Category Archives: Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Match report – Beccles Town Ladies Development v Bure Valley Ladies

Sunday 17th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Heading east this Sunday to catch some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Two with the title race really hotting up as we move into the final few weeks of the season with 5th placed Beccles Town Ladies Development hosting 2nd placed Bure Valley Women.

Into mid March and the title battle in Norfolk Women’s Division Two shaping up nicely. Talked about it at the start of the year with the top six sides all looking to challenge for top spot, Bure Valley Ladies along with fellow new side Mundford FC Ladies the early pace setters with Stalham Town Ladies and Beccles Town Ladies Development regrouping well after suffering relegation at the end of last season pushing hard along with FC Viking & Valkyries. Beccles losing their first league game of the season that day have since lost a bot of ground in the title battle yet with games in hand could force their way back into contention. Stalham Town Ladies losing just one this term taking over at the top 5 points clear of Bure Valley who have a game in hand. Shrublands Ladies too emerging as a dark horse up to 3rd off the back of 7 straight wins. All to play for with some big matches to come.

Bure Valley Ladies reforming a women’s side this season, having always had a strong youth set up. Ironically it was Beccles they were playing when I saw them back in 2018 at Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. That team eventually folding with there young players moving on to university and so forth. Back now with a vengeance taking the new 14 strong Norfolk Women’s Division Two by storm. Winning their opening 6 league matches before suffering their only league defeat of the season a 5-3 loss at home to Beccles. Another run o 6 wins following before playing out a 1-1 draw with fellow title contenders Mundford.

A highly positive return to the NWGFL, Bure Valley were 3-1 winners at Beccles just last Sunday to clinch a spot in this season’s League Plate final where they will face FC Viking & Valkyries on Sunday May 12th. Captain Emma Macmillan fast approaching 30 goals for the season with 29 currently to her name from 16 appearances, with Maisie Redgrave and Willow Nye scoring 17 and 16 respectfully. Giving them a healthy goal difference in the title contest with vital games against Stalham (twice) Shrublands, Mundford and today’s match against Beccles to come.

Beccles Town Ladies adding the Development part to their name to enable them to drop out of Division One where they struggled last season to regroup with a fresh group pf young players added to their squad. The development part of the club very much in mind in that thinking to better enable their players several stepping up from the U16s into the senior squad. Made a fantastic start to the season with 4 straight wins unbeaten going into the Christmas break, and with plenty of games in hand on those above them looked in a strong position to challenge in the new year.

Suffered their first loss of the season 2-0 away to Mundford and have since lost a 2nd to Shrublands seeing them fall back on the leading pack, yet with those games in hand and a very busy final few months of the season to come can certainly play their way back into contention and have a strong say in determining where the title might eventually go. Libby Elder top scorer with 13 goals to her name with Saffron Jones-Yates on target for 11 goals and Vicky Bloomfield on 10.

The Alan Hutchinson Filed home of Beccles Town FC the venue for this afternoon’s league encounter, the football club part of a multi sports facility on the outskirts of Beccles. Didn’t get lost coming to the ground this time despite the many road closures in the city. A good sized grass pitch offering lots of width. A covered stand with some seating on one side opposite with the tea hut open beside selling drinks and snacks. Getting tired of all this rain and it was yet another damp one with the rain blowing across the county over night into the morning. Not overly heavy just persistent unlikely to threaten the match and was suppose to blow over before kick-off but annoyingly lingered.

Beccles Town Ladies Development

Beccles Town Ladies Development starting XI – Anabel Outlaw, Emily Wilkinson, Evie Bailey, Georgia Tiffin (C), Lola Middlemass, Saffron Jones-Yates, Stevie Potter, Megan Sergeant, Tilly Bowen, Alesha Tuttle & Millie Reeve. Subs – Sophie Runnacles, Eliza Hanson, Phoebe Wakefield & Lauren Brewster.

Bure Valley Ladies

Bury Valley Ladies starting XI – Dannielle Barnes, Lily Norman, Madeline Frost, Jasmine Snelling, Abbie Cushion, Eva Heald, Megan Swain, Maisie Gibbs, Emma Macmillan (C), Willow Nye & Maisie Redgrave. Subs – Maddison Woodcock & Emily Addison.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Georgia Tiffin and Emma Macmillan walking out to meet this afternoon’s match official Tony Wickenden.

Three players in the Bure Valley squad who featured for the previous woman’s side, goalkeeper, Dannielle Barnes, Abbie Cushion and Maisie Gibbs (previously Redhead). Made use of the stand to keep my beleaguered camera out of the elements with a steady drizzly rain blowing across the pitch as captains, Georgia Tiffin (Beccles) and Emma Macmillan walked out onto the field to greet referee Tony Wickenden. Beccles to have the kick-off first half laying into the rain wearing white coloured shirts with black trim upon the shoulders and sleeves along with black shorts and socks. Bure Valley lined up opposite wearing navy coloured shirts with a red upper portion. navy shorts and red socks. The ball played back to Stevie Potter making her first start for Beccles, clips the ball out to the left for Megan Sergeant on the right, Madeline Frost dealing with it for Bure Valley.

GOAL! Bure Valley pour forwards with possession on the left Willow Nye getting hold of the ball driving inside across the top of the box and pulling the trigger shooting low across the keeper, Annabel Outlaw diving down to save at full stretch, getting her gloves to the ball knocked up, Maisie Redgrave racing in on the follow-up connecting with the loose ball to fire it past the keeper before she cane recover 0-1. Bure Valley taking the lead inside the opening minute.

Bure Valley celebrate their early goal, scorer Maisie Redgrave is there I promise just hidden…

.. there she is Maisie Redgrave

The visitors taking an early lead pressing on early in the match Nye lively out on the left in attack the ball lifted on for her to attack, Evie Bailey stretching to make the tackle at full back for Beccles. Bure Valley pushing on to regain possession cutting across the top of the area the low shot in towards goal gathered cleanly by Outlaw. Beccles needing an outlet get themselves a foot hold in the game have Megan Sergeant driving forwards on the left, Alesha Tuttle sending the ball out to the wing, Sergeant turns infield, closed down by Bure Valley’s Abbie Cushion.

Bure Valley captain, Emma Macmillan with the ball at her feet running on through the middle 25 yards out attempts to slide it into the path of Nye breaking into the area off the left channel, the pass a little too strong giving Outlaw time to get out to claim the ball first. Beccles captain Georgia Tiffin with a well timed tackle to deny Redgrave as she looks to take the ball on off a Maisie Gibbs pass into her from the right.

Beccles captain, Georgia Tiffin

Saffron Jones-Yates takes the ball forwards driving all the way into the Bure Valley area before being held up by defender Jasmine Snelling keeping possession looking for support Tuttle providing the run looks to tee her up on the penalty spot, Cushion sticking a foot out to take the ball away from her. The hosts with a period of sustained pressure around the Bure Valley box Millie Reeve winning her side a corner on the left.

Winning a throw high on the right taken quickly into Sergeant, the Beccles winger hooking a high ball on into the area, Tuttle looking to get it down, is tackled by Snelling the defender launching the ball clear. The width offered means both sides have space to attack if they can find their passes, Nye looking to get away on the left is keeping Bailey busy, Lola Middlemass coming across from the centre of defence to help her full back out.

Beccles defender, Evie Bailey

GOAL! Bure Valley comfortable on the counter to exploit either flank with Macmillan conjuring a goal out of nothing as she carries the ball out to the right down the line before shooting on the angle a venomous shot from distance that whips across the keeper into the back of the net at the far post to double the visitors lead 0-2.

Bure Valley captain, Emma Macmillan firing her side into a 2 goal lead

Two goals to the good inside the opening 10 minutes Bure Valley showing their intend right from the off. Beccles backs to the wall need to regroup quickly. Tuttle looking to take the game to Bure Valley on the charge through the centre with the ball at her feet, Snelling putting in the challenge as she arrives at the top of her area.

GOAL! Having conceded two quick goals at the start of the match Beccles get on the attack and find a welcome reply attacking up the left Jones-Yates with Reeve the ball crossed into the top of the Bure Valley area isn’t dealt with as it runs on for Tuttle who hits it first time sending a looping shot in high on goal dropping out of the grey sky goalkeeper Danielle Barnes back peddling struggling to reach it as it drops over her skimming the cross bar as it bounces down over the line 1-2.

Alesha Tuttle pulling a goal back for Beccles.

Game on Beccles pulling a goal back the ball rarely still, Megan Swain tackling in midfield for Bure Valley lifted on for Nye racing away on the left. Bailey getting back at her. Back in midfield Macmillan getting hold of the ball pushing left on for Nye down to the by-line Middlemass in to close her down gives away the free-kick outside the box. Taken by Macmillan driven into the side netting.

MacMillan runs in behind the defence to attack the ball as it rebounds into the area of a competitive midfield tussle, Outlaw comes out to close down the angle Macmillan stretching to lift the ball over the keeper, sees the ball bounce wide of the right post. Bure Valley lively turning play around Swain out to Nye on the left taking the ball in behind, Middlemass coming across to challenge put the ball out of play for a throw.

Bure Valley’s Willow Nye

Macmillan on the move with the ball out to the right linking up with Redgrave the shot on the angle claimed comfortably by Outlaw at her near post. Potter sending the ball through for Tuttle in attack driving out plays the pass wide for Sergeant up on the right, she swings a cross in along the top of the six yard box, Reeve can’t reach it cleared by Lily Norman for Bure Valley.

Tuttle coming inside from the left 25 yards out for Beccles fires a low drive wide of Barnes’ left post. Sergeant taking the ball on from Bailey up the right for Beccles travelling into the corner, Frost staying on her the full back, blocking her cross the ball behind for a corner. The ball delivered into the near side Tuttle looking to bring it down and shoot from six yards out sees her effort blocked by a combination of defender and goalkeeper before Barnes drops down to smother the ball end the move.

Bure Valley quick to get the ball down the other end stretch play Redgrave on the right downing well to win her side a corner kick. Taken short Nye back to the taker lifted back in Beccles clearing back to the right, Bure Valley with players up pressing the ball fired in near post Redgrave looking to attack it, Outlaw though close in to grab hold of the ball. The game open at times one moment Beccles are on the attack, Bure Valley a threat on the counter. Cushion intercepting at the ball as Tuttle looks to put Sergeant on behind.

Nye and Redgrave swapping flanks for Bure Valley, Beccles making a change off comes reeve on comes Phoebe Wakefield. Bure Valley also making a change bringing on Emily Addison the 16 year old making her debut replacing Nye. Bure Valley winning a corner on the right into the area put back to the corner taker lifted back into the area headed clear by Middlemass back out to the right before a shot is fired in on the angle wide at the near post.

Beccles midfielder, Stevie Potter

Bure Valley making a 2nd switch bringing on Maddison Woodcock with Gibbs coming off. Potter taking the ball forwards through the middle for Beccles played on for Sergeant pulling into the box right of goal seeing the ball across her path fires her cross/shot behind at the near post. Bure Valley patrolling down the right the cross clipped in high into the area, Outlaw has to come for it with Redgrave making a run for the ball, knocks it behind for a corner.

Megan Sergeant

The in swinging delivery defended at the near pot by Wilkinson behind for a 2nd corner. Beccles dealing with the threat looking to get forwards late in the first half Jones-Yates on for Sergeant pushing up the right, Cushion across to put in the challenge for Bure Valley. Bailey does well in defence for Beccles up against Redgrave top of the area as she looks to get onto a superb flick on from MacMillan off a Barnes free-kick.

Megan Swain with Megan Sergeant

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies Development 1-2 Bury Valley Ladies

An entertaining first 45 minutes draws to a close with Bure Valley holding a 2-1 lead over Beccles as the two sides gather by their respective dug-outs for the interval. Bure Valley racing into the lead 1 up inside the opening minutes threatening to turn the screw as they quickly made it 2. Beccles under the cosh fought back well getting a goal back quickly to settle the ship, the game opened up after that. Bure Valley seeing more of the ball not capitalising with Beccles having a couple of good opportunities up the other end. Just a goal in it still all to play for.

A shortened half-time break with the teams keen to get on with it the rain starting to ease up, not that it’s been pouring, just a persistent drizzle. Changes at the break, positional as well as personnel. Eliza Hanson on for Beccles replacing Potter going to the left. Bure Valley to get the 2nd half underway with Nye back on the field for Norman. Swain with the ball forwards for Macmillan, Tuttle in to close her down get possession for the hosts, looks for Hanson out on the left, drops her shoulder to drive on down the wing, Frost lunging in with the challenge to send the ball out for a throw.

Beccles looking to be aggressive at the start of the 2nd period get the ball out to the flanks attack the area, Hanson sending a high ball in on the angle to the far post, Woodcock under pressure from Wakefield doing well in defence to clear for the visitors. Jones-Yates coming left has Wakefield moving into the channel the pass played into her Frost tackling to deflect the ball out for a throw.

Beccles, Eliza Hanson

The steady rain making the pitch and the ball slick as Swain slips as she winds up a strike from range her effort from all of 25 yards out bouncing up as it arrives at Outlaw the keeper mishandling it to see the ball run behind for a corner kick. The corner flashed into the six yard box rebounds of a couple of players before running behind a goal kick signalled.

Beccles break through the middle Tuttle carrying the threat on the ball lifting it out to the right for Sergeant looking to run in behind, Wakefield with her the ball played into the area just out of Wakefield’s reach, Frost the last defender has to get there and takes the ball away from the attacker to kill off the threat. Beccles pushing on the right Bowen into Sergeant the cross into the area cleared by Barnes.

Bure Valley goalkeeper, Danielle Barnes

GOAL! Bure Valley win the ball at the back come on down the left Nye taking on possession powering her way up the pitch turning inside 25 yards out playing the ball into the area looking for Redgrave central, Middlemass getting a toe on the ball as Outlaw comes rushing out to claim the ball knocked away from her out to Addison top of the D, keeps her composure to lift the ball back in over the stranded keeper and defence to plant the ball into the back of net, celebrates as she mark her debut with a goal 1-3.

Emily Addison scoring on her Bure Valley debut

Bure Valley winning the ball in midfield Swain linking up with Macmillan the ball threaded on into the area Redgrave the target, looking to connect with it, Wilkinson back peddling doing well to trap the ball between her feet dig out the clearance for Beccles. Macmillan looking dangerous for Bure Valley every time she sees the ball into her feet and travels forwards, attempts to pick out Addison on the move up the right, Tiffin cutting out the pass for Beccles.

Frost coming on up the right for Bure Valley with Swain ahead of her taking the ball to the by-line works the cross into the six yard box, Outlaw claiming it high. Hanson pushed over on the left winning Beccles a free-kick, players forwards into the area as Tuttle sends it in for post, a corner won. Whipped in low to the near post from the left, Barnes dropping forwards onto it to claim.

Nye moving with the ball at her feet on the left checks inside as she arrives in the box stabbing it inside for Redgrave, taken off her toes by Tiffin, the loose ball runs straight to Swain 25 yards out sends the dipping shot in straight at Outlaw but skipping up viciously as she goes down to gather does well to adjust pluck it back down and grab.

Beccles goalkeeper, Annabel Outlaw

Beccles regain possession on the left as Wilkinson steps in to tackle Addison the ball lifted on for Hanson who sends a cross field ball on looking to release Jones-Yates bombing on through the middle, the hosts frustrated as the attack is halted by an offside flag.

GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half Bure Valley are looking strong going forwards, swain and Macmillan providing strong back up for the attacking trio, Macmillan with the ball in the left channel powers forwards coming inside the D, getting the ball onto her right foot, connects with the strike to rifle her shot into the top corner 1-4.

Emma Macmillan about to pull the trigger to make it 4-1 to Bure Valley

Beccles falling a further goal behind remain positive looking to get the ball forwards Tuttle with Jones-Yates clipped out to Sergeant on the right wing takes the ball to the by-line her cross stabbed in towards goal, Barnes dropping to claim doesn’t get hold of it loose in front of goal Bailey’s shot is charged down.

Outlaw needs to make the claim take the ball high inside her six yard box as Macmillan lifts the cross in from the left, Addison ready for any mistake, Outlaw takes it cleanly. A pause while an injury is dealt with Beccles make a change bringing off Bailey on comes Sophie Runnacles at right back. Middlemass intercepting at the back as Swain slides the ball on through the middle.

Norman back on for Bure Valley on the right of defence intercepts as Middlemass looks for Hanson on the left. Beccles winning a free-kick on half way play up to Tuttle outside the box looks the bring the ball down off her chest and hit on the volley as she turns her shot dipping but straight at the keeper, easy for Barnes.

Beccles making a double change bringing off Jones-Yates and Hanson, on come Lola Brewster and Reeve. The game moving into the final 15 minutes. Heald on for Swain out to Addison wide right into the corner her cross lifted into the box cleared by Outlaw punching the ball away with Gibbs making a run to the back post.

Tuttle with a pop from distance, saved by Barnes. Sergeant up on the right for Beccles winning a corner. The in swinging ball cleared out of the six yard box back to the corner taker, the return ball into Tuttle near side sends her shot wide. Snelling up to head the ball clear top of her area as Sergeant crosses from the right. The game stretched Bure Valley pressing forwards comes right Addison crossing low into the box, Redgrave looking to attack it Tiffin defending for Beccles.

Madeline Frost coming forwards for Bure Valley

Heald on for Macmillan through the middle Bure Valley’s captain letting fly from 25 yards out her effort bouncing just in front of the keeper, Outlaw down to gather has it safely in her grasp. Frost coming on well with the ball for Bure Valley on the left late in the game her cross aimed into Redgrave on the penalty spot cut out by Middlemass.

Macmillan taking the ball forwards strong on for Redgrave into the box, just over runs it allowing Wilkinson to nick it and clear for Beccles. The hosts willing to give it a go late on press on Brewster with the ball forwards into Wakefield, Gibbs tackling for Bure Valley the visitors quick to counter, Addison through to attack the box a vital interception from Tiffin.

