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.
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.
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 Cupto 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.
A mixture of postponements and suffering their 1st defeat of the season away to in form Bungay Town Ladies in February had seen Thorpe United Ladies slip to 2nd in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. A midweek 6-0 win for Bungay Town Ladies against bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies had seen them slip a further place to 3rd going into Sunday’s game. Their match away to Fakenham Town Ladies reversed with Thorpe United hosting on a 3G to beat the beat the weather. Sophie Jermy and Lauren Kent both scoring a brace for Thorpe United in the game with captain Rebekah Lake also scoring in the match along with Charlotte Groves and Laura Hedtke to see Thorpe United return back to the top of the league with a 7-0 win.
7-0 was also the winning scoreline for 4th placed side North Walsham Angels Ladies as the newly promoted side aim to secure a top half 1st in their 1st season in the top flight in Norfolk. Were at home on Sunday taking on Aylsham FC Ladies in 6th. Hope Middleton got herself a hat-trick in the game with sister Luci netting a brace. Robyn Johnston also getting her name on the scoresheet with an own goal making up the score to see the 3 points collected.
Norfolk Division Two
7 was a popular number in Norfolk at the weekend with Stalham Town Ladies hitting 7 goals into the back of the net at home to Bohemians Ladies in the only match played in Division Two on Sunday. Leading 2-0 at half-time Stalham Town went on to win 7-1 in the 2nd half, a brace each for Charlotte Crane and Millie Cursons with Stephanie Brightly, Emily Kent and Marie Meale all grabbing themselves a goal.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
Well a few weeks back I mentioned it was all getting very interesting in Norfolk Women’s Division Three as Toftwood United Ladies won at home against the then league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves to close up gap between the top 4 to 2 points since then Toftwood United Ladies have continued their excellent form climbing into 2nd in the table and now lead the way! Were at home on Sunday taking on East Coast Ladies who were in possession of top spot going into the match the sides playing out a 7 (yes there it is again) thriller.
East Coast Ladies the visiting side took the lead on 15 minutes Rosie Cook with the goal. Toftwood equalising midway through the 1st half went into the dressing room at half-time 2-1 down after conceding an own goal 4 minutes before time. Toftwood United came out the 2nd half the stronger scoring twice in the opening 10 minutes to turn it around to lead 3-2 extending the lead with 20 minutes left, Katie Hart scoring a hat-trick with Thea Wilson also on target. East Coast pulled a goal back with 5 minutes left with Cook scoring her 2nd of the game to set up a nervous finish but Toftwood now unbeaten in 5 league games win 4-3 to go 2 points clear at the top of the table. One league game left to play with their rivals all having games in hand may well get caught but it’s a good place to be right now. You can read East Coast Ladies match report from the game by clicking on the link below.
Dereham based side Tavern Ladies also move up a place in the Division Three table from 4th to 3rd winning away to Freethorpe Ladies at the weekend a dominant 1st half display seeing them lead 3-0 at the break adding 2 more goals in the 2nd half, Roxy Coomber, Sophie Fuller and Jordan Head amongst the goals. Didn’t have it all their own way however as Freethorpe rallied to pull it back to 3-5 before the final whistle was blown.
New leaders in the Norfolk Women’s Division as King’s Lynn Town Ladies overhaul Thorpe United Ladies who have held on to top spot all season to date. Thorpe United weren’t playing at the weekend 2 points behind a win for King’s Lynn Town would see them go top were away playing Brandon Town Ladies, captain Shelley Woods continues her fine goal scoring form this season adding another 4 goals to her tally with Josie Turner also scoring a brace in the game, Becky Russell also getting on the scoresheet with a goal as King’s Lynn Town won 7-0 boosting their goal difference and going a point clear at the top of the table.
