A weekend dedicated to cup football in Norfolk there was one tie played in the Ladies League Cup postponed last Sunday in the 2nd Round, Long Stratton Ladies hosting last season’s beaten finalists Thorpe United Ladies. All the goals coming in the 1st half Thorpe United progressing with a 5-1 victory, Shanice Sutton scoring a hat-trick. There were goals to for Alice Ford and Laura Hedtke. Sophie Rose on target for Long Stratton. A home tie against Fakenham Town Ladies awaits in the quarter finals for Thorpe United.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
This Sunday saw the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup being played. 7 ties scheduled with Fakenham Town Ladies receiving a bye through to the quarter finals. As it was 3 sides progressed without kicking a ball all from Norfolk Division One, Aylsham Ladies, North Walsham Angels Ladies and Sprowston Ladies leaving just the 4 matches to be played.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies leading ERWFL Division One North play all of their home County Cup matches at The Walks and had been handed a plum tie against Norwich City Ladies the FAWPL South East Division One side returning to the competition after a 3 season absence. Norwich started brightly however it was King’s Lynn who went on to open the scoring captain Becky Russell putting the ball in from the angle after King’s Lynn had won a corner. Working had as a unit with Norwich trying to find an equaliser King’s Lynn held the narrow advantage heading into half-time.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell with Norwich’s Paige Shorten
A competitve match viewed by over a hundred spectators King’s Lynn kept Norwich a bay 2nd half then midway through, Tiffany Forshaw was put through on goal into the box riding the challenge from goalkeeper Fiona Coombes sliding in to try and stop her Forshaw controlled the ball on the byline and sent it in across goal to make it 2-0 to the hosts. 15 minutes left and with Norwich chasing a goal Forshaw was in behind once more, Norwich captain Grace Parker diving in from behind to try and stop her bringing the striker down denying a clear goals coring opportunity was sent off. Despite being down to 10 Norwich did pull a goal back with 5 minutes left Vivian Moyo stabbing the ball in after Aimee Durrant’s shot had struck the crossbar. No last minute nerves from King’s Lynn as they held on to win 2-1 to reach the quarter finals.
Wymondham Town Ladies last season’s beaten finalists are also through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup with a comfortable away win against Norfolk Division One side, Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday. The ERWFL Division One North side 2-0 inside the opening 10 minutes thanks to long distance strikes from Alice Ladbrooke and Betty Fretwell. Laura Nicholls rich vein of scoring form continued with her making it 3-0 just past the half hour. Kayleigh Holloway seeing Wymondham into a 4-0 half-time lead. Two goals early in the 2nd half saw Nicholls complete her hat-trick. Leah Newcombe made it 7-0 to Wymondham with 15 minutes left. Nicholls having time to find a 4th goal of the afternoon with 7 minutes left the final score 8-0.
Also reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup quarter finals with a comfortable scoreline away from home are Acle United Ladies, the ERWFL Premier Division side taking on Norfolk Division One side Gorleston FC Ladies at Emerald Park on Sunday. Acle starting strongly took the lead in the 14th minute Grace Birchall making it 1-0 to the visitors. Birchall scoring again 7 minutes later her goal quickly followed by a goal for Megan Todd making in 3-0. Lauren Bullard went on to make it 4-0 to Acle on the half hour. Birchall getting her 3rd for her hat-trick in the 38th minute. A 5-0 lead at half-time two early goals 2nd half from captain Rebecca Burton and another for Birchall saw Acle go on to win 7-0.
In the other 2nd Round match played in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup this weekend, it was an all Norfolk Women’s Division Two clash between Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies at home to Freethorpe Ladies. Bure Valley playing the game for a large period with 10 players nevertheless held Freethorpe to a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes the game heading into extra-time the home side finding a winning goal to reach the quarter finals. Carrie Last with the 1st goal for Bure Valley, Abigail Clark with the goal in extra-time. Keira Squires scoring the goal for Freethorpe.
The football action this Sunday comes from The Walks, home of King’s Lynn Town FC, the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with King’s Lynn Town Ladies taking on higher league opponents Norwich City Ladies.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies getting the opportunity to play at The Walks again with all their home county cup ties played there. Football on a high in the town with all 3 King’s Lynn sides currently doing well in their respective leagues. The ladies side making the step up from county to regional league this season are doing fantastically well in the ERWFL Division One North on a great run of form, 4 points clear at the top of the table with just the one defeat so far in the league. A bye in the first round of the County Cup a tough draw and test in the 2nd round taking on Norwich City Ladies playing 2 leagues higher.
Norwich City Ladies return to the County Cup after a 3 season absence the FAWPL South East Division One side previously dominating the County Cup, a leading force in women’s football in Norfolk for a long time. Battling at the wrong end of the table the County Cup a welcome distraction and a chance for Norwich to pursue silverware. The footballing map in Norfolk has changed a little in their absence from the County Cup, 3 potential challengers to their dominance emerging, all 3 plying their trade in the ERWFL, all ambitious, Acle United Ladies, Wymondham Town Ladies and King’s Lynn Town Ladies themselves all wanting to reach the FAWPL themselves.
With the current County Cup holders, Thorpe United Ladies knocked out of the competition in the previous round by Wymondham Town Ladies, the County Cup is there for the taking.
The Walks the venue the large mainstand over looking a large pitch offering plenty of width. Seen plenty of action a little cut up, half the pitch shaded by the mainstand, a chilly but bright afternoon, no wind, great conditions for the match. The cafe open offering hot and cold drinks, with a barbecue outside that would tempt me at half-time.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Vikttorija Burkauskaite, Jessica Evans, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Charlotte Griffith, Becky Russell (C), Shelley Woods, Tiffany Forshaw, Georgia Reardon & Jade Kelly. Subs – Elle Bocking, Olivia Baker & Michelle Stewart-Sheen.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Fiona Coombes, Millie Daviss, Summer Ward, Emily Moerkerk, Grace Parker (C), Sasha Diston, Paige Shorten, Aimee Durrant, Vivian Moyo, Natasha Snelling & Charlotte Broad. Subs – Eliza McDonald & Chelsea Garrett.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Handshakes before the match.
It’s Norwich to get the match underway playing in their traditional yellow and green kit with King’s Lynn in their home colours, blue shirts with yellow sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Norwich press into the King’s Lynn half, Vivian Moyo a summer signing for Norwich from Norfolk Division One Champion’s, Thorpe United Ladies winning her side a throw deep in the King’s Lynn half the ball worked in towards the top of the area cleared by Kin’g Lynn’s Shanice Burch.
The home side look to play the ball out from the back, Norwich push bodies up pressure the ball, Sasha Diston returning to Norwich after a spell in Suffolk with AFC Sudbury Ladies nips in to win the ball off Albany Hodgson plays the long diagonal pass out to the right with Aimee Durrant on the move looking to get in behind the home defence is fouled as she crosses the ball into the area a free kick awarded to Norwich outside the box, midfielder Paige Shorten on the set piece looks to curl the ball in towards goal puts her effort over the bar.
A good start from Norwich getting players forwards from midfield to support the attackers, Shorten winning the tackle plays the ball into Charlotte Broad ahead of her outside the area wraps her foot around the ball playing it out to the right with Durrant on the move again, just a little early this time the offside flag up against her. King’s Lynn play the ball into captain Becky Russell she lays it forwards for Shelley Woods up the left keeping the ball in play knocks it inside for Jade Kelly up front looking to get into the area left of goal, Norwich’s Emily Moerkerk getting back to slide in to tackle the attacker put the ball behind for the corner.
GOAL! From the resulting corner King’s Lynn take the lead, Russell to play the ball in, initially aimed at Tiffany Forshaw at the near post her attempted flick on is cleared coming straight back to Russell on the left one touch and fires the ball in hard across the face of goal the ball going it at the far post with players diving in, none get a touch the goal is Russell’s, King’s Lynn lead 1-0.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Becky Russell opens the scoring
The ball won back from the restart Woods is in behind for King’s Lynn taking the ball on into the box left side snatches her shot wide of the near post. Norwich go forwards the pass through the centre into Broad touched out to Moyo left side has support from Summer Ward behind her the left back firing the ball back into the area, Hodgson and Burch close Broad down the ball successfully defended.
A competitive game both sides wanting to use the width of the pitch little time for anyone on the ball. Norwich with Moyo on the ball left side puts the pass inside to Natasha Snelling 20 yards on controls on the turn and strikes the ball towards goal, keeper Bryony Russell-Smith can’t get anything on it as it flies over her head, smashes against the crossbar dropping down into play inside the six yard box right of goal Durrant looks to hit it on the volley buries the ball into the side netting wide.
Norwich make the 1st change of the game, bring off Moyo, send on Chelsea Garrett. Norwich press the ball in midfield, Shorten stealing possession takes the ball on towards the area, will strike the ball from distance given half a chance and can get plenty of power behind the ball too, lining up to shoot top of the area Burch gets across in the nick of time to slide in and deny the chance.
Norwich City Ladies, Paige Shorten
A volleyed clearance from King’s Lynn gives attacker Georgia Reardon a chance to run at the Norwich defence through the centre, Grace Parker, Norwich’s captain at centreback defends well against backtracking towards her area the ball cleared out to Russell on the right, King’s Lynn get plenty into the box as she goes to cross, the ball too close to goal, keeper Fiona Coombes with a solid take at her near post.