Megan Swain with the incoming tackle on Lola Brewster

Swain with the tackle on Brewster to keep her side in possession inside their opponents half Addison on the right crossing into the area Redgrave attacking it six out, Outlaw with the blocking save the ball rolling out to Macmillan outside the area, looks to curl a shot back in, Outlaw across to claim it safely. Tiffin across to tackle Addison as Swain looks to send her in on the right wing. Outlaw claiming the cross inside her six yard box off the resulting throw.

Bure Valley looking for a 5th goal late in the match pushing players on Norman joining the attack on the left her looping cross into the area dealt with by Middlemass. Time for one last Beccles attack as the ball is sent on the diagonal out to Sergeant on the right, joined by Wakefield the cross angled in at the near post can be seen safely out of play by Barnes.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies Development 1-4 Bury Valley Ladies

Bure Valley celebrate at the final whistle winning another 3 points the 2nd placed side keeping the pressure on leaders Stalham Town the gap still 5 points with their title opponents winning 3-2 away to Mundford this afternoon. With a game in hand on Stalham and yet to play them this season, have two crucial games to look forwards too. Bure Valley on top right from the off this afternoon, racing forwards to take the lead inside the opening minute quickly adding a 2nd, Beccles needed a response and Alesha Tuttle provided it pulling it back to 2-1 created chances after that yet Bure Valley carried a threat all game. Beccles wanting to make a positive start to the 2nd half attacking yet they were to fall a further goal behind, Emily Addison scoring on her debut before Macmillan rifled in her 2nd of the match to make it 4-1.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. There’s more often than not several contenders, but I’d be lying if that was the case today still some performances of note to mention first. For Beccles, Lola Middlemass made a number of vital challenges at the back limiting Bure Valley’s opportunities from inside the box. Megan Sergeant got forwards well on the right as ready outlet for the hosts throughout the match. Alesha Tuttle looking to make thing’s happen for Beccles got forwards well with some determined running took her goal well. For Bure Valley, Willow Nye was a danger attacking on the left and right, as was Maisie Redgrave playing wide and through the middle 2nd half. Emily Addison making an impact on her debut. Megan Swain strong in the middle tackling and coming forwards with the ball. Today’s award though goes to Bure Valley’s captain Emma Macmillan. Ran the show getting hold of the ball driving forwards creating chances for herself and setting up other, two superb goals.

An entertaining contest today between two young talented sides that are only going to get better. Enjoyed my visit over to Beccles, long for a dry game but then so do we all. Good to catch up with both sides, my thanks for all their help today and I will be as intrigued as anyone to see how the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table finishes up.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Mundford FC Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies Development

Sunday 14th Jan

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

A short trip this Sun day to watch a top of the table clash form Norfolk Women’s Division Two. An exciting title race emerging as we enter the 2nd half of the season. 4 sides making a strong start to the season with 3 tied at the top on 24 points, it’s to one of those I travel today, Mundford FC Ladies as they take on 4th placed Beccles Town Ladies Development hot on the heels of the leading trio.

A host of new sides joining the NWGFL this season with Costessey Sports Ladies going straight into Division One and 8 others joining Division Two seeing it grow to 14 sides. A large league with plenty of fixtures to cram into the season, newcomers Bure Valley Women and Mundford FC Ladies hitting the ground running with Stalham Town Ladies relegated from Division One last season all vying for top spot level on points with identical records having played 9, won 8 with just the one defeat. Behind them with games in hand a new look Beccles Town Ladies side undefeated to date having won 6 of their 8 matches played to date. Some big fixtures at the top of the table to come.

Mundford FC Ladies formed over the summer, joint mangers Rob Johnstone and Dan Ellis recruiting players from the area to compliment the core of players joining from the Thetford Bulldogs playing in Division Two last season. Started the season with a 10-0 away win away to fellow league newcomers Martham FC Ladies with a further 4 wins on the spin to propel them to the top of the league before suffering their only league defeat to date away to fellow title chasers Stalham Town Ladies. Bounced back to win the following 3 league games scoring 19 goals along the away while keeping 3 consecutive clean sheets. Livvi Hodges top scoring so far this season netting 18 goals in 10 matches with Ellen Kerbey on target for 9 goals and Lauren Roberts scoring 8.

A new look Beccles Town Ladies to compete in Division Two last season, a new era with Alan Runnacles stepping down as coach, The club loosing a lot of their experienced players as they struggled for points in Division one last season. With a handful of last season’s players left and the club bringing through several of their U16s players they weren’t keen on staying in Division One which was a proposal with the new leagues taking shape this season. With a young squad coaches Konner Carter and Gary Elder going straight into women’s football set up with a new title effectively as Beccles Town Ladies Development.

A wise call in my opinion having seen how tough life in Division One can be for a young side as others have suffered in the past. That said Beccles have began life in Division Two well, the only undefeated side winning 6 of their 8 matches played including wins against title chasers Bure Valley and Stalham Town Ladies. Have a lot of football to play with just 8 of their proposed 26 games played to date haven’t played for 7 weeks for various reasons and have a busy 2nd half of the season to come. Libby Elder top scorer with 10 goals from 8 matches while Vicky Bloomfield and Alisha Tuttle have 7 each.

The Glebe, the venue for today’s match home of Mundford FC situated beside the cricket ground just off the A134. For once a game I can travel to in under 20 minutes. The changing rooms situated by the carpark leading out to some grass training pitches with the main grass pitch and stadium further down by the road. Railing all around a small terraced stand behind the dugouts housing a tea hut serving hot drinks. The cold weather blowing in overcast with a few spots of rain in the air with the sun doing it’s best to break through which setting low behind one goal might pose some issues.

Mundford FC Ladies

Mundford FC Ladies starting XI – Sharn Thompson, Sophia Price, Kiara Dale, Beth Seymour, Ruby Wilson, Tiff Seymour, Iris Jaggard, Gabi Varanaiciute, Stevie Malkinson, Ellen Kerbey & Lauren Roberts. Subs – Lynn Fuller, Amber Briggs, Jess Todd & Shae Malkinson.

Beccles Town Ladies Development

Beccles Town Ladies Development starting XI – Annabel Outlaw, Kelly Collins (C), Sally Schug, Lola Middlemass, Evie Bailey, Megan Sergeant, Vicky Bloomfield, Millie Reeve, Libby Elder, Alesha Tuttle & Marie Carter. Subs – Georgia Tiffin, Saffron Jones-Yates, Erica Hansen, Sophie Runnacles & Emily Wilkinson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Kelly Collins and Gabi Varanaiciute with match referee Tom Miles

Mundford to get the match underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Beccles captained by Kelly Collins who has plenty of experience playing in the NWGFL for both Beccles and Bungay lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black trim, black shorts and socks. The ball played back to Ruby Wilson in defence she sends it long up the right for Stevie Malkinson to attack, Marie Carter clearing for Beccles at the back

Evie Bailey gathering the ball in the middle for Beccles getting on the move looking to end it on for Millie Reeve looking to get in behind on the right flank, Mundford captain Gabi Varanaiciute sticking out a timely leg to intercept the ball to prevent Reeve racing clear. Beccles temporally down to 10, someone forgetting (I won’t mention who) to put their shin pads on. Beccles lively in the opening exchanges pressing the ball in the final third Alesha Tuttle up with Evie Bailey top of the D the snapshot flashed in wide of the right post.

Pushed up Beccles pressing the advantage on Mundford’s goal kicks winning the ball clipped in from the right, Wilson stepping out of the backline to win the challenge clear the ball for the hosts. Mundford yet to get the ball into their opponents half as a Beccles cross from the right is deflected behind for a corner. The in swinging delivery into the six yard box claimed confidently by Mundford goalkeeper, Sharn Thompson.

At last Mundford get hold of the ball in the middle and attack with purpose, Ellen Kerbey carrying the ball on before laying on on for Malkinson running clear wide on the right gets her foot over the ball to lift a cross in towards the near side of the Beccles goal, Lauren Roberts trying to adjust to get her head to the ball as it drops slightly behind her, the chance gone as the Beccles defence scramble it away for a throw. Beccles winning a series of throws up the left side of the pitch win a free-kick inside the Mundford half, wide to the left a good way out midfielder Vicky Bloomfield over it goes for goal, not a bad strike plenty of power behind the ball just too high as it flies over Thompson’s crossbar.

Beccles midfielder, Vicky Bloomfield

Iris Jaggard getting hold of the ball for Mundford in the middle linking up with Kerbey the ball forwards for Malkinson breaking on the right pace to get herself ahead of the Beccles defence, lets fly from all of 30 yards out, a low strike racing into the near post, Beccles goalkeeper Annabel Outlaw has her angles covered gets down to see the ball into her body. Both sides looking to get rid of the ball getting players turned run at the defence.

A hopeful clearance from the Beccles defence sees the ball launched forwards with Libby Elder looking to break clear race after it into the box, Thompson though alert out to the top of her area quickly to get to the ball first. Roberts playing the ball into Malkinson’s path 30 yards out from goal, takes a wicked bobble as she goes to strike it, half catching the ball her shot swerves well wide of Outlaw’s left post. After a slow start Mundford are gathering a head of steam building through the middle looking to get players forwards en masse.

Mundford’s turn to capitalise from a poor goal kick won on the right by Roberts has Malkinson up with her tracking wide to cross the ball back into the area a vital interception by Collins to clear the ball for the visitors. The Beccles defence pushed up Mundford regain possession central look to turn play around lifted on for Roberts driving on through the middle, Lola Middlemass racing back with her doing the defending prodding the ball back to her keeper Outlaw to clear.

Beccles Lola Middlemass

The game even now Beccles making a change bringing Cater off on comes, Sophie Runnacles. Middlemass back to defend inside the box for Beccles as Malkinson attacks down the right the cross put behind for a corner kick. Lifted in towards Kerbey coming towards the ball from the near post knocked up into the air, Beccles rush in to try and scramble the ball away falls to Malkinson outside the area to the right of goal, strikes the ball her shot racing wide of the far post.

Mundford’s Ellen Kerbey

Beccles clearances from the back looking a promising form of attack as they turn the Mundford defence caught high, Elder right channel after the ball, Beth Seymour recovering well for the hosts getting back at Elder to slide in with the tackle the ball deflected off Elder for the goal kick. Reeve attacking with the ball on Beccles right wing squares a cross in towards to D, the foul won to the right of goal as Elder is brought down 20 yards out. Bloomfield over the set-piece, over cooks it this time sending the shot high over the bar.

Beccles, Libby Elder

Emily Wilkinson coming on at the back for Beccles, replacing Reeve. The game a more even contest now, Mundford with more possession central pushing players on, Beccles lively capable of launching a quick counter. Kerbey’s run clear on the left side halted by the offside flag, as Jaggard plays the ball through to her, a very tight call. Jaggard fouling Bloomfield 25 yards out from goal as she looks to shift the ball onto her right foot to shoot. Bloomfield picking herself up to take the free-kick strikes it wide of goal.

Mundford come through the middle, Tiff Seymour with Roberts threaded through to Kerbey pulling off the Beccles defence into the area left of the D aiming to send her low shot back across the keeper, Outlaw get down smartly to make the save. Mundford pressing the attack getting players up to press the ball high, Malkinson from the angle right of the box flashing a shot wide across goal.

Beccles goalkeeper, Annabel Outlaw

Beccles making another switch sending Saffron Jones-Yates on replacing Elder. Outlaw with an unorthodox save with her legs as she throws herself forwards to stop the cross from Malkinson chipped in from the right. Collins does well at the back for Beccles tackling Roberts as the striker turns to attack drive at the box from 25 yards out as she receives the off a throw from the left. Roberts in again to attack the area central as she runs onto a through ball, Wilkinson racing back with her the defender seeing Roberts shoot over.

Mundford strong as they advance through the middle the ball lifted out to Malkinson on the right her cross lifted into the area, Middlemass tracking back well there to intercept the ball ahead of Roberts lining up to attack the ball. Beth Seymour rushing across to tackle Jones-Yates in the box as she breaks into the area from the right a strong challenge as Jones-Yates goes over but well timed no penalty.

Bailey coming out to the right for Beccles whipping a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Beth Seymour cutting it out at the near post behind for a corner. Played in towards the top of the area, Beccles lose possession Mundford countering, Middlemass tracking back to defend conceding a corner up the other end. Beccles with a player down needing treatment as Mundford make a change bringing of Varanaiciute for Jessica Todd. Swung in near side Outlaw comes for the ball and misses it, falls unexpectedly at Kerbey’s feet, little time to adjust, knocks it into Todd in close proximity who fires over from close range.

Elder back on for Beccles, races forwards to attack the ball right channel, Kiara Dale coming across to slide in clear the threat for the hosts. Jaggard coming off for Mundford with Lynn Fuller entering the game. The clock ticking down in the first half a competitive tussle Beccles bringing Reeve back on for Sergeant. Bailey on the right for Beccles up with Tuttle who shoots over from 25 yards out. Beccles finding some extra energy late in the half pressing forwards Bailey winning a free-kick inside the Mundford half to the right, Bloomfield to float the ball in towards the top of the area the shot taken from the left of the D blasted wide across goal.

Sally Schug clearing the ball for Beccles

Into stoppage time, Dale winning the ball at the back for Mundford carrying it forwards before threading a great ball through the middle for Roberts to attack racing on towards the area Collins tracking back with her the striker looks to chip the ball over the keeper, not enough on it however as Outlaw standing tall plucks the ball down to make the save.

Lauren Roberts seeing her stoppage time shot saved by the goalkeeper.

GOAL! Deep into first half stoppage time Mundford coming away with the ball wide left on halfway knocked forwards into Roberts up top runs onto the ball left of goal into the box, Collins going with her the attacker makes no mistake this time as she goes to chip the keeper, Outlaw agonisingly getting her fingertips to it but not enough to stop the ball traveling beyond her into the back of the net 1-0.

Lauren Roberts opens the scoring for Mundford right at the end of the first half.

Half-time Mundford FC Ladies 1-0 Beccles Town Ladies Development

Mundford with the goal late in the first half to go into the half-time interval leading the game. Finishing the half strong after an unsettled start that saw Beccles press the advantage in the opening exchanges putting pressure on the ball in the final 3rd. Took their foot off the gas to allow Mundford to gain some momentum with some strong runs through the middle the hosts creating a few opportunities while Beccles defended well at the back looking a threat on the counter with a couple of half chances themselves. A blow to concede so late in the half some adjustments to be made at the break to get themselves back into the match, a single goal in it still very much all to play for.

Georgie Tiffin coming on for Beccles at the start of the 2nd half with a quick turn around with both sides staying out on the pitch during the break. Beccles to get the 2nd half underway the promise of a little sun having gone the cloud cover firmly in place the ball clipped long out to the right bouncing on sees Bailey spin in behind looking to get after the ball into the box, Thompson rushing out to the corner of her area sliding in well to make the blocking save.

Mundford goalkeeper Sharn Thompson

Malkinson bringing the ball out to the right for Mundford winning a free-kick. The ball chipped into the near post, dealt with by Outlaw.

Stevie Malkinson taking the ball on for Mundford

GOAL! The Mundford backline pushed up to half way as Beth Seymour gets hold of the ball surges forwards before knocking it wide to Malkinson, continuing her run pointing to Malkinson to lift the ball over the top as she powers in behind the Beccles defence running onto the pass taking the ball wide down to the by-line running out of room wraps her foot around the ball as she slides onto it sending a venomous ball past the keeper into the goal beyond to double Mundford’s lead 2-0.

Beth Seymour breaking forwards to score Mundford’s 2nd goal

Beccles quickly conceding a 2nd goal early in the 2nd half look for a reply Tuttle holding onto the ball as she brings it on central played on for Reeve, who crosses the ball in towards, Jones-Yates top of the D, Tiff Seymour stepping in to cut the pass out clear for Mundford. Tuttle making some useful runs with the ball for Beccles driving on into the right channel tackled by Mundford’s Fuller.

Alesha Tuttle on the attack for Beccles

Beth Seymour covering a lot of ground at the back for Mundford coming across to tackle Reeve as she attacks with the ball left corner, taking it out for a throw in. Mundford imposing themselves on the game getting after the ball. Sergeant returning to the action for the visitors replacing Reeve. Bailey on the right with Sergeant who knocks the ball forwards a little too much on it but does well to pressure the defence win a corner kick. The in swinging ball flashed across the face of goal through every one Bloomfield lunging at it far post but can’t turn it home as it goes out for a goal kick.

Tiff Seymour with the ball at her feet bringing it on through the middle laying it out to Malkinson moving right looking to turn into the box, Middlemass getting back to challenge stabbing the ball behind for a corner. Beccles frustrated a Tuttle looking to evade Tiff Seymour as she looks to get away on the right gives away the free-kick the bench unhappy with the decision. Tempers flaring between the coaches as Dale comes in with a strong challenge winning the ball between the dugouts a few words exchanged the referee looking to calm thing’s down, Malkinson however says one thing too many and as a consequence is shown the yellow card and sent to the sin bin.

Mundford down to 10 players for the next 10 minutes. Beccles making a change bringing Wilkinson back on for Hansen. Beccles need to settle if they are to try and press the player advantage however they give away a free-kick inside their own half to the left of the centre circle, the ball angled n towards goal dipping in front of the keeper, Outlaw does well to save getting down to punch the ball away to her right, the ball cleared.

The hosts winning another free-kick wide on the right, struck in towards the far post Todd 10 yards out knocking the ball up back in towards goal Roberts going up for it with the keeper, fouling Outlaw as she gets her gloves on the falling ball. Amber Briggs coming on for Mundford replacing Todd. The game scrappy the ball pinging about in the middle of the park. Beccles bringing Elder back on for Tiffin.

Beccles getting players forwards, Bailey out on the right laying the ball back for Sergeant to cross in near post Collins bringing the ball down turning to send her strike over the bar. Malkinson’s 10 minutes up she returns to the game Mundford back up to their full compliment.

Beccles winning a corner on the right played short into Tuttle, looks to turn inside but is closed down by Price the ball cleared. Malkinson coming off now with Varanaiciute back on.

Beccles applying some pressure as Mundford drop back into their area playing the ball across the area Tuttle lively looking to make something happen the ball struck wide from 20 yards out. Wilson playing the ball long from the back helped on through the middle for Kerbey pulling left with Roberts the back cut back into the middle for Tiff Seymour getting up to join the attack, Middlemass out to close her down for Beccles.