Also continuing their excellent for in 2017 are Bungay Town Ladies as they move above North Walsham Angels Ladies into 3rd place in the table with a big win at home to Fakenham Town Ladies who had just the 10 players available an injury reducing them to 9 during the match were up against an in form side winning all of their games so far this year. Bungay Town led 3-0 at half-time going on to double that tally in the 2nd half, both Lacey Andrews and Lauren Purling netting a brace each with Teodora Ilie and Hannah Jones also getting a goal each in the win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
One game in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday with Briston Wanderers Ladies hosting 2nd placed Long Stratton Ladies. The side bottom of the league scored through Corrine Bishop, Megan Skinner and Sophie Tipper to lead Long Stratton 3-1 at half-time. The visitors came back into the match 2nd half scoring twice to level thing’s up at 3-3 the sides taking a share of the points, enough to lift Briston Wanderers of the foot of the table level on points with Bohemians Ladies. Charlie Head and 2 goals for Sophie Rose for Long Stratton Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
Mentioned last week how tight thing’s were getting at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Three and it was all change at the top again this weekend with East Coast Ladies moving above Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves to lead the way after winning at home against 3rd placed Tavern Ladies ending their unbeaten league record in the process. Tavern had beaten East Coast in their previous 2 meetings this season. Jordan Duke put East Coast into the lead with a quarter of an hour played. Tavern came back late on in the 1st half with 2 goals in the final 5 minutes to lead 2-1 at the break. East Coast got themselves back on level terms 15 minutes into the 2nd half Vicky Ottey scoring the goal and with 10 minutes left on the clock Lucy Robbens grabbed the winning goal to see East Coast win 3-2 and climb to the top of the table.
Toftwood United Ladies beat the previous league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves last Sunday to move to within a point of the leading trio this Sunday Toftwood United won big away from home against bottom side Cromer Town Ladies to climb up from 4th into 2nd place in the Division Three table. A little confusion with the final scoreline however as Toftwood initially listed it a 9-0 but elsewhere it is recorded as 7-0. Have the goalscorers listed as Katie Hart who netted 4 goals in the game, with Thea Wilson getting a hat-trick to aswell as a goal for Olivia North which makes it 8, either way the 3 points were won.
The title race in Norfolk Women’s Division One is heating up as one side in a hot streak of form in 2017 brought to an end the league leaders 100% winning record on Sunday. Bungay Town Ladies are unbeaten themselves in 2017 winning all of their games so far to see them move up to 3rd spot in the table after winning 3-0 away to Brandon Town Ladies last Sunday. The weather too was alot warmer this Sunday as they hosted leaders Thorpe United Ladies who had won all of their previous 9 league matches, played just the one league and cup match in 2017 so far frustrated by a lack of games. Bungay Town held a 2-1 lead at half-time captain, Rebekah Lake scoring for Thorpe United. Bungay Town going on to add two further goals 2nd half with Laura Holden scoring a brace along with goals for Lauren Purling and Nicki Hazell to take the 3 points with a 4-1 to see Thorpe United lose for the 1st time this season.
Despite the win Bungay Town Ladies drop a place in the table to 4th as North Walsham Angels Ladies got the 3 points away to bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies with enough goals scored to edge past Bungay Town on goal difference. Two goals each for Luci and Hope Middleton for North Walsham, Rosie Filby also finding the back of the net as well as goalkeeper Cyan Rose scoring from a well taken penalty to win the game 6-0. Both North Walsham and Bungay Town are on 21 points, 6 back from leaders Thorpe United both having played one game more.
The side capitalising most from Bungay Town Ladies victory over the Division One leaders is 2nd placed Kings Lynn Town Ladies, in a strong vein of form themselves their only defeat back on the opening day of the season against Thorpe United are now just 2 points behind with both having played 10 games after winning at home to Aylsham FC Ladies on Sunday. Natalie Bunton opening the scoring for Kings Lynn. Josie Turner made it 2-0 with captain Shelley Woods on target to give the home side a 3-0 lead. Emma Gillespie pulled a goal back for Aylsham FC Ladies before half-time. Woods added a 2nd goal to her tally in the 2nd half with Lithuanian International Oksana Imanalijeva scoring from the penalty spot after she was brought down inside the box to seal a 5-1 win.
A full list of fixtures in Division One this weekend with all 8 sides in action in the last game to bring you Brandon Town Ladies recovered from last weekends defeat with a 3-0 win away to Fakenham Town Ladies. Tiffany Forshaw, Shannon Odebrecht and Chloe Slater scoring the goals at Clipbush Park.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
Was an all Norfolk Women’s Division Two clash in the last outstanding quarter final of this season, Ladies League Cup competition. League leaders Gorleston FC Ladies hosting Stalham Town Ladies who had knocked them out of the County Cup earlier in the season. Gorleston booked their spot in the semi-finals of the competition this time around winning 2-0 courtesy of goals from Kayleigh Byrne and Beth Turner. Gorleston will now be away to Thorpe United Ladies in the semi-finals with Brandon Town Ladies hosting Bungay Town Ladies in the other semi both scheduled to be played Sunday 12th March.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
All very tight at the top in Norfolk Women’s Division Three with the top 4 sides separated by just a point now after 4th placed Toftwood United Ladies got the 3 points at home against the league leaders, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Goals from Jolene Ayrton and Thea Wilson seeing Toftwood edge the win 2-1 with Sally Hammerton scoring the goal for Wymondham Town who remain on 19 points the same as 2nd placed East Coast Ladies, Toftwood United joining Dereham rivals Tavern Ladies in 3rd on 18 points have played more games than those above them, but with all 3 capable of taking points off each other it’s going to be an interesting end to the season.