Norwich City Ladies, Charlotte Broad
Broad looks to get hold of the ball inside the King’s Lynn half taking it forwards jinks left then right to line up a strike from 25 yards out Burch onrushing closes her down the ball deflected out wide for the throw in, the cross fired into the centre of the six yard box, Russell-Smith with a confident claim being closed down by Snelling. Norwich having more of the ball, King’s Lynn organised at the back not letting anything in behind. Norwich make another change bringing off Millie Daviss at the back bringing on Eliza McDonald.
No advantage in the middle after Shorten is clipped passing the ball on for Snelling through the middle. A good 35 yards out, Durrant to take, a good effort clipped over the King’s Lynn wall on target dipping late just not quite enough a foot over the bar. Diston plays the ball forwards for Garrett in chase in behind the King’s Lynn defence fro once, bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith out of her area to challenge the striker, just about does enough the ball deflected off her legs out to the left into the area Garrett after it and empty goal to aim at if she can reach it, Vikttorija Burkauskaite gets there 1st however for King’s Lynn the right back sliding in to put the ball behind for the corner.
Played in from the left with pace into the six yard box King’s Lynn clear runs straight out for Shorten latching onto the shot 25 yards out the ball is driven in low on target too many legs to get through is deflected wide to safety. Shorten with another long range pop minutes later swerving in the air, Russell-Smith behind the ball spills it behind for the corner kick sent in near post King’s Lynn get it away up field. Broad with another powerful run on the ball through the middle, good defending from Hodgson staying on her shoulder and timing her tackle well.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Albany Hodgson
Late into the 1st half King’s Lynn get players forwards the ball with Russell on the right a corner is won the ball played in low towards Forshaw at the near post is once again back to Russell swing the ball into towards the penalty area Parker rises highest to clear for Norwich.
Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
An entertaining 1st half with King’s Lynn holding a narrow 1-0 lead over Norwich. The home side with a good 1st half performance to match their higher league opponents. Norwich with more of the ball haven’t been able to carve open the King’s Lynn defence and create many clear cut chances. King’s Lynn not having many themselves the ball hotly contested in the middle, will Norwich find a levelling goal 2nd half or can King’s Lynn build on their lead?
No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half Norwich out onto the pitch early. The temperature dropping it’s King’s Lynn to get the 2nd 45 underway. A quiet start to the 2nd half Norwich breaking up a King’s Lynn attack go forwards Durrant on the right plays the pass inside to Garrett helps it infield to Broad, Shorten goes beyond her the ball rolled into her path she tries to dink the ball up over the defence for Snelling, instead runs safely through to Russell-Smith. Space for Snelling drifting out to the left side the ball played forwards stands up in the turf preventing her getting on into the box, giving Burkauskaite time to get back on her make the tackle.
Forshaw’s turn to find some room out wide right for King’s Lynn the ball played on by Charlotte Griffith taking it forwards, Forshaw rides the challenge as Diston comes sliding in, keeping her feet the striker pulls the trigger from 20 yards out pulls the ball wide across the face of goal. A counter attack from King’s Lynn from a Norwich throw level with their box the ball sent long for Kelly in space left running towards the box 40 yards out, goalkeeper, Coombes has to come a long way from the ball Kelly goes to lob her, the ball over her bounces harmlessly wide of her goal.
The game getting a little stretched Norwich risking a high line at the back as they look to press the ball higher up the pitch almost presents King’s Lynn with an attacking opportunity the ball won off a deflection in the middle Kelly after it, Ward coming round on the cover making a fantastic tackle to get the ball back to Coombes. Norwich with possession wide right Garrett wins the throw the resulting ball lifted high into the area, drops to Broad lays it on to Garrett, gets her foot over the ball smashes the bouncing ball back in towards goal is taken by Russell-Smith at her near post.
King’s Lynn make their 1st change of the match bringing on Olivia Baker for Reardon, the switch pushing Forshaw into a more advanced role. A free-kick for King’s Lynn a good way out from goal as Russell is fouled. Woods on the ball takes aim for goal the ball on target, Coombes behind it all the way catches on the bounce. A knock to the ankle for Broad the Norwich attacker needing to come off Moyo coming back on.
Shorten on the ball rolls in forwards for Snelling out to Garrett right side knocks the ball forwards looking to attack the box, her tough a little heavy allows Evans to get across her and clear the ball for a throw in. Norwich keep the ball inside the King’s Lynn half comes into Ward on the left the pass forwards for Durrant the winger cutting inside charging for the box the ball knocked forwards deflected off the King’s Lynn defence back to Durrant looks to curl a shot in towards goal, does so only succeeds in picking out Russell-Smith the keeper behind the shot.
Norwich City Ladies, Summer Ward
A throw on the left for Norwich the pass sees Ward breaking in behind the King’s Lynn defence her cross flashed across the six yard box cleared back out to Snelling some 30 yards out strikes the ball sweetly arrowing towards the top corner, Russell-Smith with an excellent save the ball tipped over the bar, corner conceded played in for Moyo at the near post six yards out can’t turn and get a shot away the King’s Lynn defence on her to clear the ball. Norwich with a sustained spell of pressure, King’s Lynn break the ball long for Forshaw right into the box looks to take on the shot plays the ball straight into Coombes’ gloves at her near post.
Durrant’s runs out wide and through the middle are posing a threat for Norwich this time brought down in the middle 35 yards out Durrant on the free kick herself looks to go for goal her strike landing on the roof of the net. Soon after another run from Durrant cutting in from the left sees her brought crashing down by Russell the King’s Lynn captain shown the yellow card. NB (*Russell given final warning by referee not cautioned). A dangerous position 20 yards out from goal Durrant takes sending the ball angling towards the far post Hodgson gets her head on the ball sending it on for the corner which is successfully defended at the near post.
Norwich City Ladies, Aimee Durrant
GOAL! 20 minutes left to play and King’s Lynn double their advantage. Forshaw further forwards now the scorer as she is played in from the left into the box, Coombes comes rushing in to dive at her feet the ball squirming through to the left cries for a penalty but Forshaw riding the challenge stays on her feet retrieves the ball on the byline and keeping her composure lifts the ball in towards goal to make it 2-0.
Tiffany Forshaw doubles the advantage for King’s Lynn Town Ladies
Norwich make a change Broad recovering from her knock returning for Snelling rejoins the attack. Shorten with a brilliant long range pass from halfway picks out Ward on the overlap left side into the corner, Kelly back on her tackles to put the ball behind for the corner.
Red card! Pressing for a goal Norwich committing players forwards leave space at the back Forshaw ready to go when King’s Lynn break up play, Burch with the tackle the ball into the centre helped on to Forshaw right side a yard on Parker bearing down on the area, the defender dives in gets the ball but goes through Forshaw to do so bringing her down, the last defender Moerkerk might have gotten round on the cover but the referee doesn’t think so, Parker is sent off. Russell to take the resulting free kick her effort into the area deflected wide of goal.
15 minutes left King’s Lynn make another change, player manager Michelle Stewart-Sheen coming on for Evans at left back. King’s Lynn working hard as a team to defend giving very little away. Garrett on for Shorten running on ahead of her shoots from 20 yards out a fine save from Russell-Smith low to her right. Russell-Smith is then hurt in an accidentally collision coming out to the edge of her area to claim the ball on her knees, Broad trying to throw herself over the keeper catching her on the side of her face with her knee. Both need a few moments but are okay to continue. Durrant on the right driving with the ball into the box shoots, Russell-Smith close in low to her right pushes the ball behind for the corner kick.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell with Norwich’s Paige Shorten
GOAL! Norwich have players up from the corner the ball cleared by King’s Lynn is with Durrant right side the shot is fired in with venom across goal skims off the crossbar falling back into play at the far post inside the six yard box, Moyo reacts smartly stabbing the ball over the line before being closed down 2-1. Game on with 5 minutes of normal play left.
A frantic end to the game the ball up either end Kelly placing a wild shot wide across the Norwich area. Broad breaking through the middle for Norwich her 1st touch too heavy allowing Burch the opportunity to get in front of her shield the ball back to Russell-Smith. Snelling on for Daviss returns to the action late on for Norwich as they search for an equaliser. A reckless sliding tackle from Hodgson on Broad sees the defender yellow carded. The free-kick in a dangerous position 30 yards out Shorten to go for goal a tame effort bounces through to the keeper.
Into stoppage time Broad can’t continue, Daviss back on as the visitors press on. King’s Lynn stand firm keeping a good shape Griffith breaking up play looking to get Woods away left side. Coombes gathers sends the ball long knocked on now way through the centre of the King’s Lynn defence, Russell bringing it forwards. The final whistle blows and King’s Lynn celebrate a memorable win.
Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-1 Norwich City Ladies
2-1 to King’s Lynn Town Ladies at The Walks to go through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. A good performance from start to finish working hard as a team to give little away, press the ball in the middle and time their attacks. Norwich with more of the ball had opportunities to score but found it difficult to find any openings in behind their opponents defence. Was an entertaining game another great showcase for women’s football in Norfolk.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
A few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith with some excellent saves. Shanice Burch at the back and Tiffany Forshaw up top too, but in the end it was a quality performance from King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell from the 1st minute to the last and she is today’s Player of the Match.
Another good game at The Walks, my thanks to both sides for their help again today and best of luck to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the next round of the County Cup.
2 league games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday and plenty of goals on both. It was a top of the table clash at Blue Boar Lane with Sprowston Ladies joint leaders hosting North Walsham Angels Ladies. Both on 7 points along with Stalham Town Ladies in 3rd spot. 2 wins and a draw each it was advantage Sprowston 1st half leading 2-0 going on to score twice more 2nd half North Walsham too responding with 2 goals 2nd half from Hannah Sturman and Hope Middleton not enough as they lose for the 1st time this season Sprowston move 3 points clear at the top of the table thanks to a goal from Thea Hackney and a hat-trick for Victoria Leyer (pictured).