Mundford attacking left price on for Roberts to turn and strike the ball on the angle racing in low to the near post, Outlaw behind the shot to make the comfortable save. A free-kick for Beccles a good 40 yards out, Bloomfield can get some power behind the ball as she tries her luck from range the ball running wide of Thompson’s left post. The game moving into the final 10 minutes, Beccles pushing on trying to find an opening Mundford settled at the back working well together to limit openings.

Tuttle evading a challenge wide on the left taking the ball on for Beccles Hansen back on ahead of her crossing inside for Wilkinson top of the area left of the D looks to play it forwards for Elder, Beth Seymour though can get across the path of the ball to shield it out safely for a goal kick.

Play stopped Beccles having had a player go down unexpectedly off the ball, concern as she lays unmoving as teammates and coaches rush onto the pitch. Appears to have fainted a pause in play as she is accessed and eventually helped of the pitch carried to the bench somewhat groggy, hoping it’s nothing too serious as play resumes Beccles bringing Runnacles and Reeve back on, Hansen also coming off. Mundford bringing Shae Malkinson on for Briggs.

The clock ticking down Beccles pushing on a little disjointed with players out of position as they look to pressure the Mundford defence late on try and take something from the game. Sergeant getting hold of the ball 25 yards out driving on into the area, Beth Seymour stretching to tackle her winning the ball. Launched up to Roberts has Kerbey up in support as they look to keep the ball in their opponents half with the referee signalling the game has entered stoppage time.

Tuttle running onto the ball played out to the right inside looking for Elder, Wilson challenging to clear the ball for Mundford as the final whistle blows and Mundford celebrate winning the 3 points. The result taking them 3 points clear of 3rd placed Stalham Town who were in county cup action this afternoon, remain neck and neck with Bure Valley Women who won 1-0 away to SWFC Lingwood Ladies.

Full time Mundford FC Ladies 2-0 Beccles Town Ladies Development

Two goals either side of half-time the difference between the sides in the finish. Mundford recovering after a slow start to create opportunities in the first half. Lauren Roberts played trough into the box to score in first half stoppage time and despite goalkeeper Sharn Thompson being called into action early in the 2nd half Beth Seymour broke forwards to score a wonderful goal to put the hosts 2-0 early in the 2nd half. Mundford settled back then comfortable defending their lead working hard to ensure a 4th consecutive clean sheet. Beccles frustrated as they suffer their first league defeat despite a strong start to the game and some promising attacks didn’t really get at Mundford 2nd half and will be looking to put things right next weekend as they host Mundford in the return fixture.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. Rarely an easy decision although I did have a strong favourite in mind as I left the ground today and the notes only confirm that. Several strong performances to mention first though. For Beccles. Alesha Tuttle was good in attack making some strong runs with the ball looking to take the game to Mundford bring her teammates into contention. Emily Wilkinson and Kelly Collins making some vital challenges at the back getting back to win the ball. Lola Middlemass superb covering the ground in the middle and getting back to help the defence. For Mundford, Lauren Roberts made some great attacking runs strong on and off the ball scoring the opening goal. Stevie Malkinson providing a great outlet attacking down the right flank. The back line strong, Ruby Wilson and Kiara Dale with some great interception and tackles the award though goes to Beth Seymour was strong at the back getting back to make some well timed tackles covering the ground well the icing on the cake her burst forwards to score the 2nd goal.

Great to catch a top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division Two remains an exciting title race. My first look at both sides in competitive action and both look in great shape. Mundford with a good setup with a decent squad. Beccles with plenty of youthful talent in their ranks too will only get better as they grow as a team. My thanks to both for their help today and wishing Beccles poorly player all the best for a speedy recovery

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Blofield United Ladies

Sunday 12th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Football action from Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday on Women’s Football East with now side Blofield United Ladies amongst those challenging for the title travelling to play an in form North Walsham Angels Ladies in 6th.

Visiting the league earlier this year there was an intriguing tussle going on at the top of the table with up to 6 sides in a position to mount a title challenge. One of those has very sadly since withdrawn from the league Gorleston FC Ladies their results and points for and against removed. Can only hope we will see Gorleston back in the league soon. The table adjusted as a result sees the other 5 sides still in contention with 7 points between them KLSC FC Women back on top, however a new side has emerged that could yet put the cat amongst the pigeons picking up some great results against the top 5 in recent games.

That side is North Walsham Angels Ladies currently 6th 2 points behind Aylsham FC Women in 5th. In form a run of 5 straight wins pushing them into contention, after a slow start to the season that saw just 4 points picked up from their opening 5 games. Follows a particularly difficult season up in Division One where they were to struggle not pick up a single point. That season seeing the Norfolk league originally go with 3 Divisions but subsequent withdrawals seeing this becoming increasingly impractical a vote was held to make it 2 divisions and what was division two then was split in two with 4 sides ‘promoted’ to Division One. North Walsham quick to jump on my choice of words with a young side weren’t ready to go up and it showed. A tough season in which the club could have folded but bringing in some of their u16s have stuck together for a renewed campaign in Division Two.

4 points from their opening 5 matches, returning to league action at the start of February after a series of cup matches North Walsham picked up a fantastic result away from home beating high flying Mulbarton Belles Ladies Development 2-1 to kick start a 5 game winning streak which included 1-0 away to another pair amongst the title contenders Thorpe St Andrew Women and Aylsham FC Women last Sunday. 4 clean sheets in a row too, Stella Fletcher-Helps their top scorer with 6 goals

Blofield United Ladies making the step up from youth to women’s football this season. Can be a big jump with players eligible from 16 onwards. Hit the ground running chasing KLSC FC Women as one of the early pace setters 5 wins and a draw from their opening 6 league matches before a 3-2 loss at home to Thorpe St Andrew Women before returning to winning ways. Back to back defeats against fellow title contenders 1-2 and 1-5 at home to Mulbarton Belles Ladies and KLSC FC Women respectfully seeing them drop to 4th, remain in a very good position with the top six proving they are all capable of taking points off each other will be an interesting end to the season for sure. Bailey Duffield the 3rd highest scorer in the league netting 17 goals for Blofield United from 10 appearances.

North Walsham Town FC the venue for todays game, and despite seeing North Walsham Angels a few times over their tenure is the first trip to the stadium. Grass pitches leading into the stadium itself a small clubhouse and compact pitch. The decision taken early with the poor weather forecast not to play on the main pitch despite it looking in good nick. The game instead on the main grass pitch leading into the ground a decent sized pitch if a little bobbly in places. Exposed to the elements a stiff wind blowing across the pitch but thankfully the forecast improving leading into the weekend across the East at least very few call offs in the finish. A warm and dry afternoon getting away with it so far this winter.

North Walsham Angels Ladies

North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI – Rio Dobbie, Grace Monsey, Paige Samwell, Tanisha Grayling, Elise Carroll, Maddy Welton, Sophie Hall (C), Fiona Swanson, Rhiannon Holt, Lucy Taylor & Stella Fletcher-Helps. Subs – Gracie East, Holly Murphy, Grace Walker, Leah Carroll & Kiera Brown.

Blofield United Ladies

Blofield United Ladies starting XI – Jessica Luff, Laureena Reid, Sophie Crowle, Freya Stewart-Miles, Jade Copeman (C), Darcey Peters, Lucy Schug, Lauren Monument, Elise Downer, Scarlett Royden & Lola Eadie. Subs – Bethany Freestone, Lola Hallam & Bethany Williams.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Sophie Hall and Jade Copeman with referee Michael Clark

A decent sized pitch but it could have done with the white lines refreshing as they hard to pitch out, nevertheless everyone’s rearing to go, North Walsham wearing black and white vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks with the wind at their backs to a degree, with Blofield kicking off the 1st half wearing red shirts with black across the shoulders and sleeves, red shorts and socks. Played back to the defence at the start put forwards into midfield, Maddy Welton snapping in to win it for North Walsham, the ball cleared by Blofield long out to the left for Scarlett Royden to attack, Paige Samwell at full back dealing with the ball for North Walsham.

North Walsham with a throw won high on the right the ball into Fiona Swanson crossed into Stella Fletcher-Helps top of the box to the right of goal, bobbling up before the striker her touch heavy the ball turned into the area snatched up by Blofield goalkeeper, Jessica Luff before Fletcher-Helps can adjust. North Walsham quickly onto the front foot pressing players forwards, Grace Monsey bombing on from left back taking the ball on all the way to the by-line before cutting the cross back in along the top of the area, Lucy Taylor central passing it out to the right for Swanson, Samwell up in support plays it inside for captain Sophie Hall, looks to thread it through to Fletcher-Helps breaking in at the far post, Luff across her goal well able to scoop the ball up into gloves first.

North Walsham’s Grace Monsey

No one afforded any time on the ball two sides that are intent on keeping the ball on the move makes for a frantic pace players rushing in to close down no time allowed to pick a pass. Darcey Peters closing down to take the ball on putting it onto Royden’s path, Elise Carroll challenging for North Walsham at the back the counter attack sprung as Hall comes away with the ball left side sending it on for Rhiannon Holt up the wing, curls the ball in towards goal, bouncing safely into Luff’s hands.

Holt getting some joy on the left the ball sent into her path the winger driving on for the by-line before checking back into the box striking a low shot in on the angle across goal, Luff down well to save. Holt on the attack again moments later the ball put into by Hall down the line her cross floated into the box, Lucy Schug heading clear for Blofield.

Darcey Peters for Blofield tackling North Walsham’s Lucy Taylor

Peters battling for possession in the middle for Blofield brings the ball on picking out Royden in the left channel, bursts forwards, Samwell lunging in to tackle for North Walsham. North Walsham getting themselves a free-kick to the left of goal 30 plus yards out, Holt over the ball takes on the shot but with the wind coming across the pitch the shot is pulled wide of the near post.

North Walsham’s Rhiannon Holt

A busy opening 10 minutes can’t take your eyes off it for a moment both sides continuing to rush into the ball get it moving, pinging around in the middle pops loose for Fletcher-Helps central to turn and drive at the Blofield defence, Sophie Crowle forcing her to go right, as Schug closes in to tackle. Peters getting about in the centre of the park for Blofield winning the ball pushing it into Royden and running forwards to receive the return pass, attempts the diagonal pass for Lola Eadie out to the right, the offside flag going up against her.

Peters in the middle tackling the ball won, Lauren Monument up with her lifting the ball on for Eadie pulling away from the defence right side, North Walsham goalkeeper quickly out to the edge of her box to claim the ball. Hall strong to win the ball in the middle for North Walsham playing it forwards for Fletcher-Helps pulling into the left channel taking the ball in behind into the box left of goal pulls her shot wide of the near post. Crowle appears to have picked up a knock for Blofield and needs to come off, Blofield making their 1st change bringing on Lola Hallam.

Lauren Monument clearing the ball for Blofield

Fletcher-Helps has her heels clipped as she breaks away on the left side, Hall over the set-piece for North Walsham 30 yards out flighted into the box towards the far North Walsham players coming in late on it not distracting Luff who sees the ball cleanly into her gloves.

Captain Sophie Hall bringing the ball on for North Walsham

North Walsham seeing more of the ball rushing in to close Blofield down getting the ball forwards with intent, Stewart-Miles tackling at the back to break up an attack the visitors get forwards rapidly Monument putting it on for Hallam through the middle on to Eadie running at the defence is tackled well by North Walsham’s Tanisha Grayling outside the D. Swanson bringing the ball forwards on the right for North Walsham her cross lifted high into the box, Copeman heading it away to safety for Blofield.

Lauren Monument looking to find Lola Eadie with the pass for Blofield

North Walsham making a double switch bringing off their attackers, Fletcher-Helps and Taylor on come Kiera Brown and Gracie East. Holt continuing to get joy out on the left supported by Monsey coming forwards takes the ball on to the by-line the cross not finding its mark. Hall with a firm header as Luff’s kick out from the back drops short into her knocked forwards into the path of Brown central bearing down on the keeper, Luff stays big composed forcing Brown to take the ball wide to the left of goal cuts her cross back into the middle, Copeman back in position to clear for the visitors.

At this point in my notes I’ve written the game needs to slow down… but I’ve also written no chance! The women’s game is rarely slow and the pace is particularly frenetic. Peters advancing through the middle for Blofield on for Royden left channel sends it across the top of the rea into Eadie right of the D, riding a challenge stays on her feet to force a shot in low towards goal Dobbie behind it down to save for North Walsham.

North Walsham goalkeeper Rio Dobbie

Elise Downer getting on right side with the ball feeding it on for Eadie, Grayling closing her down to tackle on the edge of the box for North Walsham. Samwell bombing on right side for North Walsham checking inside 25 yards out running into traffic, Blofield lifting the ball on helped on looking to counter, Carrol with the headed interception at the back for the hosts. East getting on the ball for North Walsham central finding Hall moving on left side forwards into Holt turning infield, tackled by Stewart-Miles for Blofield.

North Walsham defender Elise Carroll

North Walsham press numbers forwards Hall getting on well through the middle with the through ball cutting open the Blofield defence for Brown to attack closing down the keeper, won’t sit as Brown looks to take it around Luff pushed left to the by-line holds it up well before sending it back in across the top of the area Hall latching onto it right of the D driven low in towards goal, Luff down to make the save.

Blofield goalkeeper, Jessica Luff

Brown making her presence felt up top for North Walsham taking up some good positions as Swanson attacks with the ball on the right her cross lifted into the box Brown stretching to bring it down is charged down before she can attempt the shot. Luff the busier of the two goalkeepers, throwing herself down low to her left to parry the ball away as Brown shoots low for the post having battled her way into the area from the left. Blofield making another change bring of Reid at the back bringing on Bethany Freestone.

GOAL! The deadlock broken with 38 minutes on the clock, North Walsham advancing through the right channel the diagonal ball coming into Brown top of the area left of the D, carries it away to the by-line, holding it up looking for support Holt bursts into the box left side the ball rolled into her, is tackled by Freestone tracking back, the ball knocked into Brown takes it inside before shooting low across the keeper to place the ball inside the far post 1-0.

Kiera Brown netting the opening goal for North Walsham

Holt breaking forwards on the left for North Walsham checking back inside to curl a shot wide across goal. A 3rd change for Blofield late in the first half Bethany Williams on for Royden. Grayling defending well in the box for North Walsham shielding the ball back to her keeper getting across Eadie to the right of goal as Peters lifts the pass forwards.

North Walsham’s Gracie East

Brown going into steal the ball out on the right turning back inside to attack the box shooting low towards the near post, Luff with her angles covered down to claim the ball. North Walsham pressing in the closing stages of the 1st half Brown with the long ball into Holt central, Stewart-Miles nipping in to tackle, Holt nibbling back to get hold of the ball snatching her shot back across goal wide of the left post.

Half-time North Walsham Angels Ladies 1-0 Blofield United Ladies

Both teams staying out on the pitch during the first half interval. North Walsham with the narrow lead making a strong start to the game after the ball playing at a frantic pace getting players forwards through the middle and out wide creating chances, but for a couple of great saves from Jessica Luff might be leading by more. As it stands a single goal in it Blofield with an opportunity to set a few things right the pace of the game seeing balls rushed more often than not picked up by a North Walsham shirt.

No changes for Blofield at the start of the 2nd half, Taylor and Fletcher-Helps back on up top for North Walsham with Brown and East off. The hosts getting the 2nd 45 underway the wind picking up noticeably a distinct chill in the air should favour the visitors now. The ball played back into Hall in midfield out to Samwell right has Holt ahead of her now playing the pass on, Holt sends it inside for Taylor top of the area, turns to attack, Stewart-Miles into her well to tackle the ball gathered by Luff.

Monsey getting up on the left for North Walsham firing a shot in on the angle, held by Luff. North Walsham beginning the 2nd half where they left off the 1st win a corner on the right. Holt putting it in towards the near post cleared back to the corner taker Holt up the line firing a cross into the six yard box taken well by Luff despite Taylor closing her down.

Carroll with a good tackle at the back for North Walsham on Peters as the midfielder gets forwards well for Blofield. Samwell winning the ball well high on the right for North Walsham firing a great ball into Fletcher-Helps right of goal, back to goal holding off her marker turns well on the ball to spin and shoot sends her effort wide of the near post.

Stella Fletcher-Helps sliding in to tackle for North Walsham

Stewart-Miles with a vital interception at the back for Blofield as North Walsham press well through the middle Welton sending the ball on. Blofield getting on left side Downer up with Williams who is brought down advantage played as Downer gets onto the ball in behind to cross along the top of the area, Eadie looking to nurse it into Hallam’s path as she gets up in support to her left, Dobbie grabbing hold of the ball for North Walsham.

Blofield’s Lola Hallam

Fletcher-Helps seeing the ball into her feet out on the right spins away to run forwards, riding a tackle from Freestone before being stopped by Stewart-Miles top of the area. Hall over the free-kick awarded to North Walsham wide on the left from the touch line lifts the ball in towards the near post, Taylor attempting to hook it goalwards caught by Luff.

Welton putting the ball on through the middle sees Fletcher-Helps pulling away into the right channel to attack the goal in her sights fires in a low shot, Luff superb again getting down quickly to make the save. The pressure building from North Walsham as they look for a 2nd goal.

Jessica Luff down to save Fletcher-Helps shot

Is a good contest between Stewart-Miles and Fletcher-Helps with the striker looking to run at the defence. Stewart-Miles sliding in to deny Fletcher-Helps this time the ball out for a throw on the right. Holt on the right cutting inside firing the ball into Fletcher-Helps central Copeman in on her this time to challenge clear for Blofield.

North Walsham’s Maddy Welton

Welton linking with Hall through the middle for North Walsham forwards into Fletcher-Helps pulls off Copeman going to her left to turn and shot blasting the ball narrowly wide of the post. Blofield making a change Williams and Hallam coming off, Crowle and Royden back on with a little over an hour played. Taylor inside from a throw in North Walsham’s right pushed into Fletcher-Helps looking to get into the box is well marshalled b Stewart-Miles as Freestone gets back to support.

GOAL! The pressure building North Walsham pushing for a 2nd goal advance on the left Swanson all the way to the by-line her cross flashed in across the six yard box gathered by Holt beyond the far post turns back to put the ball in across the top of the area Hall running onto it right of the D to smash the ball hard into the back of the net to score her first goal of the season 2-0.