Pretty much right across the East this weekend the county league program was hit hard by postponements with just a handful of games surviving after a wet and cold spell that saw a dusting of snow in most area’s come Sunday morning. In Norfolk this we no exception with just 4 games being played. In Division One the only fixture to survive was across the border in Suffolk with Brandon Town Ladies pitch bearing up extremely well considering the weather. Brandon were hosting Bungay Town Ladies who started the day 4th on the table on an excellent run of form on 2017 winning all of their games played to date a win today would see them up to 3rd in the table.
Bungay got off to a great start taking the lead inside the opening 6 minutes Laura Holden put through on goal the goalkeepers attempted clearance falling to her, her initial shot from the edge is stopped however Holden reacts quickly getting to ball 1st to send it into the back of the net at the 2nd attempt to make it 1-0. A fast paced game both sides looking to use the width of the pitch Bungay have further chances to add to their lead, Brandon goalkeeper, Shannon Odebrecht with a superb diving save to deny Ella Hindley. 1-0 the lead at the break the play resumed at the same frantic pace of the 1st half as Bungay went on to extend their lead scoring twice more in the 2nd half Holden turning provider for both goals playing the ball on for striker Stef Cool (pictured) to score a brace and see Bungay move into 3rd spot with a 3-0 win. The game was the featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday and you can read the report on this website or by clicking on the link below.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two runaway leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies have had to wait a long time to continue their 100% winning record to the season having not been in league action since mid-December last year this was their 1st match of 2017 were on the road playing Briston Wanderers Ladies who they beat 5-3 in the same fixture back in September, the sides in the Division facing each other 3 times this season. A brace for Samantha Hunn along with a goal each for Molly Sims and Sophie Gillett saw Gorleston win the match 4-1 to extended their 100% record to 9 matches.
The game between Stalham Town Ladies and 2nd placed Long Stratton Ladies was switched to The Flegg FDC all weather pitch with the inclement weather around. A single goal enough to win all 3 points for Stalham Town Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
One game in Norfolk Women’s Division Three beat the weather on Sunday with Freethorpe Ladies making the journey to the coast to play 3rd placed side East Coast Ladies. Jordan Duke scoring in the 15th minute to give East Coast a 1-0 lead at the break. Lucy Robbens making it 2-0 from the penalty spot. Freethorpe pulling it back to 2-1 with around 15 minutes left to play, East Coast Ladies made sure of the 3 points with 5 minutes left to play Duke with her 2nd goal of the game the win taking East Coast Ladies above Tavern Ladies into 2nd place in the table.
Sunday’s football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the Norfolk Women’s Division One with in form Bungay Town Ladies in 4th place in the league winning all of their matches in 2017 to date travelling to play Brandon Town Ladies on a bitterly cold day in on of the few games to beat the weather in the league.
Match Report – Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
After a trip to The Hive yesterday to see the opening match in the FAWSL 2’s new one off Spring Series competition between London Bees and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, stayed local for this Sunday’s women’s football action travelling over the border into Suffolk to watch the Norfolk Women’s Division One match between Brandon Town Ladies & Bungay Town Ladies.
With snow all around the country the ground already very wet it looked like ti was going to be another weekend full of postponements, even the FAWSL’s new Spring Series didn’t survive unscathed. Didn’t have a Plan A this weekend not committing to game too early having seen 3 called off already this year. Had a short list and Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies was on it 20 minutes away the snow that was on my lawn was thawing rapidly even if it was still bitterly cold, extra layers on hit the road.
