Category Archives: Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Match Report – Waveney Ladies A v Dereham Town Women

Sunday 31st May

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

I was planning on wrapping thing’s up last weekend looking forwards to a rest after a long season but have become absorbed with the title battle going on in Norfolk Women’s Division Three, the only title still to be decided with just a handful of games left to play, and is going all the way to the final day, saw Bungay Town Ladies finish on 52 points to top the table last weekend, knowing only 2 wins from 2 for Dereham Town Women would see them pip them to the title in their remaining fixtures, got the first of those vital wins at home to Dersingham Rovers Women on Thursday evening, now Dereham travel to play Waveney Ladies A knowing nothing short of a win will do.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three standings

One game left for Dereham Town Women, currently on 50 points know only a win will do from their final game of the season, that away to 5th placed Waveney Ladies A who themselves can get back up the table into 3rd spot if they can win the 3 points instead a draw gets them up to 4th and would see Bungay Town Ladies clinch the title.

Waveney Ladies A one of two Waveney sides playing in the NWGFL, the 1st team playing in Division One. Waveney Ladies A into their 2nd season, previously Waveney FC Ladies Development last season. Have had a highly successful 2nd season playing in Division Three, getting off to a flyer winning their opening 6 matches were sitting at the top of the pile for a good portion of the season getting games in when other’s didn’t. 4 of their 5 losses coming in their final 10 games seeing them drop away from the title hunt, have played their pat however drawing 3-3 at Dereham 2 weeks ago. A win today would seal a 3rd place finish. Have a potent strike force with Lauren Robbins and Maria Palmer netting 39 goals between them, Robbins with 22 from 18 players and Palmer 17 from her 22 appearances. Waveney setting up a joint U15 & U16 with Lowestoft Town Ladies to strengthen the pathway for players in the local area.

Dereham Town Women reforming this season under the umbrella of Dereham Town FC, playing at Aldiss Park, bringing in a good number of players from Fakenham Town Ladies, have added further experience to that squad, and their U15’s have just celebrated a highly successful treble winning season. Were on most eyes the favourites to clinch the title but having always been behind in their fixtures have never been out in front, games in hand a couple of high scoring draws the 3-3 with Waveney and a 5-5 with Wymondham have set up a tense finish to the season, moving onto 50 points with a dramatic late 2-1 win at home to Dersingham on Thursday evening little time to recover, a few carrying knocks at the end of the season need all three against Waveney if they are to become champions. Captain Gina Pooley racing ahead at the top of the goal scoring charts for Dereham and the league itself with 43 to her name so far. Katie Hart-Copsey always prolific in front of goal for Dereham, wading in with 27 this season while Alice Collins joining later in the season has 13 from her 9 games. Losing just 1 of their 21 league games played to date.

Today’s match taking place in Lowestoft’s, Benjamin Britton Academy, on their new 3G pitch, plenty of rubber making for a softer surface than some of the dry hard pitches around due to the recent heatwave. A compact size the fenced pitch with a standing area down one side for spectators, Dereham bringing a few supporters with them hoping to see their team complete the job. A sunny, bright day on the east coast, no rain in the forecast.

Waveney Ladies A starting XI – Tilly Kitchen, Ruby Benson-Smith, Olivia Clarke. Elizabeth Eaton, Hannah Limbach, Kayleigh Molloy, Shauna Brunton-O’Neil, Libby Colbridge, Paige Baker, Maria Palmer (C) & Lauren Robbins. Subs – Lucy Breadman, Emily Cooper, Lucie Harper, Lili Stevens & Isabelle Thornton.

Waveney Ladies A

Dereham Town Women starting XI – Karina Townsend, Talya Ewles-Belton, Zuleika McMullan-Laffitte, Lucie Taylor, Kirstie Rusted, Amie Hutchinson, Hayley Marjoram, Lisa Ferdani, Eloise Peek, Gina Pooley (C) & Katie Hart-Copsey. Subs – Sophie Shapter & Holly Websdale.

Dereham Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Maria Palmer & Gina Pooley with today’s referee Joshua Holland

An 11am kick-off both sides relaxed prior during warm-up the season almost done, it’s Waveney with the kick-off 1st half wearing pink coloured shirts with white across the shoulders and sleeves, black shorts and white socks, Dereham in their all green away kit. Played back into Shauna Brunton-O’Neil she sends it long out to the right flank, Zuleika McMullan-Laffitte defending for Dereham seeing the ball out for a throw. Waveney getting a good distance on the throw defended edge of the area by captain Gina Pooley for Dereham out for a 2nd throw, this won dealt with by Dereham’s Hayley Marjoram.

Dereham look to get the ball moving quickly up on the right fed on for striker, Katie Hart-Copsey bursting up the line, Kayleigh Molloy getting back on her to pressure run her off the ball. Dereham’s Talya Ewles-Belton getting the tackle in on Waveney attacker, Lauren Robbins as she drives on with the ball left side put out for a throw in. Another long one helped in towards goal collected safely by Dereham goalkeeper, Karina Townsend.

Both sides wasting no time in getting the ball on Lisa Ferdani in the middle looking to play in Pooley as she bursts on up the left wing. Ewles-Belton with the ball inside the Waveney half right side clips a diagonal ball in towards the top of the D, won by Waveney’s Libby Colbridge. The ball popping about in the middle of the park as both sides nip in to close the other down, Waveney’s captain Maria Palmer getting hold of it attempting to thread it through in behind for Robbins, a close one but the flag is raised for offside.

Waveney captain, Maria Palmer

Paige Baker getting hold of the ball from a Dereham clearance hooks it high out to the left channel, Ewles-Belton dealing with it for Dereham as Robbins puts he under pressure. Waveney looking a threat as they win throws high up the pitch from the left the ball dropped into Robbins inside the box on the turn angles a shot in across goal, Townsend down sharply to get behind the ball turn it wide for a corner kick. Played into the near post Ferdani dealing with it for Dereham out for a throw in the corner.

Dereham goalkeeper, Karina Townsend

A rapid turn around for Dereham as Ferdani sends the ball long into the right channel for Hart-Copsey steaming forwards into the box, Ruby Benson-Smith getting back to close her down turn the ball behind for a throw in the corner. The game end to end both sides keen to get on Dereham using the ball well Amie Hutchinson with Marjoram and Ferdani through the middle out to the left Clarke seeing the ball out for a throw as Pooley looks to gain ground. The throw dropped into Pooley left side looks to hit it on the spin into the middle of the area the ball turned safely back to goalkeeper, Tilly Kitchen.

Ewles-Belton for Eloise Peek on the right for Dereham sends it on looking to put Hart-Copsey in behind again another close call but the flag is raised against her. Dereham starting to ask a few questions winning the ball high Hutchinson up with play on the right getting it back from Peek on the angle sends a vicious ball racing across the face of goal, Pooley running in unchecked at the far post can’t quite reach it out for a goal kick.

GOAL! Chances building early n in Thursday evenings game against Dersingham, before Dereham conceded against the run of play, not this time though as Marjoram hooks the ball on from midfield, Hart-Copsey running onto it right inside the D breaking into the box to send the early shot past the keeper and on into the back of the net to fire Dereham into the lead with her 28th goal of the season 0-1.

Katie Hart-Copsey sends Dereham into the lead

11 minutes played Dereham getting the early goal, looked fairly relaxed prior to scoring taking her chance in front of goal Hart-Copsey giving her side a much welcome edge. Dereham energised, Hutchinson on for Hart-Copsey making a run into the left channel into the box goes early again with the outside of her boot, plays the shot into the keeper covering the near post.

Waveney under a little pressure at the back the ball not sticking in the middle Marjoram into Pooley drives into the box closing down the angle hits a rising shot into Kitchen closing her down. Hannah Limbach back in defence turning another cross behind for the corner kick to Dereham. Ewles-Belton to take puts it long across the six yard box no one at the back post to attack it.

Robbins in to close McMullan-Laffitte down at the back on the the attackers right, surges forwards, McMullan-Laffitte forcing her wide under challenge from the defender as she goes to strike the ball wide at the near post. Limbach looking to link up with Colbridge as Waveney go right, McMullan-Laffitte lunging in to see the ball out of play for the throw. Dereham certainly look up for it moving the ball Ewles-Belton clipping a diagonal ball in central, Molloy intercepts for Waveney.

Dereham’s Talya Ewles-Belton

Ferdani with a 25 yard effort at goal, Kitchen down to save it pushed behind for a corner kick on the right. Another inviting ball in Hart-Copsey rising her glancing header turned on across the area off of a defender behind for a corner on the left. Put in again a bit of head tennis before the ball is cleared back to taker, Ewles-Belton fires it back hard into the mix, Colbridge diverting it away for a 4th corner in quick succession. Into the near post Benson-Smith blocking for Waveney not away Pooley lifts it back in dropping far post, Hart-Copsey taking a knock to the head as the defend get the ball to safety, but picking herself okay to play on.

Waveney’s Libby Colbridge

The corner count building for Dereham as we approach the mid-point of the first half Peek up on the right getting the set play players up into the box another teasing ball in from Ewles-Belton, Hutchinson up to get her head on the ball power behind it turns it wide over at the far post. Referee Joshua Holland calling for a drinks break is warm out there and close fluids needed.

Waveney look to try and gain ground on the left after the restart Baker winning a throw in the corner, linking up with Palmer and Colbridge the cross played into the box, McMullen-Laffitte going to clear Limbach charging the ball down inside the D, the rebound favouring the keeper as Townsend scoops it up into her gloves. Pooley breaking on with the ball at her feet on the left driving on Clarke looking too close her down Pooley squeezing a cross into the six yard box, Kitchen going to catch, pops out of her gloves, Hart-Copsey looking to get after the ball even as the keeper grabs it at the 2nd bite and gets the decision Waveney winning the free-kick.

The resulting kick out falling straight to Pooley 25 yards out to the left, get’s on into the box with the ball checking inside to shoot, scuffs her effort seeing it lack any pace too worry the keeper. Play compact Dereham doing well to close the ball down not giving Waveney time to build. Hutchinson on for Hart-Copsey, has Peek bursting past her on the right wing getting the ball into her feet the cross comes into the six yard box, too close the the keeper, Kitchen down on it as Pooley runs in central unmarked.

Waveney goalkeeper, Tilly Kitchen

Kitchen getting behind another Pooley cross in from the left to turn it behind for a corner on the right. Curled into the mix Kitchen doing well getting up amongst bodies to get her fists on the ball to punch once then twice to see it land for Baker right to get hold of the ball and set Waveney up on the counter taking the ball on feeds it on up the line for Robbins looking to steal in behind, Townsend reading it out to the top of her area early to get hold of the ball before Robbins can reach it.

GOAL! Dereham get the ball up into the box quickly as Pooley finds herself in the clear right of goal closing in on the near post, shoots her strike charged down by the advancing keeper, Pooley trying to get the loose back back in sees it cut out again as Clarke throw herself in to block, one more time Pooley gets a bite at it, firing the ball wide across goal, but in the process was held by the grounded keeper, the referee pointing to the spot… Penalty! Hutchinson to take does play in goal too and likes to put her foot through the ball, little run up but plenty of power behind the ball smashed high under the bar giving the keeper no chance as she doubles Dereham’s lead 0-2.

Waveney getting the ball on well enough, just finding the final ball a little too strong as Townsend claims another through ball from Palmer aiming to set Robbins in behind. Brunton-O’Neil putting her foot through the ball launches it out to the left, Robbins after it, Ewles-Belton diving in to see it out for the throw. Into the D, Lucie Taylor clearing for Dereham. Peek up high on the left squaring a ball back across the face of the Waveney goal, Pooley closing in far side but can’t reach it.

Ewles-Belton latching onto the ball right side having a crack from distance her attempt straight at the keeper. Waveney getting up on the right winning a throw, Limbach turning it on for Robbins in attack, Taylor getting a nibble at her the attacker holding her off getting a shot away into the near post. Townsend covering the angle. Rusted in to make the challenge on Robbins as she takes the ball on into the left channel from Palmer.

Waveney attacker, Lauren Robbins

The corners tallying up for Dereham, Benson-Smith forced to concede as Pooley gets the ball on for Hart-Copsey breaking into the box left side.

GOAL! Ewles-Belton swinging the corner from the left into the near post blocked by the covering defender, the ball popping out loose to the top of the six yard box, Hutchinson coming round to get hold of it and striking it on the volley blasts it past everyone into the back of the net to score her 4th in 2 games putting Dereham into a 3 goal lead late in the first half, 0-3.

Amie Hutchinson with another brace for Dereham

A further blow for Waveney who look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball on for Baker charging on right side, holding off Taylor as she breaks into the box gets a shot away on the angle, Townsend saving at her near post.

Paige Baker

GOAL! A chance for Waveney at one end Dereham quickly get the ball up the other end of the pitch into Pooley racing away on the left taking the ball forwards turns her cross in with pace across the face of goal and Peek arriving at the far post turns it in a close range to score her 8th of the season 0-4.