Sophie Hall with North Walsham’s 2nd strike

Hallam back on for Blofield replacing Monument. North Walsham bringing 5 substitutes on, Brown and East returning with Holly Murphy, Grace Walker and Leah Carroll introduced to the action. 3 of the back four coming off, Monsey, Samwell and Grayling along with Swanson, Taylor going left Brown up with Fletcher-Helps. Downer pressing forwards well out left for Blofield winning a corner players forwards the visitors waste the opportunity to get the ball into the box.

Freya Stewart-Miles with Rhiannon Holt

Blofield coming on left side a throw won lifted into Eadie nodded down for Downer to take on is tacked by North Walsham’s Elise Carroll. Brown pulling off her marker right side bursts on down to the by-line before sending a vicious cross along the face of goal Murphy not quite able to run onto the ball. East sending a great pass forwards into Fletcher-Helps up to pulling left off her marker to spin into the box right of goal strikes a rising ball goalwards but can only pick out Luff.

Downer finding a bit of joy in the left now for Blofield getting on the move turns inside to shoot, Dobbie down low at her near post to gather the ball into her body. Copeman coming off for Blofield, Reid sent back on. Fletcher-Helps is working hard up top for North Walsham sliding in to win the ball gets clear on the right wide lifting a diagonal ball in central looking for Brown too much on it Luff able to gather.

Elise Carroll with Bethany Williams

Blofield getting a free-kick out wide on the left a chance to get players up into the box Royden over the ball flighted into the box, East heading clear at the near post the ball helped up field into Brown, Stewart-Miles tackling to prevent the counter attack. Blofield getting on better with the ball now through the middle Schug on for Peters lifts up to Eadie, Dobbie quick to come out getting to the ball first.

A few players in the wars more momentum than malice as players rush in to close the ball down, Brown collecting a awkward bounce in the face needing a moment before being picked up to her feet. Hall with a free-kick for North Walsham on half way up the right for Fletcher-Helps spins inside her cross cut out by Reid going away for a corner.

Copeman called back on to replace Freestone for Blofield with a little under 10 minutes left to play. The game stretched now but no let up in the energy levels from both sides. Royden with a snap shot some 25 yards out as North Walsham make a mess of clearing their lines the shot straight at Dobbie. Eadie battling through the middle with Downer making progress before being closed down Walker tackling to send the ball away for a throw. Blofield asserting a little pressure late in the game.

Downer on the left finding Eadie to drive inside towards the area tackled by Elise Carroll the ball cleared for a throw. 5 minutes left to play Blofield winning a corner left side put in near side cleared up into Fletcher-Helps right side launching a counter attack forwards for Brown running to the box a heavy challenge from Crowle right on the edge of the area both players down, Brown coming off the worse. Crowle back to her feet shown the yellow card. Brown struggling to put weight on her ankle can’t continue hops off the pitch with Fletcher-Helps assistance. Hall over the set-piece sets her sights on goal but snatches her shot wide of the near post.

Schug coming right for Blofield sees her cross cut out deflected behind for a corner kick one last chance for Blofield to try and find a goal the ball hooked in near side cleared to safety for a throw by North Walsham as the final whistle blows and their extend their winning streak to 6 games along with 5 consecutive clean sheets.

Full time North Walsham Angels Ladies 2-0 Blofield United Ladies

Are an in form side and it showed today as North Walsham got on the front foot early on and never looked back pressing the ball a frantic tempo to the game both side full of energy after one another. North Walsham getting players on down the flanks creating opportunities forcing some good saves from Blofield keeper Jessica Luff before eventually taking the lead. 1 goal up at the break you sensed another was needed and North Walsham never let Blofield settle into a rhythm 2nd half attacking from the start Fletcher-Helps turning the defence, Hall scoring that all important 2nd goal. Blofield never really got going matching North Walsham for energy battled well enough but couldn’t get the rub of the green the ball more often than not cut out by a North Walsham shirt to get the host back on the offensive improved towards the last half hour but couldn’t find the goal that might have set up a nervous finish.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East -Player of the Match as is so often the case another hard decision but there you go only highlights the performance level out there. A few performances of note. Freya Stewart-Miles with a number of vital tackles at the back for Blofield. Darcey Peters with a strong shift in the middle of the park getting about to challenge for the ball got forwards well to support the attack. Goalkeeper Jessica Luff with some impressive saves to help keep Blofield in the game. North Walsham with a confident squad right now a good team performance. Sophie Hall excellent in the middle winning the ball and getting forwards to join the attack. Rhiannon Holt out on the left causing Blofield problems throughout the first half. Now it comes down to two for the award and it’s close let me tell you. Elise Carroll was brilliant at the back for North Walsham winning the ball and protecting her goal throughout. Today’s award though goes to Stella Fletcher-Helps made some fantastic runs up top as well as coming for the ball and turning the defence unlucky not to score.

An entertaining if high speed match between to young energetic sides that you can see will only get stronger. 6 points separating the top 6 in the league now with some big games to come and points to be won from one another plenty of football yet to be played will be interesting to see how it finishes. Both sides will play their part. My thanks to both for their help with the teams details today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Aylsham FC Women v KLSC FC Women

Sunday 12th February

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

The attention this Sunday turns to the title race in Norfolk Women’s Division Two as two of the main contenders meet at Youngs Park, 2nd placed KLSC FC Women taking on newly formed Aylsham FC Women in 5th.

Alot of games still to be played in the 12 strong league as we approach the middle of February. With the top six sides all well positioned to mount a title challenge. Blofield United Ladies stepping up into woman’s football this season currently on top by 3 points having won 8 of their 10 league games played to date. KLSC FC Women long time leaders dropping back to 2nd with Mulbarton Belles Ladies Development and Thorpe St Andrew Women 3rd and 4th respectfully. Aylsham the only side with a 100% winning rate in 5th having played just 6 of their expected 22 league matches. Gorleston GC Ladies in sixth have games in and too and will be involved in the battle for the title and promotion.

Aylsham FC Women newly formed this season headed up by former Norwich City Women coach, Steve Kenny. Is the 3rd incantation of a women’s side in Aylsham since I began Women’s Football East. Adams bringing with him a few ex-Norwich City Women Reserves players adding experienced players such as Charlotte Crane and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor from Stalham Town Ladies build a decent looking squad. Aylsham FC itself always a club with a strong youth set-up keen to have a women’s team and with Youngs Park providing a great community based set-up the facilities are in place to help the woman’s side grow. Certainly get the sense of a team that is very much together and wanting to grow and succeed.

One of the favourites before a ball was even kicked Division Two has certainly proved it will be no walk over for anyone with other sides emerging as a force to content with. Aylsham have played just 6 league games to date which is going to make for a busy end to the season. Have won all 6 of those games scoring 50 goals along the way and conceding just 1 goal. Of those 6 games though have yet to face a top 6 side due to a combination of postponements and cup competitions seeing fixtures moved. Today their first real test against a top side. Hannah Claughton showing great form in front of goal top scoring with 16 goals from 9 appearances. Sophie Lubbock dual signed with Fakenham Town Ladies has 13 goals from just 4 appearances with captain Jordan Arnoup bagging a double hat-trick last time out to move into 3rd position in the goal scoring charts with 9.

KLSC FC Women (King’s Lynn Soccer Club) as I mentioned were the early pacesetters getting games in where others didn’t winning all 7 of their opening league matches to sit top of the Division Two table. A 3-3 draw with a resurgent Thorpe St Andrew Women at the start of 2023 seeing them drop their first points of the season but as yet are unbeaten. Blofield United taking over top spot while KLSC FC Women were in action in the 3rd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a 4-3 win over Division One side Stalham Town Ladies seeing them into the last 8 of the competition.

Josie Turner has been prolific in front of goal for KLSC FC Women since their formation in 2021 providing King’s Lynn with a much needed 2nd women’s football side. Finishing 3rd in their debut season behind Caister FC Ladies and UEA FC Women, Turner netted 21 goals to finish well clear as top scorer. This season Turner is already at 21 goals from just 9 appearances. Today’s trip to Aylsham the 1st of a trio of vital games, 2 against a fellow title contenders with a county cup quarter final against Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women in between an away trip Blofield United on the 26th of Feb.

Youngs Park the venue for today’s game, hosted last season’s NWGFL finals day last season a community sports ground with the main pitch beside a newly built clubhouse and changing rooms surrounded by numerous grass pitches. The kitchen hatch open serving hot drinks. A decidedly dull and overcast day, grey clouds all around no sun at all no rain forecast very still all in all pretty miserable weather wise.

Aylsham FC Women

Aylsham FC Women starting XI – Hannah Lock, Ellie Cleaver, Abbie Butcher, Jordan Arnoup (C), Charlotte Crane, Michaela Brown, Rhiannon Dack, Carly Allum, Georgina Bobbin, Hannah Claughton & Sophie-Jayne O’Connor. Subs – Chelsea Crowley & Flo Simpkin.

KLSC FC Women

KLSC FC Women starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Chloe Birch-Bailey, Chloe Moulton, Viktoria Burkauskaite (C), Caitlin Jacob, Taeya Miles, Kesley Ramm, Chloe Edwards, Leeanne Smith & Josie Turner. Subs – Lucy Clarke & Millie Bareford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Both sides naming 2 on the bench it’s the hosts Aylsham to get the first half underway wearing orange coloured shirts with blue short and orange socks with KLSC lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to captain Jordan Arnoup in defence sprays the pass out to the right for Rhiannon Dack, defended by KLSC’s Caitlin Jacob the visitors straight on the counter, Chloe Edwards on the left shifting inside to beat her marker racing forwards tackled by Aylsham centre back, Charlotte Crane.

KLSC win possession on the centre of the park the ball put forwards into Josie Turner sends the pass out to the right for Trinity Tokaji cutting back inside top of the area rolls the ball inside for Turner who lets it run across her body preparing to line up a strike inside the D the shot charged down by Aylsham’s Georgina Bobbin.

Aylsham attack through the middle, Carly Allum with Bobbin forwards into attacker Sophie-Jayne O’Conner held up top of the area, lays it back for Bobbin spinning in behind to receive the return pass right of goal struck on the angle racing wide of the near post. Turner is bundled over winning KLSC a free-kick central 35 yards out. Players up into the box with Turner over the ball, struck well towards goal skipping up in front of goalkeeper Hannah Lock knocks the ball down, doesn’t quite have possession as KLSC’s Leeanne Smith comes chasing in the pair colliding, the resulting free-kick favouring the goalkeeper. Lock down for a moment assessed but okay to continue.

A good sized pitch both sides looking to get the ball out to their wide players, Allum sliding in to tackle Tokaji as she prepares to break on the right for KLSC. No one settling on the ball both sides looking to get it forwards with haste both defences get players out to intercept the ball. Hannah Claughton bursting forwards wide left for Aylsham tackled by KLSC captain, Viktoria Burkauskaite halting Claughton’s momentum, she stays on her feet to dart inside take the ball on feeding a good ball across the six yard box, no one gambling however. Allum with a powerful drive from midfield going left with Claughton is tackled by Burkauskaite.

Hannah Claughton on the attack for Aylsham

Edwards on the left for KLSC doing well on the ball to get in behind wraps her foot around the ball her cross deflected square into the path of her teammate Kesley Ramm 30 yards out her snap shot wide of the right post. Turner pressuring the defence outside the box to the right of the goal inside lifts a looping ball into the near post bouncing awkwardly in front of Lock, the defensive clearance across the six yard box, Turner alive after it struck wide on the half volley.

KLSC’s Chloe Edwards

Both 11’s are getting joy down the left side of the pitch, Edwards for KLSC and Claughton for Aylsham, a powerful run forwards cuts back inside 20 yards out to lay the ball into O’Connor right of the strikes for the top corner, KLSC goalkeeper, Bryony Russell-Smith scrambling across her goal can see the ball safely wide of the right post. Allum down having taken a knock for Aylsham needing treatment a lengthy pause follows before she is up and brought over to the side-lines for further assessment.

Allum waved back on as play resumes a melee in the middle as players close down the ball it pops free to the left into Claughton’s path for the attacker to drive forwards towards the area wrapping her left foot around the ball looking to shoot across the keeper the racing wide of the far post. Allum showing a great piece of skill bringing a high ball down under control releasing it to Claughton the left, Chloe Moulton stretching to make the challenge regain possession for KLSC. Taeya Miles back to help the defence making several good interceptions to prevent the ball finding O’Connor central.

KLSC’s Taeya Miles

Tokaji frustrated as her run is halted by the offside flag as Edwards attempts to put her through on goal with a diagonal pass. Bobbin sending the pass out to the left for Claughton does well to keep it in play in the corner getting inside to left a cross into the six yard box, Allum rising in front of goal with a glancing header can’t get enough on the ball to deflect it towards goal.

Aylsham’s Abbie Butcher

Ramm on the ball for KLSC central plays the ball out to Edwards breaking forwards on the left cutting inside top corner of the area to shoot a low drive Lock down at her post safely behind it. Aylsham with numbers through the middle Michaela Brown on for Bobbin, Claughton up with her the pass threaded into the box for O’Connor right of goal her shot deflected behind for a corner kick. The corner taken from the right, (once Claughton has retrieved the ball from the allotments behind the goal) and inswinging delivery players attacking the near post the ball into the side netting.

Kesley Ramm and Carly Allum

Burkauskaite tracking back with her defence cutting out a cross from Dack on the right heading the ball away for KLSC. The game could do with someone calming their side down both are playing at a break neck pace hence players can’t get into position to receive the ball seeing possession ebb and flow with neither side gaining the upper hand. Russell-Smith out to the top of her area sliding in bravely to stop Dack running onto the ball. KLSC winning a freekick out wide left on half way Miles with a good kick on her sending the ball into the area headed clear drops straight to Turner 25 yards out who needs no invitation to shoot her effort angled straight at the keeper.

KLSC goalkeeper, Bryony Russell-Smith

Edwards getting some unwelcome abuse from the ‘supporters’ on the far side of the pitch hardly needed leading to some frustration. Allum on the move through the middle with the ball for Aylsham both O’Connor and Claughton getting in behind as the ball is put on but Russell-Smith does well out early to come clear the ball high up the pitch. KLSC are dropping back as a defensive unit all the way to their six yard box at times going as Claughton attacks left her cross won and cleared by Miles.

KLSC defender, Chloe Moulton

Allum fouled by Miles out wide left, Arnoup forwards to take the set-piece struck well a teasing delivery across the six yard box would have been a nightmare for KLSC to try and defend however no one gets near it for Aylsham out for a goalkick. KLSC make a substitution bring Smith off for Millie Bareford. Aylsham with a free-kick wide right this time Arnoup’s powerful delivery catching Bobbin in the face, shaken it on her feet but replaced soon after with Chelsea Crowley coming on O’Connor dropping into a deeper role.

Tempers flare up on the far side of the pitch a brief scuffle between Edwards and Cleaver. referee Steven Ciriboto, quick to intervene calm everyone down a talking too and yellow card shown to both. The first half coming to a close, Claughton continuing to get joy down the left for Aylsham racing to the by-line getting inside Moulton, Miles back to support her getting in the blocking tackle to deny the cross the ball coming off Claughton for the goal kick.

GOAL! Aylsham on the attack in stoppage time at the end of the first half Allum with the ball strong into the left channel heading into the box, Burkauskaite closing her down lunging in clipping the midfielder on the calf, the whistle could have blown then for a penalty, Allum staying on her feet shifting inside six yards out is then bundled over by the KLSC captain the penalty is given. Arnoup forwards to place the ball on the spot a powerful hit rising to the right to bulge the back of the net 1-0. Arnoup with her 10th goal of the season.

Carly Allum breaking forwards in the build up to the penalty

Jordan Arnoup scoring from the penalty spot to put Aylsham into the lead

Aylsham lively at the end of the first half numbers up in the final 3rd a KLSC handball spotted the free-kick awarded central 30 yards out, Arnoup over the ball again strikes for goal past the wall wide of the left post.

Half-time Aylsham FC Women 1-0 KLSC FC Women

Aylsham’s players race into the changing rooms having secured a narrow 1 goal lead late in the first half thanks to a strong run into the box from Carly Allum that lead to captain Jordan Arnoup scoring the penalty. Overall the sides fairly evenly matched, KLSC defending the deeper inviting more pressure with Aylsham getting into some useful attacking positions both sides creating chances as of yet none clear cut. Set up beautifully for the 2nd half. KLSC staying out on the pitch ready to get the 2nd half underway.

KLSC attacker, Josie Turner

The ball played into Turner looks to turn on the ball drive forwards, Brown closing her down. Cleaver onto the ball for Aylsham the full back looking to get forwards challenged by KLSC’s Miles. Both teams into each other in the early exchanges a little niggly, Ramm seeing the ball into her feet out on the right for KLSC 25 yards out with a clever turn on the ball to shake off her marker get inside to pick out Turner central who in turn thread a diagonal ball out to Edwards breaking down the line on the left wing her cross lifted into the box headed clear by Crane.

Kesley Ramm on the ball for KLSC

Allum continuing to get forwards well from midfield support from Claughton wide left going forwards Burkauskaite closing her down to tackle put the ball out for a throw in. Bareford playing the ball on in midfield with Crane and Turner in a race for the ball, the KLSC attacker getting their first under pressure from Crane can only send her low shot in straight for Lock to gather cleanly.

KLSC pushing hard from a reply at the start of the 2nd half Ramm out right bursting clear to strike the ball, deflected off Butcher to go behind for a corner. Swung in to the near post from the right, Crane doing the defending at the near post. Aylsham finding space with KLSC committing a extra player forwards Allum moving the ball wide for Dack, tackled by Birch-Bailey. Issue’s with the crowd continue leading the referee stopping play and speaking to the offenders. Dack getting into an advancing position on the right lifting a cross through the six yard box a swing and a miss from Crowley central runs on for Claughton to control left side and strike in on the angle, Russell-Smith gathering low at her near post.