Norfolk Women’s Division One is a very competitive league although this season so far it is being dominated by Thorpe United Ladies who have won all 9 of their league games so far and excellent run of form has seen Kings Lynn Town Ladies overhaul newly promoted North Walsham Angels Ladies who lay 3rd going into this weekends match due to play each other this Sunday at North Walsham the game was postponed, giving an opportunity to 4th placed Bungay Town Ladies to move above them.
Brandon Town Ladies go into today’s game in 6th place in the table well clear of the bottom 2 sides, have had a frustrating season so far in the league with 3 wins 1 draw and 4 losses postponements and having players unavailable for some games hasn’t helped them build any momentum. Have had a good run in the League Cup competition and will play today’s opponents, Bungay Town Ladies away in the semi-finals of the competition. Today is their 3rd meeting in the league with Brandon winning 4-3 at the start of the season at home, then losing away 4-0 back on the 15th January.
Bungay Town Ladies got off to a bad start in the league this season losing their opening 3 games. Recovered towards the end of 2016 winning twice in the league. Have had an excellent run in 2017 getting regular matches in winning 3 in a row in the league given a home win in the League Cup quarter finals. Spoke to manager Graham Purling during the summer at a pr-season friendly and he was optimistic about the squad the club had assembled this season.
Brandon Town Ladies play their home matches at the Brandon Leisure Centre, a multi-sports facility offering several full-sized football pitches. Despite the amount of rain and dusting of snow to hit the country over the past few days the pitch had held up well, looked muddy but had featured a game earlier in the day and despite being cut up it was surprisingly dry underfoot no standing water. A large pitch, it was a bitterly cold afternoon, gloomy with dark clouds all around.
Brandon Town Ladies starting XI – Shannon Odebrecht, Melanie Talbot, Cassandra Carvalheira, Shanice Burch, Laura Grove, Chloe Slater, Carolyn Sarafian, Ruby Robertson, Frankie Torrance (C), Brooke Wickens & Elicia Cooper. subs – Hazel Shepherd, Lauren Riding & Emma Johnson. Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Hannah Jones, Kelly Collins (C) Jessica Keeling, Charlotte Power, Inna Marx, Ella Hindley, Nicki Hazel, Lauren Purling, Laura Holden & Stephanie Cool. subs – Rebecca Rylott.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Both sides had a newly registered signing in their squad for today’s game, Elicia Cooper starting in attack for Brandon Town Ladies. Rebecca Rylott, Bungay Town Ladies only available substitute. Bungay to kick-off the 1st half wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks, with Brandon lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The ball gets played long out to the right for Lauren Purling to chase early on winning a throw the ball is lifted up the line for striker Stef Cool getting into the box her ball forwards his cut out by Brandon’s Cassandra Carvalheira behind for a corner kick. Headed out of the area by Brandon they look to counter attack on the right players from both sides racing back towards the Bungay goal as the ball is played into the feet of Brooke Wickens coming in off the wing to get into he area is challenged by Bungay’s Charlotte Power winning the ball back for the visitors.
Bringing the ball forwards Bungay centre back Charlotte Power evades a Brandon tackle
The action is end to end in the early minutes both sides contesting the ball hard in midfield Wickens plays a great crossfield pass from right to left picking out captain Frankie Torrance on the wing drives forwards looking to get into the box, no way past Bungay right back, Hannah Jones who stands her ground times her tackle well. Both sides looking to exploit the wide players, Inna Marx sends the ball out to Nicki Hazel on the left pushing on crosses as reaches the top of the area the ball angling towards the near post caught by Brandon Town Ladies goalkeeper, Shannon Odebrecht.
GOAL! The opening goal of the match comes after just 6 minutes of play, Brandon pressing forwards in attack lose possession the ball is played direct through the middle both Cool and Laura Holden are in through on goal as Odebrecht comes racing out to the edge of the area with Cool closest the keepers clearance doesn’t go far striking Holden inside the D, gets a shot away, Odebrecht doing well to get a glove on the ball palms it into the ground isn’t under control Holden gets to it 1st to send the ball centrally into the back of the net 0-1 to Bungay.
Laura Holden scores the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies
Brandon attack from the restart getting a throw deep on the left played into Carvalheira her cross from 35 yards out is a good one coming in high Ruby Robertson gets up to head the ball can’t direct her effort on target as it bounces wide across the six yard box. Wickens in possession on the right plays the ball in field to Carolyn Sarafain the midfielder in front of the centre circle decides to have a pop at goal on target is straight at Bungay goalkeeper Ruth Smart who takes it cleanly into her body. Making progress with the ball on the right Brandon have a throw players drift across as the throw is taken is Elicia Cooper squares the ball in towards Torrance outside the area in front of the D, back to goal hits the half volley on the turn her strike bouncing wide past the far post.