Eloise Peek sending home Dereham’s 4th goal

GOAL! Into stoppage time at the end of the first half Waveney get the ball into Robbins on the left winning a corner, the ball played into the centre of the box, Baker getting a free hit swinging her leg at it playing the ball on towards the far post, Townsend turning trying to keep it out as it comes back of the upright and crosses the line to see the hosts grab a goal back 1-4.

Paige Baker pulling a goal back for Waveney

Townsend staying down after the goal in need of some treatment, a lengthy pause but seen too as up on her feet and ready to continue.

GOAL! Dereham break from the restart the plan clearly for Pooley to race away left side the ball put into her sees it under control getting into the box, full back and keeper coming to close her down gets the early shot away turning it inside to find the empty net beyond and score Dereham’s 5th and her 44th goal of the season! 1-5.

Gina Pooley getting the shot away to score Dereham’s 5th

Half-time Waveney Ladies A 0-0 Dereham Town Women

A frantic end to the first half Dereham racing into a 5-1 lead, Waveney get the ball out to Baker on the right wing taking it on sends a shot in on the angle, Townsend getting behind it to save punching the ball away for a corner kick. Goes long across the six yard box, Colbridge rising highest can’t quite connect. Amie Hutchinson from the penalty spot doubling the advantage going on to add Dereham’s 3rd a 4th quickly following from Eloise Peek, Waveney getting one back through Paige Baker, Dereham restoring their 4 goal advantage straight away to lead 5-1.

Both sides staying out on the pitch for the half-time interval keen to get the 2nd period under way. Waveney making a triple switch at the start of the 2nd half, Lili Stevens, Lucie Harper and Emily Cooper coming on for Clarke, Palmer and Molloy. Dereham unchanged to get the 2nd half underway played up to Pooley left side top of the box sends a snap shot wide of the near post.

Up to Hart-Copsey lifted into Peek on the right flank, Lucie Harper going with her the defender getting the challenge putting the ball out for a throw. Hart-Copsey seeing the ball into her feet on the by-line turns inside plays the ball off a defender to win the corner. Ewles-Belton busy up from the back to delivery another corner-kick. This one put behind. Dereham showing attacking intent from the start of the 2nd half, Hutchinson finding Peek on the right wing, Harper getting her foot in turning the ball out for another corner kick.

GOAL! Ewles-Belton gets this one perfect flashed in central, Hutchinson the target can’t quite get to it, the ball running on however is met by Hart-Copsey level with the far post gets her head on the ball and sends it back in across goal through bodies to score her 2nd of the game and put Dereham further into the lead 1-6.

Katie Hart-Copsey scores to put Dereham 6-1 up

A fast start to the 2nd half for the visitors racing into a 6-1 lead with barely 3 minutes played look comfortable now, confident too, Waveney frustrated keep going the ball played on through the middle sees Emily Cooper press into the box has Limbach up with her close in sees the ball into her Limbach looking to send the ball back under the keeper, Townsend gets down quickly manages to get hold of the ball before it can evade her.

Ewles-Belton is covering alot of ground for Dereham mainly as she is the corner taker and Dereham are winning plenty this one on the right curled into the mix, Kitchen up well to punch the ball back out to the right Ewles-Belton gathering to send it back in on the angle defended by Eaton falls to Rusted inside the D, shifts it onto her right foot to hit on the half volley her strike straight into the keepers arms.

Dereham making a change, McMullan-Laffitte coming off at the back Sophie Shapter coming on going into an advanced position on the right Peek dropping back into defence. Peek sending the ball into the top of the area, Hart-Copsey’s shot blocked by Colbridge pops out to Ferdani 25 yards out blasts her strike over the bar. Brunton-O’Neil coming off for Waveney, Isabelle Thornton coming on.

Taylor defending at the back for Dereham as baker looks to get on with Robbins up the right side. Dereham on through the middle Ferdani into the box for Hart-Copsey to see into her feet back to goal hit on the turn, Kitchen rushing out to close her down with the blocking save, the ball spinning loose inside the box Peek up with play latching onto it turning her strike wide of the right post.

Harper kept busy on the right for Waveney, Shapter taking over where Peek left off looking to get on with the back comes inside the full back tackling, Shapter back on the ball laying it back to Hutchinson, who curl the ball in to the left of the D, Pooley under it Kitchen rushing out gets it away collides with Pooley in the process leaving Dereham’s captain with a bloody nose.

Comes of for treatment, Holly Websdale joining the action. Thornton breaking on the right channel for Waveney as Robbins puts the ball on, goes in to charge down the keeper rebounds off Townsend behind for a corner kick. Played into the near post attacked by Colbridge headed on across the box gathered by Baker top of the area looks to curl a shot into the top corner, just wide.

Ferdani winning a corner for Dereham out on the right. Played in long across the six yard box. Eaton diving in defends for Waveney top of the area as Shapter cuts in from the right gives away another corner. Ewles-Belton putting it in to Hutchinson in front of goal outside the six yard box, strikes it in on goal, Harper with the block on the line covering the near post getting the ball away.

Dereham keep up the pressure winning a free-kick high on the right, wide, Ewles-Belton to send the ball in, launched into the far post attacked Hutchinson getting her head of the ball drives it wide across the face of goal. Waveney ringing the changes Limbach and Palmer back on for Baker and Robbins. Thornton played on up the right flank blasting an angled shot into the side netting for Waveney. Marjoram gives way for Dereham as Pooley is ready to return, just as the 2nd drinks break is called.

The clock ticking down 20 minutes left to play, Dereham with a comfortable advantage no last minute winner needed today… probably. The game restart with Ewles-Belton sending a free-kick forwards, knocked on for Shapter to race after it right side into the box but a good starting position from Kitchen sees her at the top of her area to claim.

Sophie Shapter with Waveney’s Kayleigh Molloy

GOAL! Thornton sees the ball played into her path through the middle racing on towards the top of the area shoots outside the D, Townsend looking to get down behind it doesn’t take the ball cleanly as it pops out of her gloves and runs on behind to creep over the line to pull it back to 2-6.

Isabelle Thornton through to shoot sees it back to 6-2 for Waveney

Cooper off the pitch not feeling well for Waveney, they make the change with Baker back on with 15 minutes left to play. A throw to Dereham in the corner on the left put up the line for Hutchinson angles the ball in towards the far post dropping wide. Pooley getting hold of the ball for Dereham on the left getting on to win a corner kick. Played into the near post Palmer defending for Waveney, Back to the left the cross angled back into the box headed out for a corner on the right. Whipped in with pace across the goal too strong for Hart-Copsey at the far post.

Shapter inside to receive a ball put in from Pooley on the left top of the D meets it on the half volley lifting the effort over the bar. Peek closing down Baker as the Waveney attacker looks to take the ball on from Thornton on the left side. Taylor with the tackle on Thornton soon after as the Waveney attacker looks to get hold of the ball inside the D. Harper and Limbach off for Waveney with Eaton and Robbins back on along with Brunton-)’Neil replacing Kitchen in goal. Ewles-Belton sending the ball on for Pooley left side as Dereham attack fed on into the channel for Hart-Copsey her touch to play the ball into the box too strong Kitchen out kick clear.

Stevens with the block for Waveney at the back as Pooley looks to get the ball down inside the box to the left of goal. Molloy winning the header at the back to clear for Waveney as the game moves into the final 5 minutes. Rusted getting her foot in to take the ball away from Robbins as she gets hold of it on Waveney’s right. Dereham lively late on Hart-Copsey clear on the right on the by-line coming into the box flashing a ball in across the face of goal Pooley running in can’t get a telling touch is deflected back towards the penalty spot, Ferdani racing on to meet in lifting the ball up off the turf in towards goal Brunton-O’Neil behind it to save.

Into the closing stages of the match, Shapter sending the ball inside form the right into Pooley left side in the box running hits it up into the air on target Brunton-O’Neil without any gloves getting her hands up to save tip the ball away from danger.

Shauna Brunton-O’Neil saves for Waveney

Palmer playing the ball on through the middle for Waveney up for Colbridge into Thornton left side, the touch heavy Townsend out to get hold of the ball. A vital interception from Benson-Smith at the back for Waveney late on cutting the pass out as Hart-Copsey looks to get in behind to receive the through ball from Ferdani. The final whistle blows and Dereham win the 3 points to take them to the top of Division Three to be crowned Champions!

Full time Waveney Ladies A 0-0 Dereham Town Women

Never looked in doubt to be fair, saved all the nerves for Thursday evening looks like came to Lowestoft relaxed and got off to a positive start getting an early lead to boost confidence, a 2nd from the spot and then a flurry a the end of the 1st half putting Dereham in charge. Kept going 2nd half adding a 6th early on. Waveney couldn’t find any rhythm today had some good spells but Dereham broke up play well and kept coming forwards, Having led the table for so long a 5th placed finish feel harsh but they have a talented squad to take the club forwards. Dereham clinching the title on their debut season celebrating with their fans heading back to Aldiss Park to celebrate further.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the final Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. A few contenders as usual and performances to mention from both sides, firstly for Waveney found it tough this morning struggled to get going, Libby Colbridge looked to get in after the ball, Paige Baker made some useful runs as did Lauren Robbins in attack. Maria Palmer tried to get the attack going the final pass just not there today. For Dereham, the defence was solid won their tackles, Lucie Taylor winning the ball. Hayley Marjoram in midfield got after the ball kept Dereham on the front foot. Amie Hutchison busy in the middle to got two more goals to her name to put Dereham into a comfortable position. Katie Hart-Copsey too took her chance well to open the scoring settling any nerves Dereham had. Talya Ewles-Belton covered more ground than anyone up and down for the corners carrying a real threat from her deliveries into the box and defended strongly at the back. Giving today’s award to the captain, Gina Pooley 44 goals in any season is no mean feat a constant outlet on the left getting after the ball coming inside and putting in crosses, scoring Dereham’s 5th on the day

Congratulations to Dereham Town Women on winning Norfolk Women’s Division Three.

That title battle kept me enthralled for one more week of the season, enjoyed every minute of it. Has been a long campaign however and I am certainly ready for a rest. Been a joy as ever thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today and all who have help throughout the season. You provide the entertainment I just write it down. Enjoy the summer.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dereham Town Women v Dersingham Rovers Women

Thursday 28th May

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Popping up the A47 this Thursday evening to watch another game from the nail biting title battle in Norfolk Women’s Division Three. The title between 2 now with Bungay Town Ladies knowing only Dereham Town Women can catch them now, so long as they win their two remaining fixtures starting this evening at home to 3rd place Dersingham Rovers Women who saw their own title hopes dashed away to Bungay on Sunday.

Just 3 fixtures remain now in the East of England all in Division One with two of those having a massive bearing on the destiny of the league title itself, starting this evening in Dereham. Saw Bungay Town Ladies finish their own debut season with a 5-3 win against Dersingham on Sunday to end with 52 points at the top of the table, knowing only Dereham Town Women with two wins from their final two games could pip them to the title.

Current standings Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Dersingham Rovers Women dropping down to 4th in the table, following North Walsham Town Ladies 4-0 at home to Watton United Women yesterday evening.

Both Dereham Town Women and Dersingham Rovers Women amongst the new sides established in Norfolk Women’s Division Three this season, two sides packed with seasoned players having played across the county and at regional level above.

Dereham, with a new women’s side this season, now under the umbrella of Dereham Town FC itself, playing in the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division at Aldiss Park. The core of this new Dereham side brought over from Fakenham Town Ladies who had previously been a long established side within Norfolk, adding too plenty of players with experience playing in Norfolk, that put them amongst the favourites for the title. Hit the ground running with 3 straight wins before losing against North Walsham back in November, that their only defeat in the league itself.

Cup games saw Dereham remain in the chasing pack rather than get out into a lead at the top of the table, winning 11 and drawing 5 to stay unbeaten, those draws particularly late on 5-5 away to Wymondham Town United Wolves and most recently 3-3 at home to Waveney Ladies A have set up a nail biting finish to their season especially with Bungay’s strong end to the campaign. Know what they have to do though on 47 points have 6 left to play for win and they are champions anything less and Bungay get the accolade. Certainly have the firepower to do it, captain Georgina Pooley, I have to say not previously known for her goal scoring prowess wading in with a magnificent 43 goals so far this season way out in front in the goal scoring charts in the league. Also amongst the leading goal scorers in the league is Katie Hart-Copsey, has always been prolific in front of goal when representing Dereham over the years and has 27 so far this campaign. Alice Collins also into double figures with 13 from the 9 games she has played for the club.

A 5-3 defeat against Bungay in a game with some controversial decisions saw Dersingham Rovers Women’s own title ambitions vanish on Sunday away to Bungay, a long trip from the North West of the County down to the Suffolk border, have another away fixture with a 6:30pm KO to end their season. Pushed down from 2nd to 4th, having been pretty much in the top 3 all season. A win this evening putting them back into 2nd and ending Dereham’s title ambitions feel they owe their opponents having been on the wrong end of an 11-1 loss early on in the season.