The pattern of the game beginning to shift Aylsham getting more of the ball KLSC getting frustrated with some of the fouls being given against them. Claughton charging the ball down on the left able to run in behind take it on to unleash a low shot in on the angle, Russell-Smith getting down sharply to make a good save turning the ball wide across her goal for a corner. Aylsham making a change before the corner bringing off ack, Flo Simpkins coming on.

Aylsham’s Carly Allum

The corner coming in cleared back out right edge of the box the attempted cross blocked deflected behind, judged to be a handball and Aylsham are awarded a 2nd penalty! A harsh one but given Arnoup up to take it placing the ball on the spot opts for power again going to the left this time Russell-Smith going the right way the ball struck hard smashing down off the woodwork, the follow up lifted over the bar. Arnoup not happy.

Heavy contact from a 50/50 ball between Cleaver and Miles it’s the Aylsham defender who comes off worse needing a moment to recover but is up okay to play on.

GOAL! A couple of minutes after seeing a penalty missed Aylsham are awarded a free-kick out wide on the left 25 yards out. Arnoup once again on set-piece duties. No mistake this time is a wonderfully struck ball lots of pace and dip on it as it sails over Russell-Smith to find the far corner of the net 2-0.

A brace for Aylsham captain, Jordan Arnoup

21 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Aylsham double their lead. Equal amounts of joy and frustration for Arnoup as Aylsham feel they are getting the rough call on a few decisions too. Is a competitive match KLSC are getting into their opponents looking to disrupt their play a few tired legs out there play beginning to get stretched in places. Crowley pulling off the defence from a diagonal ball right corner of the area a lunging shot rising, is taken high by Russell-Smith across at her near post.

Cleaver lifting the ball up the line on the right for Aylsham’s Crowley to run onto heading for the by-line whips a great ball into the KLSC six yard box just no one arriving to turn it home. Claughton is unceremoniously upended attacking on the left a free-kick awarded, Arnoup over it angles the ball long to the far post out for a goal kick. Bobbin returning to the game for Aylsham as the hosts win a free-kick wide on the right. Arnoup again aiming for a crowded far post area, Simpkin rising very close to getting the header.

Russell-Smith moving quickly out to the top of her area to slide in bravely at the feet of Claughton to save. Aylsham getting the better of the possession now coming forwards at will KLSC defending deep making it hard to get a counter going. Burkauskaite unhappy as she feels she’s fouled in the middle as Aylsham break away with the ball Crowley to the right breaking into the box firing her angled shot wide across goal.

Crowley making a nuisance of herself in front of the box forcing an error from the defence snapping onto the ball to break into the box right of goal her lobbed attempt drops wide. Bareford with a push on Bobbin Aylsham with the free-kick on half way played out wide to Claughton her squared cross intercepted by Burkauskaite. The game moving into the final 10 minutes, Aylsham winning a throw high on the right the ball cleared by Miles falling to Bobbin lays it into the path of Arnoup to hit from distance rattles wide of the left post.

GOAL! Crowley has been threatening a score for Aylsham all through the first half and is played through on goal by a superb pass from Allum central to put her one on one with the keeper, keeps a cool head to slot the ball to her left and score her first goal for the club 3-0.

Chelsea Crowley with Aylsham’s 3rd goal

Bobbin booked as she goes in hard on Birch-Bailey catching her from behind, the defender struggling needs to be helped off, with Clarke coming on. Edwards pushing on with the ball left side trying to get on with Ramm in support does well to win a corner kick. Driven in from the left to the top of the box for Bareford takes the ball into the area, Arnoup putting her foot in to clear the ball out of the ground into the wooded public footpath beyond. Allum’s work done late in the game she is taken off with Dack sent back on with barely a minute of regular time to play. Claughton done soon after replaced by Dack.

Dack with a try from distance easily held by Russell-Smith. KLSC stretched in the closing stages Aylsham getting the ball about the pitch, Bobbin on for Crowley, Jacobs preventing her spinning in behind. The final whistle blows and Aylsham extend their 100% record to 7 games climbing to 4th within a point of KLSC who suffer their first defeat in the league dropping a place as Mulbarton Belles Development move above them, Aylsham’s next opponents.

Full time Aylsham FC Women 3-0 KLSC FC Women

Aylsham going on to dominate the 2nd half after an early push from KLSC to find a reply to falling behind late in the first half. Using the pitch well to stretch the game wear their opponents down. Coming though their first test against a fellow title contender well winning in the end by 3 goals. Alot of football still to be played and will fancy their chances of reaching the latter stages of the League Plate competition too. KLSC working hard in the first half looking a match for Aylsham eventually tiring in the 2nd half a big game in the county cup to come next weekend. Is incredibly tight at the top of Division Two the top 5 separated by 5 points will be a few twists and turns yet.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match once again is a tough decision in many regards. Several performances of note firstly for KLSC, Taeya Miles with some strong tackling getting back to help the defence, intercepting balls and getting it away from danger. Kesley Ramm working hard in the middle with some clever footwork to get room for a pass. Chloe Edwards despite having to put up with some unnecessary abuse a threat out on the left. Aylsham with an all round solid defensive game. Jordan Arnoup with the set piece goals to help the club on the way to another victory. Chelsea Crowley looked lively up top in attack creating chances. Is an extremely close call for today’s award Hannah Claughton carried a threat all game out on the left in attack with the ball at her feet showing a great work rate. Carly Allum is today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a powerful performance in the middle of the park getting hold of the ball and driving forwards with some excellent attacks winning the penalty and setting up Crowley for Aylsham’s 3rd goal.

Great to be back at Youngs Park, see Aylsham for the first time good to catch up with a few familiar faces I haven’t seen in a while. An enjoyable game from NWGFL Division Two, my thanks to both clubs for their help today much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Sprowston FC Women

Sunday 17th April

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Keeping it local this Easter Sunday having clocked up the miles during the week with a cup final double. Back to league action today with a game from Division One and an opportunity to catch up with a couple of sides as Beccles Town Ladies host Sprowston FC Women in their final home game of the season.

Has been quite a while since I’ve seen Beccles Town Ladies in action, so much so I drove straight past their ground and ended up on the common beyond. Got there in the end however, Beccles put back into Norfolk Women’s Division One after the league original plan for 3 divisions fell by the way side and two larger divisions, One and Two were created. Beccles Town Ladies suffering more than most from resembling a decent squad then seeing players move on just a quickly, injuries too affecting development. One of their new players, Mae Hughes badly injured in a serious car accident on her way to a Beccles game earlier in the season, spending a number of weeks in hospital. Home now and recovering, at the game to day to watch her teammates in action.

Despite the set backs manager Alan Runnacles is optimistic for the following season, bringing players in, with experience too to bolster a young squad. Benefitting from players unsettled at local rivals Bungay Town Ladies. Made a terrible start to the season with 5 straight defeats and some eye watering score lines too. As the season has progressed however have picked up some decent results and a positive end to the season results wise could yet see then push up the table a place or two. Lola Barber-King, Beccles captain and top scorer with 24 goals.

Sprowston FC Women have established themselves in Norfolk’s top flight, a club that benefits from a very strong youth setup, bringing players through. Currently in mid-table in Division One having struggled to pick up points consistently in the first half of the season a very strong March which saw them win 4 straight league games has pulled them clear of the bottom sides and with 3 to play a top half finish is possible. Kate Morris and Bryony Brierley, Sprowston’s top scorers with 13 and 12 goals respectfully.

Beccles Town FC nestled amongst a multi-sports facility. The football ground featuring a large grass pitch, wide with a little bit of a slope. A covered stand along one side of the ground with a tea hut beside. The weather beautiful considering it’s a bank holiday weekend. Bright and warm in the sunshine on Easter Sunday a breeze strong at times blowing from one end of the pitch to the other.

Beccles Town Ladies

Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Megan Gowing, Georgia Tiffen, Leanne Muffett, Charlotte Power, Poppy Wilson, Abigail Bell, Lucy Robbens, Elisha Bower, Lauren Purling, Lily Bulloch & Lola Barber-King (C). Subs – Kelly Collins, Vicky Bloomfield & Bethan Owen.

Sprowston FC Women

Sprowston FC Women starting XI – Jess Luff, Rosie Graham, Courtney Leggett, Maria Braithwaite, Bailey Curtis, Lois Irving (C), Holly Whayman, Oshea Winter, Kiera Braithwaite, Kate Morris & Katie Fray. Subs – Chloe Shipman.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Sprowston without goalkeeper, Jade Knights after being sent off in their cup tie with Dussindale & Hellesdon Women, Jess Luff in goal for today’s match. Just one substitute named on the bench. Beccles with 3 to call upon from the bench to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing white shirts with black shorts and socks. Sprowston opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with navy sleeves, navy shorts and blue socks. The ball put out to the right, Sprowston winning the throw in.

The ball brought down and fed into attacker Katie Fray, Charlotte Power getting back at her in defence for Beccles to win the ball back. The visitors pressing the ball out for a goal kick, Fray winning it for Sprowston breaking forwards, Power in ahead of her again to nod the ball back into goalkeeper, Megan Gowing’s gloves. Beccles come through the middle Lucy Robbens on for Lily Bulloch 35 yards out central, has captain Lola Barber-King to her right plays the ball into her path Barber-King taking it on the by-line before firing a cross along the face of the Sprowston goal, no one running in to turn it home.

Beccles captain, Lola Barber-King

Barber-King looking to move to the right as Beccles attack, Bailey Curtis defending for Sprowston. The ball passed up to Barber-King 25 yards out back to goal, control well spinning away to her left turning for the Sprowston box a burst of pace to get her inside right of goal, lifts her shot up over the crossbar. Kate Morris pulling to the left in attack taking the ball inside sending a diagonal ball up into the Beccles area looking for Fray, Power winning the header for the hosts. Despite it being a large pitch you can almost drop a hat on the players at times as players get drawn towards the ball.

Barber-King is looking to turn and take on the defence whenever she can, getting half a yard on the back line as Abigail Bell wins the ball in midfield breaks into the left channel, Curtis is quick herself getting back on her to tackle get the ball back to goalkeeper, Jess Luff. Sprowston mount an attack, Keira Braithwaite central into Fray left of goal 25 yards out controls comes inside looking to make room for a strike, puts her foot through the ball, dipping as it heads for the inside of the left post, Gowing with a fantastic save diving down to her right to push the ball behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! The corner form the left is played into the near post, chested down by the Sprowston attack she moved after the ball, the defender going with her gives her a push, the referee pointing to the spot. Penalty! Keira Braithwaite placing the ball on the spot strikes it hard rising to the left of goal, Gowing going the right way can’t get near it as Braithwaite peels away to celebrate the ball striking the back of the net. 0-1 The visitors taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes.

Keira Braithwaite opens the scoring for Sprowston from the penalty spot.

Sprowston straight on the attack form the restart go down the right winning a throw in, the ball lifted into the area, Power defending sends it behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! A minute after opening the scoring from the penalty spot, Sprowston double their advantage from another set-piece. The ball put into the box from the right, Gowing comes for it gets caught under the ball at the near post, Holly Whayman running in behind for Sprowston stooping to nod the ball over the line 0-2.

Holly Whayman heads in Sprowston’s 2nd.

Beccles hit with two quickfire goals, Elisha Bower with a strong run on the left carrying the ball on squares a cross into the six yard box, Luff catching it into her midriff with Barber-King closing in. Another opportunity for Beccles moments later played into the top of the box for Barber-King, a low strike fired in towards goal, Luff with a sharp save with her feet, her defence getting the ball back to her.

The ball lifted on through the middle as Sprowston get forwards bouncing, Fray on Power’s shoulder as they pair battle for possession, fray getting an attempt on goal away her effort lifted wide 20 yards out. Sprowston hustling the ball 25 yards out gain possession Fray on the right with and angled drive in Gowing claiming at her near post. Sprowston with a throw high on the left played inside for Morris lines up a shot inside the D, her strike charged down by Poppy Wilson. Barber-King picking the ball up on halfway driving forwards, looking to get away from the defence, Curtis’ pace to the rescue as she gets the sliding tackle in to put the ball back to her keeper to claim.

GOAL! 20 minutes played and Sprowston hammer home there advantage by racing to a 3 goal lead attacking on the right Oshea Winter playing the ball on players drawn across to deal with the growing threat the cross coming into the box, Wilson has to clear as she comes near post. Morris left unmarked at the far post as the ball put back out to the right isn’t cleared and comes back in finding Morris who can simply pick her spot. 0-3.

Kate Morris with Sprowston’s 3rd goal

GOAL! As with the opening goals, Sprowston again find a quickfire double to race into a 4 goal lead. Whayman on the ball in midfield, bringing it on no one closing her down, sets her sights from all of 30 yards out right side, gets plenty of pace and dip behind her shot, fired across the keeper, Gowing dives down gets her fingertips to it but not enough to keep it out 0-4.

Holly Whayman firing Sprowston into a 4 goal lead

Beccles well and truly on the back foot as the referee calls for a drinks break, a much needed chance to regroup midway through the 1st half. Sprowston make a change Chloe Shipman on for Courtney Leggett. The hosts attack from the restart Robbens up to Bulloch, Barber-King in close support as she heads the ball down to the right Barber-King taking it on into the box right of goal to the by-line a shot/cross stopped by Luff at her near post the ball cleared falls to Bowers top of the D, she strikes the ball, runs wide of the far post.

Lauren Purling battling for the ball with Holly Whayman

Sprowston with a corner on the right the ball in defended by Robbens put back out to the corner taker, played into Fray top of the area 20 yards out her shot fired back in with venom striking one of her own teammates. The long ball forwards through the middle causing Beccles a few issues as they don’t deal with the bouncing ball, Fray stealing in ahead of Power lobs the ball over from 20 yards out. Beccles making a change Muffett coming off at right back replaced by Vicky Bloomfield.

A free-kick for Sprowston on halfway, captain Lois Irving over the ball, puts it up into the area, Gowing with a good claim taking it at her near post. Bloomfield with a crucial intercept as Keira Braithwaite central looks to thread a pass on for Morris pulling left. Morris and Fray’s movement up top pulling the Beccles defence out of shape causing problems.

Vicky Bloomfield clearing the ball for Beccles

GOAL! Purling gets hold of the ball for Beccles on the right travelling forwards moves infield laying it on for Robbens as she continues her run towards the area, Robbens threading a good pass into the box, left of goal both Purling and Bulloch after it, Purling giving way for Bulloch to stab past the keeper and pull a goal back 1-4.

Beccles, Lily Bulloch

Beccles break well from a Sprowston corner, Bell on for Barber-King races forwards travelling with the ball, once again Curtis has the burst of speed to catch her and sliding in to tackle does enough to send the ball behind for a corner. The corner put in near side headed clear back out to the left for a throw by Curtis.

GOAL! Attacking from the throw in top of the area, Purling on the ball takes it across the passing to Bell right of the D, her first touch seeing her shift the ball inside to evade her marker then shoots sending a rising effort in under the bar, Luff leaping to try and stop it 2-4.

Abigail Bell on the scoresheet for Beccles

Beccles getting a further goal back to half the deficit, much needed after conceding 4 in the opening 20 minutes. Luff down from the save having fallen on her back has cracked her head on the ground. Needs treatment before continuing. 5 minutes left to play in the first half. Kelly Collins on for Beccles replacing Tiffen in defence. Called into action as Fray battles to get in behind seeing a shot blocked the rebound from distance fired over.

Sprowston captain, Lois Irving

Barber-King looks to take the ball right, lacks support as she holds the ball up, Rosie Graham closing in to tackle win the ball back for Sprowston. Maria Braithwaite winning the header in the centre of defence as Bell plays it up for Barber-King. The clock ticking down in the first half Morris looks to get away on the left, Bloomfield with a well timed tackle seeing the ball out for a throw.

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies 2-4 Sprowston FC Women

Both sides staying out of the field at half-time. Sprowston with a great start racing into a 4-0 lead. Beccles with a few errors giving themselves a mountain to climb, nevertheless have created chances themselves and pulling 2 goals back towards the end of the 1st half has chanced the complexion of the match totally and given them a way back into a game that might otherwise have been out of sight. Still will need to improve at the back if Sprowston aren’t to find more goals.

The breeze looks to have become stronger at the start of the 2nd half, favouring Beccles now. Sprowston with a change Leggett back on in defence as Shipman moves out to the right of attack. Keira Braithwaite the player off. Bethan Owen on for Beccles in place of Bulloch. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway. Shipman with the ball moving forwards tackled by Collins. Beccles winning a free-kick inside the Sprowston half played up into the box, headed clear by Maria Braithwaite.

Lola Barber-King on the attack for Beccles

A scrappy start to the 2nd half as play is compacted over on one side of the pitch . Owen on the ball central attacking out to the right crossed back into her inside the box brings down on her chest the ball won cleared by the defence back to the right, fired straight back in across the six yard box dropping to Barber-King she controls opens up her body and lifts a shot wide across the face of goal. Luff is down inside her goal clearly struggling with her head injury needs to come off. With no replacement an outfield player needed to don the gloves, Shipman is the volunteer putting on a bid and going in between the sticks with Keira Braithwaite back on in the middle.

Beccles, Bethan Owen with Sprowston’s Courtney Leggett

Fray causing a nuisance in attack 20 yards out heading the ball on breaking into the area left of goal, Power tackling, is hurt and Fray goes down over the top of her the ball running behind for a corner. Played in near side from the left, is cleared back to the taker, lifted back in high near side, is allowed to bounce a moment of panic inside the six yard box before being scrambled behind. Another corner left played into Leggett outside the box left side is quickly closed down by Wilson.

Bower with the ball comes through the middle a strong run moves right, Graham closing in lunging in to tackle the ball pushed on for the keeper to clear, Simpson rushing on clearing with her feet as barber-King slides in on her. Owen moving left winning Beccles a throw in high up the pitch the ball crossed into the area Braithwaite central jumping to get her head on it, falls straight to Purling behind at the far post her glancing header turned goalwards safely in the keepers gloves.

Beccles, Lauren Purling

Beccles coming on better attacking 2nd half, but risk getting hit on the counter. Bell looking to put the ball on for Barber-King, Curtis defending. A free-kick for the visitors on half way sees Fray breaking in behind the Beccles defence left into the box, sends her low strike wide beyond the far post. Beccles defence getting out of shape as Sprowston push on in attack, Collins tackling Morris as she comes inside from the right.