Another good crossfield ball from Wickens on the right picks out Torrance on the left cuts inside rolling the ball in field to Sarafain outside the area shifts the ball before hooking a shot in towards goal, again her effort drops into the keepers gloves back on her line. Robertson gets back on Cool as she breaks for the Brandon area, tackling concedes the corner kick played in from the right by Hazel his headed clear of the area by Laura Grove coming back out to Hazel sweeps a cross into the box Jones gets her head to the ball 10 yards out sends her effort over the crossbar.
Brandon Town Ladies, Carolyn Sarafain
Picking the ball up from a throw on the right 30 yards out Ella Hindley turns inside carrying the ball towards the Brandon box, scoops the ball up off the turf sending a shoot in towards goal, isn’t too far over as it dips late over the bar. Hindley with a run through the centre of midfield lays the ball on for Purling on the move up the right wing, Shanice Burch comes across to tackle her gets a knock as she puts the ball out for the throw deep in the corner up okay after treatment. A few crunching challenges about the pitch Marx and Sarafain clatter into each other from to try and win a 50/50 ball (poor thing). Pressure on the ball from both sides, Bungay are a little more successful with the final ball isn’t coming off for Brandon. The visitors winning another corner on the right the ball is lifted into the centre of the goal Odebrecht calls and take well before being bundled over by the onrushing Bungay attacker to get a free-kick.
Bungay Town Ladies, Lauren Purling
A corner from Bungay on the left sees Brandon goalkeeper Odebrecht pull off a superb save the best I suspect I’ll see this year! Initially doesn’t do so went coming into the crowd at the near post to punch the ball away, instead knocks it down into the ground, players scramble for the ball is squeezed out to Hindley inside opposite the far post, I’m standing on half way behind goal as she shifts the ball with her 1st touch has an open goal to aim at hits the ball goalwards should be a certain goal, however out of no where Odebrecht appears throwing herself full stretch low across her goal-line to glove the ball away for the corner an excellent piece of goalkeeper, had it been Karen Bardsley the Vine loops would be in there thousands as it is you will just have to take my word for it!
A powerful run on the ball from Brandon’s Wickens through the middle moves to the right looking to make the angle for a shot, Bungay captain Kelly Collins gets back at her to slide in to tackle and win the ball back. The counter attacking football keeps coming Brandon’s Chloe Slater on the move up the pitch plays it on for Carvalheira ahead of her on the left has Sarafain keeping pace with her lays the ball off into the middle, into the midfielders stride she 30 yards out she goes for the 1st time shot her strike whistling over the bar.
Brandon Town Ladies, Brooke Wickens
Brandon make a change up top bringing off Cooper and sending on Hazel Shepherd as Bungay win a corner with Purling played in down the right the ball is played into the six yard box deep knocked out towards the edge of the area Jess Keeling up from the back gathers for the visitors stabs a shot in towards goal his held on the line by Odebrecht. Hazel with a good run up the right side for Bungay lays the ball into Hindley on the move towards the Brandon area gets a shot away as she is closed down by Burch bounces wide of goal.
Brandon have upped the tempo as the 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes but have yet to test Smart in the Bungay goal. A throw on the right side is played into Brandon’s Shepherd 25 yards out from goal driving forward looks to play in Torrance making a run from the left into the area, Jones throws out a long leg to intercept the ball. One last attack in the 1st half for Bungay Purling on the left forwards for Cool to chase hits the shot from outside the area runs all the way along the ground to be scooped up safely by Odebrecht inside her six yard box.
Half-time Brandon Town Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies
An high paced and exciting 1st half of football, Bungay Town Ladies with the narrow advantage have created the better chances in front of goal. Is bitterly cold however and I can’ blame them for wanting to keep the ball moving. A shortened half-time interval as both sides stay by the side of the pitch. The visitors getting into some good attacking positions Purling and Hazel a threat out wide, Holden just 16 with some dynamic runs through the middle supporting Cool in attack. Brandon with some good build up play their final ball just not finding it’s mark. 45 minutes left to play.