Dersingham Rovers FC establishing a women’s side for the first time sees a new club formed in an as of yet untapped area of the county, Norfolk is a large county but the North West area above King’s Lynn had no women’s football coverage until now. Building a squad full of experience a mixture of results at the start of their new era, Dersingham went on a run of 9 straight wins in the new year to cement their place at the top end of the table, Emma Leech the leading goal scorer with 23 goals to her name, captain Eliza McDonald has 10 goals and Crystal Hart with 8.

An early evening KO at Aldiss Park situated, just off the A47 to the east of Dereham. Went to school in Dereham know the town well, good to see Dereham with a women’s side once again. Now playing at Aldiss Park the large carpark and clubhouse leading out to the main pitch itself with various training pitches beyond. The main grass pitch is a good size plenty of width a seat stand situated on the opposite side to the clubhouse the bar open with viewing all round. Another hot day, with temperatures above average for May, although a covering of cloud made it feel much cooler.

Dereham Town Women starting XI – Amie Hutchinson, Lucie Taylor, Hayley Marjoram, Freya Adams, Kirstie Rusted, Sophie Shapter, Eloise Peek, Alice Collins, Talya Ewles-Belton, Georgina Pooley (C) & Katie Hart-Copsey. Subs – Karina Townsend, Laura Booth, Holly Websdale & Lisa Ferdani.

Dereham Town Women

Dersingham Rovers Women starting XI – Shayla Kendle-Johnson, Molly Sands, Tiffany Ross, Holly Melton, Loretta Burrell, Emily Rix, Eliza McDonald (C), Chloe Melton, Crystal Hart, Carolyn Flowerdew & Emma Leech. Subs – Lyndsey Bunn, Chloe Bunn, Georgia Stephenson & Leeanne Smith.

Dersingham Rovers Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Eliza McDonald and Gina Pooley with this evening’s referee, Peter Bailey

A small dispute over one of the Dersingham players edibility to play prior to KO resolved. Dersingham with 4 on their bench, Georgia Stephenson and Chloe Bunn unavailable for Sunday’s clash with Bungay. Dereham also with 4 on the bench, including a replacement keeper, in Karina Townsend with Amie Hutchinson starting between the sticks both more than capable outfield players in their own right. Dereham to kick-off the first half the sun setting behind the clouds of the goal they are attacking, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks, Dersingham lined up opposite wearing light blue coloured shirts with white sleeves, blue shorts and socks. The ball played back clipped out to the left for captain Georgina Pooley to attack, Molly Sands closing her down for Dersingham.

Dereham looking to get forwards at the start, impose themselves on the game off the throw players forwards the ball fed on across the top of the area, Dersingham with plenty back as it comes to the right side, Emily Rix defends seeing it out for another throw. Good distance on the throw attacked near side turned behind for the goal kick. Is a big pitch players drawn to the ball, space to exploit if anyone wants to run into it, the diagonal ball finding Pooley on the left charging forwards to the by-line challenged by Sands the ball behind for a corner kick.

Molly Sands defending for Dersingham

The delivery long across the area turned out wide for a throw on the opposite side, Dersingham penned back early on struggling to get out of their half. The break out eventually coming, alot of work for attacker Carolyn Flowerdew to do as she gives chase to the ball through the middle, goalkeeper Amie Hutchinson rushing out of her area to strike the ball clear. Into the right channel, Alice Collins racing after it closing the defence down pressuring the ball to force a corner kick.

Holly Melton getting the corner away for Dersingham, the ball helped on up through the middle, Flowerdew’s touch taking in in beyond the Dereham defence, again see’s Hutchinson charging out of her box to volley the ball upfield. Players drawn to the ball condensed at times a large proportion out on Dereham’s right with Collins looking to link up with Eloise Peek through the middle and Katie Hart-Copsey in attack, Tiffany Ross getting the challenge in for Dersingham, the ball soon back with Dereham however.

An opportunity for Dersingham too finally get some players forwards as they win a free-kick high on the right, wide 35 yards out captain, Eliza McDonald over the ball…

GOAL! McDonald fires the ball in with pace into the top of the area, races on towards the far side bypassing the defenders lined up inside the D, runs on for Emma Leech pulling in clear at the back post even as the keeper starts to make a move to close the ball down, hooks it up high over her and falls down beyond Hutchinson to land in the back of the net for put the visitors into the lead. 0-1.

Emma Leech, pictured with Dereham’s Hayley Marjoram opening the scoring for Dersingham

Dereham’s bright start to the game undone inside the opening 10 minutes, look to get straight on the offensive, Talya Ewles-Belton up with Collins on the right winning a free-kick out wide Dereham’s turn to angle the ball into the top of the area, plenty back for Dersingham, the ball flighted in, cleared away to the left, Sands able to see it out for a goal kick.

Hart, Leech and Flowerdew looking to work the ball on up the left attacking for Dersingham, Kirstie Rusted closing the ball down, Dersingham look to get it back but the ball is behind for the goal kick. Collins getting hold of the ball for Dereham central looking to play Hart-Copsey in up top as she makes the run, the diagonal pass good, but the Dersingham defence hold their line catching the attacker offside. Certainly a little niggle in the game Dereham a little unsettled, Dersingham determined at the back.

Sophie Shapter through the middle for Dereham finding Hart-Copsey up top who in turn plays it out to the right wing for Collins, Rix back at her to challenge for Dersingham the ball out for a throw. High up the pitch Dereham with numbers up on the right get the cross in along the face of goal, Pooley coming in at the far post looking to attack it, Kendle-Johnson rushing across her goal to throw an arm up punch the ball, colliding with Pooley. Picks herself up no complaints.

Dersingham look to get on through the middle, Chloe Melton out to Leech moving left, put on for Flowerdew, Rusted getting a foot in to defend for Dereham, play turned around the hosts pressing forwards the ball played long into Hart-Copsey into the right wing winning Dereham a corner kick. Swung in viciously under the bar, Kendle-Johnson getting her gloves up to punch the ball down into the turf inside her six yard box reacts sharply to fall forwards onto the loose ball as players rush in to attack it.

Dersingham goalkeeper, Shayna Kendle-Johnson

Dersingham finding a little joy on the left as play seems to migrate to that side of the pitch, Leech’s cross cut out by Freya Adams, the 2nd bite cleared by Rusted as Dereham get their defence back. Leech surging on with the ball at her feet left side Ewles-Belton back at her to tackle conceding the corner. Players up from the back for Dersingham the delivery curled into the near post, Hutchinson coming through bodies with an arm out punching the ball away from immediate danger, then as a defender goes to hook it clear the referee sees a push in the back blows up for the free-kick to Dereham.

Dersingham attacker, Carolyn Flowerdew

McDonald putting the ball on through the middle up to Leech in attack top of the D looks to put Flowerdew in behind the offside flag halting the attack. Pooley is a little frustrated out on the left play more to the right there is space to exploit, Collins finding her with the pass looks to get on down the wing with the ball, Sands going with her checks inside to get the ball onto her right foot, the shot from 25 yards angled in on goal, Kendle-Johnson behind it all the way.

20 minutes played, Adams defending a cross for Dereham as Hart looks to get on up the left. The ball out for a throw on the far side the referee calling for a drinks break. Play resumes with Dersingham getting on the attack left Rix on for Hart up top with Leech the ball lifted into the area cleared by Dereham’s Lucie Taylor. McDonald snapping in with a strong tackle to win the ball back for Dersingham to the right looks to thread the pass through to Flowerdew in attack, however the move is halted by the raised flag.

Hutchinson is quick to get out of her box to volley the ball clear as Dereham push Dersingham back neutralise the threat of their attackers running through onto the ball as the visiting defence clear. Hart-Copsey pushing on into the right channel with the ball looking to find a way through on goal, Rix tackling then Ross clears for Dersingham. Dereham continue to press en masse, Eloise Peek looking to get on with Shapter through the middle passing it into Pooley towards the left channel, Burrell lunging in with the challenge for Dersingham.

Dereham goalkeeper, Amie Hutchinson

Collins finding Pooley out on the left her cross cut out by Sands, gets it back to fire a 2nd cross into the near post, Kendle-Johnson dropping onto it to kill the attack at her near post. Dereham soon wining it back in the middle Peek and Marjoram the ball coming to Shapter lets a shot loose from all of 30 yards out, Kendle-Johnson behind it all the way.

Dereham making a change then as Shapter gives way for Lisa Ferdani. Dersingham making a change too, Lyndsey Bunn coming on in place of Rix. Burrell intercepting the ball as Pooley sends in an early delivery from the left. Dersingham are working hard in defence to limit Dereham’s opportunities in front of goal. Collins driving Dereham on up the right support from Hart-Copsey the corner kick won. Fung into the near post area helped on up to the top of the area, Bunn defending for Dersingham, the free-kick given away Dereham presented with a set-piece to the top left corner of the box 25 yards out.

Dereham’s Alice Collins

Ewles-Belton over the set-piece lines up the strike going for goal her attempt wide of the top right corner. The Dersingham defence soaking up alot, Dereham able to press, Holly Melton, Burrell and Sands all getting in a block doing a good job in frustrating Dereham. Marjoram defending for Dereham the ball out for a corner kick on the right, curled in central claimed well by Hutchinson.

Dereham keen to get the ball up the pitch Collins pushing on right side linking up with Hart-Copsey, sends the diagonal ball in long across the area, Pooley rushing on at the far post can’t quite get onto the end of it. Dereham’s defence pushed up at times Hutchinson acting as a sweeper keeper out of her area to deal with any balls over the top confident in her volleying. One long clearance seeing Hart-Copsey run in behind right channel after the ball but a good starting position from Kendle-Johnson sees her get there first dropping onto the ball.

Hart-Copsey looking to find an opening in the Dersingham back line as play is broken up at the other end, Taylor putting the ball long sees the attacker break in behind, Kendle-Johnson again out to close the ball down with a blocking save as she goes to ground at the top of her area, then as Hart-Copsey looks to get hold of the loose ball gives away the free-kick.

Rusted coming in well to close Flowerdew down as the Dersingham striker looks to make ground on the right channel. Taylor left side sends the ball up the line for Pooley getting hold of the ball fires it in across the top of the D into Ferdani looks to shoot curling a low ball in on goal, Kendle-Johnson moving across her line to get behind it and save.

Bunn gets back to help Sands in defence as Pooley looks to get inside from the left. Taylor pushing on for Dereham left side delivers the early cross into the middle, Burrell cutting it out for Dersingham. Competitive there is a tense feel about the game, Dersingham fighting for the ball central McDonald trying to make ground right side on for Flowerdew, tackled by Adams. Sands being kept busy in defence for Dersingham on the left by Pooley as she looks to get the ball into her feet make thing’s happen for her side.

Burrell taking a painful blow as she is caught on the follow through going to clear the ball crossed in from the left. A pause in play as she receives treatment but is back up on her feet able to play on. The first half drawing to a close, Dersingham working hard at the back frustrating Dereham. A couple of defensive miscues at the back for Dereham seeing Dersingham with a throw up high on the right, Sands into Bunn, Ferdani getting it away for Dereham only as far as the top of the area, Flowerdew looks to turn into the box her touch heavy Hutchinson out to snatch it into her gloves. Taylor in to defend on Flowerdew as the Dersingham attacker looks to control the ball from a throw in top of the area to the right.

Half-time Dereham Town Women 0-1 Dersingham Rovers Women

Dersingham head back into the changing rooms holding the advantage at the break leading 0-1. Leech putting them in front with her 24th goal of the season, against the run of play inside the opening 10 minutes. The visitors have worked hard at the back since limited their opponents chances getting numbers back to defend, have stifled their own attack to a degree as a result the plan is working so far. Dereham positive from the off keen to get after Dersingham impose themselves on the game the early break through not coming falling behind have toiled away but clear cut chances have been limited. Time yet to turn the game around but can ill afford to concede again.

A half-time presentation at Dereham have heard a bit about Dereham girls U15’s side, celebrating this evening at Aldiss Park in front of a decent crowd, a triple success, a League and Cup double as well as winning the U16’s Norfolk girls county cup. A fantastic achievement and congratulations to all involved.

Congratulations to Dereham U15s girls

Changes at the break Dereham looking to mix thing’s up knowing they need to win this evenings game to keep their title ambitions alive. Karina Townsend on for the hosts taking over in goal as Hutchinson moves into a midfield position. Hart-Copsey the player off. Dersingham putting Leeanne Smith on up top replacing Flowerdew. With the sun setting bright behind the ground, have headed over to the opposite side of the ground for the 2nd period as Dersingham get the game restart looking to defend their single goal lead. McDonald sending the ball out to the left Hart looking to get on up with Smith in attack, Adams defending for the hosts.