Sprowston’s Kate Morris with Beccles, Kelly Collins

Graham with a superb diagonal ball up to Fray top of the D, Wilson sliding in to tackle for Beccles. Leggett defending up the other end for Sprowston as Bell sends the ball up to Owen 20 yards out right channel. Owen’s last action as she comes off with Bulloch back on. 20 minutes of the 2nd half played. Morris pushing on with the ball through the middle, Fray ahead of her providing the run, Morris with the forward pass, well read by Collins who is well positioned to cut out and clear. Graham on for Whayman out to Morris on the right her cross into the area cleared by Power.

An outfield player in goal for Sprowston, Beccles have yet to test Shipman, the game stretched there is more time on the ball than some are allowing themselves. Fray with a scuffed shot 20 yards out running safely through to the keeper. Shipman taking a clean catch at her near post as Beccles lift a high ball in from the right. The ball sent up top bouncing Bulloch looking to get on the end of it for Beccles lobs it wide from 25 yards out. Power in to charge down Fray’s shot as she brings the ball down 20 yards out. Purling driving on for Beccles right side comes inside running into traffic, as both Whayman and Leggett close her down.

GOAL! Sprowston press forwards the Beccles defence once again out of shape as Irving lifts the pass up towards the top of the D, is scrambled clear out to the right, Morris latching onto it running on before squaring a cross into the six yard box putting it on a plate for Fray for a simple tap in into the back of the net 2-5.

Katie Fray scoring Sprowston’s fifth goal

Sprowston restoring their 4 goal cushion with 15 minutes left to play. Get the ball back straight away from the restart fed into Fray right inside the box, Collins with a well timed tackle to deny her a shot.

GOAL! As in the first half one goal brings two for Sprowston as they cause chaos at the back for Beccles again the host defence falling back but not in a line the diagonal ball finding Morris clear on the right inside the box where she lifts her shot over the keeper to score 2-6.

Kate Morris making it 6-2 for Sprowston

Sprowston’s defence doing a good job of protecting there keeper not falling too deep, the ball put on by Bell in the middle finding Bower up top she headers it down into Barber-King right of the D, her first time shot sent up over the bar. Bulloch collecting the ball on the wing for Beccles turning inside heading for the box, is tackled by Maria Braithwaite. Shipman is untroubled in goal for Sprowston a rush of blood though as she comes racing out of her box to clear when she had time to see it roll into her gloves as Beccles threaten to break, the kick works though.

Sprowston’s Keira Braithwaite

Purling right driving on with the ball, shifting inside to cross the ball cut out by Leggett. Fray battling through the middle taking the ball on for Sprowston has Morris moving inside the box ahead of her right side, getting the pass into the the angle against her Morris’ shot is held by Gowing. Barber-King taking the ball on down the right flank checking back up the line to the top of the area flashes a ball into Bower 20 out left of the D, her touch bringing her inside for the shot, is leaning back as she sends her effort over the bar.

The game moving into stoppage time Sprowston on the attack fed into Fray right channel outside the box angles a shot in across goal low, Gowing down well to push the ball away to her right.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies 2-6 Sprowston FC Women

Full time and Sprowston come away with a 6-2 that lifts them into 6th place in the Division One table. A strong start racing into a 4 goal lead seeing them take control of the game, with Fray and Morris up top causing problems for the Beccles defence throughout. The hosts with a mountain to climb errors seeing them concede early on a 4-0 looked in real trouble but had created chances and two well worked goals saw them pull it back to 4-2 at the break. An enforced keeper change for Sprowston but Beccles never really tested her as the visitors continued to look dangerous in the final 3rd going on to add another quickfire double to make it a comfortable result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances to mention first. Starting with Beccles Lola Barber-King created a number of chances up top an on another day may very well have scored a hat-trick. Charlotte Power at the back making a number of critical tackles and blocks. For Sprowston it’s hard to pick a single player out as their were good performances all over the pitch, Holly Whayman composed in midfield moving the ball well scoring twice. “Well done Bailey” was a common cry throughout the match the defender making so great tackles. Up top Kate Morris was strong peeling off the defence to make herself available narrowly edged out by her strike partner, Katie Fray who was a handful for the Beccles defence all game, battling for the ball and creating numerous opportunities.

An enjoyable East Sunday at Beccles, great to catch up with both sides and others in the footballing community. My thanks to both sides for providing me with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – KLSC Women v Gorleston FC Ladies

Sunday 17th October

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

A short trip along the A47 this Sunday for a top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division Two, with newly formed KLSC Women, 3rd in the table hosting early league leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies.

Has been a turbulent time for the county leagues across the region as the country itself emerges from the COVID pandemic that has affected the past two seasons. Norfolk seeing alot of changes within the women’s county league a host of new side joining had hoped to go with 3 divisions of 10 which in the end was reduced to 8. This proving unpopular with several clubs and with further sides withdrawing the decision was made to go with 2 divisions of 11 on the eve of the new season. Again not to everyone’s liking but with alot of chances within alot of clubs too I feel it will take a season or two to settle down again. Have been some eye watering results across both leagues with in itself reflections the difficulties the league has faced.

KLSC Women are one of the new sides joining the NWGFL this season. KLSC (King’s Lynn Soccer Club) Women were only created in April with former Lynn Ladies players Lisa Wilson and Louise Coggles approaching the club to set up a new women’s club within the King’s Lynn area. Lynn Ladies originally set-up in 2014 going on to join with and become King’s Lynn Town Ladies now competing the the ERWFL Premier Division the 5th tier of the women’s game. Norfolk is a large county and a good portion of it is still badly under represented in women’s football, with only King’s Lynn in West Norfolk meaning long trips to Fakenham, Thetford or March in Cambridgeshire the only other viable options for players in the area. The formation of KLSC Women giving King’s Lynn a 2nd club which is excellent for a town of this size.

KLSC Women making an excellent start to the season too, assembling a squad with a good blend of experience and youthful talent a few former Lynn Ladies players amongst them. Winning 6-1 away to another newcomer Loddon United Ladies in their opening fixture. There home debut saw them fire 12 past Red Rose Ladies whilst they were held for a point in a 3-3 draw away to newcomers Shrublands Ladies last time out. Taking them to 3rd in the table unbeaten after 3 played. Josie Turner starring in front of goal in Lynn Ladies fledging years, returning to KLSC Women has netted 9 goals so far in those 3 matches!

Gorleston FC Ladies are themselves a new side of sorts with just one player captain Leanna Muffett remaining at the club form the previous era with much of that squad moving on to become Caister FC Ladies. A rebuild of sorts for joint managers John Barrett and Keegan Snell. Have a very young squad with more coming through to join. Playing at Emerald Park home of Gorleston Town FC are well backed by the men’s club. Have made an excellent start to the season like KLSC Women scoring plenty of goals along the way too. Starting off with a 9-4 result at home to Red Rose Ladies. Were held to a 1-1 draw against local rivals Shrublands in the following match before going on to pick up a great 5-3 win at home to another side likely to be challenging at the top this season UEA Women. A dominant 10-0 win away to Bulldogs Ladies seeing Gorleston go top of the table unbeaten in their 4 games played to date with Becky Waters top scoring on target for 8 goals in those matches.

Back to the beginning for KLSC Women in more ways than one as the club returns to Lynn Ladies original home, West Lynn Social Club on the other side of the Great Ouse Rivers from King’s Lynn itself. The Community Sports and Social Club featuring a clubhouse and bar with the main playing field beyond. Shielded by a high embankment it can nevertheless get pretty cold out there on a match day during the winter. Has been along while since I’ve been here to see a match. The pitch a good size plenty of width good grass cover a little bobbly. The weather pretty miserable overcast with the chance of a shower or too forecast during the game.

KLSC Women recieving instructions from their management team prior to kick-off

KLSC Women starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Ruby Faulkner, Lisa Wilson, Viktorija Burkauskaite (C), Courtney Burch-Bailey, Millie Bareford, Kelsey Ramm, Tilly Sands, Chloe Edwards, Josie Turner & Ellie Panks. Subs – Georgia Hill, Saskia Johnson & Nicole Dockerty.

Gorleston warming up with King’s Lynn’s riverfront in view in the background

Gorleston FC Ladies starting XI – Nicole Leech, Chloe Bailey, Jenifer Martins, Maddie Furbank, Sienna Saunders, Leanna Muffett (C), Megan Bartlett, Mara Fernandes, Marianna Lino, Becky Waters & Kelsi Adams. Subs – Hannah Halfnight & Sammy Greenland.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Gorleston to get the match underway kick-off first half wearing an all green coloured kit, with KLSC lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and black and red hooped socks. The away side putting the ball back into their defence to play upfield, KLSC are quick to press the ball out on the left Josie Turner stealing in to win the ball off the full back runs in behind driving into the area from the left, Nicole Leech in goal for Gorleston having to rush out to close her down making a blocking save with her legs as she slides in to stop Turner’s shot. An early warning for Gorleston.

Gorleston goalkeeper, Nicole Leech with a vital save in the opening minute

Jenifer Martins plays the ball on up the right for Gorleston looking to pick out Becky Waters, Lisa Wilson stepping across her to clear the ball for KLSC. Gorleston winning the ball back on the right up to Waters the break is on as she looks to thread it in behind for Kelsi Adams to go after in the middle, Courtney Burch-Bailey closing in to win the ball back for KLSC. Gorleston with a corner won on the right, Sienna Saunders up well at the near post heading the ball down towards goal, blocked inside the six yard box by KLSC before being scrambled clear.

A lively start to the game the ball being moved upfield quickly, Chloe Edwards pressing on the right for KLSC winning a throw high up the pitch, Tilly Sands capitalising to win a corner kick from it. The delivery goes long beyond the far post is fired back in through the crowded penalty spot out to Millie Bareford free out to the right opens up her body clipping a shot up over the bar. KLSC pressing the ball high, Ellie Panks with Sands bringing another corner on the right, Same delivery long beyond the far post controlled well by Edwards, the Gorleston defence moving quickly to close her down releases her shot the ball rising over the crossbar.

Mara Fernandes getting hold of the ball for Gorleston in the middle of the park threading a ball through for Adams up top,, KLSC captain Viktorija Burkauskaite and goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith almost get in each others way before Russell-Smith sliding in lays claim to the ball inside the area. Marianna Lion left side for Gorleston on halfway plays the ball inside for Megan Bartlett. Puts an ambitious ball forwards for Adams playing off the shoulder of the last defender after it has too much on it allowing Russell-Smith to gather before she can attack it.

Mara Fernandes on the ball for Gorleston

A frantic start to the game has settled down a little, Gorleston beginning to see more of the ball. Fernandes tripped out on the left presenting Gorleston with a set-piece level with the top of the area. The ball flashing into the area headed clear, Wilson on for Turner the break is on, Muffett getting across to tackle. A clash of heads sees Sands on the floor in need of treatment. Assessed needs to come off to recover, on in her place, Saskia Johnson. Play resuming with a drop ball, Gorleston build in attack up to Adams, combines well with Waters looking for find a way through ends up fouling Burkauskaite.

Kelsi Adams after the ball for Gorleston

KLSC push forwards a great diagonal finding Edwards out on the right takes the ball on towards the area, is pushed wide by Gorleston full back Chloe Bailey nevertheless turning her body to release a shot from the angle as she falls lifts the strike up over the bar. Passes going astray for both sides with neither giving themselves time on the ball. Is a fairly even contest KLSC pressing higher keeping Gorleston’s defence pushed back making it harder for them to get the ball up to Adams leading the attack. A throw on the right a clever touch from Bareford almost comes off as she looks to spin in behind, Bailey close enough to her to stick out a foot take the ball away from her.

Gorleston’s Chloe Bailey

Some decisions not going Gorleston’s way leading to a little frustration being shown, Fernandes with a talking to from the referee asking her t calm down. Gorleston get players up well in support of Adams outside the area. Martins on the right tucking inside latching onto a half clearance sending a shot in on the angle from 25 yards rolls wide beyond the far post.

Jenifer Martins takes aim from distance for Gorleston

Ellie Panks is a speedy player in the centre of the attack for KLSC a ball clipped over the top falling into her path takes it on well pushing for the area. Leech comes rushing out towards the top of her box looking to close the angle sliding in Panks gets the ball past the keeper her attempt bouncing wide of Leech’s left post.

Is certainly an action packed contest can’t take your eyes off it for long, Gorleston playing the ball through the middle up to Waters, her touch seeing her get the better of Burkauskaite out to close her down, spinning in behind, Wilson is round on the cover to put in a good tackle to regain possession for KLSC. The hosts coming right Edwards winning a throw, Ruby Faulkner up to take it combines well with Panks and Edwards the cross delivered into the Gorleston box, Maddie Furbank with a firm head to get it clear for the visitors.

Bareford picking up a knock for KLSC sees her coming off with Sands returning to the action. Gorleston also making a change bringing on Sammy Greenwood for Furbank. Sands straight back into the game on the ball 30 yards out not closed down whipping a shot in towards goal, dipping early straight into Leech’s arms. Panks’ pace causing the Gorleston defence a few issues the ball rolled into her path as she spins to the right centrally drives for the area, Saunders manging to get back across her doing enough as Leech is able to kick it up field.

Josie Turner chesting the ball down for KLSC

Turner is using her experience well drifting about finding space out wide and infield, Martins and Muffett both defending against her. Martins taking the ball on up the right for Gorleston squares it across the top of the area for Fernandes she attempts to put Adams in on goal, a vital interception from Burkauskaite. tempers flaring up between Turner and Fernandes in the middle both recieving a yellow card for their efforts. Lino gets away on the left for Gorleston taking the ball in behind the full back attacking the area, Edwards going with her tracking back well to making the sliding tackle inside the area put the ball away for a corner. Burkauskaite winning the header in the box for KLSC.

Chloe Edwards getting back for KLSC to defend against Gorleston’s Marianna Lion

Gorleston bring off Fernandes before her frustrations get the better of her and she sees red. Furbank coming back into the game. Soon after KLSC bring Bareford back on for Faulkner. Adams is getting isolated at times up top for Gorleston having to battle for possession in the final 3rd does well to wriggle free 25 yards out to drift in from the right to have a shot the effort charged down skips up to Muffett central looks to chip it over the defence, Burkauskaite up well to get her head on the ball.

Turner with another chance on goal is played in behind on the left by Ramm the ball dropping before her top of the area as Leech comes rushing out to meet her takes it early with the outside of her boot evading the onrushing keeper the ball rolls wide of the far post. KLSC pressing hard as the first half draws to a close Burkauskaite’s clearance low finding it’s way through to Panks central can’t quite take it cleanly moving out to the left six yards out fires a low ball in across goal Turner in there, Gorleston scramble it away coms out to Edwards on the right drills a shot back in is narrowly wide of the near post.

Turner is getting into some great positions up top Gorleston’s defence aren’t picking her out the ball dropping to her inside the D, the attacker has more time than she realises as she takes it 1st time not controlled the ball spins away wide of target. Sands tackling well to win the ball central lays it forwards for Turner outside the D, Turner is falling as she unleashes her shot making her lift it higher than intended over the bar. Furbank getting a crucial header on the ball inside the area as a cross his dropped in from the left, without her intervention Turner is free to walk the ball into the net.

Late at the end of the firs half Ramm doing well centrally with Sands out to Edwards on the right who flashes a shot on the angle wide across goal for KLSC. The hosts with rapid build up play through the middle Bareford onto Sands onto Turner right of the D shifts the ball between her feet to get inside releasing a shot as she spins the ball rolling a foot wide of the right post.

Half-time KLSC Women 0-0 Gorleston FC Women

A frantic first half comes to an end, despite scoring 46 goals between them before today it remains goalless at the break. KLSC though have created a number of chances right from the kick-off and could very well be 3 or 4 goals to the good. A little bit more composure maybe needed at times. There’s been more time on the ball than both sides have allowed themselves at times. KLSC starting well have remained on the front foot through out the half. Gorleston growing into the game haven’t got going in the final 3rd and can count themselves lucky to be level at the break. Both sides planning tackle changes at half-time. The umbrella going up for the start of the 2nd half with a few spots of rain around.

KLSC with the kick off 2nd half bringing on Nicole Dockerty for Panks the change seeing Ramm move up top. Gorleston bringing on Hannah Halfnight to join the attack coming on for Bartlett. Ramm looking to turn in the middle on the ball fires it out wide to Dockerty the substitute trying to getting in behind Muffett sending her cross behind goal.

Nicole Dockerty on the attack for KLSC

As with the first half KLSC make a positive start think the have opened the scoring too as they build on the right Edwards into Turner top of the area right of the D, sees the ball onto her chest well, hitting the dropping ball on the turn, clipping it up into the air the ball smashes against the bar the ball dropping down into the box is then slammed into the back of the net but KLSC’s celebrations are cut sort by a raised offside flag.

Edwards is enjoying a good battle with Bailey on the right for KLSC, running with the ball at her feet drives a low shot in on the angle skipping up off the surface Leech goes down to save it the ball escaping her gloves accidentally knocks it out of play for a corner off her back. The delivery sent in towards the top of the area, Martins closes Turner do well to defend for Gorleston. The rain coming and going KLSC strong at the start of the 2nd period, Gorleston struggling to get the ball into their attackers. The hosts with a free-kick on their right into the box defended well by Gorleston’s Saunders at her near post.

Ramm plays the ball out to the right for Turner, looking to go on Bailey gets across her well shielding the ball for her keeper to clear. Opportunities rare for Gorleston, a reminder they are far from out of the game as Waters from the left fashions a shot out of nothing to send a dangerous shot in across the six yard box. Up the other end Turner with an ambitious effort attempting the overhead kick from the top of the area right of the D, sends it wide of Leech’s far post.

Gorleston captain, Leanna Muffett

Gorleston win a free-kick some 30 plus yards out central Adams over the ball has an attempt on goal Russell-Smith rising the ball dropping narrowly over her bar. Changes for both sides on the hour with Gorleston bringing Fernandes back on for Waters. A double change for KLSC with Johnson and Burch-Bailey off. Faulkner back on along with Georgia Hill the move seeing Sands drop into the back line.