A change for Bungay at the start of the 2nd half with Rylott coming on in place of Hazel going into a wide right position. Brandon get the 2nd half underway, Bungay get possession and attack down the right keeping the ball in the final 3rd before the ball is played inside to Cool outside the box slicing across the ball be strike races wide across the area out for the goal-kick. Sarafain gets forwards for Brandon the ball put into her feet by Wickens goes to strike the ball from outside the box a knick off a Bungay defender diverts the shot straight into Smart’s gloves. Both sides continue to press the ball keeping up the pace of the 1st half. Shepherd is played on down the right wing by Carvalheira her cross in to the area intercepted by Collins.
Lauren Purling & Carolyn Sarafain
Holden picking the ball up from deep goes on a run through the middle heading for the Brandon box is tracked all the way by Slater who slides in to take the ball play it back to her keeper. Torrance and Wickens link up on the left side the through ball from Torrance just a little too heavy for Wickens running into the box Smart coming off her line can get there 1st. Up the other end Odebrecht is quickly out of her area to kick the ball as Rylott plays Cool in behind the defence.
Brandon Town Ladies, Chloe Slater
Bungay break from a Brandon corner the ball played out to Purling on the left side Talbot gets across diving in to put the ball out for the throw. Purling takes a knock in the challenge but is up on her feet from the throw the ball is worked down the line by the visitors finally being played into Purling just inside the box on the left turning she is caught as a Brandon defender lunges in to try and win the ball, the referee stops play Purling clearly coming off the worse, after treatment can’t continue and is substituted Hazel returning to the pitch. Brandon also make a switch Cooper returning to the pitch in place of Shepherd.
Holden nips in to win the ball from the Brandon back line has Cool and Rylott either side of her as she heads towards the box tries to pick out Rylott to her right the pass a little too heavy Rylott keeps it in play before winning a throw level with the box, the ball is played down to Marx’s feet puts the pass inside for Holden who seeing the ball into her body turns and hits the ball on the volley her shot angling in at head height towards the ear post, Odebrecht has it covered takes the ball cleanly.
Brandon have a free-kick wide right outside the box after Hazel handles the ball, Slater over the set-piece sends the ball high into the area Hindley heads the ball clear for Bungay they counter attack the pass out towards Hazel on the left side travelling with the ball turns infield heading for the area pulling the trigger 25 yards out the shot straight at Odebrecht the keeper claiming the ball on her goal-line.
GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and Bungay double their lead pressuring the ball as Brandon try to play it out from the back Holden wins the tackle takes the ball on into the area before prodding it forwards for Cool right side of goal close range rolls the ball past the keeper and into the back of the net 0-2. Shepherd returns to the action for Brandon winning a corner on the right side bring players forwards, Hindley defends for Bungay winning the near post header giving away 2 more corners before the visitors break from the 3rd the ball played long out to Cool on the left on halfway gives it to Holden who surges forwards moving left has Hazel with her their runs taking them across each other Holden leaves it for Hazel who strikes the shot from outside the box the ball flying narrowly over the crossbar.
Laura Holden looking to get past Chloe Slater
The sun finally makes an appearance late in the day breaking through the clouds, Bungay attack the ball played into Cool’s feet outside the area to the right has Hindley making a run towards the area lays the ball into her path Hindley striking the shot 1st time gets plenty of power behind the shot is straight at Odebrecht again and the keeper makes the save. Brandon bring the ball forwards through the middle Shepherds strike is deflected out for a throw level with the top of the area played into Sarafain’s feet the midfielder turns and looks to curl a shot in towards goal from inside the D, dips late but not enough to take it below the crossbar. Bungay get the ball up the other end Hindley steals the ball inside the box as it comes in from a throw-in works room for a shot left side the ball is held by Odebrecht as Cool looks to pounce on any follow-up.
Bungay Town Ladies, Ella Hindley
2 goals for Bungay Town Ladies Stef Cool
GOAL! Bungay don’t let Brandon out of their final 3rd from the previous attack closing players down outside the box, it’s Holden who regains possession moving towards the top of the area left of the D rolls the ball into the area for Cool who on the opposite side to wear she scored her 1st goal does exactly the same placing the ball across the keeper from inside the six yard box to score her 2nd a see Bungay take a 0-3 lead with around 15 minutes left on the clock.
