeeze the Wymondham defence. Playing up front for Thorpe Laura Hedtke sees the ball into her feet from the midfield holding it up well outside the box left of goal, tries to turn inside, closely marked by Newcombe the defence puts her foot in to win the ball. Another opportunity for Hedtke as Thorpe are awarded a free-kick on halfway the ball fired up into the box, the striker brings down well looks to turn and shot finds the room top of the area putting it low, Wymondham goalkeeper, Ashleigh O’Callaghan gets down to her right to make the save.
Wymondham’s Leah Newcombe headers the ball clear before Thorpe’s
Laura Hedtke can get in behind.
  Thorpe are building momentum, Lisa-Marie Riches wins the ball at the back as Wiseman looks to knock the ball in behind played up to Sutton halfway has Rebekah Lake, Thorpe’s captain available for the ball ahead of her plays the pass, Lake has Hedtke to her left threads the ball into her run as she comes into the box from the left channel shoots on the angle Anderson hols onto the ball at her near post. 
  Another free-kick for Thorpe sent up into the area, players attack the ball, Bethany Fretwell heading it out of the area for Wymondham, Vivian Moyo closing down outside the box for Thorpe 25 yards out plays it out to Sutton left side top corner of the area puts the cross in finds Lake near post puts the ball straight into Anderson from close range the keeper holding onto the ball. Just wide from Lake as the striker gets in behind the ball dropping over her shoulder as she enters the box, won’t drop quick enough as O’Callaghan comes to close her down, Fretwell on her shoulder Lake manages to connect with the ball knocking it past the keeper but also wide of goal.
  Wymondham have for the most part been looking to get the ball into Wiseman in the early stages up top, the striker finds a space in behind on the right into the box one on one with the keeper as Anderson starts to come shoots, the keeper palming the ball behind making the save. Playing into towards the near post the flick on catches a Thorpe defender in the face and the referee stops play so she can receive treatment. 
  Thorpe get the ball up the other end quickly as play resumes Moyo linking up with Lake moving into space on the right winning a corner kick on that side the high ball into the box is headed clear by Fretwell. Wymondham are struggling to get their attacking players on the ball, Amber Cantwell coming back to help the defence win the ball has it outside her own area looks to carry it forwards, Thorpe move in quickly to stop her, Jade Powell winning the ball. 20 minutes played and Thorpe are looking the most likely to open the scoring.
  Powell with a shot from 30 yards for Thorpe as she receives it from Hedtke after more good hold up play inside the box back to goal sees the midfielder free rolls the ball back out to her Powell hitting the ball 1st time her effort has the pace but isn’t on target. A great ball from Kett at the back for Sutton off the shoulder of the last defender left side for Thorpe shoots from outside the box her effort wide of the near post. Thorpe have identified Cantwell as Wymondham’s main threat and she fouled inside her own half.
 GOAL! 25 minutes played and the deadlock is broken. The ball from the free-kick is cleared and Thorpe play it up field quickly, Lake is an extremely difficult player to mark, diminutive and pacey always looking for space whenever her side win the ball, central as the ball comes to her 25 yards out peels off her marker moving right taking the ball on a touch turns back inside and curls a 20 yard shot across the keeper and into the back of the net 0-1.
 
Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake opening the scoring
  Wymondham look for an immediate response from the restart the ball by captain Rachel Cossey out to Gemma Sanders on the right driving on her cross/shot flies into the side netting. A couple of refereeing decisions leave the Thorpe supporters bemused as they go against their side. Wiseman brings the ball down onto her chest has Kayleigh Holloway looking to go on the left side gets the ball into her feet taking it on, Thorpe right back Bethan Sommerfield gets back on her sliding in to put the ball out for the throw. 
   Over the top from Thorpe, Lake after it, O’Callaghan out quickly to the edge of her box to win the race scoop the ball out, then gives the ball away with a misplaced ball out of her area straight at Lake, right side knocks in on into the box, shaping to shoot Fretwell covers the ground throwing herself into the challenge to take the ball away from the striker for the corner kick. Fretwell is on hand from the corner to clear as Hedtke looks to knock it on.
  Wiseman almost in behind as Cossey puts the ball into her feet, top of the area, between Kett and the on rushing Anderson the striker is squeezed of the ball. Moyo doing well on the right for Thorpe finds room is played in behind taking the ball down the channel fires a cross into the area just evades Hedtke on the penalty spot.
  Sanders with the ball 20 yards out right has Alice Collins on the overlap sends the ball into her run taking the ball on squares it across the six yard box evading Anderson at her near post is cleared by Summerfield. Wymondham keep possession in the final 3rd win a free-kick wide right players come forwards from the back a great ball into the box Fretwell rising centrally sees her head directed across goal run narrowly wide. A change for Wymondham as they bring off Nicholls send on Lily Ray.
  Moyo and Lake look to combine down the left, Chelsea Clarke closes Lake down tackling  the ball out for a throw, played back to Summerfield the defender plays the ball up into the box long Sutton attempts to bring it down manages to knock it forwards trying to put it across the six yard box is charged down spinning away for the corner. Ford gets up near post to try and reach it doesn’t connect the ball bouncing safely across the six yard box. 
  Lake forces a great save from O’Callaghan as she rolls her marker top of the box pulls the trigger the keeper down smartly. Powell is booked as she up ends Cantwell trying to carry the ball away from her area. Into 1st half stoppage time Wymondham come forwards Wiseman making a run centre to left the ball dropped into her run has space charging into the box unleashes a shot the ball rising Anderson takes it well at head height. Holloway takes the ball on down the left getting inside Summerfield the defender recovering makes the challenge as Holloway enters the box the ball back to Anderson.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-1 Thorpe United Ladies

  Thorpe good value for their lead at half-time have pressed the ball well and created more chances Lake putting them ahead midway through the 1st half. A below par 1st half from Wymondham haven’t been able to find any rhythm. At 1-0 down they are far from out of the game, need a much improved 2nd half however more than capable of turning thing’s around.
  A change for Wymondham at half-time Collins taken off Nicholls back on as Thorpe get the 2nd half underway. The ball is won in the middle by Wymondham passes out to Wiseman carrying it down the right wing, squares a pacey cross in towards the near post inside the six yard box missed by a defender comes at Nicholls quickly behind her, gets her foot on the ball leaning back sends her shot up over the bar.
Wymondham’s Chelsea Clarke getting up to
challenge Lake for the ball
  A good start to the 2nd half from Wymondham, Sanders right getting forwards linking with Nicholls the cross is long to the far side of the area, Holloway can’t get it under her control before Summerfield closes her down. Sanders on the move down the right looks to get in behind, Olivia Mungham-Gray up well to head the ball to safety. Cantwell is brought down in a dangerous position outside the box right of the D, with Holloway who runs over the ball Cantwell strikes the ball wide across goal, has to be retaken however as the wall moved before the ball was struck albeit because of Holloway’s dummy. Cantwell clips the 2nd delivery up in towards the far post runners closing in but no one can reach it.

 

Wymondham Town Ladies captain
Rachel Cossey

 Cantwell charges down Hedtke 25 yards out up the other end as she looks to shoot having been played in by Powell. Mungham-Gray wins the race with Sanders for the ball down the right as the ball is put down the line diving in the defender gives away the corner. A good delivery to the far post Cossey gets her head on the ball places the ball wide of the post. Holloway wide on the left puts a high ball into the Thorpe area a good jump from Wiseman her attempt goes wide of the goal.