Hutchinson operating in midfield now getting the ball up to Shapter pulling out to the right channel, Ross lunging into make the tackle for Dersingham. Dereham feeling a sense of urgency to score, Dersingham determined at the back to stop them a few niggly fouls being given away. Dersingham getting a free-kick on the left put on for Smith into Hart wide left the shot taken early wide at the near post.

Collins looking to get hold of the ball for Dereham make things happen finding Pooley pushing on up the left sending a cross into the box looking for Shapter top of the area, the ball intercepted by Holly Melton. Marjoram defending left side high putting the ball into Collins turns it on up the line for Pooley her pacy cross cut back across the top of the box behind Shapter at the far post, Chloe Melton clearing for Dersingham.

Molly Sands with Dereham’s Talya Ewles-Belton

Ewles-Belton operating on the left for Dereham with Pooley up top turns the ball on for her captain, checks inside running into Burrell. Dereham pressing early in the first half as they did in the first winning a free-kick central played up to Ferdani outside the D shoots the ball past the keeper hitting the inside of the right post spinning along the goal line striking the opposite post before Dersingham scramble it clear.

Pooley bursting no into the right channel top of the box sees her shot charged down by Kendle-Johnson. Dereham have a corner on the right. Headed on across the six yard box at the near post, Leech bringing it away left side back defending for Dersingham. The offside flag stays down as Shapter bursts in on the right side, Burrell across to close her down putting the ball behind for the corner kick. A vicious ball into the six yard box met central, Kendle-Johnson right behind it gloves up saving at close range then dropping down to smother the loose ball.

Dereham intent the ball won in the middle, Hutchinson putting herself about, pops clear in behind for Pooley too escape free bare down on the keeper, Kendle-Johnson getting a strong hand on the ball as Pooley looks to place it to her left turned away that side Pooley goes after it, but Sands recovers the ground to snap in get the ball away to safety.

Townsend coming out to the top of her area to clear as Smith looks to spin in behind her marker in the left channel. Smith lively on the left of attack for Dersingham capitalising on a defensive mistake to run onto the loose ball cut away down the left, shooting on the angle, Townsends down well to throw out an arm turn the ball behind for the corner kick.

The corner for Dersingham played in central, Leech with the stooping header in on goal, Townsend instinctively throwing out a glove turning the ball away to her right hitting the post and back out into the mix is quick to drop down to claim the loose ball.

Dereham with a throw on the left Pooley seeing it inside to Collins 20 yards out central, Holly Melton making the challenge for Dersingham. Dereham pressing the Dersingham defence winning a corner on the right, midway through the 2nd half.

Dersingham’s Holly Melton

GOAL! Ewles-Belton putting the corner into the top of the area from the right side, Pooley looking to jump for it a defender on her shoulders preventing her leap, goes down, the referee spotting a kick on Pooley in the lead up blowing up for a Penalty! Dereham with an opportunity to level things up from the spot, Hutchinson up for it placing the ball on the spot, know she can strike a ball and this one is hit with force rising to the keepers left to burst the back of the net an level the scores 1-1.

Amie Hutchinson levelling thing’s up from the penalty spot for Dereham

Dereham back on level terms but still in need of a 2nd goal making a change up top, Hart-Copsey back into the action replaces Shapter. Marjoram up to press in defence on the left for Dereham the ball into Ewles-Belton up the line her cross into the area headed away by Dersingham’s Sands. Dereham back on the ball Hutchinson inside for Ferdani central lines up the strike, Kendle-Johnson diving to her right getting behind the ball.

Dereham asking the questions, Dersingham fighting at the back, McDonald in to close Collins down central top of the D as Pooley gets the ball into her feet from the left. Dereham for all their attacking intent need to be careful at the back Dersingham looking to overload the left Leech up with Smith the cross into the area, Townsend down to get behind it. Some refereeing decisions frustrating Dersingham their is a tense feel about the contest a partisan crowd vocal in their support willing Dereham on, the Dersingham manger yellow carded. The visitors making a double switch Georgia Stephenson and Chloe Bunn on replacing Hart and Lyndsey Bunn.

Dersingham getting players up into the final 3rd Smith forcing a corner on the left. Dereham defending it at the near post. Dereham attack off of a throw on the left the ball inside Collins driving on with it on into Pooley outside the D is brought down heavily by Burrell the advance played though as Collins bursts through into the area closing in on the keeper shoots Kendle-Johnson getting her glove up behind the ball to save at close range knocking it off Collins behind for the goal kick… afters though as the referee calls Burrell over to him and after a lengthy conversation the defender is incredulous as she is shown a red card and sent off, Dersingham down to 10.

A further card issued to the Dersingham bench as Burrell headed off the pitch. Dereham with the player advance as they desperately look for the goal to keep their title ambitions alive, Collins strong on the ball throughout winning it left turning inside firing a diagonal pass in behind for Hart-Copsey right of the D, the keeper racing out to close her down releases the shot top of the area past her but so too agonisingly wide of the right post.

Dersingham’s Leeanne Smith with Dereham’s Lisa Ferdani

McDonald dropping back into defence for Dersingham, the visitors are not content to just sit back and defend with Dereham needing the goal risk over committing the counter on as Leech gets away right inside for Stephenson her cross inside for Bunn attacking the near post wide off of a defender for a corner kick. Put into a congested near post Dereham bring it away to safety. Into the final 10 minutes.

Holly Melton getting her head on the ball as Collins taking the ball from Ewles-Belton on the left looks to play in Hart-Copsey up top. A lively ending to the game you can feel the tension in the ground Dereham willing their team on. Collins constantly fighting to get hold of the ball for the hosts linking up with Pooley in attack through on goal one on one with the keeper shoots puts it straight at her Kendle-Johnson has proven in the 2 games I’ve seen her relishes such an opportunity.

Dereham captain, Georgina Pooley

Flowerdew back on late on for Dersingham as they feel they can get back in front themselves the game stretched little time on the ball. Hart-Copsey getting clear right of the D shooting on the run her effort close past the right post. Into the last minutes of the match Dereham throwing everything forwards winning a throw on the left Marjoram pushed high in defence, Ewles-Belton inside for Collins closed down by Ross the ball out to the right Dereham winning the corner kick.

GOAL! Dereham sending players up to pack the box for the corner, Ewles-Belton to deliver and she sends in a peach of a ball rising near side, Hutchinson meeting it with a strong header turning the ball into a bullet blasting it past the keeper into the back of the net to send Dereham into the lead, runs away in celebration doesn’t get far before she is mobbed by her joyous teammates 2-1.

Amie Hutchinson wheels away in celebration as she sends Dereham into the lead with a beautiful header

A change for Dereham after the goal Hart-Copsey feeling her ankle taken off, Shapter back on. A blow late on for Dersingham have battled so hard, Sands looks to get on up the right with the ball, Marjoram in to close her down out for a throw. Into stoppage time Dereham energised closing the ball down looking to get it forwards Pooley carrying it away up the left tackled by Holly Melton. A tense finish bit it’s Dereham now with the determination to defend as the final whistle blows and they celebrate grabbing the win at the death, to take the season to the final day.

Full time Dereham Town Women 2-1 Dersingham Rovers Women

Dereham coming back from a goal down at the break to beat Dersingham at the death, Hutchinson with the bullet header to keep their title dreams alive, move onto 50 points 2 behind leaders Bungay, one more game to play away to Waveney Ladies A on Sunday, nothing short of a win will do, a few walking wounded out there but they know what they have to do. Waveney have led the table for a good while themselves and won’t be planning on going out with a whimper. Tough on Dersingham on the back end of two controversial matches leaving a bitter taste to the end of what was a successful debut season in Division Three, have been in the top three for pretty much all of it to drop out late on will hurt. Looked like it wasn’t going to happen for Dereham for a bit late in the game but they stuck at it the chances mounting up. Chances are a good chunk of Division Three sides will be promoted to Division Two next season with up to 6 new sides potentially joining the league next season and Dersingham have shown in the two games I’ve watched that they are capable of competing at that level.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. One clear winner here which is rarely the case but of course their were several performances of note players form both sides in contention. Shayna Kendle-Johnson put in a determined performance in goal for Dersingham thwarting several one on ones and getting hold of the ball. Holly Melton at the back won her fair share of headers and closed the ball down. For Dereham captain Georgina Pooley looked to provide the outlet on the left first half getting on with the ball in an advanced role that has lead to her scoring so many goals this season. Alice Collins was pro-active got hold of the ball, finding some good positions and looked to get the ball into the attackers throughout. But due to the context of the game and the result the award goes to Amie Hutchinson, Dereham needed the win and she took her two goals the penalty and header from the corner superbly, was pro-active in her role as goalkeeper first half and won the ball well in the 2nd from midfield to put Dereham win a win of becoming league champions.

Have been looking to get to a Dereham match for a while so glad I got over to Aldiss Park this evening, the season’s not quite done yet in Norfolk one more game to finish my season have to make the trip to Waveney now to see how it all unfolds. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams this evening, will have to make a trip over to see Dersingham at home next season. Dereham have one more game win it and they clinch top spot.

By Darren Gilham

Match Report – Bungay Town Ladies v Dersingham Rovers Women

Sunday 24th May

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

The season’s not done quite yet, there’s still a handful of games left and with them the not so small matter of a league title to be decided. In Norfolk Women’s Division Three, the title looks set to go all the way with 3 sides in contention, meeting in so vital clashes over the next 7 days, this Sunday the new leaders of Division Three, Bungay Town Ladies are hosting 2nd placed Dersingham Rovers Women

Dereham Town Women also in the mix in 3rd away to Necton FC Women this Sunday. One of the top 3 are still within a shot of becoming champions, Bungay Town Ladies with one left to play will finish on 52 points with a win, Dersingham Rovers Women have 2 left to play tough away trip to Bungay and then 3rd placed Dereham Town Women on Thursday win both and they will finish on 51 points and become champions themselves. Dereham Town Women win all 3 of there remaining games, away to 2nd bottom Necton this Sunday then away at home to Dersingham on Thursday and then away to 4th placed Waveney Ladies A next weekend and they will finish top, so some crucial games to decide the season.

top 4 in Norfolk Division Three

I didn’t think I’d be seeing Bungay Town Ladies this season at all, despite the fact they did the league and cup double in Norfolk Women’s Division One last season, that’s because that team has made the move over to the East coast to become the new Lowestoft Town Ladies side. Having been a stalwart of the Norfolk Women’s Football League for many seasons, the club approach Lee Wakefield one of the clubs youth coaches to help set-up a new women’s side, had young players coming through are elidable for women’s football from 16 in Norfolk, plus drafting in a few more with experience and a connection to the club, it is a miracle in itself that Bungay Town still have a women’s team, let alone be in a position to challenge for a league title. But I am glad to club has kept it’s women’s side starting a fresh, the league itself being patient giving the club time to get a new side cobbled together, having to forfeit the early games in the league and county cup started their league campaign on the 5th of October.

Starting with a loss and a draw went on to record 3 straight wins before losing to Dereham who are the only side to do the double over them, despite starting late with no cups to worry about have powered on losing just 4 games winning 16 moving to the top of the Division Three table for the first time last Sunday. A remarkable achievement to go from not existing a few months ago to potential league winners. Lila-Grace Eden leading the goal scoring charts for Bungay, 3rd in the league itself too scoring 23 times from 14 appearances. Both Marnie Jessop and Maisie Lay with 8 goals each.

Norfolk is a big county, made even bigger by the likes of Bungay, Beccles and the two Waveney sides competing from just over the border in Suffolk, one area of the county that has plenty of room to grow in the women’s game is the North West of the county, Dersingham Rovers FC (between King’s Lynn and Hunstanton, doing just that by establishing a new woman’s side for the 1st time in the clubs history, assembling a strong squad to compete in Norfolk Women’s Division Three. Dersingham keen to promote the women’s side as keenly as the rest of their teams.

Losing just 1 of their opening 6 league games have been amongst the top 3 most of the season ending 2025 with a win hit the ground running in 2026 winning 9 on the trot before Bungay themselves put an end to that run winning 3-1 at Dersingham back in April. Two wins and a draw since with just 3 losses leading the table for a spell have 2 games left winning both clinch the title, those games against Bungay this Sunday and away to Dereham on Thursday. Emma Leech top scorer for Dersingham with 21 goals to her name, Eliza McDonald and Crystal Hart both closing in on double figures with 9 and 8 respectfully while Anne-Marie Harris has 7 goals.

Great to be back at Maltings Meadows home of Bungay Town FC, hosting the football club and a variety of other sports, The carpark and clubhouse leading onto the main pitch itself with practise pitches either side, the bar open serving hot and cold drinks, not that the hot drinks will be in much demand with a mini heatwave upon us, more cricket weather bright and sunny 26 degrees in fact there was a cricket match on too. A hot day a lack of clouds which have been the feature of this season so far, a little breeze blowing across the pitch making being out in the sun more bearable, not that I should complain.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Laura Beevor, Alana Bartley, Amari Whitaker, Erin Baylis, Lily Carman, Marnie Jessop, Jade Page (C) Maddie Flatman, Ava Eden, Sophie Turrell & Lila-Grace Eden. Subs – Rosie Beevor & Victoria Wakefield.