In the other game played at Emerald Park in Division One this Sunday Gorleston FC Ladies looked to be heading for their 1st win in the league as they led Bungay Town Ladies 3-1 at the break thanks to goals from Millie Brooks, Leanne Muffett and Bethany Turner. Bungay Town came back in the 2nd half to win the game 4-3 however. Emily Leach adding to Becky Hills 1st half goal. Hills added her 2nd of the game to level it up at 3-3 with Selina Rowland going on to score what would be the winning goal moving Bungay onto 6 points in 6th place behind 4th & 5th placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves & Thorpe United all 3 with games in hand on the sides above.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
County Cup fixtures played right across the region this weekend with plenty of 1st & 2nd Round ties taking place. Just the one in Norfolk however but it was a huge game as the draw had paired last season’s finalists together in the 1st Round of this season’s competition. Wymondham Town Ladies at home to Thorpe United Ladies who emerged victorious to claim the trophy for the 2nd successive year. Wymondham Town Ladies reaching their 1st ever County Cup final last season by their own admission didn’t turn up on the night for whatever reason had the feeling this time around they wanted to make amends and looking good in both the league and the FA Women’s Cup took that form into this Sunday’s cup game. Division One Champions, Thorpe United never easy to beat however, goals from Mollie O’Callaghan along with a brace for striker Laura Wiseman seeing Wymondham progress to the 2nd Round.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the Women’s County Cup made by Norfolk FA on Monday see’s 7 ties to be played on Sunday 19th November.
Stalham Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies
Bure Valley Wildcats v Freethorpe Ladies
North Walsham Angels Ladies v Tavern Ladies
Sprowston Ladies v Gorleston Rangers Ladies
Toftwood United Ladies v Aylsham Ladies
King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Norwich City Ladies
Gorleston FC Ladies v Acle United Ladies
Fakenham Town Ladies receive a bye to the quarter finals
This Sunday saw the semi-finals of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup being played. Acle United Ladies winners of the competition 2 seasons ago were at home taking on Wymondham Town Ladies who had never reached the County Cup Final before. 2 of 3 sides who play their football outside the County leagues a division between them Acle United looking to mount a title push in the ERWFL Premier Division, Wymondham newly promoted to ERWFL Division One sitting in 3rd spot.
Wymondham started the brighter getting forwards creating chances, Acle getting into their stride a competitive battle the two sides evenly matched it was Acle United who broke the deadlock scoring with 4 minutes of the 1st half remaining the ball played into Megan Todd at the top of the area a good 1st touch to turn and send the ball inside the post to see Acle lead 1-0 at half-time.
The wind had been steadily increasing during the 1st half Wymondham started the 2nd half strongly pushing Acle back as they searched for an equaliser. Laura Nicholls having only just been introduced to to the action by Wymondham making it 1-1 in the 70th minute getting onto the end of a ball from Chelsea Clarke another 2nd half substitute to score. Into the last 15 minutes and Wymondham go on to take the lead Nicholls provider this time laying the ball off to the on rushing Amber Cantwell (pictured) who strikes a screamer into the back of the goal from 35 yards. Leading 2-1 Wymondham go on to score 2 quick-fire goals in the 90th minute both from free-kicks but contrast totally. The 1st awarded in a dangerous position outside the area as Cantwell is brought down, she takes it looping the ball up over the Acle wall the ball dropping under the bar to make it 3-1. Soon after Wymondham have another free-kick this one on halfway Bethany Fretwell decides she going to have a shot at goal the wind blowing that direction the ball sails over the keeper into the back of the net to make it 4-1. Alot of stoppage time played Acle pull a goal back Kate Pasque heading the ball home from a Jody Wells corner. Winning 4-2 Wymondham celebrate as they reach their 1st ever County Cup Final.
The match was covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and you can find the whole report further down the page or by clicking on the link below.
Wymondham Town Ladies opponents in this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final will be the current holders, Thorpe United Ladies, were at home playing fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side Aylsham FC Ladies who they beat in the final of the County Cup last season to lift the trophy. A comfortable result in the end Thorpe United reaching the final with a 5-0 victory. The County Cup Final is scheduled to be played Friday 28th April with a 7:30pm at the FDC in Bowthorpe.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
With Thorpe United Ladies involved in the County Cup semi-final it gave King’s Lynn Town Ladies the opportunity to return to the top of Division One as they hosted the leagues bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies at home this Sunday. Any thoughts they might be all out of goals after winning 31-0 last Sunday in the Ladies League Plate quarter finals were soon dispelled as they took a 4-0 lead into the changing room at half-time and went on to score the same 2nd half to win 8-0. Captain Shelley Woods adding 2 more goals to her season’s tally. Josie Turner also hit a brace with Becky Russell, Natalie Bunton and Millie Wilson all getting a goal each and own goal also scored. The win putting King’s Lynn Town back on top of the table.
North Walsham Angels Ladies also move up a place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table going above Bungay Town Ladies into 3rd position winning away from home on Sunday were away to Fakenham Town Ladies 2nd bottom in the table. If one Middleton sister doesn’t score the other will or more often than not this season they will both be on the scoresheet, Both Luci and Hope scoring 2 goals each as North Walsham Angels Ladies ran out 4-0 winners.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
10 win fro 10 now for Norfolk Women’s Division Two leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies. Away from home at the weekend playing 3rd placed side Sprowston Ladies. Bethany Turner, Hannah Croft Molly Sims and Kayleigh Byrne all scoring in the game as Gorleston got the 3 points to keep their 100% league record in tact with a 4-1 win. Victoria Leyer getting the goal for Sprowston.
The defeat sees Sprowston drop to 4th place in Division Two as they are over taken by Stalham Town Ladies. Were at home playing Briston Wanderers Ladies who travelled with only the 10 players available despite that the took the lead in the game twice before eventually losing 3-2, Stacey High and Vicki Lubbock with the goals for Briston. Millie Cursons scored twice for Stalham Town with Stephanie Brighty also getting her name on the scoresheet to take Stalham Town into 3rd.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
One match played in Norfolk Women’s Division Three on Sunday with Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves 4th in the table hosting 5th placed Freethorpe Ladies. A 6-1 win seeing Wymondham Town move above Tavern Ladies into 3rd place. Are 3 points behind leaders East Coast Ladies with 2 games in hand have to play Tavern Ladies twice before the end of the season who also have games in hand on the leaders, East Coast Ladies wouldn’t mind if they drew both.
The latest match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. With Acle United Ladies winners of the competition 2 season’s ago hosting Wymondham Town Ladies who were looking to reach the final for the 1st time.
Match Report – Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies
County Cup semi-finals day in Norfolk this Sunday and the Supporting Women’s Football Blog was there to watch the game between Acle United Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies.
Both sides doing well in their respective leagues, 2 of the 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside of the County league set-up. Acle United Ladies well placed to mount a challenge for the title in the ERWFL Premier Division going into the latter end of the season. Won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup two season’s ago have beaten Norfolk Women’s Division One sides, North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round 4-3 and King’s Lynn Town Ladies 5-3 in the quarter-finals to reach the semi-finals of this years competition.
Wymondham Town Ladies play a league below in the ERWFL Division One having been promoted as Norfolk Division One Champions last season. Doing well in their debut season playing at regional level in 3rd place in the table and have reached the semi-finals of the league cup. Awarded an away win in the 2nd Round of the County Cup beat Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 at home to reach the last 4 of the competition. Are looking to make their 1st ever final appearance in the County Cup.
Seen Acle United Ladies at home several times, however this is just the 2nd time I’ve seen them play in their regular home venue at Bridgewell Lane in Acle due to weather issues. Is part of a multi-sports complex and recreation ground home of Acle United FC too. Tennis courts, bowling club and skateboard park. Headed the the large clubhouse and bar overlooking the main pitch. Had threatened to be wet and windy this afternoon and although the wind would pick up later in the game it was actually bright and sunny as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.
Acle United Ladies starting XI – Joanne Hooper, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodfield, Megan Cletheroe, Leah McGuire, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd & Rebecca Burton (C). subs – Jade Copeman, Jody Wells & Bryony Knights Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Bethany Fretwell, Lily Ray, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman. subs – Laura Nicholls, Chelsea Clarke & Laura Hamilton-Rout.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Wymondham wearing red shirts with black trim, red shorts and red and white hooped sock to kick off the semi-final game with Acle lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. The ball is out wide early on Wymondham looking to attack down the left Kayleigh Holloway looking to take the ball on is tackled by Anna Larkins at right back for Acle, the ball played forwards up to captain Rebecca Burton is knocked out wide to Megan Todd on the right pushes inside looking to get into the Wymondham area, Brooke Cheal-Ferris makes the challenge wins the ball.
Kayleigh Holloway looking to attack for Wymondham Town Ladies
Progress on the right for Wymondham the ball played forwards down the channel Gemma Sanders going after it get’s in behind the Acle defence lunging for the ball sends it in towards the middle of the six yard box with striker Laura Wiseman well placed to meet it, Larkins gets across in front of her to knock the ball wide of goal and behind for the corner kick. A good inswinging ball from the right side Acle goalkeeper, Joanne Hooper punches the ball away from under her crossbar, defender Leah McGuire clears the ball from the area.