  Midway through the 2nd half Wymondham creating a few chances but the Thorpe defence holding firm, few opportunities up the other end but always ready to counter. Sutton is struggling a bit with a knock needs treatment but carries on. A great tackle from inside the box from Kett to deny Sanders as she gets inside from the right. Cantwell takes the resulting corner, Fretwell doesn’t get the connection with her head coming for the ball cleared back out to Cantwell right looks to meet the ball on the volley puts the ball behind goal.
  The ball is pinging around between feet outside the Thorpe box as sides try to get possession a fortunate deflection sends the ball through in behind Sanders quickest to react knocks the ball on towards the area, Anderson comes rushing out, just gets there 1st to kick the ball away, is caught by Sanders throwing herself at the ball in a desperate attempt to reach it 1st. A painful knock but Anderson is okay to continue. Wymondham keep the ball inside the Thorpe half a throw in right played into the box Powell challenges Cantwell for the ball in the area runs outside towards Fretwell 20 yards out opens her body for the shot can’t get it on target.
   Half an hour of the 2nd half gone 15 more minutes plus stoppage time for Wymondham to find a leveller. A corner from the right for Thorpe the initial delivery poor comes back to the taker lifted high into the six yard box 3 green shirts attack the ball, Kett gets her head on the ball knocking the ball down a superb close range save from O’Callaghan goes out wide left fired back in a scramble in front of the six yard box the referee spots an infringement Thorpe get the free-kick.
 Holloway was tries away down the left, has be well attended to by Summerfield all game the defender stopping her getting inside with support from Moyo who clears the ball up the pitch. The game entering the final 5 minutes of regular time Thorpe make their 1st change, Sutton brought off Edie Wright coming on. Soon after another change is made Lake off, on comes Chelsea Clark as they look to keep hold of their narrow advantage in the closing stages. The substitutes link up well either side of Moyo now playing through the middle, Wright left outside the area across to Moyo helps it on for Clark right side she shoots puts the ball wide. 6 minutes of added on time to play.
 GOAL! Encouraged by the extra few minutes Wymondham push on trying to get the ball forwards is lost and sent forwards Moyo running onto the ball 30 yards out takes it around the last defender getting in behind shifts it before sending the ball past the advancing keeper into the back of the net to double Thorpe’s lead with minutes left 0-2.
 
  Wymondham pile everyone forwards as the game restarts a painful blow to the ankle for defender Ray she limps off the pitch Wymondham send Ella Swift on, clearing the ball from the area Powell onto it looks to bring the ball away for Thorpe, Cantwell with the strong challenge wins the ball plays it out to Holloway shoots puts her strike wide across the goal. No time left for another attack the final whistle blows and Thorpe United Ladies celebrate defending the Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-2 Thorpe United Ladies

   A competitive final played in front of 272 spectators, Thorpe by far the better side in the 1st half getting the lead just the one goal however the game was far from over, Wymondham improved 2nd half just couldn’t put that all important chance away, hit on the counter late in injury time Moyo securing the result the Thorpe defence particularly strong. 
  

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  She was the Norfolk FA’s player of the match too the SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Thorpe United defender Lauren Kett a fantastic effort Wymondham finding no room through the middle made some vital challenges and interceptions almost scored up the other end too.
Thorpe United Ladies 2016/17 Norfolk Women’s County Cup Winners
  Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies on retaining the County Cup. One final down one to go Sunday afternoon at Plantation Park playing Bungay Town Ladies for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup 3pm kick-off little time to recover but much easier when you’ve got the win under your belt.
  My thanks to Norfolk FA and The FDC staff for their help tonight.

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

First published Sunday 30th April

Cup Final Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

 

  The cup finals keep coming in Norfolk this weekend with a double this Sunday, form the Norfolk Women’s & Girls Football League (NWGFL) hosting their senior finals day at Norwich United FC’s Plantation Park. The first of those finals the Ladies Plate Final this year being contested by King’s Lynn Town Ladies & Sprowston Ladies.

  The Ladies Plate is a new competition introduced by the NWGFL last season the sides entering that didn’t reach the last eight of the League Cup. North Walsham Angels Ladies beating Red Rose Ladies 4-0 to win their 1st ever trophy in last season’s final.

  An all Division Two final back then, it’s Division One versus Division Two this time around with King’s Lynn Town Ladies improving year on year since joining the NWGFL 3 seasons ago the previous 2 as Lynn Ladies a merger with King’s Lynn Town FC in the summer are currently 2nd in the Division One table challenging leaders Thorpe United Ladies for the title. This is the first final the club has reached since joining the league.

  A good run of form for Sprowston Ladies going into today’s Plate Final currently 2nd in Division Two after a 5 game unbeaten run in league and cup 4 wins from 5 played. A strong youth setup at the club many of the players involved today have come through the clubs youth sides to play for the 1st team 

Road to the Final
 
 Both sides playing in the 1st Round of the competition, King’s Lynn Town were away to Division Three side, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves a resounding 8-0 win seeing King’s Lynn Town through to the quarter-finals. Made headlines in the next round as they scored a whopping 31 goals at home against Cromer Town Ladies also from Division Three top of the table the with Cromer bottom of Division Three. Were awarded an away win in the semi-finals after opponents Briston Wanderers Ladies fell foul of the rule that all players must have played 5 league games before competing in a semi-final with just 8 league games played the club had to withdraw.
  
   Sprowston started their run to the Plate final with an all Division Two clash in the 1st Round at home to Long Stratton Ladies, the away side finding the back of the net for 3 goals, Sprowston hot double that up the other ended winning 6-3 to advance to the quarter-finals where they were at home once again taking on higher league opposition, Fakenham Town Ladies from Division One a narrow 2-1 putting them through to the semi-finals where they face a tricky looking tie away to Division Three side Tavern Ladies amongst the title challengers in that league. This game was right at the start of Sprowston’s 5 game unbeaten run and a 4-0 result saw them into the final.
  Plantation Park the venue for all 3 of today’s finals the Plate and Cup both on the main pitch, the Ladies 7’s Final between Morley Ladies & Costessey Sports FC being played in the practise pitch behind the mainstand. The clubhouse and bar overlooking the pitch refreshments available too. A large pitch plenty of width does slope a little, can be prone to being waterlogged but with a lack of the wet stuff lately was surprisingly firm underfoot dusty on patches. A dry day unless you happened to be behind the dugouts where the framer next door had positioned his water irrigator a little to close. Warm but with a strong breeze blowing from one goalmouth to the other which might have an influence in both games.  
 King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Louise Coggles, Viktorija Burkauskaite, Amy Gillon, Albany Hodgson, Emma Woods, Millie Hopkisson, Jade Kelly, Oksana Imanalijeva, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C) & Josie Turner.
 subs – Millie Wilson, Winona Lee & Natalie Bunton
 
 Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Eloise Leach, Paige Barnard, Calista Tink, Abby Hutchin, Georgia Potter, Lois Irving (C), Rebecca Kirby, Nicole Smith, Kerry Mortlock, Rebecca Russell & Victoria Leyer.
 subs – Laura Jenkins, Rosie Wickenden & Ria Drake. 
 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Sprowston to kick-off the Plate Final 1st half wearing orange shirts with black sleeves, black shorts with orange stripes either side and black socks with King’s Lynn wearing red shirts for today’s final along with black shorts and red socks. King’s Lynn press the ball straight away getting hold of it spreading play out to the right win a corner the ball lifted high into the box, Sprowston’s Rebecca Kirby gets her head on the ball knocking it up into the air, goalkeeper Eloise Leach comes and claims the ball. 
  Paige Barnard looks to carry the ball out from right back for Sprowston sends it on down the wing for Kirby to go after taking it down the line King’s Lynn left back Viktorija Burkauskaite gets back on her initially tackling and taking the ball from Kirby she get’s back on it to put a cross into the area, the ball won and cleared by Albany Hodgson. A fairly open start to the game neither side able to fashion a shooting chance in the opening 5 minutes.
Sprowston Ladies, Paige Barnard
  Josie Turner up front for King’s Lynn presses the ball as it is played out wide into the right corner wins a corner kick, takes it herself the ball put in towards the top of the area is met by Lithuanian International, Oksana Imanalijeva right of goal hits the shot as the ball comes into her feet puts the strike wide of goal. Imanalijeva with a powerful run coming inside from the right as the ball is rolled into her path by Millie Hopkisson dives towards the box getting closed down gets a shot away from outside the box, doesn’t have the pace on it to trouble Leach in the Sprowston goal.
  King’s Lynn are beginning to build a little momentum Becky Russell coming on with the ball moves out to the right puts a cross in, Sprowston’s Calista Tink stretched her leg to intercept turn behind for the corner. Cleared at the near post, Imanalijeva retrieves looks to go down the wing gets a throw, Sprowston captain Lois Irving wins the ball as it is lifted up into the top of the area.
  GOAL! Penalty! In the 15th minute Imanalijeva links up with Jade Kelly as the ball moves over the halfway line on the right exchanging passes Imanalijeva looks to get into the box, Sprowston’s Nicole Smith slides in attempting to win the ball catches the attack the foul just inside the box referee Paul Gibson points to the penalty spot. Turner to take it a powerful hit rising to the keepers right past her and into the back of the net 1-0.
 