Bungay Town Ladies

Dersingham Rovers Women starting XI – Shayla Kendle-Johnson, Molly Sands. Holly Melton, Loretta Burrell, Tiffany Ross, Eliza McDonald (C), Chloe Melton, Emily Rix, Crystal Hart, Lyndsey Bunn & Emma Leech. Subs – Leeanne Smith & Carolyn Flowerdew.

Dersingham Rovers Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Eliza McDonald and Jade Page with todays match referee Wlodzimierz Szczerba

Both sides with two substitutes to call upon from the bench it’s the hosts Bungay to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing sky blue shirts with black shorts and socks with Dersingham lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirt with black sleeves, black shorts and yellow socks. The ball played back into the defence lifted long out to the left wing with Sophie Turrell looking to attack it, Loretta Burrell winning it for Dersingham bringing the ball out of defence, closed down, the resulting coming together seeing the Dersingham player pulled up for the foul.

Turrell over the ball wide of the area 30 yards out, curls it in on goal, bouncing through to goalkeeper, Shayla Kendle-Johnson skips up off the grass, knocks it back down with her gloves grabbing hold of it at the 2nd attempt before Bungay can pounce. Bungay lively at the start quick to get the ball on into their wide players, Turrell in particular on the left taking it on has her captain, Jade Page ahead of her, sending the pass on up the line Page sees her cross attempt intercepted by Dersingham’s Burrell.

Erin Baylis snapping in to win the ball at the back for Bungay plays it long into the right for Maddie Flatman, played for into Lily Carman her cross cut out by full back Tiffany Ross away for the throw in. Kendal-Johnson kicking the ball clear, helped on finds it way all the way back to her opposite number, Laura Beevor, Bungay waste no time in getting the ball back up the other end, fed on for Turrell racing away left flank all the way to the by-line her looping cross caught by Kendle-Johnson.

Dersingham goalkeeper, Shayla Kendle-Johnson

Dersingham captain, Eliza McDonald getting hold of the ball in the middle sending it one for Emma Leech up top drives forward taking the ball into the left channel, looking to link up with Crystal Hart making a run central the ball cut out by Baylis. McDonald with the ball at her feet right side 25 yards out sends a shot wide across the area, retrieved by Emily Rix on the left her cross back into the mix claimed by Beevor.

McDonald stealing the ball back in the middle for Dersingham pushing forwards players looking to support her on the left turning inside, Baylis making the blocking tackle. Alana Bartley getting her foot in to defend for Bungay as Rix looks to get into the box from the left. Chloe Melton into Lyndsey Bunn right side up to Hart, her cross collected by Beevor.

GOAL! Bungay quick to get the ball on whenever the defence breaks up play at the ball the ball sent on up the left wing for Turrell to chase, stretching out a leg to stop the ball going out of play, in front of the Dersingham bench they immediately appeal even as play goes on pace form Turrell to get down the line sends a looping cross into the six yard box, Lila-Grace Eden making the far post run getting on the end of it to turn the ball over the line to open the scoring in the 8th minute, 1-0.

Lila-Grace Eden opening the scoring for Bungay

Bungay with the lead, Dersingham furious protesting saying the ball was out of play before the cross was delivered, didn’t get a clear view myself nevertheless the goal stands. Bungay waste no time getting the ball on through the middle into Carman on the right inside for Lili-Grace Eden, Holly Melton with the challenge for Dersingham the ball behind for a corner kick. Bungay going with a short routine working the ball back to the corner taker to open the angle up for the cross, send in over the bar.

Baylis throwing out a leg to intercept at the back for Bungay. Tackles flying in central, McDonald winning it back for Dersingham on for Leech plays it forwards for Hart into the right channel, knocking it on looking to attack her touch a little too strong giving Beevor the opportunity to close the ball down and claim. Dersingham a little unsettled still frustrated from conceding as another decision goes against them as Turrell gets on up the left, riding Molly Sands’ tackle inside her cross cut out by Burrell the corner conceded. Curled into the near post intercepted by Burrell, who is fouled as she attempts to bring the ball out of her area.

Dersingham’s Loretta Burrell with Bungay’s Ada Eden

Chloe Melton linking up with Rix left side running into Baylis as she brings the ball infield, Dersingham getting bodies up to pressure the ball in the final 3rd finds it’s way over to Hart right, Amari Whitaker closing her down well for Bungay. Marnie Jessop getting back from midfield to get hold of the ball at the back for Bungay, wastes no time in getting her side back on the attack the ball fed up into the right Lili-Grace Eden onto it wide 20 yards out unleashing a shot on the angle driven in Kendle-Johnson at her near post saving with her legs, back out to the right Bungay pressing the ball forcing a corner kick.

Chloe Melton in to tackle Bungay’s Lily Carman

GOAL! The corner delivered into the near side, cut out by Ross, retrieved out on the wing by Carman even as Dersingham look to clear their box, the cross curled back in from the angle attacked at the near post by Lili-Grace Eden and turned in to double the lead 2-0.

Lila-Grace Eden in to double Bungay’s lead

The hosts getting themselves into a 2 goal lead inside the opening quarter hour, Dersingham again angry feeling they should have gotten an offside decision, clearly frustrated finding themselves on the back foot. Bungay remain lively in attack, Jessop into Turrell racing on left side, held up by Sands comes back inside to lay the ball in central for Jessop 25 yards out, leaning back into her shot sees the ball screw wide out past the right post.

Dersingham unhappy voicing their frustration feeling every decision is going against them, an attack broken up Whitaker back on through the middle for Page she lifts the ball on through the middle for Lili-Grace Eden breaking in behind into the left channel racing on taking the ball into the box, one on one with the keeper, closing in on the six yard box, Kendle-Johnson throwing herself down saves well at the strikers feet.

Bungay’s Sophie Turrell

Bungay winning a free-kick on the left for a hand ball which Dersingham felt should have been given the other way. Baylis over the ball sends it long to the far post, attacked but no telling touch out for a goal kick. Dersingham making a change Bunn coming off, send on Carolyn Flowerdew. Dersingham looking to impose themselves on the game getting some joy, Hart bundled over by Whitaker on the right winning the free-kick. McDonald to play the ball into the box goes long but retrieved on the far side the cross put back in cleared by Baylis.

Bungay with a rapid counter the ball into Jessop plays a give and go with Turrell on the right the return pass into Jessop fed on into the box, as Turrell races on looking to get in behind the pass too close to the keeper, Kendle-Johnson getting hold of it. A hot afternoon a drinks break called halfway through the first half for the players to take on fluids.

GOAL! Dersingham with a throw up on the right as the game resumes. players forwards Hart with, Leech the ball played on across the top of the Bungay area, McDonald onto it in space left of the D, shoots putting the ball low across the keeper to find the bottom corner and pull it back to 2-1.

Eliza McDonald pulls a goal back for Dersingham

McDonald busy in the middle for Dersingham winning the ball back sends a diagonal ball into the left for Rix to attack, Baylis stretching out a leg to cut it out for Bungay. Flowerdew central seeing the ball into her feet going forwards taking on the strike from 30 yards out, Beevor back on her line right behind it to save. Page getting on well for Bungay on the by-line left side digging the cross out, Burrell defending for Dersingham.

Flowerdew giving Dersingham a little extra thrust though the middle taking the ball on, Baylis proactive in the Bungay defence out to close her down put in the challenge the ball won back Bungay waste no time getting it on into the right channel, Carman on for Lila-Grace Eden producing a fierce shot on the angle the ball beat down by Kendle-Johnson. The referee awarding Bungay another free-kick as Burrell tackles Lila-Grace Eden as she looks to link up with Turrell on the right. A good distance out the striker over the free-kick looks to play it in on goal, not troubling Kendle-Johnson sees it all the way.

Ava Eden on for Page 20 yards out to the right of the Dersingham area plays it out to Flatman on the wing sends it back into the area for Lili-Grace Eden to attack, Burrell blocking the cross/shot turned behind for the corner kick. The corner curled into the side netting. Hart over on the left for Dersingham looking to cut in from the wing, Baylis in to close her down the ball away for a throw in the corner. Flowerdew seeing the ball into her feet well turning to get into the box, Beevor moving towards the ball going to ground getting hold of it.

Bungay’s Amari Whitaker

A bit of pressure from Dersingham up on the left Flowerdew wide sending the ball in across the face of goal, Hart running in far post not quite able to get there, but as it runs out of play the corner is signalled. A dangerous ball in curled in under the bar, Beevor getting an arm up well to turn the ball away to the left, played back central into Hart looks to force her way into the box tackled by Jessop.

Bungay midfielder, Marnie Jessop

Bungay getting the ball up to Page moving left up with Turrell the ball played in central to Lila-Grace Eden shoots from 25 yards out right of the D her effort racing wide of the left post. McDonald winning the ball in the middle for Dersingham linking up with Hart ahead of her she in turn playing it into Flowerdew making the run into the left channel taking the ball on Baylis in to close her down with the blocking tackle.

Dersingham’s Carolyn Flowerdew

A competitive tussle now Dersingham still frustrated getting players on well in attack, need to remain careful at the back with Bungay using their pace to turn play around. Turrell threatening as she bursts away to deliver the ball into the six yard box, attacked by Lili-Grace Eden at the near post her attempt lifted up wide of the upright.

Pushing on through the middle McDonald playing the ball up to Leech in attack, Beevor out quickly to the top of her area to get hold of the ball.

Bungay goalkeeper, Laura Beevor

Bungay straight on the counter, Ava Eden up to Page coming left has Turrell bursting on down the flank looking to get in behind looks to play her in the pass too straight, Kendle-Johnson getting to it first.

GOAL! Late in the first half Dersingham getting more joy now though the middle McDonald on for Flowerdew the ball pushed in for Leech run in behind the Bungay defence taking the ball on to the top of the area, Beevor rushing out too try and close her down, going to ground the attacker squeezing the ball past her seeing it run to the far post gives chase the ball across the open goal and sees it over the line to score the equalising goal 2-2.

Half-time Bungay Town Ladies 2-2 Dersingham Rovers Women

Dersingham finishing the half strong to see the sides level at the break, the two sides staying out on the pitch for the half-time interval, clustered around the meagre shade offered by the dugouts. Bungay with the early lead lively at the start getting players on attacking the flanks the goal coming in controversial circumstances Dersingham feeling the ball hadn’t been kept in play in the build up to the goal, were further frustrated as Bungay went onto to add a 2nd. The game settling down Dersingham starting to build some momentum in attack, competitive, the Bungay defence solid winning the ball quick to turn play around Dersingham getting it back to 2-1. Kendle-Johnson saving up the other end to deny Lila-Grace Eden a 1st half hat-trick before Emma Leech broke in behind the Bungay defence to fire in the equaliser at the ned of the half, still very much all to play for.

Both sides making a change at the break, Page off for Bungay on in her place Rosie Beevor. Chloe Melton off for Dersingham on in attack Leeanne Smith. It’s Dersingham to get the 2nd half underway played back to the defence lifted long to the left channel, Baylis defending for Bungay. Play turned around Bungay looking to get it out to Turrell left side, Sands into tackle the ball out for a throw.

Dersingham’s Molly Sands

Flowerdew central seeing the ball into her feet back too goal turning it out to the right for Hart, her cross cut out by Whittaker away for the throw. Flatman to hook the ball clear top of the area for Bungay as Dersingham work it inside from their right. Dersingham getting layers on better at the start of the 2nd half Flowerdew holding the ball up well, looks to turn it on for Leech, Jessop in the way to get the ball back for Bungay.

Bungay’s Maddie Flatman

Pressure from Dersingham Rix linking up with Flowerdew back to McDonald taking it right Bungay giving away the foul presenting Dersingham with a free-kick out towards the right outside the box. McDonald to hit it in struck well but wide of the far post. Bungay’s defence under a little pressure the hosts struggling to get the ball out of their half, Dersingham keeping players forwards McDonald on through the middle pushing the ball into Leech gives it back looking to spin in behind, McDonald with the through ball, Beevor stepping up to lay claim to the ball.

Jessop finding Lilia-Grace Eden in attack back to goal holding off Burrell turns the ball out to Turrell bursting on past her on the left, shooting on the angle from the left corner of the area blasts the ball over the bar. Lilia-Grace Eden linking up with Turrell well on the left the winger keeping Sands busy the full back lunging in to take the ball away from her, Turrell back on it squeezing it inside to Eden, Burrell with the tackle for Dersingham. Smith combining with Flowerdew for Dersingham, put out to the right for Leech, Whittaker challenging for Bungay.