Gorleston’s Marianna Lino

Russell-Smith out quickly to the top of her area to save bravely at the feet of Adams as Fernandes places a great ball in behind her defence. Sands cutting out a low cross from Gorleston’s Adams out to the right to concede a corner kick. The ball put in across the six yard box is knocked down into the six yard box falling straight to Lino, she can’t dig it out as KLSC rush to close her down the ball scrambled away to safety. Gorleston starting to get a foothold in the final 3rd

KLSC goalkeeper, Bryony Russell-Smith

The visitors attack Fernandes on through the middle up to Adams the attacker managing to wriggle free of both Burkauskaite and Sands to push on towards the area. left of the D blasts a rising ball in towards goal, Russell-Smith sliding in getting her gloves up to make a fantastic save palming the ball away wide to the left. Gorleston quicker to the loose ball a shot is flashes wide across the six yard box.

GOAL! A great chance at one end for Gorleston to take the lead KLSC go up the other end to score. Players up from an earlier set-piece the ball is out on the right Edwards firing it into the six yard box Ramm has it at her feet, is closed down the ball deflected away to the right, comes straight to Sands who from the angle gets her foot up over the ball to lash it back in past the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

Tilly Sands giving KLSC the lead

The hosts with the lead with around 20 minutes to play in the 2nd half. Gorleston continue to feel frustrated as decisions go against them. Play scrappy at times, rushed, Lino aggrieved after being fouled on halfway no advantage play brought back. Sands defending at the back for KLSC. Turner drifting free in the middle picks the ball up off Bareford turning 30 yards out to have a strike on goal, Leech down to it palming the ball into the ground, loose Dockerty is racing in on the follow-up Leech doing well to make herself big does enough to see Dockerty place the ball wide of goal.

KLSC’s Millie Bareford

Leech saving again with her feet denying Turner outside the box as she meets a low ball put in from the left. Into the final 15 minutes KLSC dropping back a little making their management team nervous. Adams continues to battle for the ball up top joined by Halfnight, Wilson lunging in to stop her getting into the box right side. A free-kick awarded to the host some 35 yards out as Bareford is fouled. Sands to play the ball in dropping on the penalty spot bouncing, players closing in Leech keeps her eye on it well to make a clean catch.

KLSC captain, Viktorija Burkauskaite defending against Gorleston’s Hannah Halfnight

Lino comes off the worst from a challenge in the middle, struggling to regain her breath is brought off to recover with Waters going back on. Fernandes to play the ball forwards into the box, Sands doing the defensive work for KLSC. The hosts inviting Gorleston on more than they want to with the clock ticking down Martins advancing on the left sending a low cross into the box, Sands defends up against Adams before Burkauskaite launches clear.

Gorleston bring Bartlett back on with 7 minutes left for Martins as they look to get themselves back into the match. Is a nervous finish. Wilson carrying the ball out from the back as Halfnight looks to pick out Fernandes who has made a run through the middle. Possession lost Gorleston feed Halfnight in central sends it out to Waters on the right shifting inside she strikes the ball rom 20 yards her effort charged down.

Space opening up for KLSC to exploit if they can break Edwards consistent on the right throughout driving on flashing a ball into Turner near post the attacker not quite able to wrap her foot around the ball to put it by the keeper. Edwards carrying the ball on down the right again sends it forwards early for Turner to run onto as she travels into the box Leech comes out to close her down stays big, Turner attempting to put a low ball under her Leech saves with her foot deflecting the ball behind for a corner. The set-piece defended as KLSC don’t commit too many forwards the game into stoppage time.

Full time KLSC Women 1-0 Gorleston FC Women

A single goal enough to win it in the finish with KLSC collecting the 3 points to keep up there unbeaten start to left in the NWGFL. Stay 3rd but move level on points with Gorleston now 2nd with Caister keeping up their 100% winning start to the season top by 2 points. On chances created KLSC deserving of the 3 points starting on the front foot an early warning shot created a host of chances in the 1st period on another day leading by 3 or 4 but at 0-0 Gorleston were still very much in it Leech with some important saves struggling to get going in the final 3rd Adams isolated at times the game scrappy decisions frustrating the visitors too.

All to play for 2nd half both making changes, KLSC thinking they’d gotten the break through denied by the flag. Were strong at the start of the 2nd half but further stops from Leech and missed chances meant if Gorleston could get an opportunity in front of goal themselves they might very well get into the lead. Russell-Smith making a vital stop KLSC going on to take the lead moments later. Sat back after that inviting Gorleston on both keepers called into action again the hosts though holding on despite a nervous finish. Dare say both sides will have learned alot more about themselves from this game than those previous.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. It’s not an easy decision once again a few performances of note to mention. Firstly for Gorleston, Nicole Leech did all she could in goal to keep the scores level for much of the game with some crucial saves especially in the opening minute. Mara Fernandes in midfield used the ball well and broke up play, a few thing’s going against her would have had a greater influence on the game. Kelsi Adams working hard up top leading the attack kept battling throughout. For KLSC, Millie Bareford has a good game in the middle picking up a couple of painful knocks for her efforts, tackling well. Josie Turner getting into some great positions in attack proving very hard to mark. Chloe Edwards was a constant threat attacking on the right and narrowly misses out to the goal scorer Tilly Sands playing in a number of positions during the game was creative on the ball in the middle linking up with the attackers and makes some important tackles when moved into the back line.

An enjoyable return to West Lynn. An entertaining and action filled game from two new sides that have assembled a talented group of players that will both be challenging at the top of the league throughout the season. My thanks to both management teams for providing with the team details today. I know I’m long over due a visit to Emerald Park but the list of places to visit only gets bigger not smaller.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Thetford Town Ladies v Stalham Town Ladies

Sunday 27th September

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

The first taste of county league action this weekend on Women’s Football East and a relatively short journey this one to take in a game from Norfolk Women’s Division Two, Thetford Town Ladies v Stalham Town Ladies.

19 sides competing across two divisions in Norfolk this season, 10 of those sides playing in Division Two. Today’s opponents will both fancy their chances of challenging for title this season. The COVID outbreak bringing the previous season to an abrupt end declared null & void there has nevertheless been some adjustment to the leagues.

Thetford Town Ladies drop back down to Division Two this season after being bumped up to Division One last season due to a large increase in new sides entering the women’s league in 2019/20. Had finished 6th in the league in the previous season making their debut in women’s football and moving up to Division One represented a huge jump. Struggled to get points early on, but signs of improvement were being made points were being won prior to the season being ended. A steep learning curve the squad would have gained valuable experience. Dropping back down to Division Two, got off to a flying start last Sunday in their opening game of the season winning 7-0 away to Red Rose Ladies with Emily Escreet scoring a brace, a goal a piece for Dayna Howard and Rebecca White with Laura Martins scoring an opening day hat-trick. Taking my first look at Thetford Town Ladies today one the closest sides to me less than half an hour away.

Has been a good while too since I last saw Stalham Town Ladies in action, one of the sides joining the league in the 2019/20 season having spent a couple of seasons away several of their players going to play for Aylsham Ladies in that time. Maintained a presence playing in the popular 7-a-side league that also plays on a Sunday afternoon in Norfolk. Re-established last season returning to Division Two made a very strong start, out in front early on and a long unbeaten record. Amber Mayhew spearheading the attack scoring plenty of goals. That season ending early Stalham Town Ladies will be amongst the favourites this time around and will be looking for another strong start to the season today’s away game against Thetford their first competitive match of the season.

The venue for today’s match Thetford Town FC on the Mundford Road leading into Thetford. Has been a while too since I’ve been here, Brandon Town Ladies having used it for the odd midweek game under the lights. A small stadium fenced off from the larger recreation ground beyond. With a clubhouse beside the main stand offering some cover for spectators. The grass pitch sloping somewhat from one side to the other. COVID regulations in place as at all grounds now. A cup of tea much welcomed the weather a distinct contrast from last Sunday, heavy rain falling for much of Friday and Saturday it remained dull and overcast a chilly breeze blowing across the pitch.

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Lydia Ward, Katherine Davies, Emily Bullett, Katie Hardie, Sausha Levy-Twoney (C) Emily Escreet, Mel Boulton, Shannon Richardson, Laura Martins, Erica Camacho-Besa & Becky White. Subs – Coral Ring, Dayna Howard & Kerri Griffiths

Stalham Town Ladies starting XI – Danielle Barnes, Lalaine Davey, Charlotte Darvill, Emma McMillan, Charlotte Crane, Andrea McCombe, Chloe Yarham, Emma Gillespie, Amber Mayhew (C), Sian Clarke & Sophie-Jayne O’Connor. Subs – Becky Houghton, Jade Copeman & Holly Ferguson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Stalham to get the first half underway taking kick-off wearing red shirts with white trim, red shorts and red socks with white stripes. Thetford opposite wearing claret coloured kit with sky blue trim, blue numbers fading into claret on their backs too which were going to give the eyeballs a workout. The visitors playing the ball back to their defence right full back Chloe Yarham looks to play it long up the right with Andrea McCombe providing a run, coming to mark her Thetford’s Emily Bullett can see the ball safely out of play.

Bringing the ball away to their right possession with Laura Martins into the Stalham half puts it on for Shannon Richardson to her right out on the wing goes forwards, Emma Gillespie getting across to close her down blocks as she attempts to fire a diagonal ball into the box. Attacking Thetford have come forwards as a team the defence on half way as Stalham attempt to play it through the middle, captain Sausha Levy-Twoney at the back with a vital interception to prevent Stalham’s captain Amber Mayhew getting clear in behind to run at goal.

Lalaine Davey finds space out on the left going forwards as Stalham get forwards quickly the past crossfield picking her out she gets control of the ball before twisting back inside to push towards the area, Martins coming in to close her down making the tackle sending the ball out for a throw in. The game has started at a fast pace, expected little else, Stalham attempting to put the ball on through the middle a couple of times the wind causing it to run on reach the keeper before anyone can capitalise. Thetford bringing the ball down the left Mel Boulton out to Becky White, plays it central looking for Erica Camacho-Besa, Charlotte Darvill steps in to tackle for Stalham top of the area.

Thetford’s Erica Camacho-Besa looking to fight her way into the Stalham box

Bullett stays on Sian Clarke as the Stalham attacker aims to get in behind with the ball out on the right wing the full back lunging in to make the tackle prevent the cross. Lydia Ward has to come racing out of her area to clear the danger for Thetford as a ball over the top sees both Mayhew and Clarke race clear after it, the goalkeeper launching it upfield, Camacho-Besa up top has close support from Boulton the Thetford pair combining trying to plough there way through into the area, the ball cleared out to the right for a throw. A turn and shot coming in from the right corner of the area the ball racing wide across the six yard box. Stalham attacking the flanks are getting numbers forwards in support up the right across squared into the six yard box, Levy-Twoney defending sends it out for a corner kick.

GOAL! 10 minutes into the match and Stalham open the scoring netting from the resulting corner. The ball played short up the line to Emma McMillan brings it in closer to the edge of the box before clipping in a ball with the outside of her boot, sends it over the keeper into the far corner of the net 0-1.

Stalham have looked very dangerous on the break, Clarke getting in behind on the right flashes a cross in towards the near post, Ward down low with a very good take to claim it with a Stalham attacker racing it to meet it. Ward is again called into action to cover her near post saving low as Clarke running with the ball on the right drives an angled shot in. A change for Thetford Camacho-Besa coming off with Dayna Howard entering the game. Thetford gain momentum on the left as Boulton takes the ball out wide loops a ball in towards the D, a difficult one for Richardson to attempt to bring down and control with Darvill close in on her the defence clearing it back out to the left this time the cross in claimed by goalkeeper Danielle Barnes at the top of her six yard box.

Thetford’s Emily Escreet with Stalham’s Charlotte Darvill

Richardson right side peels in behind her marker making a run as Katherine Davies has possession at right back for Thetford, sending the ball on isn’t enough with on the pass giving Barnes time to come off her line and lay claim to it. Martins is brought down Thetford awarded a free-kick by referee Paul Gibson 30 yards out in a central position. Before it’s taken Stalham make a change bringing on Holly Ferguson for Clarke. Emily Escreet smashes the free-kick straight into the Stalham wall the ball going out to the right for a throw in, collected by Martins turns 25 yards out corner of the area and takes on the strike a looping shot in collected high by the keeper.

Lauren Martins on the attack for Thetford Town Ladies

Is an entertaining contest, no one dwelling on the ball played at a fast pace, Thetford getting players forwards better now, Stalham continue to look threatening whenever they regain possession. Martins is down feeling the effects of being tackled minutes before needs to come off, Kerri Griffiths comes on going up top in attack. Stalham’s Gillespie making a determined run through the right channel with the ball gets clear before unleashing a 20 yard strike that flies over the crossbar. The visitors build in attack a good diagonal ball from McCombe out to Davey in space wide left, getting it under control turns to attack the area, Thetford getting bodies back on her struggle to clear their six yard box, Katie Hardie eventually stabbing it away falls straight to Sophie-Jayne O’Connor left of the D stabs it back in and over the bar.

Emma Gillespie looking to get hold of the ball for Stalham Town Ladies

A corner for Stalham on the right put in low by Mayhew into the crowded six yard box Ward down smartly saving at point blank range and again with her legs as the loose ball is hit hard against her, deflected out to the top of the area Stalham are first to it once again the shot hit back in towards goal, Ward quickly back t her feet right behind it catching it low into her body. Thetford get straight on the attack pushing players on well, Escreet with it right side up towards the area whips an inviting cross in, the flag goes up for offside straight away even as Boulton collects it in her stride through the defence and strokes it pass the keeper into the back of the net. It won’t count.

Thetford Town Ladies, Katherine Davies

Chances for both sides a lively contest still, McCombe on for Gillespie racing into space in the right channel spins with the ball at her feet top of the area shooting on the angle her shot swinging wide out at the far post. Davies gets back to defend well against Mayhew and a viciously bouncing ball evades everyone on the wing. Gillespie left channel puts the ball square to O’Connor in attack through the middle for Stalham controls it well, Levy-Twoney getting a foot in to take the ball away from her before she can shoot, O’Connor retrieves it 20 yards out right corner of the box volleying over the crossbar.

Stalham Town Ladies, Lalaine Davey

Boulton is looking to get hold of the ball for Thetford and drive on with it central, attempts to thread it through to Griffiths looking for a one two, Yarham tackling to prevent the return ball. Levy-Twoney with another vital interception at the back and Davey’s pass through the middle almost sends Mayhew in behind. Ward with a brave save coming out to close down O’Connor top of the area as she is fed the diagonal pass in from the right, the Thetford keeper down well to save a point blank range. Boulton taking control of the ball in the centre for Thetford brings it forwards travelling into space on the right side able to go on before looping a high ball back onto the area players attacking it near side, Charlotte Crane with a composed header safely guiding the ball back to her keeper.

Thetford Town Ladies, Melissa Boulton

Half-time Thetford Town Ladies 0-1 Stalham Town Ladies

An entertaining and fast paced first half sees Stalham Town Ladies hold a narrow 1-0 lead over Thetford Town Ladies. An early lead for the visitors who have looked a threat going forwards throughout. Pacey on the counter attack, took Thetford a little bit of time to get some momentum of their own having a goal ruled out for offside. Lydia Ward in goal making some vital saves to keep Stalham from extending their advantage.

Thetford to get the 2nd period underway, loose possession on the right as Ferguson carries it on for Stalham angling a ball into the box, Ward able to claim it low. Stalham with a strong start to the 2nd half particularly Ferguson who is again able to run with the ball in behind in the right, Levy-Twoney doing well to get back on her take her to the by-line take the sting off her cross allowing Ward to claim it at her near post. Howard moving to her left out to stop Yarham winning the ball as the full back attempts to get forwards.

Stalham Town Ladies, Chloe Yarham

Stalham come again the ball out to Mayhew wide clips a diagonal ball in towards the top of the area Ferguson with a central run, Hardie stepping up to clear the ball for Thetford up to Escreet attempts to play it long the wind taking it on for the keeper to clear.

GOAL! The visitors capitalising on their good start to the 2nd half double their lead attacking with intent down the left the cross fired in low to the advancing Gillespie left of the D 20 yards out hits it first time her rising shot flying in Ward driving t her right the ball striking the crossbar rebounds down and unfortunately straight against the falling Ward to deflect into the goal 0-2.

Emma Gillespie’s shot bringing Stalham a 2nd goal early in the 2nd half

Boulton is down needing treatment in the middle for Thetford but up on her feet able to continue. Moving out to the flanks more in the 2nd period looking to get on with the ball. Stalham win a corner on the right as O’Connor’s first time strike from outside the box takes a deflection. The six yard box congested as the ball comes in Ward calls determined to claim it an does. The hosts build through the middle the pass laid out to Richardson left side sends it on to Griffiths in attack back to goal she returns it to Richardson moving up the line she sends her strike bouncing wide through the six yard box.

Thetford Town Ladies, Shannon Richardson

Richardson with another opportunity for Thetford moments later as Boulton brings it on right side putting it into the middle, struck first time by Richardson looping up is claimed high by Barnes back on her line. Stalham waste no time getting up the other end the ball put on by Gillespie to Mayhew wins a corner. Mayhew to swing the delivery in to the six yard box Ward again up to claim it confidently. Martins having recovered from her knock in the first half returns to the field for Thetford in place of Griffiths in attack. Boulton with a chipped ball from the right looks to put her through on goal, Crane gets there first to clear for Stalham.

Stalham Town Ladies, Charlotte Crane

Thetford are looking sharper now having conceded a 2nd goal are coming on well Boulton causing issues out on the right lays it inside for Martins in the area, looking to jink right then left taking on the defence Crane stands up to her putting the foot in to take the ball away from her the pressure stays with the hosts as the ball is put out to Richardson left side in the area aiming to get inside onto her right foot strike the ball, MacMillan closing her down to get it away to safety for the visitors. Thetford lively now moving the ball quickly in the final third pressuring the area the ball played across the D to the right side a shot is struck hard blasted wide of the goal, not sure if it was Howard or Boulton.