Josie Turner puts King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-0 up from the penalty spot.
 
 A free-kick for King’s Lynn just inside their own half Hodgson to sent the ball up towards the top of the area, inside the D, Sprowston get the ball away King’s Lynn so have it back spread play to the left Imanalijeva taking it on fires a vicious cross along the top of the six yard line, King’s Lynn captain Shelley Woods it there far post turns the ball goalwards, Leach makes a fantastic save with her legs reacting sharply.
  GOAL! King’s Lynn don’t take long to double their lead writing notes from the previous move look up to see Imanalijeva move in on the ball right side top of the area as Sprowston lose it, the ball is sent it across the box past the stranded keeper with Turner giving chase it finds the bottom corner 2-0 the goal goes to Imanalijeva.
  Scoring 2 quickfire goals the Division One side are threatening to overwhelm their lower league opponents. Russell with Imanalijeva bring the ball in the slide rule ball picking out Turner making a run through the middle, reaching the top of the area, Barnard gets across her in the nick of time to put the the block deflect Turner’s shot away for a corner kick.
Becky Russell playing the ball on for King’s Lynn Town Ladies
   Kirby gets forwards for Sprowston on the right getting a throw deep in King’s Lynn territory put into the feet of Rebecca Russell on the edge of the area good footwork to hold off her marker turns inside on the byline fires a ball into the centre cleared by Amy Gillon her clearance is picked up by Barnard outside the area right corner looks to play the ball back in this time it is claimed by goalkeeper Louise Coggles.
  GOAL! 22 minutes played and King’s Lynn have a 3rd goal a great run from Becky Russell on the ball pushing towards the right corner of the Sprowston box squares the ball along the front of the area into Shelley Woods left of the D, sees the ball into her feet shifts it a yard to evade her marker open up the opportunity for a shot puts her foot through the ball sending it sailing past the keeper into the goal beyond 3-0. 
 
  A change for Sprowston Ria Drake on for Georgia Potter. Sprowston get the ball up field Smith on for with a great ball on for Rebecca Russell left side support from Victoria Leyer, Russell is brought down just outside the box, gets up to take the free-kick, floating the ball in towards the near post with runners coming in Coggles has the post covered gathers the ball as it pops out of her gloves. 
 
  Burkauskaite wins the ball from Kirby plays it up the line with Shelley Woods already on the move, left side she is squeezed off the ball 25 yards out the deflection taking it infield is picked up by Turner has Becky Russell to her right getting forwards lays the ball into her run shoots as it comes on to her Leach can see it wide of her left post. Russell get’s fouled wide on the right for King’s Lynn the ball is fired into the area players forwards cleared the ball comes back to the taker sent back in again, Leach dives low to her right to push the ball away before being cleared by her defence. 
Abby Hutchin looking to get forwards for Sprowston Ladies
  Sprowston with an opportunity to break the ball send on for Leyer on the left side getting in behind the King’s Lynn defence, Coggles starts to come then back pedals as Leyer shifts the ball inside rather than shooting getting more central the striker shoots puts the ball straight at Coggles who scooped the ball up into her gloves. Hutchin over on the right for Sprowston now gets hold of the ball takes it down the wing no cross on keeps possession turning back has Barnard up with play ready to receive the ball curls the cross into the box, King’s Lynn can’t clear comes to Smith arriving late stretching for the ball on the edge of the six yard box lifts the ball up over the bar. 
  Potter returns to the action for Sprowston replacing Mortlock at the back. Irving steps across Kelly to win the ball 20 yards out as the midfielder tries to drive on with it through the middle. The last action of the 1st half King’s Lynn returning to the dressing room with a comfortable lead.
  

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 0-0 Sprowston Ladies

    3-0 the lead for King’s Lynn Town Ladies at the break, getting an early penalty soon doubling the advantage before getting 3rd, and have yet to fire on all cylinders. The last thing Sprowston wanted was to concede early the 2nd ad 3rd goals putting them on the back foot have defended well on the whole Leach with 2 important saves. Have alot to do to get back into the match, can they keep King’s Lynn from extending their lead 2nd half.
  King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half the strong breeze picking up despite the bright sunshine. Natalie Bunton on for King’s Lynn replacing Turner at the start of the 2nd half. Leach comes racing out of her area as Irving tries to shield the ball back into her to kick clear knocking it along the ground instead the keeper ends up halfway in her half before getting it away before rapidly getting back into her area. King’s Lynn don’t capitalise. 
 A spell of possession for King’s Lynn in the final 3rd ball lifted forwards dealt with by Tink and then Irving at the back. Eventually break the ball up the middle for Rebecca Russell to run onto goes for the shot all of 30 yards out her effort drifting wide of goal. Drake intercepts the ball at the back for Sprowston as Kelly looks to carry it on after being played in through the middle. King’s Lynn make a change with Winona Lee coming on for Becky Russell going into the right back position. 
 King’s Lynn work the ball up the left Shelley Woods pushing on with the ball to get into the box has Hopkisson inside her puts the ball into her feet near the penalty spot is crowded off the ball before she can gets it back out of the area Kelly tries to head the ball back in on target is long way out the ball bounces wide. 
King’s Lynn Town Ladies
Jade Kelly
  A good move from Sprowston down the right wing brings a corner players up from the back the delivery put into a central position at the top of the area, a scramble for the ball on the deck, 1st Tink then Kirby see shots blocked a close quarters before Tink squeezes a ball through the bodies rolls onto the base of the post cleared out to the left put back into the top of the box Leyer onto it 20 yards out screws her shot wide.
   
  Open game 2nd half Sprowston willing to go for it not defend for their lives, are keeping the ball better 2nd half. Play is brought back on the right as Sprowston have no advantage Barnard over the ball sends in up into the area, Shelley Woods heads it clear coming back to Barnard sends another high ball into the area Coggles under it claims without being challenged. Russell and Turner return the the action for King’s Lynn, Turner is quickly on the ball springing into action as Sprowston hesitate at the back running in behind, she is caught by both Tink and Drake, the 3 come together the ball rebounding back out to Imanalijeva outside the box right of goal fires a low drive in, Leach is behind it all the way.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Beck Russell
  Irving in the right play to clear Imanalijeva’s ball into the box from the right, comes right back at the attacker slices her 1st time hit away from the top corner. A powerful run from Hutchin inside from the right for Sprowston has Leyer on the move ahead of her rolls the ball into her striking it from the top of the area puts the ball wide. Another top draw save from Leach in the Sprowston goal, King’s Lynn play the ball central up into the box Turner controls well back to goal bringing the ball into her body then turning to shot, Leach palms the rising ball up over her goal to land on the roof of the net.
Sprowston Ladies, Victoria Leyer
  Sprowston are getting some confidence they can pull a go back are going for it play left squared across the face of the area, Leyer inside the D strikes the shot early the ball racing wide across goal. Millie Wilson comes on for King’s Lynn replacing Gillon. Another shot from distance for Leyer the ball, taking a deflection pushing it wide of goal for a corner on the right a poor one Sprowston have the goal kick.
 GOAL! Pushing on Kelly closes Barnard down on the ball winning it is in behind, left of the area plays the pass through to Turner in behind, the ball running onto her strokes it on under the diving Leach into the back of the net for her 2nd of the game.
Eloise Leach, Sprowston Ladies
goalkeeper with some excellent saves
in the Plate Final
  Sprowston almost hit back with an instant response winning a free-kick after a high foot halfway inside the half to the left, Rebecca Russell looks to go for goal a little bit of wind assistance the ball comes straight in threatening to dip late Coggles gets her gloves up knocking the ball on to crossbar it spins away for a corner kick. Sprowston make a change before the corner is taken Irving coming off, Rosie Wickenden coming on the no 10 runs to join her team mates inside the box, the corner is taken the substitute comes towards the ball dropping near post 10 yards out looks to hit the ball on the volley her effort turned 90 degrees isn’t far wide. 
  Into the final 5 minutes King’s Lynn work to keep possession inside the Sprowston half the ball finds Hopkisson inside the D, shifting it to her right whistles over the crossbar. Leach has performed excellently in goal for Sprowston today a natural shot stopper makes a great double save in the closing minute, Hopkisson playing the ball into Imanalijeva right side the attacker turns inside into the area shoots across goal aiming far post, Leach diving to her left stops the ball isn’t clear Turner running in on the follow up looks to smash the ball home Leach grounded throws herself into the block the ball away for a corner. Cleared King’s Lynn celebrate winning the Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final their 1st piece of silverware. 