Holly Melton out to close Flatman down before she can cross the ball as she gets on up the right combining with Lila-Grace Eden. Tackles flying in the ball rarely still, both sides expanding alot of energy despite the heat, Dersingham pressing on looking to find a goal, Turrell played on by Jessop on the left swinging the cross into the box, Melton getting her head on it for Dersingham. Bartley getting the tackle in on Flowerdew as the attacker looks to power her way on into the left channel.

Dersingham defender, Holly Melton

Dersingham looking to most likely to score at the moment getting players on well, McDonald finding Leech over on the right, doesn’t get the best connection with her shot,, Whittaker cutting it out. Beevor out quickly to the top of her area to slide onto the ball as Smith puts it across the top of the area from the left. Lili-Grace Eden moving across the final 3rd looking for an opening seeing the ball into her on the left from Turrell, her cross turned behind by Melton for the corner kick. Taken short returned to the taker the cross lifted on into the box, headed away by Melton.

Rix bringing the ball on up he left for Dersingham has Ross making the run ahead of her down the line taking the ball on squares the cross into the top of the area looking for Flowerdew’s run, Beevor again out fast to the top of her area to slide onto the ball.

GOAL! Just as Dersingham looked like they might get themselves into the lead Bungay get the ball on up the other end to retake the lead themselves a great ball out to the left for Turrell to take on flashes the cross into the six yard box, met by Carman at the near post a great touch to turn the ball inside the upright to score 3-2.

Lily Carman putting Bungay back into the lead

Bungay restoring their lead with just over an hour played a blow for Dersingham, McDonald getting hold of the ball putting it on for Smith into the left channel,, Beevor out of her area to clear slicing it away for a throw. Bungay making a change, Page returning to the pitch on for Ava Eden. Dersingham appealing for a handball inside the box, as the ball skips up played in from the right, don’t get it instead winning a corner kick.

Leech up on the right for Dersingham with Flowerdew the ball inside Whittaker blocking, the ball through for Beevor rushing out to claim. Flowerdew hitting the ball on across goal on the half volley as it comes into her from the left. Time for another drinks break and a chance for both sides to regroup with the result still very much in the balance.

McDonald with the ball as play resumes sending it on for Hart on the right forwards for Leech, she commits the foul as she attempts to force her way past Whittaker on the wing. Jessop in to win the ball for Bungay taking it on forwards for Carman linking up with Eden the cross turned into the area from the left intercepted by Melton, Burrell heading the ball clear. Getting a little niggly, Eden hurt as she brought down play paused so she can receive treatment. Dersingham making a change, Chloe Melton back on replacing Rix. Players starting to tire.

Emma Leech

Bartley winning the ball back for Bungay getting it on up the left for Eden to take on bursting into the box closing in on the keeper Kendle-Johnson doing well with the blocking save to deny her. The ball out to the left back into the middle the clearance coming to Page top of the D plays it into the box for Carman inside the area right side lifts her effort over the bar. Bungay pushing up well applying a bit of pressure the ball Rosie Beevor with the ball into Flatman on for Carman back into the middle for Jessop sends it on up top into Eden, Burrell going over to close her down.

GOAL! Bungay keeping the ball in the middle played into Page 25 yards out Eden lifting it into the box Eden attacking it left of goal getting in ahead of the defence to force the ball home to score her hat-trick and open up a 2 goal lead for the hosts 4-2.

A hat-trick for Lila-Grace Eden

18 minutes left to play Bungay getting a 4th to open up a two goal advantage, Dersingham with a mountain to climb if they are to turn the game around. Bungay keeping up their energy levels however, Jessop snapping in to win the ball, Turrell ever ready to burst on up their left, play stopped as Burrell takes a heavy blow to her side. The defender alright to continue after another lengthy pause.

GOAL! Bungay a quick to get the ball back from the start Jessop taking it on support from Carmen going left the ball played on into the area Eden getting through onto the end of it to shot striking it past the keeper to fire her side into a 5-2 lead.

4 goals for Bungay’s Lila-Grace Eden

Two quick goals a hammer blow to Dersingham conceding a 3rd in the 2nd half with a little under 15 minutes to go. Bungay making their lead comfortable bringing Ava Eden back on, Hart up with Leech on Dersingham’s right the ball flashed in across the six yard box, Chloe Melton trying to cover the ground to get on the end of it can’t quite connect. Bartley calming things down at the back for Bungay as she holds onto the ball seeing it back to her keeper to clear.

Dersingham working hard to try and find a way through, Dersingham further frustrated as another tight offside goes against them with Leech looking to get in behind the defence onto the end of a pass through from Flowerdew. Lila-Grace Eden getting on with the ball into the left flank cutting it back towards the centre of the D, Page looking to get forwards, Holly Melton in to close her down clear the threat for Dersingham.

Bungay captain, Jade Page

Dersingham pushing on trying to create something with less than 10 minutes left on the clock, Bungay’s defence dropping deeper, Smith looking to get on down the left, Rosie Beevor tracking her making the challenge. Jessop seeing the ball on through the middle into Lilia-Grace Eden turns looking for Turrell, Sands getting her leg in the way to cut the pass out.

Burrell across to defend against Lilia-Grace Eden as she looks to take the ball on from a Flatman pass up the right wing. Rosie Beevor making way late on for Bungay as Victoria Wakefield joins the action. Dersingham overload the right flank, Hart on with Leech inside to Flowerdew cutting in from the right bearing down on the near post Beevor goes to ground making diving down to make the blocking save as she goes to shoot, the pair coming together the ball loose, Flowerdew trying to get it, Beevor trapping her leg, the referee pointing to the spot awarding the Penalty.

GOAL! It’s Leech to take the penalty placing the ball on the spot, Bungay’s turn to be unhappy with a decision but the decision stands. Leech let’s her frustration out on the ball stepping in to strike it hard and fast to the left rising into the back of the net to pull it back to 5-3.

3 minutes left to play, Dersingham keen to get going again, McDonald releasing Smith to break away with the ball on the left squaring a cross low into the six yard box, Flowerdew at the far post just behind it attempts to get her heel on it, as it runs out to the right, Bungay hooking it upfield. Turrell hasn’t stopped running all game breaking on with the ball wide left shoots on the angle the ball fizzed in on target, Kendle-Johnson behind it palming the ball down into the turf and holding onto it.

Full time Bungay Town Ladies 5-3 Dersingham Rovers Women

The game ends, Bungay finishing their debut season, in Division Three with a win to move them onto 52 points. Will it be enough to clinch the title, they’ll have to wait and see, Dersingham’s own title ambitions quashed, they travel to Dereham on Thursday, their opponents winning away to Necton now need all 6 points from their remaining two matches to pip Bungay to the title by a single point anything else and Bungay are champions, will hope Dersingham can do them a favour in Thursday in their final match certainly won’t want to end their own positive campaign with another defeat a top 3 finish still there for the taking. A competitive 2nd half played in hot conditions the ball rarely still, Dersingham gave it a go starting the 2nd half brightly and for a while looked the more likely to make it 3-2. Bungay with high energy levels through always a threat on the counter breaking on the left to take the lead themselves and then scoring a quick 4th and 5th took the game away from Dersingham. Pulling one back from the penalty spot late on leave Maltings Meadow frustrated with some of the decisions. A competitive game between two contrasting sides can easily see why both are at the top of the league.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several strong performances out there and a few in contention but I had a fairly good idea of the award winner before I left the ground. A few performances top mention, firstly for Dersingham, Loretta Burrell defending well getting across to close players down and get out to intercept. Eliza McDonald with some strong tackling used the ball well got forwards and on another day her range of passing would open up a defence. Emma Leech working hard to find and opening through a well organised Bungay defence and when she did get in behind took her chance well. Carolyn Flowerdew came on from the bench and added more attacking thrust to Dersingham linking up the attack. For Bungay, Lila-Grace Eden led the attack make some great runs always looking for the ball and a way in behind scoring 4 goals to take her onto 27 for the season. Marnie Jessop got about the midfield, back to help in defence and carry the ball on kept the game flowing. Sophie Turrell full of running on the left wing a constant threat and ready outlet for the ball. The Bungay defence closing the ball down as a unit giving very little away in behind got into close the ball down, Amari Whittaker and Alana Bartley cutting out several crosses and quick to release it forwards. The award going to Erin Baylis made numerous interceptions and get out to close the ball down frustrating Dersingham as they looked to damage in behind.

An entertaining if hot match from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, glad I got the opportunity to see both sides, will see Dersingham again on Thursday as they take on Dereham. Bungay are done for the season can’t finish any lower than 2nd now, would love to go one better I’m sure. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies v Martham FC Ladies

Sunday 2nd February

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Love to get up and down the league across the East to watch my football and having started the year with action from the FAWNL and regional leagues it’s time to take in some county league football with a game from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, with newly formed, Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Martham FC Ladies.

The Norfolk Women’s County football leagues expanding to 3 Divisions this season with a host of new sides entering an adult team in the competition. The east of Norfolk and the coastal area around Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft in Suffolk seeing a host of new sides formed in recent seasons.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC reforming a ladies side this campaign, the Lowestoft based club having previously had a side 7 years or so ago. The highlight of that time going all the way to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final and played at Ipswich’s Portman Road stadium. A new era for women’s football at Walmer Road. Recruiting players from Great Yarmouth and the surrounding area with useful experience joining what is a new look league has been a mixed start so far off to a blistering start with 3 wins on the bounce all away from home before losing the next three. A couple of postponements to start 2025, got back to winning way away to Red Rose with a 3-1 win last weekend and with 7 of their remaining 9 matches at home will be looking to build some momentum going into the 2nd half of the season. Captain Maddie-Me Kerrison the top scorer so far with 5 goals.

Martham FC Ladies entering a women’s team into the NWGFL for the first time last season, a club with a strong youth section, boys and girls have female teams from U10’s to U16’s. Joining a large 13 strong Division Two was a baptism of fire for the new women’s side finding it tough losing 9 on the spin before final securing their first 3 points in February, kept at it picking up 3 more wins and a draw towards the end of the campaign to give them something to build on. Expanding to a 3rd division last season to better match the sides Martham are all the better for that experience bringing in new faces and experience, a county cup win to open the season, were to lose their opening 2 league games but haven’t looked back six winning the next on the spin to climb up the table into 3rd pressure the leaders Brundall Bolts Women at the top. Lily Bulloch bringing goals to the side netting 19 so far from 10 appearances. Laurel Chambers with 6 goals too from her 10 games.

Kirkley & Pakefield playing at the Recreation Ground on Walmer Road. This play was always a buzz of activity when I visited in the past with plenty of youth football going on, and pleasing to see nothing has changed now, pitches both grass and artificial leading to the main stadium itself. The clubhouse and changing facilities in between, the bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drink. The weather has not been great to start the year, so good to see a bit of sun if a little chilly still a frosty start but clear now with the game to take place on the 3G pitch a good sized playing surface with standing viewing on one side, the sun beginning to drop behind that side.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies starting XI – Paige Curtis, Daphne Siracusa, Sasha Friel, Abbie Pogmore, Nyla McKay, Sophie Barber Boakes, Scarlet Miller, Karina Filippus, Lashaya Marnell, Emily Clarke & Maddie-Mae Kerrison (C). Subs – Danielle Ashley, Paige Sterry & Niamh Howard.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

Martham FC Ladies starting XI – Laura Barnard, Ella Saunders, Cerys Speak, Baelie Fairbrother, Lorella Ashcroft, Paige Searle, Melissa Anderson, Emily Dennington, Laurel Chambers, Ellie Jade Nekrews & Lily Bulloch. Subs – Bethany Shearing (C), Jessica Pasco & Scarlett Colby.

Martham FC Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Maddie-Mae Kerrison captaining Kirkley & Pakefield alongside Martham’s Melissa Anderson with todays match official Wlodzimierz Szczerba before kick-off.

A late switch for Martham with captain Bethany Shearing starting on the bench, with the hosts, Kirkley & Pakefield to kick-off the game, wearing blue and white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Martham lined up opposite wearing green coloured shirts and socks with black shorts. Scarlet Miller from the circle playing the ball back to Abbie Pogmore in defence, the ball launched up the middle with captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the line, Paige Searle intercepting the pass for Martham, setting up a counter attack firing a long pass into the right wing for Laurel Chambers to attack, Sasha Friel coming across to defend across her run to shield the ball out for a goal kick.

Martham making a positive start pushing players up capitalising on a loose pass at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield on the right side, Chambers getting onto the ball 25 yards out rolling it inside to striker, Lily Bulloch she takes on the shot from outside the box angled in low to the right post, goalkeeper Paige Curtis down low keep it out runs behind for a corner kick. The in swinging corner dropping at the near post cut out by Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus, not cleared however players closing in on the ball the final touch taking it out of play for a goal kick.