Dayna Howard getting the ball away for Thetford Town Ladies

Jade Copeman comes on for Stalham replacing McCombe. Escreet central plays a diagonal ball out to Boulton in the wing with the ball at her feet gets up the line whips a dangerous cross in near post the keeper diving Barnes may have gotten a hand to it enough to deflect it across the face of goal behind Martins racing in central. As much as Thetford are posing a threat now Stalham remain a danger on the counter Mayhew getting a throw deep on the right side the cross fired in by Ferguson into the top of the box the ball deflected out to the left gathered by Darvill 30 yards out brings it forwards couple of yards before lining up a strike angling in low Ward has her near post covered. Becky Houghton is on for Stalham in place of Davey.

Thetford’s turn to counter the ball rolled into Horward’s feet in the middle releases Martins through on goal, Barnes having started to come for the ball now back peddles rapidly to cover her goal. Martins though doesn’t make the most of the opportunity her shot tame in the finish struck to close to the keeper allowing her to gather.

GOAL! A hammer blow then for the hosts up the other end as Stalham go on to score a 3rd goal. Nothing unusual about the attack Stalham have broken well and with purpose all game, O’Connor the furthest forwards this time played in through the middle closing in on the area sends her low strike wide of the advancing keeper to make it 0-3 in the 63rd minute.

Sophie-Jayne O’Connor congratulated by her teammates after scoring Stalham’s 3rd goal

Thetford building from the back into Martins central lifts it out to Richardson left side taking it on attempts to get inside Yarham aiming to strike a ball in towards the far post Yarham gets a foot on the ball to deflect it up and be caught by her keeper in the box. Clarke returns to the field for Stalham replacing Ferguson. Ward with another excellent save low to her left post pushing it behind for a corner as Clarke is played through into the area for Stalham strikes it hard. The corner put in from the left punched up into the air by Ward at her near post falls to a Stalham player top of the area hit first time low the shot is blocked by Levy-Twoney.

Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward saving at the feet of Stalham’s Sian Clarke

Both sides are keeping up a good tempo, despite conceding a third goal Thetford aren’t deterred in attack Howard spraying the pass out to Boulton on the right her cross in defended by Crane. The visitors . Yarham with a crossfield ball to fins Clarke on the left wing the Stalham attacker playing it back to the advancing Darvill, Boulton tracking back with her regains possession for Thetford. The ball played out to the left Martins up with Richardson the cross fired in across the face of goal no one to meet it defected away falls to Boulton top of the box her shot back on lacks power Barnes saving low. McCombe comes back on for Stalham

GOAL! Thetford’s pressing brings them a deserved goal, the ball with Escreet central plays it wide to Boulton charging on down the right cuts the ball in towards the top of the box White well position meets it first time with a back heel to deflect the ball ninety degrees and in past the diving keeper at the near post 1-3. 15 minutes left to play.

Stalham make a change bringing off full back Davies and sending attacker Camacho-Besa back on. Martins blasts over from 25 yards after keeping control of the ball well on the right wing for Thetford. O’Connor comes off for Stalham Davey back on. The visitors get a corner kick on the right Mayhew with another good delivery into the six yard box the ball cleared straight back to her floats another ball in Ward rising to claim it.

Andrea McCombe playing the ball on for Stalham Town Ladies

Martins away in the left for Thetford racing towards the area strikes the ball on the angle straight into the keepers gloves. McCombe on the ball centrally for Stalham comes to the right on for the advancing Yarham she whips in a diagonal ball looking for the advancing Gillespie, Hardie stepping out of the back line to win in back for Thetford. Thetford get on the attack Boulton away on the right players arriving in the box as the cross comes in a half yard off the ground Richardson going for it can’t make contact to deflect it past the diving keeper at the near post.

Into stoppage time both sides looking for another goal Thetford attacking, Stalham pounce with a counter Davey getting hold of the ball well central laying it on for Clarke making a run left channel, Levy-Twoney goes with her forcing her to the by-line managing to stop the cross coming in. The ball cleared the final whistle blows and Stalham start their season with a 3-1 win.

Full time Thetford Town Ladies 1-3 Stalham Town Ladies

Was a highly entertaining game end to end 2nd half, Thetford getting better as the game wore on. Stalham good for their lead in the 1st half getting a crucial early goal in the 2nd half. Thetford rallied well creating opportunities to pull it back a hammer blow to concede a third goal. Weren’t deterred going on to score themselves. On another day might well have been 3-3 the hosts having the better of the 2nd period… perhaps Stalham will argue they were the ones who scored twice though a good contest both sides can take plenty from it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. These thing’s are never easy to decide and leaving the ground I wasn’t sure. Nevertheless have lots of notes as you know to fall back on so… a few performances to mention. Some fine saves from Lydia Ward 1st half especially keeping Thetford in it. Mel Boulton a threat more so out on the right and Lauren Martins too showing great movement. For Stalham were particularly dangerous on the counter attack getting forwards as a unit well. Lalaine Davey doing alot of work getting about the pitch with some good tackles. Charlotte Crane composed at the back. The award though goes to Emma Gillespie like Davey covered alot of ground making some fantastic forward runs always available for the ball.

An entertaining game to start my county league season good to season both sides in action Thetford for the first time and Stalham after so long. Thanks for your help in getting me those all important team sheets. Appreciate all the help given today.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A huge game at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One played this Sunday as 2nd placed Bungay Town Ladies played host to runaway leaders Thorpe United Ladies. 13 successive wins for Thorpe at the top of the table 9 points clear going into the weekend captain Rebekah Lake having a prolific season in front of goal scoring 39 goals from just 15 games, Thorpe looking strong having a fantastic season so far into the League Cup final too. Bungay having a good season themselves losing just the one game that to Thorpe back in November losing away from home 1-0. 2 games in hand for Bungay, Sunday a crunch fixture you felt an eventful game in the finish a 7 goal thriller, Lake amongst the goals again racing past 40 onto 42 netting a hat-trick. Bungay though digging deep to get the 3 points and see Thorpe lose for the first time this season, Nicola Hazell scoring twice moving to 8 for the season. 2 goals too for top scorer Selina Rowland one from the penalty spot the game won 4-3. Thorpe ending the game with 10 players with Melissa Belsey red carded.

Selina Rowland

Nicola Hazell

Tavern Ladies enjoying a good season following promotion to Norfolk Women’s Division One join 3rd placed Sprowston Ladies on 27 points as they won for the 9th time this season away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the weekend. Strong in the final third Tavern are scoring plenty of goals since moving up a league. Atlanta Griffith top scorer this season so far well backed up by Katie Hart-Copsey and Lucy Kean all three on target on Sunday with Griffith finding the back of the net for four goals moving onto 19 for the season. Hart-Copsey scoring a hat-trick moves to 15 whilst Kean was also on target for her 14th goal of the season, Tavern running out 9-0 winners with midfielder Nicole Costin also celebrating a goal.

Long Stratton Women also promoted to Division One this season were at home to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend. Both sides short on availability for the match Long Stratton with usual captain Samantha Walker fielding the bare 11. Taverham winning the Division Two title with a very small squad had just the 9 on the pitch. Has been a tough season in Division One for Taverham continue to battle away a tight knit squad in 9th a positive end to the season could yet see them pull out of the bottom 2, earning a 2nd successive point on Sunday are up to 9th spot, Lucy Staff’s first goal of the season seeing Taverham leading at half-time. Long Stratton coming back to level the game 2nd half with Beth Stratton scoring. Long Stratton almost finding the winner hitting the crossbar late on.

Has been a tough spell for Fakenham Town Ladies bouncing back to Division One at the first attempt a good run had seen them climb as high as fifth in the table as they look to consolidate. A slump in results though seeing them lose ground with 6 loses in league and cup got back to winning ways at last this Sunday at home at Clipbush Park to fellow promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. Thetford beginning to find their feet in Division One themselves it was a close match with the scores level at 2-2 with the game entering the final three minutes, Fakenham getting the ball into their opponents goal for a 3rd time winning the game at the death. Top scorer Sophie Lubbock scoring her 9th goal of the season for Fakenham, Megan Spurrell also on target for a goal along with a first Fakenham goal for Gina Pooley. Thetford’s goal scorers Shannon Richardson with her first of the season and Jessica Knight with her first for the club.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Stalham Town Ladies remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two, following their return to 11 a side football have lost just once in 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw lead the way by 4 points over Beccles Town Ladies who do have two games in hand the chasing pack a further 5 points back. Amber Mayhew’s goals going a long way to Stalham Town’s points tally this season is in great form in front of goal. On target for another hat-trick again this Sunday away to 5th Waveney Ladies to see the club make it 10 wins for the season the game won 3-0. Mayhew on 22 for the season now. The top two meeting this coming Sunday.

Beccles Town Ladies looking to bounce straight back to Division One have themselves lost just the once this season, looking to chase down Stalham Town Ladies at the top of the Division Two table have had a frustrating season in terms of getting games played, that though has allowed injured players to return to fitness and ready to push on towards the latter 3rd of the season. Were at home to struggling Red Rose Ladies at the weekend 2nd bottom Red Rose were short of a full side meaning it would be a tough test against a Beccles sides scoring goals. Did well though to keep it down to 4-0 at half-time but eventually tiredness was going to play a part and Beccles ran amok in the 2nd period. 3 players all netting 5 goals each, top scorer Lola Barber-King, Francesca Catchpole and Ellie Hills doubling her tally for the season. The final score 19-0 with Elisha Bower, Chelsea Caplin, Megan Vincent and Beth Owen all getting a goal.

Horsford Women are up to 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table as they made it 4 straight wins on Sunday away to Hockering Ladies. The pair drawing 1-1 at the half-time interval Hockering added a 2nd goal 2nd half Horsford though scoring twice more to win the match 3-2 to take home the 3 points. Natalie Roope moves onto 10 for the season for Horsford with goals to for Amanda Vincent and Laura Hudson on her debut. Olivia Baker and Shelley Woods scoring in each half for Hockering.

North Walsham Ladies move above Hockering into 6th in the Division Two table with a 5th win of the season away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday. Both Keira Brown and top scorer Rhiannon Holt scoring twice to move to 6 and 12 goals for the season respectfully. Ella Chambers also scoring in the match celebrating her first goal of the season as North Walsham ran out 5-0 winners.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Plenty of action around Norfolk this weekend the only county not to be affected by the wet weather at the end of the week all 9 games listed getting played. 4 games in Division One and 13 is not an unlucky number for Thorpe United Ladies as they extended their 100% record to 13 matches at the top of the table to stay 9 points clear of the sides below. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Thorpe with captain Rebekah Lake leading the attack scoring plenty of goals easy to overlook they have the tightest defence in the league too conceding just 6 goals so far this season. Lake on hand to fire in another 2 goal this weekend taking her to 39 for the season ran out comfortable winners in the finish 9-1. Sophie Jermy also netting a brace. Midfielder’s Alice Ladbrooke and Laura Hedtke forming a good partnership in the middle of the park this season both on the scoresheet at the weekend with their 8th goals of the season. Aneliese Smith and Natasha Levesley both scoring a goal each too along with Kelly Conroy in her 1st team debut. Rebecca Carver with the goal for Wymondham.

With Sprowston Ladies playing in the League Cup this weekend Bungay Town Ladies had the opportunity to move 3 points clear into 2nd spot in Division One as they travelled to play Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts with just the bare 11 available. Bungay themselves scoring goals this season whilst keeping it tight at the back just the one loss so far this season that a narrow defeat against Thorpe. Goals spread amongst the side too, Selina Rowland staying a goal ahead as top scorer with one at the weekend has 14 now for the season, Leanne Smith one behind on 13 also scoring a goal. Shannon Dade also celebrating a goal whilst their was a brace for Lauren Purling who has 6 goals now from 7 appearances. Bungay winning the game 5-1, now 9 points behind Thorpe with 2 games in hand, their next match at home to Thorpe this coming Sunday! Rebecca White getting the Thetford goal.

Tavern Ladies another side amongst the goals this season 4th in Division One make the trip to Clipbush Park this Sunday to face Fakenham Town Ladies for the 4th time this season. Beating them 3 times so far in league a cup (twice). Fakenham up against it this weekend with just the bare 11 battled hard in defence Tavern carrying a threat form midfield Atlanta Griffith on target twice to score taking her to 15 for the season with Sophie Fuller back in the side also scoring a goal to see Tavern win 3-0.

A tough season so far in Division One for Freethorpe Ladies bottom with just the one point so far this season from 13 played adrift at the foot of the table where hosting 2nd bottom Taverham United Ladies at the weekend, keep plugging away Lily-Ann Marples on the scoresheet for her first goal for Freethorpe seeing them drawing with Taverham 1-1 at half-time. Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham. Winning Division Two last season in their debut season in women’s football Taverham finding it tougher in Division One, not scoring the goals that won them the title the pair sharing the points in the finish neither adding another goal. Freethorpe celebrating a 2nd hard won point. Incredibly tight in the bottom half of the table Taverham if they can find them are just 2 wins away from a mid-table position.

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

Postponed from last weekend Long Stratton Women were hosting Sprowston Ladies this weekend in the semi-final of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, both knowing they will be facing Thorpe United Ladies in the final after they beat Tavern Ladies 4-0 last weekend. Sprowston the current League Cup holders have Victoria Leyer leading their attack prolific in front of goal this season vying with Thorpe’s Rebekah Lake for the golden boot (or whatever the equivalent is in Norfolk) Long Stratton giving it a go have goals in them themselves the first half ending all square with both sides scoring twice, Charlie Head and Summer Moore for Long Stratton. Sprowston coming out on top in the 2nd period taking the lead and going on to add a 2nd goal to reach the final once again with a 4-2 victory, Leyer putting the ball into the back of the net for another hat-trick taking her to 33 goals for the season with Hannah Roe on target for her first goal of the season.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Four games too this Sunday played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. League leaders Stalham Town Ladies 4 points clear at the top losing just once so far this season were back in action for the first time since Jan 12th hosting 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies. No signs of rust as Stalham ran out comfortable winners in the finish. Amber Mayhew amongst the goals this season on target for a hat-trick to go onto 19 for the season from 12 appearances. A hat-trick to for Emma Gillespie who has 8 for the campaign now. Stalham winning 7-1 with the other goal coming from Charlotte Crane her first of the season. Molly Howes scoring the goal for Thorpe.

Beccles Town Ladies looking to chase Stalham down at the top stay 4 points behind with 2 games in hand as they themselves won convincingly away to North Walsham on Sunday. Beccles last game also back in 12th Jan. Have Francesca Catchpole back in their side after recovering from a nasty knee injury that had her out long term she was on target to score a hat-trick on Sunday her return now 12 goals from just 4 appearances. Lola Barber-King holding onto the top scorers position at the moment getting on the scoresheet too with her 15th goal of the season. Beccles running out 8-2 winners with 4 more names on the scoresheet, Elisha Bower, Francesca Heaney, Lucy Robbens and Beth Owen. Keira Brown and Sophie Hall scoring the North Walsham goals.

Waveney Ladies climb back above Thorpe United Ladies Reserves on goal difference as they won away from home on Sunday to 2nd bottom side Red Rose Ladies. The damage done in the first half a comfortable lead for Waveney went on to add another goal 2nd half to win the game 5-0 to come away with the 3 points.

Is a 3 way tie on 19 points now in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with 5th placed Horsford Women matching Thorpe United Reserves and Waveney’s points total as they extended their winning run to 3 matches 10 points from their last 4 overall Were hosting bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this weekend First half goals from Natalie Roope and Amanda Vincent helping Horsford to a 2-0 victory.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 23/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 23rd February

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

A limited fixture list in Norfolk this weekend with 7 matches scheduled to be played. 3 of those postponed due to yet more rain falling, and two of the 4 that were played switched to new locations to get them played. Semi-finals weekend for the Norfolk Women’s League Cup one of those falling too, Long Stratton’s pitch waterlogged their game with Sprowston called off the pair will try again this coming weekend.

In the other semi-final Tavern Ladies reaching the League Cup final last season knocking out Thorpe United Ladies in the last 4 of the competition were once again drawn to face Thorpe in this season’s competition. Thorpe having a strong season yet to lose a game in the NWGFL this season 12 wins from 12 in the league and into the last 4 of the League Cup. Tavern themselves enjoying a good season too following promotion from Division Two last season, losing just 2 matches so far. One of those against Thorpe 3 weeks ago, two storm hit weekends since meeting again in the cup this weekend Tavern’s usual pitch waterlogged an early decision made to switched the game to Bradenham Football Club. Both sides scoring goals, a potent attack, it was from the midfield the winning goals came this Sunday, Laura Hedtke and Alice Ladbrooke striking in a goal apiece to send Thorpe into this season’s League Cup final the winning margin 2-0.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Two league games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday, 7th placed Sprowston Athletic Ladies scheduled to be at home to play bottom side Freethorpe Ladies, their pitch waterlogged the game was revered with Sprowston Athletic at home. Rachel Bussey on target to score a hat-trick for Sprowston Athletic moves onto 8 goals for the season. Jade Dodds celebrating her first goals of the season firing home a brace their was also a goal each for Laura Jenkins, Lois Irving and a first goal of the season too for captain Keri Boorman. Sprowston Athletic with a comfortable 8-0 win the 3 points taking them up 2 places in the Division One table to 5th.

Thetford Town Ladies ground also passing an inspection on Sunday their match against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on. Thetford finding their feet in Division One in recent matches up above Wymondham into 8th in the table. Windy conditions the pair were drawing 0-0 at half-time. Thetford taking the lead in the 2nd half with Abbey Comstock putting the hosts 1-0 up. Wymondham coming back to level the scores going on to win the game by 2 goals to 1 to move back above Thetford in the table. Rebecca Carver with her 6th goal of the season and Alexandra Denes the goalscorers.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

One game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday, Horsford Women away to 2nd bottom Red Rose Ladies. Horsford with a bit of form going into the match just the one defeat in their last 5 league games that against leaders Stalham 3 wins in that run. The visitors 1-0 up at half-time adding a further 2 goals in the 2nd half to add another 3 points to their tally for the season lifting them up into 5th spot in the Division Two table. Natalie Roope scoring a brace taking her onto 7 goals for the season with Deanne Bestford scoring her first goal for the club.