Marx gets hold of the ball for Bungay some 30 yards out from goal time to line up a shot, places her strike wide across the Brandon goal. Bungay are finishing the game strong Purling her knee bandaged up returns to the field in place of Rylott. Brandon keep going forwards when they have the ball getting to the top of the Bungay area the final ball just won’t fall to an attacker, Jones blocking a strike from outside the box by Shepherd. Torrance rifles a shot in from the wide left position, Smart coming across to cover her near post can see the ball wide into the side netting.
Wickens marked by 3 players wide right wins Brandon a throw the ball played into her wide of the box helps it inside to Slater looking to play it across the face of goal, the ball is too close to Smart, spilt however the corner is given away. The delivery from the corner drops into the crowded six yard box Smart can’t get hold of the ball dropping down a shot comes in too many bodies in front of goal the ball blocked spins out to the right the shot angled in towards goal Smart gets down sharply on her goal line to make the save.
A chance for Cool to claim her hat-trick late in the match as Holden picks up the ball and carries it forwards has Hazel with her, Holden rolls the ball to her, Hazel lays it on for Cool to her right squeezes the ball past the defence to get into the box, can only pick out the goalkeeper as she gets a shot away.
Full time – Brandon Town Ladies 0-3 Bungay Town Ladies
A 3-0 win for Bungay Town Ladies sees them keep their winning run in 2017 going and the 3 points moves them level on points and above North Walsham Angels Ladies into 3rd place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. Kept up a high tempo throughout the 90 minutes closing the ball down getting forwards always looking a threat creating the better chances in front of goal. A good contest that highlights just how competitive the league is.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
With a 1st half goal and 2 assists in the 2nd half the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today is Laura Holden, the 16 year old playing just her 2nd game for Bungay not letting Brandon settle on the ball, getting the tackles in to win the ball and carry it forwards.
My thanks to both clubs for their assistance today.
5 matches across the 3 divisions in Norfolk this Sunday, with all 3 points going to the home side with some big wins along the way. Thorpe United Ladies were due to play Division Two side Bohemians Ladies in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup after 2 postponements the game was switched to Thorpe United’s Recreation Ground however the defending Cup holders were awarded the win after their opponents couldn’t field a side. Thorpe United will now face Aylsham FC Ladies in the semi-finals of the competition.
With Thorpe United not playing for the past 3 Sundays, 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies had an opportunity to close the 8 point gap on the leaders as they hosted bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies this Sunday in Division One. Got the 3 points and boosted their goal difference with a thumping double figure win. Captain Shelley Woods ending the match with another 5 goals to her tally for the season. Strike partner Oksana Imanalijeva netted also netted a hat-trick, with Becky Russell getting herself a brace, plus a goal each for Josie Turner and Elle Bocking as King’s Lynn Town won 13-0.
Bungay Town Ladies move 3 points clear in 4th spot in the table, were hosting Aylsham FC Ladies at Malting Meadow on Sunday. The home side extending their excellent league form in 2017 taking a 3 point for the 3rd successive league game. A hat-trick each for, Lauren Purling and Laura Holden seeing them win the game 6-1 as they look to consolidate their position in the top half of the table.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
One match in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with 2nd placed Sprowston FC Ladies travelling to played 3rd placed Long Stratton Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into a 2-0 lead, Long Stratton coming back in the match to go score 3 goals to take all 3 points and in the process move above Sprowston into 2nd spot in the Division Two table their goals coming from Maryanne Hoy, Charlie Head and Sophie Rose.
Norfolk Women’s Division Three
In Norfolk Women’s Division Three 2nd placed East Coast Ladies travelled to play 3rd placed Tavern Ladies the Dereham based side still unbeaten in the league, leading 1-0 at half-time went on to score twice more in the 2nd halve to win the game 3-0 and climb above East Coast Ladies in 2nd move a point behind leaders Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves both having played 8 matches face each other at Wymondham in two Sunday’s time.
The biggest win of the season for Freethorpe Ladies and a huge confidence booster too as the club hosted bottom side Cromer Town Ladies without a point or a goal in the F column to date. A tough season for both so far, Freethorpe were looking for their 3rd win of the season. A double figure win in the end as Freethorpe ran out 10-0 winners with both Claire Garner and Megan Wilson both scoring a hat-trick, Laurali Colbrook also netted twice in the match with Cassandra Barnes scoring her 1st goal of the season along with Michaela Yeates who came on to score on her debut. You can read Freethorpe’s match report from the game on their website by clicking on the link below.
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.