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 0-0 Sprowston Ladies

  Not their best performance but King’s Lynn did enough had the movement to keep possession, Russell and Imanalijeva working the ball well. Took the early lead followed it up with 2 more goals, Sprowston on the back foot did well to not fold dug in and gave a good account of themselves 2nd half might have found a goal, King’s Lynn getting a 4th late on to win the final and take home the Plate trophy.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

The SWF Blog – Player of the Match for today’s Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final is King’s Lynn Town Ladies Becky Russell, a good performance making good runs on and off the ball, drifting wide an excellent range of passing.
Captain Shelley Woods holding aloft the Plate trophy for her joyous team mates
  Congratulations to King’s Lynn Town Ladies on winning their 1st ever trophy. Saw the celebrations were well underway in King’s Lynn tonight, no shopping trolley is safe. 
  Thanks to both clubs for there help with today’s teams.

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

First published Sunday 30th April

Cup Final Report – Bungay Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

 

  On to the 2nd Final of the day at Plantation Park the Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final with Thorpe United Ladies who successfully defended the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final on Friday night back in action looking to make it a cup double taking on Bungay Town Ladies.

   This season’s League Cup Final contested by the sides 1st and 3rd in the league both in great form in 2017. Bungay Town Ladies after a slow start hit the ground running after the New Year, winning 8 straight league games to leap up the table get onto the tails of the leading pair, beating Thorpe United Ladies 4-1 at home to end their 100% winning start to the season in that spell, 10 games unbeaten in all before the run was ended with a 1-0 loss away to Aylsham FC Ladies, who won the League Cup last season. This is Bungay Town Ladies 1st appearance in a Cup Final.

  Thorpe United Ladies started the season very well under new manager Martin Francis won their opening 12 games in both league and cup, nine straight wins in the league the coming to an end as mentioned above in February when they were beaten by Bungay Town Ladies. Looking strong in the league despite a couple of losses have a 7 point lead at the top from King’s Lynn Town Ladies. 

  A possible treble on the cards, claimed the 1st silverware of the season successfully retaining the Norfolk Women’s County Cup beating Wymondham Town Ladies 2-0. That final as you will know was just two nights ago on Friday, unfortunate scheduling, a quick turn around and recovery for Thorpe United however with one trophy successfully defended they will be in confident mood of claiming another. 

Road to the Final

 Bungay Town Ladies were at home in the 1st Round of the League Cup hosting Sprowston Ladies back in October a comfortable 6-0 win over the Division Two side seeing them progress into the 2nd Round where they were away to another Division Two side, Bohemians Ladies. A 5-1 win putting them into the quarter-finals, after that Bungay Town didn’t kick a ball, despite wanting to as they were awarded a home win against East Coast Ladies before advancing through to the final as opponents Brandon Town Ladies fell foul to the same rule that had seen Briston Wanderers Ladies withdraw from the semi-finals of the Plate. Having beaten Thorpe United once this season Bungay Town will be hoping to so do again this afternoon to win the League Cup.
  Was also 6 goals at home to Division Two opposition in the 1st Round for Thorpe United in the League Cup as they dispatched Long Stratton Ladies 6-1 to reach the 2nd Round. There they faced a tough test away to fellow Division One side King’s Lynn Town Ladies went on to win the match 5-1 to reach the quarter finals. Another fellow Division One side to play another tricky tie drawn at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies, Thorpe won the game 4-1 to progress into the semi-finals. At home to runaway Division Two Champions Gorleston FC Ladies. A single goal in the 1st half saw Thorpe United set up their 2nd final date of the season. 
  An hours turnaround between games had to dash off find a new memory card for the camera the one in place flashing up as corrupt just what I didn’t need but made it back just in time for kick-off. The strong breeze still in place, plenty of people there to watch the final as the 2 sides walked out onto the pitch.
 
 Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Kelly Collins (C), Hannah Jones, Charlotte Power, Jessica Keeling, Teodora Ilie, Ella Hindley, Laura Holden, Lauren Purling, Nicky Hazell & Lacey Andrews.
 subs – Emily leach, Beccy Goffin & Stefanie Cool.
 
 Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Bethan Sommerfield, Olivia Mungham-Gray, Lisa-Marie Riches, Lauren Kett, Alice Ford, Jade Powell, Vivian Moyo, Edie Wright, Laura Hedtke & Rebekah Lake (C).
 subs – Nicole Read, Chelsea Clark & Shanice Sutton.
 

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Thorpe to take the kick-off 1st half in the League Cup Final, back to wearing their usual home colours dark pink shirts with black shorts and socks. Bungay wearing light blue shirts with black shorts and socks. Goalkeeper Ruth Smart with an early touch of the ball as she claims it inside her area for Bungay as Thorpe captain Rebekah Lake looks to work her way into the box straight from kick-off. A slow start to the game both sides looking to get the ball out wide defences dealing with it.
  An opportunity for Thorpe to bring players forwards as they are awarded a free-kick outside the box on the right as Laura Hedtke is fouled. The ball played in near side centre back Lauren Kett gets her head on the ball directs her effort wide of the Bungay goal. Alice Ford with a good tackle wins the ball for Thorpe in the centre of midfield moving forwards attempts to side the ball through the middle for Lake, Bungay’s Jessica Keeling cuts out the ball outside her area. The ball is launched up field Bungay striker Lacey Andrews is away in behind for a moment as goalkeeper Cara Anderson starts to come, Kett recovers the ground and gets across her prevents any meaningful shot coming in. 
  Ford closing the ball down on halfway plays the pass out to Edie Wright on the left wing back to goal 25 yard out rolls her marker turning inside sends a looping ball high into the area Smart keeps her eye on the ball but sees it land safely on the roof of her net. Bungay are working hard at the back to keep someone on Lake prevent her making the runs into gaps to receive the ball. Laura Holden breaks from midfield for Bungay moving right, Olivia Mungham-Gray getting back on her does enough to put her off as she shoots the ball safely into Anderson’s gloves.
  Hedtke and Lake getting hold of the ball link up in the right corner before the ball is played long across the area met by Wright inside the D, looks to open up her body curl the ball into the top corner, bends sharply flying straight into Smart the keeper claiming the ball. An intriguing contest both sides cancelling each other out to a degree little opportunity to get in behind. Andrews flagged offside on a couple of occasions for Bungay. Ford and Jade Powell combine winning ball in the middle, Powell trying her luck with the strong breeze at her back 30 yards out her pacey dipping effort doesn’t drop far wide of goal.
   Ford also has a go from distance shortly area not the same pace on her shot as Powell,s bounces through to the keeper. A free-kick for Thorpe on half-way Kett over it flights the ball into the middle of the area, Moyo has made the run, doesn’t get the touch as it runs through to Smart. Moyo with a chance as Thorpe break their clearance finding Hedtke turns plays the ball into Moyo making the run on the right knocks the ball on towards the box, Smart comes rushing out Moyo gets the ball past the advancing keeper sees her attempt run narrowly wide of goal. 
Thorpe United Ladies, Alice Ford with Bungay’s Lacey Andrews
  A change for Thorpe, Wright coming off, Shanice Sutton coming on. Bungay also make a change Stefanie Cool coming on for Nicky Hazell. Bethan Sommerfield gets up the field for Thorpe on the right supporting Lake the ball given back to her sent into the area, headed away by Keeling. Thorpe with more of the ball 1st half chances limited Bungay deep not alot of room in behind shots coming in from distance.
  Bungay launch a counter attack the ball with Lauren Purling as she gets forwards with support from Holden as Andrews plays it on, left side coming into the area the shot is past the onrushing Anderson running along the ground the ball goes out wide at the far post. Bungay make another change Teodora Ilie coming off Emily Leach coming on. Ella Hindley lifts the ball over the top of the Thorpe, Andrews after it, Kett recovers well getting back on the striker forcing her out wide left concedes the corner kick. The high ball into the box cleared by Lisa-Marie Riches away for a throw opposite side. 
Bungay Town Ladies, Lauren Purling
  From the throw in the ball from Holden is played into Leach central, tries to power her way through the middle of the Thorpe defence 20 yards out the ball is lost, looking to get Sutton away on the left she is fouled on halfway, the set-piece sent up towards the top of the area is cleared by Bungay’s Charlotte Power.  
 GOAL! 2 minutes of normal time left in the 1st half and the deadlock is broken, Bungay have worked hard all game to limit Lake’s movement in  front of goal she finds away through however to score. The ball played up field into Moyo brings it don on her chest well Lake making her move to get into the area, Moyo sends the ball on up into the area, Lake brings it down with a glance off her shoulder taking it away to the right evading the Bungay defence fires her shot across the keeper and into the far corner 0-1.

Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake

  A strong end to the half for Thorpe, Hedtke bringing the ball into her body turning inside 25 yards out from the left shifts it between her feet to get room for a strike a tame effort in the ed runs through to Smart. Sutton looks to get in behind on the left wing, Hannah Jones back n her slides in to win the ball.

Half-time Bungay Town Ladies 0-1 Thorpe United Ladies

 As with the County Cup Final on Friday, Thorpe hold a narrow 1-0 lead going into the dressing room at half-time. A different game however have put a lot of energy into the 1st half without getting in behind so much as Bungay are prepared to sit invite them on. Have stifled Lake to a degree although she found a way through to score. Haven’t had much luck up the other end against the breeze stay out on the pitch during the break.
  Having been in the mainstand 3 the Plate Final and 1st half of the League Cup Final decide to head round to the opposite side of the pitch to get a better feel for the breeze that blowing across the pitch is strong and clearly having an influence on play aiding the ball one way, sapping energy the other. It’s Bungay to kick-ff the 2nd half. Thorpe win the ball Ford on for Sutton breaking on the left coming inside evades Keeling, but is stopped by Power beyond as she tries to enter the box.
  GOAL! The scores are levelled Bungay getting the equaliser early in the 2nd half the ball is played into Leach inside the Thorpe half top of the centre circle, goes for goal looks a dangerous ball the moment it leaves her foot up into the area caught by the breeze Anderson back on her line is in trouble as it drops dipping late sneaking under the crossbar and in 1-1.
 
A long range strike from Emily
Leach puts Bungay Town Ladies
back on level terms
 
 
  Lake comes to receive the ball 30 yards out helps it on to her left with Moyo on the move up the right wing carries the ball into the area pulls the trigger her strike taking a deflection off Power turned wide of goal for the corner kick. A high ball in from the right Kett gets up headers the ball on across goal, Purling is able to clear it far side. Riches does well at the back sliding in to intercept the ball in front of Andrews as Holden attempts to thread the ball into her in a central position inside the D. 
  Lake onto the ball inside the box right plays it back outside to Powell looks to play in in high for Sutton coming in far post, Leach back for Bungay gets her head on the ball to clear. Cool looks to get onto the diagonal ball send right to left, reaching it 1st sends it on into the area, Purling has covered a lot of ground on the right to get into the box, can’t get to the ball before Anderson claims it.

 GOAL! Good work from Purling on the right closing the ball down winning it and in behind whipping a low ball in across the top of the area left of the D, Andrews doesn’t quite take it in her stride however it hits the defender tracking back with her comes back into her feet a s the goalkeeper starts to come, Kett lunging in to try and take the ball away from the strikers feet Andrews ends up on the floor the ball squeezing past Anderson rolls into the back of the empty net beyond. 2-1 Bungay take the lead with a little over 15 minutes played in the 2nd half.

 

Bungay Town Ladies,
Lacey Andrews

Thorpe look to freshen things up make an immediate change, Powell comes off, Chelsea Clark on goes out to the right Hedtke coming more central. Purling is left in a heap on the floor as she and Ford clash heads in the centre of the pitch, both are okay after a spell of treatment. Andrews with space on the right to run into sends a high ball into the box, Ford is back to head clear for Thorpe. Sommerfield clears the ball as Holden looks to pick out Cool with a long diagonal ball as she comes inside from the left. 

  Holden brings the ball on for Bungay looks to put the ball into Andrews moving into the right channel, Mungham-Gray closing her down to tackle and clear the ball. A little ragged from Thorpe now their energy levels dropping Collins comes off for Bungay with Beccy Goffin entering the field. Cool peeling off the Thorpe defence runs onto Andrews diagonal ball closing in on the area shoots a comfortable gather for Anderson at her near post. 

 A free-kick for Bungay wide on the right inside the Thorpe half each over the ball looks to put it on target another difficult ball for Anderson to deal with back on her line gets her gloves up does well to bring it down safely. Wright comes back on for Thorpe replacing Hedtke as they look to find a goal to get them back into the match. Lake on the ball gets her head down drives forwards has Sutton left looking to get in behind the Bungay defence into the box Lake tries to pick her out, too close to Smart the goalkeeper can get there first.

Shanice Sutton challenges Lauren Purling for the ball

  Moyo with a good take down on the right side plays the ball on for Lake charging up towards the top of the area, Smart comes racing out to meet her as she enters the area Lake getting the ball past the keeper but not on target, Power back on the ball to launch it clear. A double change for Bungay Cool and Holden the players coming off, Hazell and Ilie back on. Ford with a determined run forwards shoots from all of 30 yards out no pace on the ball Smart able to claim.

 

  Another clash of heads between Moyo and Hindley this time, the Bungay midfielder coming off the worse comes off holding her bleeding nose. Holden barely rested coming back on. Purling collects a ball in the guts leaving her grounded again. A fair bit of injury time to come. Good work from Holden taking the ball from a central position out to the right before turning back inside an firing a cross along the top of the Thorpe area runs into Ilie looks to curl a shot into the top corner instead puts it into Anderson. 

  Thorpe are throwing players forwards going for broke as the game moves into stoppage time risk the counter Bungay break the ball from Jones into Holden on for Hazell coming in towards the box from the left Anderson comes racing out to the edge of her area gets her gloves up to block the ball as Hazell looks to lift it past her contact outside the box Anderson goes down holding her face, another few minutes to be added. One last throw of the dice for Thorpe everyone up as they win a free-kick wide right Kett up into the area landing inside the area Jones can see it out shielding it from Ford as the final whistle blows and Bungay Town Ladies win the Norfolk Ladies League Cup.

Full time Bungay Town Ladies 0-0 Thorpe United Ladies

 A game too far for Thorpe in the end 2 finals in the space of 48 hours the joy off winning the County Cup tempered by defeat in the League Cup Final. A fantastic achievement none the less to reach both finals. Bungay doing well to keep Thorpe’s chances limited 1st half conceding a goal late on found an immediate response 2nd half working hard to close the ball found another on the counter attack wasn’t a pretty goal but Andrews did enough to put the ball over the line Bungay holding on to the lead to claim the victory.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  The SWF Blog – Player of the Match for today’s Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final goes to Lauren Purling an energetic display working hard to close the ball down especially 2nd half getting back to help defend when needed set up the winning goal.
  Congratulations to Bungay Town Ladies on winning this season’s Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup Winners, Bungay Town Ladies
  Also congratulations to Costessey Sports who won the Ladies 7’s League Cup Final beating Morley Ladies 2-0.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams and to the committee members of the NWGFL for all their assistance and putting on a great finals day

The Round-Up – Norfolk 02/04/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 2nd April

Norfolk Women’s Division One

  Bungay Town Ladies made the journey west across the county to play league leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies this Sunday the sides were level drawing 1-1 at half-time. 4th placed Bungay Town Ladies unbeaten in 2017 were looking to move to within a point of King’s Lynn Town then went on to take a 3-1 lead in the 2nd half before King’s Lynn Town came back to score twice themselves the sides having to settle for a point a piece final score 3-3. A brace for Lacey Andrews along with a goal for Jessica May Keeling for Bungay Town. Josie Turner, Shelley Woods and Millie Hopkisson netting the goals for King’s Lynn Town.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies draw allowed Thorpe United Ladies to return to the top of the table by a point as they won big at home against Fakenham Town Ladies this Sunday, hat-tricks for both Rebekah Lake and Shanice Sutton. Leading 4-0 at half-time reached double figures in the 2nd half winning 11-0 their other goalscorers, Laura Hedtke, Sophie Jermy, Vivian Mayo, Kirstie Andrews and Nicole Read.