Acle’s Kate Pasque tackles Wymondham’s Laura Wiseman
Amber Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham drives forwards is fouled 35 yards from goal, picks herself up to take the free-kick players forwards from the back flights the delivery towards the far post area six yards out Bethany Fretwell goes for the header can’t get anything on the ball as it drifts out of play. A good start from Wymondham, Holloway looks to get away on the right, Kate Pasque tracks her from midfield for Acle stops the early cross, Holloway’s 2nd attempt floors defender Megan Cletheroe the ball catching her in the face, play is stopped so she can receive treatment is alright to continue.
Amber Rowland plays the ball out to Lauren Bullard on the move wide left for Acle covers alot of ground before cutting inside rolling the ball into Pasque 35 yards out lines up a shot sends her effort over the crossbar. Bringing the ball on up the left for Wymondham, Holloway looks for the give and go with Wiseman coming across to receive the ball, Wiseman attempts to send the return ball into Holloway as she goes beyond the full back, Larkins reading the move intercepts and plays it up the line to Todd a powerful runner on the ball goes in field heading to the box left of the D checks back and shoots the ball straight at Wymondham goalkeeper, Ashleigh O’Callaghan who catches cleanly.
Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins
Todd finds herself in a central position as Acle break up a Wymondham attack the ball played into her by Rowland she brings it on before firing it into Burton inside the D, back to goal she turns well looking to shoot the Wymondham defence close her down quickly the ball put behind for a corner kick on the left. Is a relatively open game both sides looking to attack with purpose whenever they have the ball Wiseman moving wide right to receive the ball plays it on for Sanders moving ahead of her her ball into the area going long towards the far post Holloway goes after it looks to cut back inside is dispossessed Acle look to counter attack Burton gets the ball on for Todd who takes it on into the right corner before crossing the ball back into Burton at the top of the area the striker dink the ball over the Wymondham defence, goalkeeper O’Callaghan calls for it spills the ball is Pasque bares down on her, but manages to turn and get her body between the Acle player and ball claim at the 2nd attempt.
Good hold up play from Alice Collins up front for Wymondham right side as she looks to get Sanders in on the ball the winger clipped and brought down as she looks to take the ball on. Cantwell on the ball wide right lofts the ball in towards the near post Hooper isn’t challenged as she claims the ball well. Chloe Shields goes on a forwards run with the ball for Acle through the middle moving left then right into the box sending the ball on with Todd clear to her left O’Callaghan comes sliding out to get the ball as Todd throws herself forwards trying to get to it 1st knocks the ball on into the keeper and behind for the corner. Is a vicious deliver from the left flashing through the six yard box no one can connect however.
Shields gives away a free-kick inside the Acle half right of the centre circle Cantwell has Cheal-Ferris free to her left rolls the ball into her takes on the shot from distance, Hooper can see the ball wide of her left post. Few strong challenges coming in but the players are getting on with it. Todd is late on Cantwell as she attacks down the left the free-kick conceded it’s Cantwell to take. The ball is played in towards the far post area six yards out both Wymondham’s Fretwell and Acle’s Pasque go up to head the ball neither getting a firm connection it drops to Wymondham’s captain Rachel Cossey gets her header on target places the ball straight into the gloves of Hooper.
Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland with Wymondham’s Amber Cantwell
Rowland fighting for the ball in the middle wins it and plays the ball on for Bullard on the left drives forwards Wymondham right back Lily Ray goes with her close marking prevents the cross being made. A good contest all over the pitch the sides closely matched with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play.
GOAL! Acle break the deadlock in the County Cup semi-final a goal from back to front as Hooper kicks the ball forwards sending it up towards Bullard on the left near half way controls well bringing it on comes inside passing the ball into Todd inside the D central a fantastic 1st touch to take the ball on evade her marker behind her back to goal turns left and shoots, O’Callaghan has no time to react the ball flying past her inside the post Todd scores to give Acle the lead 1-0.
Megan Todd on the ball for Acle scores the opening goal of the match
Ray has taken a knock for Wymondham and needs to come off, Chelsea Clarke comes on a switch of personnel Sanders drops to right back as Holloway switches wings, Clarke over to the left side. Larkins challenges for the ball inside the Wymondham half sends the ball in towards the top of the area with Burton coming in stretches for the ball trying to bring it down under her control, doesn’t and Bullard coming in beyond her may have been better placed, hurt as she falls Burton needs treatment but is okay to play on.
Into injury time in the 1st half Acle finish strongly Rowland playing the ball on for Burton through the middle slides it through into the area with Todd breaking in behind, O’Callaghan out of her six yard box quickly slides in to claim the ball. Pasque is fouled as she looks to power her way forwards. Rowland on the set-piece plays in up towards the top of the area Shields attacks the ball gets her header on target a good distance from goal O’Callaghan has time to get across behind the ball and save.
Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-0 Wymondham Town Ladies
A competitive semi-final in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup but expected it would be, two sides determined to reach the final. Wymondham started the game well and had the bulk of the early attacks. A fierce battle in midfield wide both sides have wanted to use their wide players but on the whole the full-backs have kept them quiet. As Acle grew into the game and Todd started to drift into more central areas the home side started to create a few opportunities of their own. Todd scoring the goal to give Acle the advantage going into the changing rooms at the break.
It’s Acle to kick-off the 2nd half the sun has disappeared behind dark clouds the wind starting to pick up a little. A fast tempo to the start of the 2nd half an early free-kick for Wymondham, inside the Acle half the ball played into the area by Cantwell is claimed by Hooper. Up the other end Burton is knocked to the ground as the ball cleared by the Wymondham defence in the area catches her in the face. A pause for treatment Acle’s captain is okay to continue. Rowland presses the ball in the middle, on for Pasque out to Bullard wide left looks to pick out Burton making a move to get into the box she is closed down quickly the ball cleared for a throw.
A throw in on the left inside the Wymondham half Goodfield plays the ball into Burton returning it to Goodfield the full back plays the ball up the channel with Bullard looking to get on the end of it inside the box, O’Callaghan is quickly out to the edge of her area to slide in a claim the ball. Wymondham get players forwards win a corner on the left a high ball in towards the top of the area is too high for Collins as she jumps for it over her there a cries for hand ball inside the box off Bullard as the ball comes into her bouncing in front of her she clears it the referee isn’t interested.
Acle’s, Todd leaps as Wymondham’s Cantwell closes her down to win the ball
The visitors are doing well at the start of the 2nd half Cantwell going forwards receives the ball from Wiseman holding it up back to goal outside the area, played out wide left for Holloway the winger goes forwards squaring a cross into the area headed behind for a corner. Todd defends the 1st corner for Acle a 2nd corner given away the ball is played up to the top of the area Fretwell gets her head to the ball puts her header over the bar.
Cheal-Ferris has the opportunity to bring the ball forwards over the half way line for Wymondham left side is brought down the free-kick given away Cantwell is a long way from goal sends the ball in bouncing into the area, controlled by Clarke gets a shot away angling near post lacks pace Hooper is able to get down and make the save. Wymondham are pushing Acle deeper as the dark clouds return and the wind starts to pick up blowing from one goal to the other the direction the visitors are attacking.
Building a attack Acle win a free-kick as Burton is caught in the face. a central position 35 yards out it’s Burton who takes the set-piece lifting the ball up into the area Todd is in behind gets her head to the ball too early however the flag is up for offside. Wymondham make their 1st change of the game bringing on Laura Nicholls for Collins with 68 minutes played. A knock for Larkins see her come off Jody Wells coming on going up front with Shields dropping deeper and McGuire moving across to full back.
GOAL! Wymondham have been threatening to score an equaliser and get it in the 70th minute the attack building down the right with pace as Holloway brings the ball on squares the cross along the face of the area into Clarke far side fires in a diagonal ball towards the near post players from both sides dive in to win the ball it’s substitute Nichols who gets on the end of Clarke’s ball and turns it into the back of the net 1-1. Sanders is taken out by McGuire as she looks to drive forwards through the middle the free-kick given away 25 yards out in range for a shot Cantwell left of the D goes for the strike sends the ball wide of goal. Pasque comes forwards with the ball for Acle has Cletheroe to her right getting forwards sends the pass out to her, crosses early a high ball looping towards the near post the swirling wind sees Todd misjudge her attempted header doesn’t make clean contact with the ball falls into the box Wymondham are quickly on it to launch clear.
Rowland is eased off the ball by Cossey seeing Acle have a free-kick 25 yards out in a good position. Wells to take goes for goal places her attempt over the crossbar. Wymondham go forwards the ball from Cantwell into Sanders plays the ball on for Wiseman has Nichols free to her right before she can pass the ball Cletheroe throws a leg out to tackle and win the ball.
GOAL! Wymondham take the lead as Cantwell scores a 35 yard screamer to make it 2-1 as the game closes in on the final 10 minutes receives the lay off from Nichols 25 yards from goal in a central area as the ball is rolled into her Cantwell meets the ball on the run sending her strike looping in towards the top corner dipping to sail under the bar.
Wymondham bring on Laura Hamilton-Rout as they look to hold onto their lead with 10 minutes of normal time left on the clock. Larkins back on for Acle, Shields gets forwards as Todd attacks on the right plays the ball into her feet outside the area goes for goals sends the ball wide across goal. Wymondham very nearly give a penalty away as Todd attacking down the left comes inside drives for the box, Sanders slides in gets the ball as Todd goes over her, the referee awarded the free-kick right on the edge of the area left of the D. Burton on the free-kick gets it up and in towards the goal, O’Callaghan is right behind it tips the ball over the bar. The corner taken from the left is fired into the area at a good pace, Sanders wins the header as it comes to her inside the six yard box.