Martham striker, Lily Bulloch

Emily Dennington with pace bursting away with the ball at her feet on the left flank as Martham press well in the final third, going to the by-line checks back inside to feed the ball in across the top of the area, Bulloch going for it, Daphne Siracusa, stretching out a leg for Kirkley & Pakefield defending the take the ball away from the attacker, loose in the six yard box in front of goal, the hosts living dangerously as they scramble the ball behind for a corner on the right. Can see this one curl safely over the crossbar.

Kirkley & Pakefield riding out some early pressure look to launch an attack Miller sending the ball on for Kerrison on half way she has Lashaya Marnell breaking down the right looks to send the ball on into her path too much on it however, Lorella Ashcroft coming to close Marnell down can see the ball safely out of play. Roles reversed moments later as Marnell out wide right turns provider playing the ball on for Kerrison as the attacker pulls out to the wing to receive the ball, Ashcroft sliding in to take the ball out for a throw in.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Lashaya Marnell

The game opening up as Kirkley & Pakefield begin to get some joy going forwards he pass on for Sophie Barber Boakes to take on down the left wing comes back inside to play the ball into the top of the area, Emily Clarke looking to hit it first time opening up her body to, send the ball up into the air over the keeper and sees it cannon against the crossbar! Martham launching the ball out of their box.

Kerrison seeing the ball into her feet on the halfway line turning to play it out to the right for Clarke ahead of her driving into the right channel, forcing her way into the area, Ashcroft closing her down the defender does well to keep Clarke away from the ball see it out for a goal kick. The ball rarely still both sides looknig to turn play around, tackles flying in, Melissa Anderson sending the ball out to Dennington on the left for Martham, looks to burst away, a timely foot in from Marnell seeing the attack snuffed out.

Marnell battling for the ball in the middle for Kirkley & Pakefield, wins it and plays it forwards into Clarke 30 yards out in the right channel has Kerrison breaking in behind the defence out wide, Martham hold their line well though to catch the Kirkley & Pakefield captain, offside.

Both side are preferring to play the ball into the channels rather than attack through the middle, have willing runners Searle breaking up play in the middle for Martham put to the right, Ellie Jade Nekrews putting it forwards for Chambers, Siracusa getting her foot in for the hosts to put the ball out for a throw.

Competitive in the middle, Miller and Filippus getting stuck in for Kirkley & Pakefield played forwards into Clarke sends it out to the left with Kerrison pulling wide, taking the ball on down the flank, Cerys Speak moving in to tackle sending the ball out of play for the throw. Several foul throws with the referee picking up on improper foot control when releasing the ball, both sides penalised.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus

Chambers escapes with the ball at her feet on the right for Martham as the visitors look to turn defence into attack running on attempts to slide the threaded ball on into the area for Bulloch making a central run, Curtis sharp out of her six yard box racing out to gather the ball safely into her gloves. Pogmore getting hold of the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield playing a fantastic ball forwards into the right channel for Clarke to get hold of powers clear of her marker looking to get into the box strike her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner, the Martham defence racing back on the cover, it’s Baelie Fairbrother, who puts in the block to see the shot defended.

Abbie Pogmore winning the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield

Kirkley & Pakefield’s turn to build some momentum Marnell out to Nyla McKay right side gets on down the wing, both Clarke and Kerrison moving over to that side of the pitch to support her the trio looking to combine passes force there way past the Martham defence, both Anderson and Searle back to defend no way through. Kirkley & Pakefield making a change bring off Clarke sending Daniel Ashley on.

Lively as Kirkley & Pakefield work the ball well down the flanks winning a throw on the right into Miller, turns on the ball to send the cross into the box, cut out by Fairbrother at the near post, the visitors launching a rapid counter as Dennington is put away on the left burst towards the box, attempts to lay the ball on into the area for Chambers making a run cross the D to receive the pass, Curtis again out well to get hold of the ball before she can get a touch.

Martham keeping hold of the ball in the final third, clipped forwards into Chambers positioned left of the D 20 out look to turn the ball over her shoulder into the area. blocked by Pogmore, not clear, Bulloch getting onto it central pushing it out to the right for Nekrews on the by line right of goal close in tries to fire it past the keeper into the central position inside the six yard box, Curtis getting down to smother the ball.

Both sides enjoying spells of pressure inviting errors from the opposition, Anderson on the ball for Martham moving left attempts to play it through the middle into the box for Bulloch pulling off the defence, a little too much on the pass reaches the keeper first. Dennington breaking on with the ball at her feet on the left for the visitors taking the ball to the by-line outside the box held up. checks back inside to lay the pass back into Bulloch positioned left corner, goes to curl a shot in towards goal, drops invitingly into the keepers gloves.

Anderson strong on the ball through the middle, pushing on, Filippus getting in the blocking tackle 25 yards out, the ball not under control, Anderson looks to keep it alive stabbing it on for Bulloch breaking into the area, Pogmore with a vital interception. Pogmore in well again at the back to cut the ball out for Kirkley & Pakefield, carries it into the middle, before sending the pass into Kerrison peeling into the left channel takes the ball on before coming back inside 20 yards out to curl in a shot towards go from the corner of the box, but like Bulloch’s attempt up the other end places the ball straight into Laura Barnard’s gloves.

Kirkley & Pakefield captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison

Clarke coming back on for Kirkley & Pakefield for Ashley. Dennington’s pace on the left causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few problems as she burst away on the wing cuts her cross back into the top of the area, over Bulloch central, Siracusa stretching for it stopping the ball running through to Chambers, down into the area however, Bulloch goes to stab her foot at the ball 10 yards out sends it away over the bar.

Martham’s Laurel Chambers

Half a hour gone has been plenty of action, the Kirkley & Pakefield defence pressed back Clarke and Kerrison are up on halfway looking to receive the ball, Clarke bringing a Marnell pass under control has Kerrison making a move to go left, the attacker seeing the ball rolled into her path shapes to go wide before coming back inside to let loose from all of 35 yards out the ball running wide of the near post.

Friel doing the defending at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield getting across to put her foot in to tackle Bulloch as she attempts to get onto an Anderson ball threaded into the right channel. Anderson herself taking on the shot as the ball comes to her 20 yards out right of the Kirkley & Pakefield area blasts her strike wide past the far post.

Barber Boakes from the left sending the cross field pass into McKay 35 yards out inside right, no one moving to close her down she accepts the invitation to shoot, screws the ball wide of the right post. Dennington races on with the ball for Martham into the left corner at the by-line checks back well to fire a cross into the top of the area, Bulloch on the penalty spot looking to control it down off her chest and shoot, is closed down immediately by the Kirkley & Pakefield defence, an almighty scramble ensues with the ball somehow ending up in the keepers gloves.

Martham’s Emily Dennington

Is an open contest, Kirkley & Pakefield more often than not running the ball out wide lacking crossing options breaking from the middle of the park, Clarke going it alone on the right turns inside looking to take on Fairbrother top of the area, the defender with a good tackle to regain possession. The host get the ball back on the right, Marnell on for McKay a throw won high, Clarke seeing it into her feet turning into the area on the run goes to strike the ball with the outside of her boot, her shot lacking any power a simple gather for Barnard.

McKay getting a timely foot out to take the ball away from Bulloch for a throw out on the left, Bulloch after it to take a quick throw to try and set up Dennington to turn 25 yards out and run into the box, the ball there to be won as Friel comes out to close it down sees the pair collide in a nasty coming together that sees Dennington come off the worst. A pause in play as Dennington is treated, will be coming off regardless with captain, Bethany Shearing entering the action. Friel is shown a yellow card with Martham winning a free-kick out wide of the box 25 yards out to the left. Shearing over it goes for goal, pulls her attempt wide of the near post.

Miller getting in well to win the ball in front of the defence for Kirkley & Pakefield bringing it on trying to get her team going forwards. Into the closing stages of the first half Speak on the right playing the ball on for Nekrews up to Chambers brings the ball inside from the right looking to power her way forwards, sends it on through the middle for Bulloch, top of the D, Siracusa going with her getting a vital touch to take the ball out of her path.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Daphne Siracusa

Half-time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 0-0 Martham FC Ladies

Goalless at the break, a lively first half ending in stalemate, both sides with good opportunities to open the scoring. Martham getting off to a strong start applying the early pressure pushing the Kirkley & Pakefield defence back. The hosts coming back well however as the game opened up, competitive in the middle both looking to use the flanks, the hosts breaking well to hit the crossbar, shots in on target but not troubling either keeper, both enjoying good spells evenly matched no telling as to the outcome of the game as the sides ready for the 2nd half.

Both sides unchanged from the sides that ended the 2nd half, the sun lower now shade on one side of the pitch, Kirkley & Pakefield attacking with it in their eyes. It’s Martham to get the 2nd half underway the ball played back into defence, Barber Boakes left side presses well for Kirkley & Pakefield, players on to attack the ball inside the Martham half, Anderson back to help the defence winning possession back for the visitors.

Kirkley & Pakefield stop any advance into their half the pass into Marnell right some 25/30 yards out goes for goal her effort claimed by Barnard in the Martham goal. The hosts making a determined start to the 2nd half players pressed on to battle for the ball, Miller with Filippus in the middle lively…

Kirkley & Pakefield midfielder, Scarlet Miller

GOAL! That early pressure bringing the break through the ball won 25 yards out to the right of the D, played across the top of the box into the feet of Barber Boakes 20 yards out goes to strike the ball, her shot racing in on goal past the keeper before she can react, and in off the inside of the left post to open the scoring 1-0.

Sophie Barber Boakes shot going in off the post to open the scoring for Kirkley & Pakefield

Martham falling behind 4 minutes into the 2nd half, look to get on the attack from the restart Bulloch on the drive through the middle, brought down winning the free-kick. Shearing over the set-piece 25 yards out again lines up the effort on goal getting plenty of zip behind the ball but not on target as Curtis sees it sail past her left post.

Kirkley & Pakefield making a change with Clarke coming off up top to be replaced by Paige Sterry. The low sun causing a few issues for the Kirkley & Pakefield defenders trying to pick out a pass up top, (at least the excuse being peddled). Bulloch making several determined runs with the ball at her feet through the middle for Martham lifts it over the top for Chambers out on the right channel, Siracusa going with her for Kirkley & Pakefield does well in defence to get across Chambers to see the ball back safely into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Having scored Kirkley & Pakefield have taken their foot off the gas allowed Martham to press players on down the flanks, the ball carried inside from the right 25 yards out the diagonal pass is fed into the box with Nekrews stealing into the box from the left to meet it angling her first time effort back across the keeper into the bottom corner to level thing’s up 1-1.

Ellie-Jay Nekrews equalises for Martham

The lead lasting just 4 minutes Kirkley & Pakefield needing to regroup, send the ball out to Barber Boakes attacking on their left flank drives inside looking to get into the area the ball knocked on for Sterry, right side of goal, Ashcroft closing her down the ball popping loose as Barber Boakes continues her run stabs it wide. Dennington coming back on for Martham goes into the back line replacing Ashcroft on the left. Scarlett Colby on too for Saunders.

Sophie Barber Boakes with Martham’s Cerys Speak

Chambers cutting inside from the right for Martham driven inside for Bulloch top of the D, Pogmore cutting it out well for Kirkley & Pakefield. Cleared to the right, Martham with numbers up regaining the ball look to return it back into the box, no advantage however play brought back for a late free-kick on the wing. Shearing dangerous with her set-piece deliveries dropping the ball in front of the keeper, another frantic scramble ensues in front of goal, no one getting a clear touch on the ball before the hosts wrestle it to safety.

Martham captain, Bethany Shearing

Nekrews with the ball at her feet on the left for Martham surging on inside hitting a strike on the run 25 yards out, frustrated to place her effort straight at the keeper. Martham with a quickly taken throw from Shearing on the right looking to play, Colby clear to attack inside the box, Curtis reacts quickly racing out to claim it for Kirkley & Pakefield.

Chambers skipping away with the ball out wide right for Martham delivering a looping cross into the near post, Curtis snatching hold of it with Colby closing her down. The game remains open both sides using the width of the pitch looking to stretch things, Speak lunging in to tackle Barber Boakes as she looks to turn off a Siracusa pass.

Sterry brought down on the right giving Kirkley & Pakefield a free-kick. Clarke replacing Sterry before the free-kick is taken. Angled in centrally comes into Clarke quickly reacts well to spin into a shot send it in on target, Barnard down sharply to make the blocking save the ball spinning away to her left threatening to creep in at the post. cleared off the line by a defender, even as Kerrison looks to blast it home from close range.

Martham goalkeeper, Laura Barnard

Bulloch with an ambitious volley from 30 yards out sends the ball wide of the mark for Martham. Players beginning to tire on both sides with little let up in the open nature of the game one side winning it back at the back, then looking to get it forwards quickly, Siracusa sending the ball on up the left wing for Barber Boakes breaks clear to run down the line, Fairbrother needing to come running across to close her down, putting in the tackle to send the ball out for a throw.