Brandon Town Ladies have found themselves a little bit of form unbeaten now in 4 league games including a 3rd successive league win this Sunday have scored 13 goals in their last 2 matches a 5-1 midweek away win against Aylsham FC Ladies followed by a comfortable 8-0 result away to bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies at the weekend.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

 4 league titles were decided across the county leagues in the East this weekend the 1st of those in Norfolk in Women’s Division Two, Gorleston FC Ladies have been unstoppable this season as 11th straight league win giving them the points they needed to ensure they could no longer be caught winning at home against 3rd placed Long Stratton to secure a 2nd successive promotion. Samantha Hunn scoring a hat-trick in the match. Leanne Smith getting a brace with a goal each for, Beth Turner, Hannah Croft and Kayleigh Byrne. Congratulations to Gorleston FC Ladies.

Also in Division Two Briston Wanderers Ladies were hosting Bohemians Ladies the hosts with just the 10 players available doing the damage in the 1st half going into a 3-0 lead with goals from Tara Curtis her 1st for the club, Emma Talmadge and a strike from halfway from Stacey High. Bohemians pulled a goal back in the 2nd half Nicola Sheldrake the scorer, Briston winning 3-1.

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

 Briston Wanderers Ladies should have been playing in the semi-finals of the Norfolk Ladies Plate competition this Sunday but struggling for numbers fell foul of the rule that required  players to have played 5 league games, before a cup semi-final having only played 8 games Briston hadn’t the number and were forced to concede the win awarded to King’s Lynn Town Ladies who are into their 1st ever cup final.

 In the other Ladies Plate semi-final, Division Three side Tavern Ladies were hosting Sprowston Ladies from Division Two. The visitors booking their place in the final after leading 2-0 at half-time doubling the advantage 2nd half with goals from Rebecca Kirby, Victoria Leyer, Rebecca Russell and Nicole Smith.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 12/03/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 12th March

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

Semi-finals day this Sunday in this season’s Norfolk Ladies League Cup competition. Four sides hoping to reach the final on come the end of April, sadly for one side they were forced to concede their match falling foul to a league rule that meant a side could only field players that had played in 5 league matches prior to the semi-final, Brandon Town Ladies didn’t have enough available to meet that criteria conceding the tie in mid-week which saw opponents Bungay Town Ladies awarded the win and passage to the League Cup Final. In good form would have rather played the game but a in a Final and will fancy their chances of lifting the trophy.

Their opponents in the League Cup Final will be Thorpe United Ladies leading Norfolk Women’s Division One were at home taking on runaway Division Town leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies. A close contest this one a singe goal settling the game Thorpe’s captain, Rebekah Lake scoring in the 1st half to see her side into the Final and a potential treble with a semi-final in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup to come this Sunday.

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

The NWGFL launched the League Plate competition last season, now it was at the quarter final stage this time around. 4 games that saw plenty of goals scored and if you’re a Cromer Town ladies supporter you may want to look away now.

As far apart in league placing as you could get in Norfolk, Kings Lynn Town Ladies having been knocked out of the League Cup early were drawn at home against Cromer Town Ladies in the quarter finals of the League Plate. Going for the title in Division One their opponents were bottom of Division Three without a point. A mismatch to be sure and it proved so with King’s Lynn Town racking up 31 goals in the game to reach the semi-finals, captain Shelley Woods top scoring with 12 goals! The other goal scorers were Josie Turner (6) Becky Russell (4), Christina Vivas (3) Natalie Bunton (2) Elle Bocking (2) Louise Coggles and Lisa Wilson.

Some controversy after the game with the game drawing attention from the likes of Jacqui Oatley, some saying it was unfair to score so many against a side. Those who know the league know how much of a gap there was between the sides, King’s Lynn score goals against the best opposition are ambitious favourites to reach their 1st final. I’ll just say this plenty of cup ties this season have been awarded to a side with the opposition unable to play. Cromer Town Ladies travelled to King’s Lynn and played the game so fair play to them no doubt a defeat like that will hurt but I applaud the effort and know from doing Women’s Football East that one day the results will come. 

 Sprowston Ladies from Division Two are also into the League Plate last 4 after they beat Division One side Fakenham Town Ladies at home on Sunday led 1-0 at the break, enough to edge them to victory with both sides finding the back of the net for a goal each in the 2nd half, Abby Hutchin and Calista Tink scoring the goals for Sprowston.

   Elsewhere it was an all Division Two League Plate quarter final tie between Briston Wanderers Ladies at home taking on Bohemians Ladies. Briston Wanderers (in another guise) reached the Plate Final last season and are into the semi-finals again after they edged Bohemians with a 3-2 win leading 2-1 before going on to win it 3-2 in the 2nd half. Vicki Lubbock, Stacey High and Ellen Hutton with the goals for Briston Wanderers. Nicole Sheldrake with a goal in each half for Bohemians.

In the last League Plate quarter final it was an all Division Three, Dereham derby too as in form Toftwood United Ladies hosted Tavern Ladies. A close game the side drawing 1-1 at half time Katie Hart scoring the goal for Toftwood, Rianna Scott putting the ball into the back of the net for Tavern Ladies they went on to score the winning goal beating Toftwood 2-1 to reach the last 4.

The draw for the Norfolk Ladies League Plate semi-finals was live on Twitter this Tuesday and after a slight hiccup they look like this;- 

Tavern Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Briston Wanderers Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

ties to be played Sunday 2nd April

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Two league games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One and having conceded their League Cup semi-final Brandon Town Ladies were at home taking on 4th placed North Walsham Angels Ladies this Sunday instead. Brandon Town were leading at half-time with Tiffany Forshaw putting them into the lead. North Walsham came back 2nd half to take home a share of the points with Luci Middleton netting her 25th goal of the season.

Aylsham FC Ladies were at home on Sunday hosting bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies. The home side taking full advantage of a depleted Kirkley  Pakefield side to lead 5-0 at half-time before going on to win the game 9-1 to move above Brandon Town into 5th position. A hat-trick each for Abbie Charlton and Leanne Ferdani with a goal each for Emma Gillespie, Nadia Child and Lauren Oliver. Felicity Levett with the consolation goal for Kirkley & Pakefield.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

East Coast Ladies return back to the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Three after beating Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves at the weekend. With only the bare 11 available East Coast picked up a great result leading 1-0 at half-time doubling the score in the 2nd half to claim the 3 points with Jordan Duke and Lucy Robbens netting the goals. On 25 points have 2 games left both against Cromer Town Ladies. Both 3rd placed Tavern Ladies and 4th placed Wymondham Town have 3 games in hand on East Coast with the gap 4 points and 6 respectfully but they 3rd and 4th placed sides have to play each other twice in their run ins going to be an interesting end to the season.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 05/02/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 5th February

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

A cup weekend in Norfolk with both the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup being played aswell as the 1st Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate a competition that saw it’s 1st outing last season with North Walsham Angels Ladies lifting the trophy. 

  This time around North Walsham Angels Ladies had reached the quarter finals of the League Cup competition and faced a tough away game against Division One leaders, Thorpe United Ladies who remain undefeated in all competitions so far this season. Having already reached the semi-finals of the County Cup, Thorpe United made it a double semi-final appearance as they ran out 4-1 winners.

Was another all Division One meeting in the quarter finals of the League Cup on Sunday with Brandon Town Ladies travelling east to play Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies. Brandon Town ran out 2-1 winners to book their spot in the semi-finals all the goals coming in the 1st half. In the other quarter final due to be played this weekend Division One side Bungay Town Ladies were awarded the win against Division Three side East Coast Ladies. The last remaining quarter final is due to be played on the 19th of February and featured an all Division Two clash between leaders Gorleston FC Ladies and Stalham Town Ladies.

The draw for both the semi-finals of the League Cup and the quarter finals of the League Plate were made live on twitter this Tuesday evening and the semi-finals for the League Cup will be,

Bungay Town Ladies v Brandon Town Ladies

Thorpe United Ladies v Gorleston FC Ladies or Stalham Town Ladies

the ties scheduled to be played Sunday 12th March.

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

On to the League Plate, 12 sides entered into the draw with, Division One side Fakenham Town Ladies, Bohemians Ladies from Division Two and Toftwood United Ladies and Cromer Town Ladies, both from Division Three given a bye to the quarter finals. The other 8 sides paired up in the 1st Round. 

  A cup upset in the 1st Round of the Plate too with one of the sides favourites to reach the final knocked out. Division One side Aylsham FC Ladies were at home playing Tavern Ladies from Division Three. Aylsham looked comfortable at half-time leading 2-0. Tavern came back 2nd have to draw 2-2 after the 90 forcing the game into extra-time where the side from Dereham went on to score the winning goal to send them into the quarter finals.

 The opposite between the other Division One versus Division Three 1st Round tie with King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2nd in Division One travelling to play Division Three leaders, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Josie Turner scoring twice in the 1st half, with Millie Hopkisson and captain Shelley Woods also on target seeing the visitors lead 4-0 at half time. Same score in the 2nd half as Becky Russell scored to make it 5-0, Turner went on to complete her hat-trick, with a brace from Woods seeing her also bag another hat-trick in an 8-0 victory.

Plenty of goals two in the all Division Two tie between Sprowston Ladies and Long Stratton Ladies 3rd and 2nd in the league, Long Stratton beat Sprowston 3-2 at home last Sunday in the league, scored 3 goals this time around too with Charlie Head netting a brace along with a goal for Dani Steward. It wasn’t enough however as Sprowston hit double that amount into their opponents goal to reach the quarter finals with a 6-3 win.

Briston Wanderers Ladies from Division Two are also into the League Plate quarter finals after they beat Division Three side Freethorpe Ladies with a comfortable 9-0 win.

The draw for the Norfolk Ladies League Plate is as follows,

Sprowston Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies

Toftwood United Ladies v Tavern Ladies

King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Cromer Town Ladies

Briston Wanderers Ladies v Bohemians Ladies

ties scheduled to be played Sunday 12th March.

Plate Final Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies

  The 1st of 2 match reports from covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday. Finals day in the Norfolk Women’s & Girls Football League (NWGFL) 4 finals played at Plantation Park the 1st kicking off at 12:30pm for the League Plate a new competition introduced this season, featuring 2 sides playing in their 1st ever final game too, North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies. 

Cup Final Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies

 
  This Sunday is Finals day in the Norfolk Women & Girls Football League (NWGFL) played at Plantation Park home of Norwich United FC & Norwich City Ladies. 4 finals being played at the venue today, The Women’s League Cup and Plate Finals as well as the U15s League Cup Final and Women’s 7’s Final. Here to watch the 1st of the women’s finals the Plate Final between North Walsham Angels Ladies & Red Rose Ladies.

  The NWGFL Plate is a new competition introduced this season with the 16 sides that didn’t reach the quarter finals of the Women’s League Cup going into the 1st Round draw.

Road to the Final
 
   North Walsham Angels Ladies were formed 2 seasons ago and have achieved promotion from Division Two to Division One this season now have a chance to add a piece of silverware cap off a good season. Were awarded a home win against Freethorpe Ladies in the 1st Round to advance to the quarter finals to play at home again testing themselves against higher league opposition taking on Bungay Town Ladies. Hit 7 goals to win 7-3 and progress into the semi-finals where they had the luck of a home draw once again taking on fellow Division Two side Morley Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 sent them through to the final.
  Opponents Red Rose Ladies had the opposite run to the final with all of their ties away from home. Like North Walsham Angels Ladies compete in Division Two are one of the longest established women’s football sides in Norfolk based in Cawston, their women’s side has reached a final for the 1st time. A trip to the Norfolk coast in the 1st Round away to Division Three side Cromer Ladies scored 8 goals without reply to reach the quarter finals drawn against fellow Division Two side Bohemians Ladies scored another 8 goals beating them 8-2 to set up a semi-final against Stalham Town Ladies again from Division Two a closer game this time around Red Rose Ladies edged the result 2-1 to reach the final. 

  Was for a much welcome change a bright sunny and warm day at the start of May perfect weather for the finals. Plantation Park boasting a large pitch with the clubhouse and bar situated at one end leading into the ground. Pitches behind enabling more than one game to be played at once. A small seated stand along one side opposite the dug out, spectators spread out all around as referee Tracey Clayton led the 2 sides out onto the pitch.

 North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Sian Wager (C), Emily Farmer, Megan Champion, Bethany Childs,  Rachel Bussey, Amy Hemp, Sophie Hall, Lauren Yarham, Emma Allsopp & Luci Middleton.
 subs – Imogen Carver, Robyn Steele & Lucy Ellis.

 Red Rose Ladies starting XI – Melissa Williamson, Natasha Willmott, Sophie Tipper, Emily Hill (C), Stacey High, Ellen Hutton, Megan Skinner, Vicki Lubbock, Corinne Bishop, Lauren Hems & Sophie Lubbock.

 subs – Ana Ohde

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Red Rose to get the final underway wearing red shirts, black shorts and socks with North Walsham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Red Rose win a series of throws down the left side of the pitch early on the ball is sent forwards down the left channel with Sophie Lubbock coming across to support the attack wins her side a corner kick, from the left is swept in towards the near post, North Walsham’s Bethany Childs gets control of the ball and brings it out from the box.
Red Rose Ladies, Sophie Tipper
   Wide right for North Walsham, Rachel Bussey is given the ball holding it up, Emma Allsopp runs beyond her towards the area, Bussey puts the ball into her path, Red Rose’s Sophie Tipper tackles on the edge of the area, blocking Allsopp as she looks to shoot. Attacking again up the left side Lauren Yarham brings the ball on the throw is conceded comes to Luci Middleton on that side entering the box, flashes a cross along the Red Rose six yard box is just behind the Allsopp and Bussey making runs in front of goal, Bussey goes after the ball retrieving it sends the cross back in, Red Rose captain, Emily Hill intercepts and gets the ball out of her area.
North Walsham Angels Ladies captain, Sian Wager
 Red Rose have the 1st shot to test Cyan Fullbrook in the North Walsham goal coming from distance off the boot of Sophie Lubbock 25 yards out looping up and down drops short of goal favourably for Fullbrook to claim as she back towards her goal. Red Rose are keeping North Walsham pinned back in their area, Sophie Lubbock looking to take players on in particular is keeping North Walsham captain Sian Wager busy attacking on the right side. North Walsham get hold of the ball Amy Hemp in midfield onto Middleton who plays a smart ball out to the right side releasing Bussey reaching the corner of the Red Rose area pulls the trigger, smashes her shot against Tipper coming to block her the ball spinning away for a corner kick. 
   Red Rose clear the corner out of their area, North Walsham quickly regain possession the Hemp getting on the ball puts it back out to the right for Bussey into the box wide of goal cuts the ball back six yard box from the byline is behind Middleton whose touch takes her away from goal, going after the ball, has one thing on her mind turn and hit the shot on the volley, turns well, sends the shot high off target to the left of goal.  
  GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and North Walsham get themselves into the lead, attacking in numbers the ball is with Bussey on the right side breaking into the box squares the cross into Middleton in the centre turns the ball goalwards, Red Rose goalkeeper, Melissa Williamson gets down sharply saving, the ball is spilt out to the left side of her goal, Hill tries to launch it clear, but Yarham is coming in gets hold of the ball from the attempted clearance and fires the ball back across the six yard box putting it into the back of the net 1-0. 
 
Lauren Yarham battling for the ball against Red Rose’s Corinne Bishop
for the ball scorer of the opening goal for North Walsham
  From a free kick on half-way Red Rose look to play in Sophie Lubbock on right side wins a free kick herself fouled by Sian Wager this time. In a dangerous position from a wide position the ball is sent into the box, Stacey High looks to hook the ball on further into the area, Fullbrook has come the bounce of the ball leaves her stranded, but before Megan Skinner can pounce on the loose ball, North Walsham’s defence gets the ball clear. 
  Allsopp with a fantastic forwards pass sends Middleton through to attack the Red Rose box on the right channel closing in on the D goes for goal a low strike aiming for the far corner, Williamson throws herself to the ground getting something on the ball to take it out wide past the far post conceding the corner kick. 
  Sophie Lubbock wins another free kick in a wide right position takes it sending the ball up to the near post to be attacked, her sister Vicki arrives to meet it jumping to head the ball it loops up into the air, Fullbrook is in the right place to see it down into her midriff. Imogen Carver has come on for North Walsham with Emily Farmer off.
  GOAL! North Walsham extend their lead as the game closes in on the half hour mark, with play ebbing and flowing between the two sides North Walsham turn the red Rose defence, the ball lifted out of midfield puts Middleton clear to run in on goal left side of the area reaching the corner meets the ball, lifting her shot up over Williamson and into the back of the net beyond. 2-0.
 
  Continuing to press North Walsham win a corner on the right the ball is put into the six yard box, Allsopp stoops to head the ball far side of goal trying to put the ball back across, puts it wide off target. Taking a 2-0 lead North Walsham have their tails up are looking for more, Hill calls for her side to remain calm not let their heads drop. Lauren Hems turns well as the ball is rolled into her from Natasha Willmott at the back, has Sophie Lubbock on the move on the right, plays the ball up to her the cross comes in early falling short of Skinner, Megan Champion brings the ball down and puts it up into midfield. A change for Red Rose with Skinner coming off and Ana Ohde coming on up front along side Sophie Lubbock. 
  Middleton is a constant threat leading the line for North Walsham always looking to move into space is put through on the right by Sophie Hall, racing into the box the angle is against her as she goes to put the ball goalwards Williamson gets down pushing the ball away, the ball isn’t cleared far before North Walsham the ball fired back into the area is turned away for the corner. The set-piece fired in low to the near post area Middleton comes to meet it looks to spin at hit the shot Red Rose get the bodies in the way to see it blocked.
Red Rose’s Ana Ohde with North Walsham’s Luci Middleton
  Bussey with the ball high up the pitch gets support from Yarham coming up the pitch giving her the ball as she moves inside she looks to send the ball into the area with Allsopp drifting into the centre around the penalty spot, any touch would divert the ball beyond Williamson in the centre of goal, can’t quite connect and the ball is collected by the goalkeeper. 
  A set-piece late in the 1st half for Red Rose right side just beyond the corner of the area Corinne Bishop is over the ball this time the shot comes in low with venomous pace, Fullbrook diving full stretch to her right pushes the ball away from goal, then is hurt as a Red Rose player collides with her play stopped so she can receive treatment. 

Half-time North Walsham Angels Ladies 2-0 Red Rose Ladies

  A 2-0 lead for North Walsham at the break look to be in control of the match creating chances and getting in behind, whilst defending deep limiting Red Rose’s chances at the other end, Champion and Childs intercepting a good portion of the attempted through balls and crosses. 2-0 though is a often a tricky lead, a chance to regroup during the half-time period can Red Rose get themselves back into the final.
  North Walsham get proceedings underway 2nd half. Red Rose press the ball right from the off 2nd half. Get hold of the ball and win a corner on the right side as Ohde plays the ball out to High moving into space down the wing looking to see the ball out Childs has to concede the corner. Is a great delivery from the corner a little to high for Sophie Lubbock leaping near side 10 yards out, drops for Vicki beyond a firm connection from the header drills it wide of goal. 
   Red Rose have started well 2nd half the ball is put up into Bishop moving out wide holds up with Vicki Lubbock making the run to go beyond her towards the North Walsham area the ball is laid into her path hits the shot early the ball flying towards goal has Fullbrook back peddling rapidly threatening to go over her, dips very late falling straight into her open gloves on the line. 
  Hemp makes a strong run brings the ball forwards is tackled by Hill stepping out of the back line to close her down and win the ball. Middleton has a shot from the edge of the area a low strike doesn’t carry any pace behind it allowing Williamson to get down and hold onto it. Vicki Lubbock is having more say in the middle of the park 2nd half getting onto the ball for Red Rose unleashes a shit 20 yards out a little swerve on it will probably drift wide of the top corner, Fullbrook can’t be sure throws up her gloves to palm the ball down to her right and claim before Hems racing up the left side into the area can latch onto it.
Amy Hemp on the ball for North Walsham
   Change for North Walsham, Robyn Steele coming on for Allsopp. See’s Yarham who had been playing at left back since Farmer had come off moving back into an advanced position. Hall brings the ball down the left for North Walsham plays the ball inside to Middleton coming to the left across the front of the Red Rose area, attempts to play the ball on for Carver in the centre, Willmott makes a timely step up to get her foot on the ball take it away from danger. 
  Champion fouls Vicki Lubbock in the centre of midfield inside the North Walsham half Bishop, bounces it’s way through to Hems on the left side of the North Walsham area plays it back towards Vicki Lubbock central fires the shot in coming in low Fullbrook gets down to put everything behind the save. Skinner returns to the field for Red Rose with Hutton giving way. 
  GOAL! North Walsham extend their lead, a superb solo run and goal from Middleton to score her 2nd of the match the ball rolled into her inside the Red Rose half right side she carries it forwards, takes on the player in front of her getting it past and keeping her feet as she is clipped surging on into the box closing in on goal, an acute angle scores with a clinical finish smashing the ball across the keeper and into the back of the net 3-0.
 
A Plate Final hat-trick for
Luci Middleton
  GOAL! One goal brings another and it’s Middleton who scores again to complete a cup final (well plate) hat-trick. Red Rose have pushed up attacking the ball is regained by North Walsham the play coming down the left the ball is sent over to the far side of the area, Williamson comes off her line to the edge of the area, Carver just gets there 1st squaring the ball back across to Middleton left of the D who has an empty goal to shoot at, keeps it simply turning the ball on target with the inside of her boot to get mobbed by her team mates  lead 4-0 with a little over 20 minutes left to play. 
 
   Red Rose are still looking for a goal trying to get players forwards, Hems sets Sophie Lubbock after the ball, Champion on her shoulder at the pair race into the area, Fullbrook comes out of her goal sliding in to claim the ball as Champion gets across Lubbock’s path. Yarham and Carver combine up the left side for North Walsham, the former getting free to cross the ball along the front of the Red Rose area into Middleton she helps it on for Hemp behind her, is unfortunate as she scuffs her shot rolls harmlessly through to Williamson.
  Free kick wide right half way inside the Red Rose half for North Walsham the ball lifted up to the edge of the area right side his headed across, both Carver then Yarham see shots charged down. Few players starting to suffer from cramp. Sophie Lubbock has a shot from the left side receiving the ball from a throw in lifted up to the near post, Fullbrook pulls it down and holds. Late into the game and another chance falls to Sophie Lubbock so unlucky not to pull at least one goal back bursting into the box right side of the D to get onto the through ball, shoots putting the ball across and beating the diving Fullbrook the keeper turns as the ball seemingly takes an age to get there strikes the bottom of the far post and rolls straight back into the keepers gloves. 
  Carver plays a great ball through the middle onto Middleton coming in from the left side the ball bouncing across her goes to strike it on the half volley, angling into the goal from left to right, Williamson gets a vital touch to take it wide of the post for the corner. The corner comes to nothing Red Rose attack Hems is bundled over in a dangerous position in front of the D. Vicki Lubbock over the free kick takes on the shot whipping the ball over the crossbar. 
  The final whistle blows and North Walsham Angels Ladies are the 1st side to win the Norfolk Ladies Plate Final beating Red Rose Ladies 4-0 to bring the 1st piece of silverware home to the club to cap off a promotion winning season. A goal from Lauren Yarham plus a hat-trick from Luci Middleton seeing their army of fans cheering with them in celebration. Looked the stronger side and 2 goals in each half saw them in control of the Plate Final. Red Rose never gave up and were unlucky not to get at least 1 goal back late in the game.
It’s a very shiny plate, North Walsham Angels Ladies celebrate their final win
  Congratulations to North Walsham Angels Ladies on their victory today. Thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups today… barely time to draw breath there’s another final about to kick-off.