Up the other end a double save from Hooper as Wymondham bring the ball down the left Clarke sending a long ball in towards Nichols coming in far post 3 yards out looks to try and place the ball across Hooper, getting a glove to the ball the goalkeeper pushes it away from goal but straight into the path of the onrushing Wiseman lunges for the ball Hooper is down quickly to make the save.
GOAL! A yellow card for Rowland as she brings down Cantwell in a dangerous area outside the box. Cantwell picks herself up and is ready to take it Hooper is setting her wall. A goal scoring opportunity have the camera pointed and ready. The referee’s whistle appears to blow a split 2nd after Cantwell strikes the ball either way the ball clears the wall and looping up flies in under the bar to give Cantwell her 2nd of the match and see Wymondham into a 3-1 in the 90th minute.
Amber Cantwell sends in her free-kick to make it 3-1 to Wymondham
GOAL! A moment later and Wymondham extend the lead have a free-kick on half-way haven’t got the camera pointed ready for this one as Fretwell stands over the ball but I should have no-one expects her to shoot the wind is in her favour the ball is sent long with plenty of pace behind it sails over Hooper and into the back of the net making it 4-1 Fretwell is buried under her joyous team mates as they know theyhave reached their 1st ever County Cup Final.
Bethany Fretwell mobbed by her team mates after scoring from the halfway line
Wymondham Town Ladies Bethany Fretwell
Frustration gets the better of Rowland a rash challenge she has already been booked and a 2nd yellow from the referee sees her sent off. Plenty of stoppage time to be played Acle continue to press forwards looking to pull a goal back. Have a corner on the right goes long to Burton far post fires the ball back into the middle Todd goes for it but is closed down quickly a 2nd corner conceded on the left this time.
GOAL! Plenty of players in the box for both sides as Wells sending in an excellent delivery comes in towards Pasque central inside the six yard box twists her body the send her header flying past O’Callaghan into the back of the net 4-2. Into the 8th minute of stoppage time Wymondham press forwards for one last attack the lay off running back to Hamilton-Rout 30 yards out meets the ball on the half-volley her shot racing wide of the post. That’s the last action of the game and Wymondham celebrate as they reach the County Cup Final.
Full time Acle United Ladies 2-4 Wymondham Town Ladies
A good 2nd half performance from Wymondham coming back from 1-0 at half-time to win the match 4-2 plenty of late drama 2 free-kicks in the 90th minute sealing the win. Overall 2 evenly matches sides the wind stronger in the 2nd half proving both a problem and an advantage. Wymondham Town Ladies opponents in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final will be the current holders Thorpe United Ladies after they beat Aylsham FC Ladies whom they played in last season’s final 5-0. The final scheduled to be played Friday 28th April with a 7:30pm KO.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
Today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Wymondham’s Amber Cantwell a strong contender before she scored 2 goals in the last 15 minutes of the final a, competitive on the ball in the middle and a threat going forwards as well as from set-pieces.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Amber Cantwell
My thanks to both clubs for their help with the sides today always a pleasure to see both play. Congratulation to Wymondham Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog will be there.
A slightly different edition of The Round-Up this week, with just the one to post, falling back to last season’s format which I will bring into play on a weekend such as the one we’ve just had, no surprise going to happen this time of year. A wet start to the weekend, cold too, with rain all day across much of the country on Sunday their were going to be postponements across the East in all 29 games were called off!
It was a wipe-out in the FAWPL & Suffolk, with just one game surviving in the ERWFL, however several sides from that league and the FAWPL were involved in their respective County Cup competition’s some of those falling to the weather too which will alter next weekends fixture list too. So some clubs will be in the County round-ups instead. Still plenty to bring you, 20 games did survive the weather alot of muddy kits to be washed, unfortunate if you got the job this week.
ERWFL Division One
The one match played in the ERWFL this Sunday was from ERWFL Division One with Hertford Town Ladies making the long journey up to Suffolk to play Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Payed each other last Sunday in the reverse figure Ipswich Wanderers returning home to Suffolk with all 3 points winning the game 4-3. At home both Danielle Lynch and Jess Taylor-Allum scored for Ipswich Wanderers, however Hertford didn’t leave Suffolk empty handed, earning a point in a 2-2 draw.
Norfolk
A total of 6 matches were played in Norfolk at the weekend, the Norfolk Women’s County Cup had reached the quarter final stage. 3 of the 4 ties surviving the weather, Bohemians Ladies & holders Thorpe United will try again next Sunday after their game was called off. Plenty of goals scored in the other 3 quarter final games.
Acle United Ladies are the highest league placed side in Norfolk in the competition competing in the ERWFL Premier Division. With the rain forecast and already playing catch up with their league fixtures took the decision early to switch the match to the 3G pitch at Flegg High School in Martham where they train during the week. King’s Lynn Town Ladies were their opponents playing two leagues below but in good form in Norfolk Women’s Division One in 2nd place unbeaten in the league since the opening weekend.
King’s Lynn were encouraged by a positive start and the game was played at a high tempo, the visitors with some good opportunities to take the lead, however it was Acle United with 2 quick fire goals as the 1st half approached the half hour mark that went ahead. New signing Megan Todd (pictured) was played through into the box coming in from the right sent her shot across the keeper into the back of the net to score on her debut. A minute later Acle doubled their lead, Kate Pasque nodding the ball in from a corner. King’s Lynn kept pressing for a goal, the 1st half into the last 5 minutes a pinpoint cross from Anna Larkins into the six yard box saw Jody Wells racing in force the ball into the back of the net. 3-0 was a harsh scoreline for King’s Lynn and heads were dropping but with the half drawing to a close they got it back to 3-1 the ball played up front, Oksana Imanalijeva turns taking the ball into the box firing home from the top of the six yard box.
The 2nd half starts just like the 1st half both sides on the attack, 20 minutes played and King’s Lynn are forced into a change as Taylor Sarchet is injured helped off the pitch with her ankle bandaged up. A 4-5 minute break in play. Acle go straight on the attack from the restart and score attacking down the right Larkins plays the cross long to the far post Wells behind the gets call from Bryony Knights who arrives form the left side to turn the ball over the line to make it 4-1. King’s Lynn respond straight away captain Shelley Woods fouled in the area gets the penalty and scores. Moving into the latter stages of the match Acle are awarded a penalty after a drive into the box from Todd see’s her brought down, steps up to take it to score her score of the game. Time for one more goal at the death with Woods through beating the offside trap gets by the onrushing goalkeeper and lifts the ball over the back-tracking defence to score her 2nd of the match final score 5-3 This game was the featured match on the SWF Blog and the whole match report can be found below this post or by clicking on the link below
It was another high scoring win for the other ERWFL in the competition with Wymondham Town Ladies 2nd the the Division One table at home to Norfolk Women’s Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday. Like the 1st quarter final a two league gap between the sides, Wymondham Town opened the scoring on 19 minutes Kayleigh Holloway with the goal. Chelsea Clarke with an assist for the 1st goal, put the ball into the back of the net herself to make it 2-0 in the 26th minute. Laura Wiseman seeing Wymondham Town into a 3-0 lead. Two goals within 2 minutes 17 minutes into the 2nd half from Alice Collins and Wiseman made it 5-0, Stalham Town pulled a goal back soon after before Holloway with her 2nd of the game and Clarke in the 90th minutes scored her 2nd to see Wymondham Town into the semi-finals.
In the other quarter-final tie played on Sunday, 2nd Division side Briston Wanderers Ladies were leading at home against Division One side and last season’s beaten finalists, Aylsham FC Ladies. The 2nd half saw the match tied at 2-2 going into the last 30 seconds Aylsham FC Ladies scoring the winning goal to win the game and advance to the semi-finals
The draw for the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup was made on Monday the ties scheduled to be played Sunday 19th March with a 2pm kick off are as follows:-
Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies
Bohemians Ladies or Thorpe United Ladies v Aylsham FC Ladies
Three league games also took place at the weekend, one game in Norfolk Women’s Division One and a good result at home for Bungay Town Ladies taking on Brandon Town Ladies winning the game 4-0 to climb up from 6th to 4th spot their highest position this season starting 2017 well with 2 wins scoring 15 goals and 2 clean sheets.
Two games in Norfolk Women’s Division Three and bottom side Cromer Town Ladies were put to the sword at home against league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves wracking up 15 goals without reply to open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table.
In the other match in Division Three, 2nd placed East Coast Ladies were at home to Toftwood Ladies on Sunday the home side leading the game 3-0 at half-time. Toftwood staged a 2nd half comeback however to earn a share of the points the game ending in a 4-4. Jordan Duke scoring a hat-trick for East Coast Ladies with Rosie Cook also on target.
Cambridgeshire
The fixture list was hit heavily in Cambridgeshire too disrupting the opening round of matches in this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, with 5 of the 7 matches pushed back a week after being postponed.
A much needed win and moral boosting result for Premiership side Park Ladies in their 1st Round tie at home to Orton Rangers Ladies, bottom of the Championship South. Amy Newell scored a double hat-trick for Park, half of their goal scoring tally as they reached double figures, Kirstie Smith also netting a hat-trick. Ebony Bliss grabbing a brace with Erin Powell also getting a goal in a 12-0 victory.
Premiership side ICA Sports Ladies travelled to Championship North side, Wisbech Town Ladies on Sunday in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup, goals from Carmen Herridge, Zoe Leddy and Megan Purnell saw the Peterborough based side edge the result 3-2 to reach the next round.