Martham defender, Baelie Fairbrother

Shearing taking the ball on for Martham threading the pass into Chambers on the right, looks to drive infield, Siracusa stretching out a leg to get hold of the ball for the hosts fires it up the line for Barber Boakes, seeing it down into her feet, attempts to turn, Speak closing her down for Martham. Fairbrother looks to have picked up a knock for Martham coming off on comes Jessica Pasco. The game stretched Kirkley & Pakefield with a throw high on the left taken quickly, Siracusa curling the ball into the top of the area, Shearing back to intercept for Martham then again as the ball deflected away to the right falls to the advancing McKay.

The game moving into the final 10 minutes, certainly has the feel it could go either way, Kirkley & Pakefield have willing runners up top, Miller putting the ball out to the left for Clarke to attack taking it on to the by-line held up, looks to shift it between her feet before sending in across the face of goal Barnard diving down to get hold of the ball. Kerrison stealing in on the ball out on the right bursting forwards, shooting on the angle 20 yards out, annoyed as the ball is screwed wide at the near post.

Martham over commit going forwards as Kirkley & Pakefield fight to regain possession outside their box, Marnell giving it to Siracusa who has space to carry it into on the left, Colby tracking back to deal with her getting in a timely tackle. The hosts pushing for the winner getting a corner on the left driven in low to the near post, defended deflected back out to the taker, played up into the top of the area for Miller positioned top of the D, attempts to curl a strike in on goal, can only pick out Barnard, the keeper getting hold of the ball.

Paige Searle

Martham pushing players on late on as they themselves look for the winning goal, Kirkley & Pakefield pressed back to defend their box, getting the ball upfield looking to expose their opponents at the back, Clarke through the middle, Dennington with the blocking tackle, the ball not cleared however as Barber Boakes left channel looks to take it on Speak with a blocking tackle forcing Barber Boakes wide, goes with her, with Saunders getting back to support the ball cleared.

Nekrews with the ball for Martham down in the left corner, winning her side a corner kick, players up into the area, congested at the near post as the ball is curled in at an inviting height, Curtis going to punch it, drops instead into the mix inside the six yard box, chaos as players from both sides attempt to get their foot on the ball, could go anywhere, is knocked in towards goal to the right, cleared off the line away to the right.

Martham pushing hard in the closing moments of the game winning a corner on the right, players up the ball fired in across the top of the six yard box bouncing up off the surface at the far post, Anderson leaping looking to meet it with her head, turning her chance wide. The final whistle blowing moments later, the points shared.

Melissa Anderson turning her header wide.

Full time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 1-1 Martham FC Ladies

Overall perhaps the fair result, but no doubt both sides will feel they could have won the game, created good opportunities. Kirkley & Pakefield showing a positive intent at the start of the 2nd half to get after the ball, take the lead. Sat back then as Martham looked for quick reply and took their opportunity. An even contest the game stretched as players began to tire and gaps opened up. The point enough to see Martham into 2nd spot with, Bure Valley Women Development losing against FC Viking & Valkyries Reserves, now 2 points behind leaders Brundall Bolts Women with a game in hand. Kirkley & Pakefield remain 7th but with games in hand themselves are more than capable of getting involved in the tussle at the top too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sundays Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. As tough a decision as any in choosing todays winner, contenders on both sides, both teams working hard in defence. Several performances to mention, firstly for Martham, Baelie Fairbrother putting in several good challenges at the back to win the ball for the visitors get around on the cover. Paige Searle winning her tackles in the middle, playing some good passes out to the flanks. Lily Bulloch getting hold of the ball making some driving runs in attack, finding good positions in and around the box. Emily Dennington with her pace causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few issues on the left. Bethany Shearing adding steel to the Martham midfield when she came on used the ball well, a threat from a set-piece. For Kirkley & Pakefield the three in defence all put in some vital tackles and blocks, Abbie Pogmore getting her foot in to win the ball turning play around, Sasha Friel covering well to get across to snub out threats, Daphne Siracusa too on the left side of defence closing down well. Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the attack with some strong runs to take the ball forwards constantly looking for an opening to set up a teammate. Sophie Barber Boakes with some good work too on the left opening the scoring. Karina Filippus with some great foot work in the middle of the park in a congested midfield to bring the ball away. The award though goes to Scarlet Miller worked hard though out to win the ball in front of her defence, carrying it out from the back with some good runs, tackled well and found herself in some great positions when Kirkley & Pakefield got the ball forwards.

Great to get down the leagues see some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, nice to return to Walmer Road, always a buzz of activity. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups today. Will certainly be interested to see how both fair during the rest of the season and good luck to both.

by Darren Gilham

The Round-Up – Norfolk 14/05/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 14th May

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Everything was settled in the Norfolk leagues this Sunday, In Division One, Thorpe United Ladies got the point they needed to win the league. Away to Brandon Town Ladies on Sunday who had eaten them 1-0 earlier in the season, Thorpe United got the 3 points this time around winning by a single goal themselves Vivian Moyo the scorer to see them celebrate becoming Champions.

Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies no winning Norfolk Women’s Division One.

2nd place was also decided and it was a fantastic result away from home for Bungay Town Ladies in great form since the start of the year a hat-trick from Laura Holden seeing them beat King’s Lynn Town Ladies 3-2 their goals scored by Millie Hopkisson and Jade Kelly. A great season all round for Bungay Town Ladies who also won the League Cup. King’s Lynn finishing 3rd were challenging for the title all season.

Aylsham FC Ladies also got the win at the weekend as they hosted North Walsham Angels Ladies who need a point from their remaining 4 games to secure a 4th place finish. The visitors scored twice with Hope Middleton and Abigail Storey on target, it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game however as a hat-trick from Becky Hills saw Aylsham win the match 3-2.

The bottom two met with Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Fakenham Town Ladies. Kirkley & Pakefield ended a difficult season on a high with a 2-0 win to pull them level on points with Fakenham who still have a game left to play.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

One game left to be played in Norfolk Women’s Division Three and as I wrote last week a win for Tavern Ladies at home to Freethorpe Ladies would see them finish top of the table in their 1st season. A brace from Lucy Kean along with a goal for Emily Bell saw them win the game 3-0, however congratulations were premature as it turned out they had in fact finished 2nd in the table pipped by Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves after they were warded 3 more points dating back to a game in March against East Coast Ladies who had fielded an ineligible player. East Coast Ladies deducted a total of 15 points over all.

Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on winning the league and Tavern finishing 2nd both promoted.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 07/05/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 7th May

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday and leaders Thorpe United Ladies now have to league title almost within their grasp with 2 games left to play are now 10 points clear of 3rd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies who have 4 left to play one more win for Thorpe United Ladies with see them clinch the title.

Thorpe United Ladies were away this Sunday taking on 2nd bottom side Fakenham Town Ladies, a hat-trick from captain Rebekah Lake along with a brace for Shanice Sutton helping them to a 7-1 win, Bethan Sommerfield and Vivian Moyo with the other goals. Sam King with the goal for Fakenham Town Ladies.

3 successive defeats in April in Division One had seen North Walsham Angels Ladies drop out of the top half of the table for the 1st time this season. In 5th began May with a home game against bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies. Having conceded 13 goals in those 3 games in April, hit back with a huge winning scoreline with striker Luci Middleton netting a double hat-trick in the game, Alicia Lacey got a brace and there were goals to for, Lauren Yarham, Megan Champion, Abbie Storey, Sian Wager, Vicky Hudson & Robyn Johnston in a 14-0 win, the 3 points moving them to within a point of 4th placed Brandon Town Ladies with 2 games in hand.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Gorleston FC Ladies had long ago wrapped up the Norfolk Women’s Division Two title winning 12 straight games as their rivals took points off each other below. Have now lost 2 successive matches defeat to Sprowston Ladies seeing the Norwich based side secure 2nd place in the league table. Gorleston were away to Stalham Town Ladies this Sunday. Despite a brace fro top scorer Bethany Turner along with another from Samantha Hunn, Gorleston went down to a 5-3 defeat. Stalham Town Ladies end up on 23 points for the season in 3rd spot a healthy advantage on goal difference to Long Stratton Ladies in 4th who have one game left to play.

That game at home to Gorleston FC Ladies in a fortnight, a point or better would see Long Stratton Ladies pip Stalham Town Ladies to 3rd spot. This Sunday they were away to bottom side Bohemians Ladies. Leading 3-0 at half-time Long Stratton went on to win the game 4-1 their goals scored by Sophie Christensen, Leonie Daulby, Jennifer Head & Summer Moore. Helen Quinn with Bohemians Ladies goal.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Wymondham Town Ladies played out their fixtures this Sunday finishing top of the table beating their closest rivals to the title Tavern Ladies beating the Dereham side to see them lose their unbeaten tag. Wymondham Town with a 2-1 lead at half-time went on to make it 3-1 2nd half. Tavern were to pull another goal back late on however they they gave away a penalty too and Wymondham Town dispatched it to win the game 4-2 there goals scored by Emily Fusco, Hannah Johnson, Amber Cantwell and Natalie Woods. Jordan Head and Rianna Scott scoring for Tavern Ladies. Despite the defeat Tavern remain favourites for the Division Three title awarded home and away wins against bottom side Cromer Town Ladies are now within a point of Wymondham Town Host Freethorpe Ladies in their final game of the season this Sunday a win would see them become champions.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 23/04/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 23rd April

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A full fixture list in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday with all 8 sides in action. League leaders Thorpe United Ladies 7 points clear of King’s Lynn Town Ladies were finally playing bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies having been awarded to home wins against them following earlier postponements. At Kirkley & Pakefield’s Walmer Road ground this Sunday. Won comfortably to take the 3 points away with them, Charlotte Groves netting a brace, the other goalscorers were Laura Hedtke, Lauren Kett, Vivian Moyo, Shanice Sutton and Nicole Read.

2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies went equally goal goal crazy on Sunday away to Fakenham Town Ladies going one better than Thorpe United winning 8-0, Jade Kelly scoring 5 goals in the game having previously just the one goal to her name from 10 appearances. Captain Shelley Woods netting yet another hat-trick to take her to 50 goals for the campaign.

3rd placed Bungay Town Ladies are just 2 points behind King’s Lynn Town Ladies albeit having played a game more, travelled to play North Walsham Angels Ladies this Sunday a hat-trick for youngster Laura Holden in the match for Bungay Town with a goal each for Lauren Purling and Teodora Ilie in a 5-1 win. Luci Middleton with the goal for North Walsham who have now lost their 3 consecutive league games dropping to 5th.

In 4th Brandon Town Ladies form is the opposite ending the season strongly putting together a run of 5 straight league wins the latest at home to Aylsham FC Ladies at the weekend. Abbie Charlton on target for the visitors Brandon Town secured the 3 points scoring 2 at the other end.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Sprowston Ladies climb back up into 2nd spot in Norfolk Women’s Division Two as they drew at home with Long Stratton Ladies off the back of a midweek home win against Stalham Town Ladies. Abby Hutchin and Rebecca Kirby both scoring for Sprowston in a 2-2 draw with Long Stratton whose goals were scored by Charlie Head and Leonie Daulby.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Also the one game in Norfolk Women’s Division Three with Freethorpe Ladies hosting Toftwood United Ladies for the 2nd time this season as the visitors played their final league game of the campaign. Freethorpe lost that time around 8-1. A different story this time around as they secured their 4th league win of the season leading Toftwood 2-0 at half-time Michaela Stordy and Megan Wilson with the goals, Katie Hart pulled one back for Toftwood 2nd half however Freethorpe held on for the win. Toftwood end their season with a 4th place finish.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 26/03/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 26th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Just the two matches played in Norfolk this weekend, with no action there was a game in both the Division’s below. In Division Two, Stalham Town Ladies have found a rich vein of form unbeaten now in 5 league games winning the last 4 in a row the latest victory coming away from home this Sunday as the 3rd placed side travelled to Manor Road to play 2nd placed Long Stratton Ladies. A brace from Amber Mayhew along with a goal each for Millie Cursons and new signing Vicki Lubbock joining from Briston Wanderers seeing Stalham Tow win the game 4-1 toe 3 points moving them into 2nd place above Long Stratton on goal difference their goal scored by Sophie Rose.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

In Division Three it was 3rd versus 4th as Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves hosted Tavern Ladies, both sides with games in hand on leaders East Coast Ladies it was Wymondham who held the advantage early on going 2-0 up inside the opening 20 minutes with goals from Hannah Claughton and Sally Hammerton. Tavern got it back to 2-1 before half-time Rianna Stott with the goal. 2nd half and Stott found the back of the net for a 2nd time to equalise for Tavern and see the sides share the points. Both still in the hunt for the title face each other again in two weeks in what will be a crucial match in determining where the title might head.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 19/03/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 19th March

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

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.

Acle United Ladies 2-4 Wymondham Town Ladies

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 Round-Up – Norfolk 12/03/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 12th March

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

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

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

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tavern Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Briston Wanderers Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

ties to be played Sunday 2nd April

Norfolk Women’s Division One

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

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

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

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