The top two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership were in action on Sunday, league leaders, Newmarket Town Ladies away to Cambridge University Women who were playing just their 4th league game of the season. Goals from Taylor Lynn-Jones and Amanda Wainwright inside the opening 25 minutes put the home side into an early 2-0 lead. Cambridge University went on to win the game 3-1, with Eve Audoulos scoring the 3rd in the 80th minute, Nadine Basson with her 10th goal of the season scoring for Newmarket Town.
Defeat for Newmarket Town saw 2nd placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves close the 3 point gap at the top of the table and lead the table on goal difference with a big away win against bottom side Bourne Ladies. A hat-trick from Lauren Gibson, along with a brace each for Ebony Rule and Carolyn Sarafian seeing the visitors take the 3 points with a 7-0 win.
It is sad I have to do this again but it’s another edition of The Round-Up that has to report the loss of another women’s side in the leagues across the East and this time it’s from the Cambridgeshire Championship North, Spalding United Ladies no longer listed in the league table, new this season have barely played any fixtures 3 league games, hoping their players find another club and that Spalding can host another women’s football side in the near future.
Their was a game played in the Championship North at the weekend with Boston United Ladies picking up another good result away to P&L Motors Diamonds. 3 straight wins in league and cup for Boston United now lifts them up to 6th in the table. A brace each for Victoria Bradford and Stephanie Powell along with a goal each for Demi Barai, Charlie Green and Ella Marie Mcororey seeing Boston United win the match 7-2.
Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire
It was quarter final Sunday in the Bedfordshire Women’s League Cup too this weekend, however both it and the league programme was heavily affected by the weather with all but 2 matches surviving.
In the quarter final that was played Cup holders Luton Town Ladies were away to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets, who play 4 leagues below them in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. The FAWPL South East Division One side were soon on the front foot taking the lead in the 4th minute, Lucy Webster with the goal, 2 minutes later the lead was doubled, Jodie Southbe on target. Amy Summerfield getting on the score sheet 6 minutes later to see Luton Town 3-0 inside the opening quarter hour. Erica Byron netting a goal in the 20th minute, 4-0 the advantage at half-time.
Now let up from Luton Town in the 2nd half a flurry of goals early on Jo Rutherford scoring from the penalty spot after Nicola Henman was brought down. Byron went on to score two quick fire goals to complete her hat-trick. Henman scoring to make it 8-0, with Rebecca Kane getting a goal to make it 9. Rutherford was fouled in the box herself, scored again from the penalty spot to bring up double figures. Lucy Tape scoring with 5 minutes left to see Luton Town reach the semi-finals with an 11-0 win.
The one match beating the weather in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League was in Division One with St Albans Ladies at home playing Hitchin Town Ladies. St Albans climbing up to 4th in the Division One table with a 4-0 victory. Megan Samuels scoring a brace. Suzanne Ried and Holly Rossington also putting the ball into the back of the net.
Essex
In Essex it was also the quarter finals of the Women’s County Cup with 3 of the 4 scheduled to be played this Sunday with Hutton Ladies hosting holders C&K Basildon Ladies next Sunday. Lawford Ladies tie at home to Writtle Ladies fell victim to the weather this Sunday will try again next Sunday.
No weather issues at the Harlow Arena an all weather surface, Essex Women’s Premier Division leaders Harlow Ladies were hosting ERWFL Division One side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies, a league between the sides it was a close contest both sides scoring in the game, 1-1 after 90 minutes the quarter final headed into extra-time, the visitors scoring the winning goal to book a place in the semi-finals, Georgia Fraser with both goals for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies.
A local derby in the other quarter final in the Essex Women’s County Cup with Billericay Town Ladies hosting fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies. Goals from Paris Smith, Rosi Webb and Kirsty Knight saw Billericay Town through the the semi-finals the final score 3-1 with Emma Mackie getting Brentwood Town’s goal.
Two matches beat the weather in the Essex Women’s Premier Division on Sunday. With the leading pair involved in the County Cup it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Eastern Avenue to close the gap at the top. Were away to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Could only narrow the gap by a point as they were held to a 2-2, Jo Smeaton scoring both the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers.
Wickford Town Ladies recorded their 2nd league win of the season in the Premier Division on Sunday, beating Collier Row Tigers 2-1 at home to move up 2 places from 10th to 8th in the table.
Two league games also played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday and just as in the Premier Division the top two weren’t in action giving Hatfield Peveral Ladies a chance to close the gap down to just 2 points on 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies if they could get a win away to Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Got the 3 points courtesy of a 3-1 win.
4th placed Collier Row Athletic were beaten away from home on Sunday playing FC Clacton Ladies who edged them out with a 3-2 win that lifts them up 2 places in the table to move into 5th a point behind Collier Row Athletic.
It was a wet one across the whole country on Sunday with a huge amount of postponements disrupting a County Cup fixtures weekend. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog settled early on a 3G option, a quarter final from the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with Acle United Ladies hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Two league between the sides King’s Lynn encouraged by a bright start gave their opponents plenty to think about, lots of goals in the game read about them all in the report below.
Match Report – Acle United Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies
The action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday comes from the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Ladies hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies from Norfolk Women’s Division One.
A wet Sunday right across the country saw a large number of fixtures called off, with their fixtures already piling up, Acle United Ladies took the decision early to switch the game to an all weather 3G pitch, at Flegg High School in Martham where the side trains during the week.
Acle United Ladies play their football 2 leagues higher than their opponents today in the County Cup 1 of 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside the county leagues. Currently 7th in the ERWFL Premier Division table have games in hand on all the sides above them. Won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 2 seasons ago. Entered this years competition in the 2nd Round winning 4-3 away home against Norfolk Women’s Division One side, North Walsham Angels Ladies. Acle announced the signing of California State University San Bernardino scholar Megan Todd earlier in the week after obtaining international clearance, makes her debut in the County Cup.
A good test for King’s Lynn Town Ladies today taking on a side 2 leagues higher, but come into the game on the back of a 7 match unbeaten run in the league which included 6 straight wins to see them up into 2nd place in the table. Also entered the competition in the 2nd Round, beating fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Fakenham Town Ladies 8-0 at The Walks
A nice 3G facility at the Flegg High School, room for spectators to stand beside the pitch, hot and cold drinks available from vending machines. A narrow pitch. Like I said a wet day across the country the waterproofs were needed the umbrella up, making juggling a camera and notepad tricky, but at least keeping both dry.
Acle United Ladies starting XI – Chloe Nixon, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodchild, Chloe Shields, Kate Pasque, Amber Rowland, Alice Ladbrooke, Bryony Knights, Megan Todd, Rebecca Burton (C) & Jody Wells. subs – Joanne Hooper, Jade Copeman & Sarah Howard. King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Christina Vivas Artacho, Winnie Lee, Lisa Wilson, Albany Hodgson, Emma Woods, Bethan Jones, Taylor Sarchet, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C) & Oksana Imanalijeva. subs – Katie Garner, Emma Corbyn & Natalie Bunton
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Acle to kick-off the 1st half, wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, white shorts and red and white hooped socks, with King’s Lynn lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The home side push players forwards at the start Alice Ladbrooke playing the ball out to Megan Todd on the right wing, drives forwards with the ball flashes a cross into the area race wide behind the goal.
A lively start from both sides, Bethan Jones sliding in to win the ball in the middle plays it forwards early looking for Shelley Woods, the King’s Lynn captain looking to make a run through the middle, her 1st touch a little heavy allows the Acle defence to get back on her regain possession and sending it long, King’s Lynn goalkeeper, Christina Vivas Artacho is out of her area quickly to win the race for the ball. Starting and attack on the right full-back Winnie Lee brings the ball on playing it forwards for Becky Russell ahead of her sends the looping cross into the box, moving right side Oksana Imanalijeva brings the ball down well with her chest inside the area knocking to down right of goal shoots as she reaches the six yard box the ball is blocked at the near post as the Acle defence goes with her.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell
Acle’s front two link up captain, Rebecca Burton, only just returned to action after a two month injury layout pressures the King’s Lynn defence, has Jody Wells in close support rolls the ball forwards for her outside the box, Wells back to goal holds the ball up before laying it back to Burton who goes for the 1st time strike sending her shot over the bar. Acle win a free-kick inside the King’s Lynn half on the right, Anna Larkins over the ball sweeps it high in towards the far post area, Todd gets up highest, getting her head on the ball can’t direct it on target.
Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins
King’s Lynn get forwards on the right the cross in across the face of the area is intercepted by Chloe Shields rolled into the midfield for Amber Rowland to carry forwards, player break threads the ball into the path of Wells 30 yards out is closed down quickly by Jones still manages to get a shot away her effort flying over the crossbar. Chances for both sides early on King’s Lynn getting joy out wide play the ball out to Russell high on the right wing, fires a ball in across to top of the area, good control from Shelley Woods inside the D to kill the ball and turning hits the shot in the half-volley, arrowing for the top corner, Acle goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon produces a fantastic save a full stretch tipping the ball over the bar for a corner kick.
King’s Lynn are encouraged by their bright start, pressing Acle on the ball is a competitive match, Russell with another surge up the right wing gets the corner taking it herself is an inswinging ball flies across the six yard box low no one can get a touch as it kisses the far post running wide for the goal-kick. Bryony Knights has possession of the ball on the left side for Acle, plays the ball inside for Wells she is closely marked by King’s Lynn’s Emma Woods, the ball is won by the defender played into Taylor Sarchet in the middle and on quickly for Shelley Woods in attack a good 30 yards from goal wastes no time in shooting the ball landing in the side netting.
Acle United Ladies, Jody Wells, battling for the ball with King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Emma Woods
Shelley Woods reacts quickest to a poor kick out of the area from Nixon, dropping to the King’s Lynn captain 25 yards out drives on towards the top of the area moving right of goal Kate Pasque gets back on her shoulder as Nixon comes to close the angle, Woods shoots, Nixon throwing herself to the right makes the save pushing the ball wide across her area conceding the corner. Acle launch a counter attack from the corner, a strong run on the ball from Luka Goodchild from left-back sends the ball on into the area near post, Wells can’t quite reach it. Acle make a change, Joanne Hooper on in midfield replacing Rowland.
Acle have another free-kick on the right inside the King’s Lynn half the ball is played into the area, Todd the target again gets up for a free header, a tall player knocks the ball down into the ground inside the six yard box is straight at the goalkeeper, Vivas Artacho dropping to the floor and making the save. Both sides are pressing looking for the opening goal, Acle over load the right side win a throw taken quickly into Wells turns inside towards the box moving across the face of the area is fouled as she cuts the ball into the area for Burton, no advantage play is brought back for the free-kick 20 yards out right of goal, Wells to take it goes for goal sends the ball over the bar.
Albany Hodgson does well at the back closing down Knights as she is playing in moving in field from the left getting into the area Hodgson slides in to take the ball away from her out for a corner kick, Played in from the right, Todd in a central position outside the six yard box is allowed another free header, drops the ball wide trying to direct it into the bottom corner. More attacking play from Acle down the left Ladbrooke sending Knights in down the left swings the ball in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho gets down but spills the ball out into the middle of the box, Emma Woods gets their before the Acle attackers the ball is cleared long out to the left side, picked up by Imanalijeva the striker takes it up the wing has Jade Kelly on that side with her lose sight of both as the crowd get excited, a shot comes blazing in however from distance, Nixon throwing herself to her right can’t get to it the ball past her cannons off the post and deflects behind for a goal-kick.
GOAL! 27 minutes into a busy 1st half Acle go straight up the other end from the goal kick and take the lead the ball is played quickly through the midfield and a perfectly weighted pass picks out Todd as she cuts inside from the right, takes the ball on into the area, right of goal sends her shot across Vivas Artacho and into the back of the net to score her on her debut 1-0.
A goal on debut for Acle United Ladies, Megan Todd
Kate Pasque makes it 2-0 for Acle
GOAL! A blow for King’s Lynn after matching Acle competitively for nearly half an hour find themselves 2-0 down just a minute after conceding, Acle get forwards down the right Larkins linking up Todd, a corner is won. The ball is fired in along the six yard box, comes straight at Pasque central, at head height a difficult ball to deal with, can’t jump no time to stoop either makes good contact with her forehead turning the ball towards goal and into the back of the net 2-0.
King’s Lynn look for a response Sarchet getting the ball up to Shelley Woods moving out to the right turns towards the area holding it up before playing it back to Russell moving towards the right corner of the box, shoots her low drive held by Nixon at her near post. Acle attack down the right the ball played inside is helped on towards Burton who is fouled right on the edge of the area a shove in the back is OK after treatment, Larkins over the ball right of goal, Wells is free unmarked 20 yards out in a central position Larkins rolls the ball into her path fires the ball into the area too many bodies to squeeze through the shot is blocked.
Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva combine up front for King’s Lynn the ball with Woods on the right turns inside reaching the area lays it across the face for Imanalijeva inside the D, digs the ball out from under her feet sending a rising shot goalwards, Nixon palms the ball down and gathers cleanly. Another chance for Imanalijeva moments later as Emma Woods breaks up an Acle attack gets the ball up field to Shelley Woods passes it out to Imanalijeva left side outside the area meets the ball 1st time slicing her shot away from goal.
A throw for King’s Lynn on the left inside the Acle half Kelly into Imanalijeva heads the ball on towards the far post Shelley Woods coming onto it as it arrives in the six yard box fires the ball wide across the face of goal. Picking up the ball in half way Burton carries it forwards picking out Todd on the right, holding the ball up looks to spin in behind get into the area, Emma Woods goes with her gets a foot on the ball to push it on for Vivas Artacho to launch out of the area.
GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the 2nd half, Burton with another run from half way has Larkins bursting forwards on the right getting ahead of her rolls the ball into her path taking in on down the wing squares a fierce cross in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho throwing herself forwards can’t quite reach it, nor can Hodgson tracking back, somehow Wells gets in between them and pushes the ball over the line to make it 3-0.
GOAL! Acle continue to attack late on in the 1st half, are hit on the break as Lisa Wilson wins the ball back plays in infield the ball on through the middle finds the attackers Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva next to each other in a central position 25 yards from goal, it’s Imanalijeva who spins inside with the ball, a surging run into the area reaching the top of the six yard box fires her shot past Nixon to pull a goal back for King’s Lynn 3-1.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Oksana Imanalijeva
Half-time Acle United Ladies 3-1 Kings Lynn Town Ladies
An action paced 1st half Acle United Ladies leading the quarter final 3-1 at the break as the rain starts to slow and eventually stop. A competitive battle King’s Lynn encouraged by a positive start had chances to take the lead, Acle prepared to push bodies on at timely intervals getting into a quick-fire 2-0 lead, more chances followed, Acle going on to score a3rd goal, that scoreline harsh on King’s Lynn going into half-time they pulled a goal back before the whistle to keep the deficit down to 2 goals.
It’s King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half. A change for Acle at the break, Burton off, Hooper moving up front with Rowland back on in midfield. Sarchet closes the ball down quickly in midfield for King’s Lynn played the ball backwards for Emma Woods who sends it long over the top with Shelley Woods breaking in behind the Acle defence, Nixon quick quickly off her line to come sliding in and smothers the ball on the edge of the area. Shields with a good tackle deals with a high ball put in from the right for Acle.
An early switch 2nd half for King’s Lynn with Kelly the player substituted, Natalie Bunton coming on, is involved in the action straight away as Sarchet bringing the ball on through the middle releases her on the right wing, takes on the early shot outside the area the strike off target. The 2nd half has started in a similar tempo to the 1st half, both sides looking to attack, Acle’s Wells has the ball on the left 25 yards from the King’s Lynn goal opens up her body as she shoots sending a curling ball wide of the far post.
A good turn in the ball by Shelley Woods as the ball is played into her 25 yards out back to goal, escaping her marker lays the ball forwards for Russell on the left, taking the ball to the by-line is tackled by Shields the throw leading to a corner kick, swung in from the left towards the top of the area, won by Ladbrooke the ball is cleared, King’s Lynn regain possession come forwards the ball played into the box claimed by Nixon. Acle press players forwards, Larkins going past Todd as the ball is held up by Hooper outside the area rolls it towards the on coming full-back shots the ball flying straight into Vivas Artacho’s gloves the keeper positioned in the centre of her goal.
Taylor Sarchet wins the ball for King’s Lynn Town Ladies
Sarchet gets forwards for King’s Lynn as Shelley Woods has the ball out on the right for plays it across the face of the area, meeting it Sarchet fires a shot in across the keeper, diving full stretch to her right, Nixon makes the save pushing the ball wide of her goal. Larkins nips in to win the ball on the right inside the King’s Lynn half fires it into Wells holding position outside the area right of the D, Hodgson gets a toe on the ball to stop her turning in behind, Wells gets back on the ball pushed wide lifts a cross towards the far post Todd coming in puts her shot wide of goal.
A 50/50 tackle in the centre of the park leaves Sarchet down on the floor clutching her ankle in alot of pain, play is stopped looks a nasty one, receives lengthy treatment on the pitch, cannot carry on with her ankle now heavily bandaged is helped of the pitch, Emma Corbyn joining the action.
GOAL! Play held up for 4-5 minutes it’s Acle who take advantage going on the attack the ball played up to right Todd on for Larkins taking the ball into the corner sends the cross long across the six yard box, Wells is their the ball behind her, thinks about the overhead kick, however Knights is right behind her, meets the ball 1st time sending it under the diving goalkeeper 4-1 extending Acle’s lead with around 25 minutes left to play.
GOAL! As in the 1st half one goal is quickly followed by another however it isn’t Acle who extend their lead further. The ball is with Shelley Woods receiving it from a throw on the right side is inside the area, right corner shoved over the referee pointing to the spot, it’s Woods herself to take it Nixon guesses right dives to her right but the ball is placed perfectly by Woods into the bottom corner of the net 4-2.
Diving full stretch, Acle United Ladies goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon can’t stop Shelley Woods penalty
A rush of blood moments later from Nixon as the Acle keeper comes rushing out of her area as King’s Lynn, Shelley Woods is played in behind, gets to the ball 1st taking it past the stranded keeper on towards the edge of the box, Larkins gets back just in tome to stop Woods taking an early shot into an empty net, by the time the striker manoeuvres herself into a position to shoot her strike is cut out by Pasque and the threat cleared. King’s Lynn bring Kelly back on replacing Bunton.
Nixon hasn’t been put off coming out for the ball the save is needed as Shelley Woods sends Kelly through on the right, the keeper coming outside the box making it the ball before Kelly can push it past her. A change of formation for King’s Lynn as they look to try and pull a goal back, Wilson off at right back, Bunton back on to join the attack as they go 3-4-3 as the game moves into the final 15 minutes.
Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland gets to the ball ahead of Becky Russell
Rowland takes the ball forwards for Acle playing the pass out to Todd on the right, 30 yards from goal is given time and space to line up a shot, whips the ball in towards goal, isn’t too far over the cross bar. Knights with a strong run on the left wing gets a corner for Acle the ball is playing into the middle, Pasque jumping highest heads the ball down into the ground right in front of Vivas Artacho the goalkeeper down quickly getting hold of the ball. A minute later up the other end Pasque head the ball clear of her area as Hodgson lifts in a free-kick from halfway.
Corbyn wins a 50/50 ball on the right plays it down the line for Bunton ahead of her travelling with the ball getting into the box on the right tries to cut the ball back into the six yard box from the by-line, Nixon has come the ball under her feet adjusted well to stab the ball away. Acle have a throw on the left, played in field into Rowland she attempts to lift the ball over the top for Todd breaking into the area, coming forwards Vivas Artacho get’s her gloves around it 1st. Into the last 10 minutes and Acle are looking for a 5th goal. The ball is played into Wells 20 yards out, tries to turn, Emma Woods wins the tackle the the foul for King’s Lynn.
GOAL! No let up in the energy both sides keeping up a good tempo, Acle have possession with Rowland in the middle a good move sees her play the ball up to Wells outside the box on the right side this time, holding the ball up has support from Todd lays the ball back to her, Todd with a burst of pace drives into the box goes to shoot is brought down by Jones the penalty kick awarded. It’s Todd herself to take it, hits the ball low and hard to the keepers right beyond Vivas Artacho’s outstretched gloves into the bottom corner 5-2 with just a couple of minutes of normal time left on the clock.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain Shelley Woods
GOAL! Again King’s Lynn respond with a goal, after a 20 strike from Imanalijeva is held by Nixon before King’s Lynn win the ball from the kick out is played over the top Shelley Woods beating the offside trap and Nixon as the Acle goalkeeper comes out to close her down taking the ball to the left of goal, turns and lifts her shot over the defenders racing back to drop into the net beyond, 5-3. Into injury time Acle make a double switch, Jade Copeman and Sarah Howard on for Goodchild and Ladbrooke. A late chance for Acle who have the ball on the left getting a throw the ball is played into Knights fires a diagonal ball in across the face of the King’s Lynn goal, throwing herself at it far post Howard can’t get anything on the ball to deflect it goalwards.
Full time Acle United Ladies 5-3 Kings Lynn Town Ladies
A 5-3 win for Acle United sees them through to the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, a highly entertaining match plenty to cover, both sides playing their part in a competitive performance, both intent on attacking throughout the 90 minutes. King’s Lynn can take alot away from the match a good test for their side that continues to improve. Acle with some good attacking play getting players forwards will fancy their chances in the semi-finals, where they will be joined by Wymondham Town Ladies who beat Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 and last seasons beaten finalists Aylsham FC Ladies who beat Briston Wanderers Ladies 3-2 away from home the winning goal coming in the last 30 seconds. Holders Thorpe United Ladies will be away to Bohemians Ladies next Sunday.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
A tough one this Sunday with so many players putting alot of effort into 2 good team performances, but with her 2 goals on debut I’ve chosen Megan Todd, her pace and power on the ball adding a new dimension to the Acle United Ladies side.
A great cup tie, entertaining plenty of goals and the rain even stopped. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team and sending my best wishes to King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Taylor Sarchet hope she isn’t too badly injured and makes a speedy recovery.
Norfolk Women’s Division One leaders, Thorpe United Ladies extended their 100% winning start to 7 games since the start of the season playing at home on Sunday against Brandon Town Ladies, the visitors leading 1-0 at half-time, Thorpe United coming back in the 2nd half to win the game 3-1 to take all 3 points.
Elsewhere in Division One their were big wins for both 2nd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies and 3rd placed as they continue their pursuit of Thorpe United and open up a big gap to the rest of the field. North Walsham Angels Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Fakenham Town Ladies. Leading the match 4-0 at half-time the home side went onto reach double figures winning 10-1 to record their 6th league win of the season. Hope Middleton top scoring in the match with 5 goals. Sister Luci also scoring a brace in the match with Rachel Bussey, Rosie Filby and Alice Wardle also getting their names on the scoresheet with a goal.
Was also a double figure winning score for 3rd placed Kings Lynn Town Ladies away to bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in Division One on Sunday, another player with 5 goals to her name at the weekend was Shelley Woods, Kings Lynn Town Ladies captain, Josie Turner scoring a hat-trick in the match too with Becky Russell and Natalie Bunton (returning to the side after picking up an injury in pre-season) also getting a goal each after Taylor Sarchet had opened the scoring in the 15th minute final score 11-0.
Kings Lynn Town Ladies and North Walsham Angels Ladies meet this Sunday in the league, weather being kind it’ll be the featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and I’ll be amazed if it ends 0-0.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Just the one match played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday, it saw league leaders Gorleston FC Ladies open up a massive 12 point lead at the top as they recorded their 8th straight league victory of the season away to Bohemians Ladies. Bethany Turner scoring 4 goals in the game. Leanne Smith scoring twice with Caitlin Smith also
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
Two matches in Norfolk Women’s Division Three at the weekend the lead at the top constantly changing between, East Coast Ladies and Tavern Ladies. With the former playing Stalham Town Ladies in a friendly match, it was Taver Ladies who returned to the top of the table with a big win against Dereham rivals Toftwood United Ladies winning the game 8-1 to take a 2 point lead in the Division.
Elsewhere in Division Three, Freethorpe Ladies were on the road a trip to the coast to play Cromer Town Ladies, the visitors winning their 2nd league game of the season beating the side bottom of the table 4-0. Megan Wilson opening the scoring early in the match with Michela Stordy, Andrea Colbrook and Claire Garner also scoring a goal to see Freethorpe win the 3 points.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
One outstanding tie in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 2nd Round to be played postponed a fortnight ago, Long Stratton Ladies from Division Two were at home to Division One side and last season’s beaten finalists Aylsham FC Ladies. The visitors taking the lead Leanne Ferdani scoring the goal were pegged back to 1-1 by Long Stratton before going on to score twice to lead 3-1 the game unfortunately having to be abandoned on 85 minutes due to an injury to a Long Stratton player, Women’s Football East wishes all the best to the player involved. A result Aylsham FC Ladies will now play Briston Wanderers Ladies away from home in the quarter finals of the competition in the New Year.
4 ties in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 2nd Round fell foul of the weather last weekend. 3 of those were played this Sunday. Kings Lynn Town Ladies playing their 1st ever competitive match at The Walks home of Kings Lynn Tow FC. Were hosting fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side who they had already beaten twice in the league. Made it 3 wins with a comfortable scoreline. Captain Shelley Woods scoring 4 goals. A brace too for Elle Bocking with Becky Russell and Taylor Sarchet also getting a goal to their names in an 8-0 win will face Acle United Ladies in the quarter finals.
Bohemians Ladies from Norfolk Women’s Division Two will be at home in the quarter finals taking on County Cup holders Thorpe United Ladies after they over came Division Three side Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday edging the result 2-1 to progress. Claire Garner with the goal for Freethorpe Ladies.
An all Division Two tie in the other 2nd Round game played at the weekend with Briston Wanderers Ladies travelling to play Sprowston Ladies. A good result for Briston Wanderers winning the match 5-2 to reach the quarter finals where they will be at home to either Long Stratton Ladies or Aylsham FC Ladies who face each other this Sunday.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
One league match taking place in Norfolk this Sunday from Division Two with leaders Gorleston FC Ladies opening up a massive 9 point gap at the top winning for the 7th game in a row to maintain a 100% winning start to the season. Had lost out away to Stalham Town Ladies on penalties in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup last Sunday. At home this Sunday at Emerald Park won the game 4-2 with Bethany Turner scoring a hat-trick, Kayleigh Byrne with their other goal.
A dedicated weekend for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, the fixture list was badly affected by the weather with half of the 8 2nd Round ties being postponed the fixtures put back a week. Holders Thorpe United Ladies and ERWFL Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies progressed to the quarter finals awarded away wins their opponents unable to field a team.
Of the 2 2nd Round ties that did survive it was an all Norfolk Women’s Division two clash between, Stalham Town Ladies at home to the league leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies. The visitors having 2 goals disallowed were held to a goalless draw by Stalham Town the tie going all the way to penalties, Stalham Town winning the shoot-out 4-2 to advance to the quarter finals of the competition.
A big test for Norfolk Women’s Division One side North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup on Sunday at home taking on Acle United Ladies playing their football 2 league above in the ERWFL Premier Division. North Walsham got off to a fantastic start getting themselves into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Acle United pulling it back to 2-1 on 20 minutes Jody Wells on target. A narrow lead for the home side at half-time Acle United started the 2nd half better Rose Glendinning making it 2-2 12 minutes in. Jody Wells with her 2nd goal of the game and a goal from Kate Pasque saw the visiting side go 4-2 up, North Walsham fighting all the way got it back to 4-3 with 10 minutes left but couldn’t find another goal to force the tie into extra-time as Acle United reach the quarter finals of the County Cup having reached the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup the week before. Alicia Lacey, Luci Middleton and Lauren Yarham scoring the goals for North Walsham.
The quarter final draw for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup has been made the ties scheduled to be played Sunday 15th January.
Wymondham Town Ladies v Stalham Town Ladies
Acle United Ladies v Kings Lynn Town Ladies or Fakenham Town Ladies
Sprowston Ladies or Briston Wanderers Ladies v Long Stratton Ladies or Aylsham FC Ladies
Bohemians Ladies or Freethorpe Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies
