The County Cup dominating in Suffolk too this weekend with the competition reaching the 2nd Round stage. Ipswich Town Women with an iron grip on the trophy have held sway over the competition for a number of seasons now and show no signs of letting it go, New sides rising withing the county alot of catching up to do but the game is growing mercilessly right now.
8 ties drawn for the 2nd Round two sides progressing without kicking a ball, East Bergholt United Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL through due to the withdrawal of opponents Coplestonians Ladies with Needham Market Women’s new Reserves side also awarded an away win to advance. 5 2nd Round ties played this Sunday with the final quarter final spot to be decided on Sunday 1st December between Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development at home to Beccles Town Ladies.
Ipswich Town Women having beaten former finalists AFC Sudbury Ladies in the 1st Round of the County Cup drawn away to Suffolk Women’s Division side AFC Kesgrave Ladies in the 2nd Round a huge gap between the sides Ipswich leading FAWNL South East Division One playing 4 leagues higher, scoring plenty of goals throughout the squad, attacker Natasha Thomas making her 100th Ipswich appearance heading in a cross inside 4 minutes to put them into the lead volleying in her 2nd 2 minutes later. Aimee Stretch heading in from a corner to make it 3-0 inside 20 minutes. Ipswich going further ahead through Chloe Dunn and own goal following then a flurry of goals with Amy-Leigh Abrehart and captain Amanda Crump making it 7-0 with barely half an hour gone Thomas completing a first half hat-trick with Zoe Cossey ending a mazy run with a powerful goal to see Ipswich 9-0 up at the break.
100 Ipswich appearances for Natasha Thomas (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Thomas adding a 4th goal straight after the restart adding a 5th goal on the hour with Cossey scoring in between. Crump heading in her 2nd of the game Cossey bringing up her hat-trick would score Ipswich’s final goal on 90 minutes, with Paige Wakefield and Ellie Rossiter adding a goal each in the final 10 minutes 17-0 the final score.
Needham Market Women playing their 1st ever season in Women’s football reaching the County Cup final itself last season, losing to Ipswich Town Women at Portman Road. A fantastic debut season finishing runners-up too in the League Cup and Suffolk Women’s Division have taken promotion to the ERWFL whilst establishing a new Reserves side. Were away to Bungay Town Ladies making a great start to the season playing in Norfolk Division One. Needham Market getting an early lead 1-0 with less than 10 minutes played Jodie Sharp’s cross/shot flying in. Lina Nagib putting the visitors 2-0 midway through the 2nd half nodding in at close range following good work from Francesca Rainbird. 2-0 the advantage at the break Bungay hitting Needham Market on the break for a goal in the 2nd half pulling it back to 2-1 on the hour, a tense finish Needham Market clearing one off the line from an 85th minute corner to maintain their lead at clinch the win to progress to the quarter finals.
Brantham Athletic Ladies recovering from a league run earlier in the season are beginning to find their form in the league were at home in the 2nd Round of the County Cup taking on Haverhill Rover Ladies who came into the match with a 100% winning start in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership joint leaders with Leverington Sports Ladies both promoted this season. Brantham Athletic coming out on top to win the tie 4-1 to book their spot in the quarter finals.
Brettvale Ladies leading the Suffolk Women’s Division with a 100% winning start were at home to fellow league side Leiston St Margarets Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup this Sunday. Leiston St Margarets taking the lead in the game Brettvale getting back of level terms going on to win comfortably 5-1 to advance.
Another all Suffolk Women’s Division tie saw Hanley Athletic Ladies at home to Bury Town Women in the 2nd Round of the competition. Bury Town getting themselves into a 2-0 lead at half-time. Henley Athletic pulling it back to 2-1 with Emma Long scoring her 6th goal of the season. Time running out the hosts awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position central top of the D in the final minute, Amy Gilson with a well taken set-piece rifling the ball home to grab a last minute equaliser her 9th goal of the season for Henley Athletic. The tie going to a penalty shootout, Henley Athletic winning 4-3 to progress through to the quarter finals.
Suffolk Women’s Division
Two matches also played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this weekend. Alresford Colne Rangers with a chance to go 3 points clear in 2nd spot in the table close the gap on leaders Brettvale should they secure 3 points away to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. A heavy lost at home to Holland Ladies last time out that didn’t look likely for Alresford as Brightlingsea’s bare 11 held onto a 1-0 with 5 minutes left to play. Lucy Tilbury with her 10th goal of the season firing Brightlingsea into the lead midway through the 1st half. The hosts tiring late in the game Alresford got it back to 1-1 in the 85th minute going on to snatch a last minute winner to take it 2-1. Rae Clancy with her 5th strike of the season and Zoe Bardell with her first of the campaign securing victory.
Woodbridge Town Ladies also climbing the Suffolk Women’s Division moving up into 5th spot this weekend as they won away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Their 6th win of the season putting them level on points with 4th placed Bury Town. A 3rd successive victory to coming courtesy of goals from top scorers Jenna Liverpool and Keira Hines. 5 goals for Liverpool gives her 18 now for the season from 8 appearances. Hines scoring a hat-trick has 12 now again from 8 played. 8-0 the winning score.
The 2019/20 County Cup competition kicked off in Suffolk this Sunday with 5 ties taking place in the 1st Round. Some county cup competition seeded others not across the country. Suffolk one of those that don’t. That saw current holders Ipswich Town Women drawn out of the hat to play at home to former finalists AFC Sudbury Ladies. Ipswich with a stranglehold on the county cup in recent seasons and with a new crop of U21 talent breaking into the senior sides no sign they are about to give it up. This a new look AFC Sudbury side a young squad going forwards. Sudbury taking an early lead in the match going 1-0 up, Ipswich straight back at them to level the scores inside 5 minutes with Sophie Welton through to make it 1-1. Ipswich going on to take the lead in the 18th minute from an Amanda Crump corner a powerful header from Paige Wakefield on her birthday to make it 2-1. The captain making it 3-1 5 minutes later as Crump lobbed the keeper from outside the box. Sudbury coming back to 3-2 then a poor goal kick intercepted leading to the goal.
All action with not even half an hour played Amy-Leigh Barrett shooting into the far corner to score her 1st senior goal. Another youngster going to to claim her first goals for the club late in the first half with Zoe Barrett netting a 3 minute brace. Time for another goal before half-time with Abrehart scoring her 2nd of the game to see Ipswich 7-2 up at the break. Ipswich dominating towards the end of the 1st half continued where they left of in the 2nd, Lindsey Cooper heading home from a Crump corner on 53 minutes, Crump the unleashing a thunderbolt from distance to make it 9-2. Stoppage time seeing a further two goals added, Wakefield with her 2nd of the match, the final word from Crump completing her hat-trick.
Needham Market Women reached the County Cup final in their debut season last tie out and will be aiming to achieve the same goal this season. Strengthening the squad as they begin life in ERWFL Division One North were at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies in the 1st Round of the competition on Sunday. The hosts leading 2-0 at half-time thanks to a brace from Lina Nagib. Defender Megan Stock heading home to put Needham Market 3-0 up 10 minutes into the 2nd half. On the hour new signing Jodie Sharp found the back of the net for her first Needham Market goal. Laura Brame also joining in the close season fouled inside the box, up to take the spot kick herself her 1st goal will have to wait as she saw her effort saved. Annie Northwood getting in on the goal scoring with 15 minutes left make it 5-0. Woodbridge capitalising from a scramble from a corner to get themselves a goal. Northwood making it 6-1 with her 2nd of the game to see Needham Market safely through to the next round.
Elsewhere in the 1st Round their were convincing wins for Leiston St Margarets at home beating Chantry Grasshoppers 7-0. Whilst on the road AFC Kesgrave Ladies scored 6 without reply against Mildenhall Town Ladies. Bury Town Ladies are also through to the next round of the County Cup with a 3-0 away win against Waveney Ladies.
Suffolk Women’s Division
Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday with 3 sides making it a perfect start to the season winning 3 out of 3. Needham Market Women Reserves were at home hosting Holland Ladies, the Essex side making their debut in the league coming up against a side in form scoring plenty of goals too. Lois Balfour scoring a hat-trick for the 3rd successive match. Katie Moore also on target for a brace to see the game won 5-1. Holland’s first goal of the season scored by Lauren Bourne.
Three successive hat-tricks to start the season for Needham Market’s Lois Balfour
Also making a perfect start to the season are Alresford Colne Rangers. A good result this Sunday away to a side likely to be pushing for the top positions themselves Brantham Athletic Ladies. A narrow 1-0 lead for Alresford at half-time proving the difference as both sides netted 2 goals in the 2nd period. Alresford winning 3-2 with Vicky Hall, Danielle Leonard and Jasmine Warner celebrating goals. Lucy Elmes and Maddie Hubbard with the 2nd half strikes for Brantham.
Is a three way tie at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division with 3 sides all on 9 points although the side in 3rd have yet to kick a ball. Sure Brettvale Ladies would have preferred it to be different as it doesn’t help goal difference but have been awarded 2 home wins and 1 away against their opponents for their opening 3 fixtures.
A baptism of fire for new side Ramsey & Mistley Ladies in their opening two fixtures in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Heavy defeats against Needham Market Women Reserves and Bury Town Ladies. A more encouraging result this weekend despite losing, were at home taking on fellow newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies playing their first competitive match of the season after forfeiting their opening two fixtures. An evenly contested match Henley Athletic getting their noses in front, Ramsey & Mistley coming back to level the scores through a long range strike from Ashleigh Mean. Two late goals for the visitors seeing them secure their 1st 3 points of the season. Molly Curran, Amy Gilson and Megan Tucker all celebrating their first goal for Henley Athletic.
A Tuesday night trip to Portman Road home of Ipswich Town FC for the final of this season’s HomeStore Suffolk Women’s County Cup, Ipswich Town Women looking to retain the trophy for the 5th successive season, Needham Market Women their opponents reaching the final of the County Cup in their debut season.
Ipswich Town Women have dominated in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup for over a decade now appearing in 10 of the last finals winning the competition winning the trophy on 8 occasions, whilst it was a shared competition with Norfolk that as a stand alone competition in Suffolk. 4 successive wins coming into tonight’s final looking strong to make it five in a row as they come up against an emerging side playing 3 leagues below. Ipswich the leading woman’s club in Suffolk playing in the FAWNL South East Division One where they secured a 7th placed finish with a last gasp winner on Sunday. A change of management after an indifferent start to the season Jo Sheehan looking after their U21s side stepping up to the role, has brought some of Ipswich’s talented youngsters through to play for the senior team to bolster an established and experienced squad.
A fantastic first season for Needham Market Women coming together in the summer, the squad building, several names familiar having been part of Bacton United Ladies and Coplestonians Ladies. Hit the ground running winning their opening 5 league games matching East Bergholt’s 100% winning start, their 1st league defeat of the season at home to East Bergholt losing narrowly 3-2 Needham Market nevertheless bounced back well returning the compliment with a 3-0 win against East Bergholt at the start of March that though East Bergholt’s only defeat, Needham Market losing 3 in total clinching runner-ups spot, more success too in the cup competitions reaching both the finals of the League and County Cup.
Missing out on collecting silverware in the League Cup played last week losing 2-1 to East Bergholt who won a 2nd successive double. Plenty of goals within the squad over 120 scored a wonderful occasion to mark the end of their first season together getting the opportunity to play at under the lights at Portman Road. Know it will be a tough test playing against a side playing their football 3 leagues higher in the FAWNL. Suffolk itself ready for new sides to establish themselves up the women’s football pyramid and Needham Market as in a good position to build.
Road to the Final
Ipswich Town Women away to ERWFL Division One side Ipswich Wanderers Ladies in the 1st round of the Suffolk County Cup a close result Town going through with a 2-1 win. Needham Market receiving a bye.
Both sides with a walk over in the 2nd Round with their opponents pulling out. A home draw for both in the quarter finals with Ipswich at home to Suffolk Women’s Division One side, Brantham Athletic Ladies a big score ranked up with Ipswich finding form in front of goal winning the game 14-0. Needham Market at home playing title rivals and Suffolk Women’s Division Champions, East Bergholt United Ladies. A fantastic result seeing Needham Market edge East Bergholt out winning the game 2-1.
The semi-finals to be held at neutral venues, Ipswich were meant to be taking on last season’s finalists AFC Sudbury Ladies, however the ERWFL Premier Division side struggling for numbers throughout the campaign made the decision to pull out sending Ipswich unopposed through to another final. Needham Market taking on Haverhill Rovers Ladies at Long Melford FC, a 4-1 victory sending them through to their 2nd final of the season.
The final returning to Portman Road the home of Ipswich Town FC having hosted the final back in the 2015/16 Ipswich winning 8-0 against Norfolk Division Two side Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies. Another leading stadium within a county in the East and beyond hosting their Women’s County Cup Final, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire too showcasing the women’s game a tell to how much the game is growing. A fantastic opportunity for both sets of players the pitch immaculate. The lights on the upper tier filling with supporters. Overcast the threat of rain in the air.
Ipswich Town Women starting XI –Sian Fagg, Nicole Pannifer, Eva Hubbard, Aimee Stretch, Lindsey Cooper, Paige Wakefield, Amanda Crump (C), Amy Nash, Zoe Cossey, Natasha Thomas & Charlotte Kellett. Subs – Danni Clarke, Jac Ball, Flo Cage, Sophie Welton & Toni-Anne Wayne.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Ipswich to get this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final underway kicking-off the 1st half wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts, Needham Market kitted out all in red, captain Megan Stock taking her place in the back-line having recovered form what looked like a nasty knee injury in the League Cup Final a week ago. Needham Market pressing the ball from the start keep Ipswich inside their own half. A free-kick awarded top of the centre circle as Laura Tuley getting hold of the ball for Needham Market in attack is upended, the ball played high into the box defended by Amy Nash the clearance sent back into the area claimed by goalkeeper Sian Fagg.
Ipswich attack Zoe Cossey left sending Eva Hubbard on from left back bombing forwards her diagonal ball into the box met by Natasha Thomas her touch deflecting the ball goalwards, safely held by Needham Market goalkeeper Amber Leeks back on her line. Charlotte Kellett one of those impressing for the U21s side for Ipswich moves out to the right with the ball cutting it back into the area for Thomas near side on her quickly can’t adjust to get a shot away before the Needham Market defence close and clear.
The flag up against both sides in quick succession Cossey going too early in the left for Ipswich, Lois Balfour through the middle for Needham Market following a great ball forwards from Elysia Young. Niamh Thomas does well at right back to tackle Natasha Thomas inside the box as the Ipswich attacker bombs forwards with the ball left, Maria Smith clearing the ball. Kellett latching on to the ball from a Needham market goalkick moves left to get into a crossing position flights a great ball into the box Thomas rising to head the ball knocking it down towards goal grabbed by Leeks.
Having had vocal support at the League Cup Final the Needham Market fans within the crowd were in good voice, that stirring the Ipswich supporters into action a good atmosphere in the stands adding to the occasion. Thomas playing the ball forwards for Ipswich into the left channel, Kellett their supporting Cossey getting the ball in the box tackled the ball behind for the corner. An inswinging ball by Nash claimed high on her line by Leeks. Thomas busy in defence at right back for Needham market as Cossey looks to attack Kellett sending the pass into her run the defender doing well to stick her foot in take the ball.
Ipswich Town Women’s Zoe Cossey
Needham Market trying to get there strikers into the game whenever they can a ball long into the right chased down by Balfour her cross into the box cleared by Lindsey Cooper. The ball out from the back has Cossey attacking left checking back top of the area curls a cross in towards the six yard box, Ipswich captain, Amanda Crump meeting it n the volley the ball straight at and held by Leeks. Needham Market doing okay in the early stages mostly defensive Stock vocal leading well, Young in midfield looking to find a forwards ball. Hubbard latching onto a loose ball in the middle bursting on into the area stopped by Thomas, Nicola Henderson clearing.
Needham Market’s Nicola Henderson
Amber Sparkes playing the ball through for Balfour in attack, Aimee Stretch getting in front of her in defence for Ipswich to guide the ball back to her keeper. First Thomas, then Kellett fouled to the right attacking for Ipswich 30 yards out Paige Wakefield sending both free-kicks high. Ipswich press forwards numbers in attack looking for the opening goal Cossey left he cross long Nash jumping far post can’t reach it. Emily Steward with a rare opportunity to attack for Needham Market looking to combine with Tuley in attack the return pass cut out at the back.
Kellett in behind off a Needham Market throw misjudged on the left to the byline cuts her cross back central the ball met by Crump driven goalwards Leeks diving to her right making a fantastic save pushing the ball behind for a corner. Put in from the left Cooper up from the back heading the back wide of the near post.
GOAL! 27 minutes played and Ipswich’s pressure brings the opening goal attacking down the right the ball crossed in to the near side top of the six yard box Leeks coming to claim doesn’t get it fall straight into the path of Kellett beyond and she sends it into the back of the net. 1-0.
Charlotte Kellett with the opening goal at Portman Road
Young back to help in defence for Needham Market top of the area tackling Crump as she looks for a one two with Kellett. Thomas looking lively for Ipswich and hungry to score coming on right side holding the ball up finds room to get a shot away the effort over the bar. Cossey lets out a roar of frustration as she sees her 25 yard strike held by Leeks as she is given the ball by Crump. Henderson putting in the tackle to deny Thomas as she threatens to run in behind. Pace in the Needham Market side penned back they can’t exploit it their attacking players seeing little of the ball.
Henderson carrying the ball out from the back for Needham Market forwards to Balfour looks to send the ball on for Tuley who is upended. The free-kick played up towards the top of the area Ipswich heading it away. Ipswich creating and getting numbers on haven’t found the clinical edge yet. Needham Market battling, Francesca Rainbird wanting to get forwards more often than not supporting Stock in defence on the left. The game entering the final 5 minutes of the 1st half.
Post! Cossey getting hold of the ball on the left dribbling inside 25 yards out drawing the attention of the Needham Market defence, Thomas slipping into a gap near post as Cossey sends her the pass she sends the ball on towards goal cannons off the base of the upright. Wakefield with the ball on for Cossey left cuts back and sends a shot long past the far post. Cossey continues to be a menace on the left getting away to cross the ball falls to Crump at the back stick strikes a shot in towards goal, Leeks with another fine stop diving to push the ball wide.
Into injury time Ipswich push forwards looking for another goal. Needham Market although on the back foot for long spells haven’t been overwhelmed and to keep it at 1-0 going into the changing rooms a great achievement. Cossey getting down to the byline sending the ball back towards the near post Thomas with the well timed run meeting her puts the ball straight into Leeks.
GOAL! Right on the stroke of half-time Ipswich get the 2nd goal they wanted, Crump bringing the ball on lays it on for Thomas breaking away into the area right of goal, hits it well putting the ball across the goalkeeper into the bottom corner. 2-0.
Half-time Ipswich Town Women 2-0 Needham Market Women
A crucial goal right on the stroke of half-time for Ipswich Town Women to see them finish a strong 1st half leading the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final 2-0. Have been the dominant side by far and created plenty of chances not as clinical as they would like so far but you can only soak up so much pressure. Needham Market doing okay creating nothing in attack as of yet Ipswich getting the ball forwards with intent regularly Young doing well in the middle trying to break up attacks Ipswich though with options all over the pitch. The 2nd goal so late a blow a 1-0 deficit going along way to encourage Needham Market heading into the 2nd half.
Needham Market to get the 2nd half underway their supporters shouting encouragement. Ipswich get hold of the ball straight away however Thomas getting on through the middle her run stopped by Smith.
GOAL! The worst possible start to the 2nd half for Needham Market as their opponents go further in front the ball played into Thomas left of goal as she enters the box catching it with the outside of her boot lifts the ball on past the keeper into the top corner to score her 2nd of the game and see Ipswich lead 3-0.
Ipswich Town Women attacker, Natasha Thomas (picture credit Gary Reed)
Needham Market look to be positive the ball played long for Rainbird looking to get away down the left wing the flag halting her progress.
GOAL! 3 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Ipswich take full control of the final getting a 4th goal. Cossey with the ball left on for Crump bursting forwards the Ipswich captain moving left down the line with the ball at her feet getting into the box close to the byline the angle against her nevertheless strikes it goalwards the ball squeezing under Leeks and inside the post as she goes down for it 4-0.
Ipswich captain, Amanda Crump (picture credit Gary Reed)
Thomas moving left has support from Hubbard getting on the ball played inside to Cossey she takes it on shooting from 25 yards out Leeks claiming it. Niamh Thomas out to charge down the ball as Hubbard gets on down the left attacking for Ipswich. Stock in to clear for Needham Market her side a little shell shocked at the start to the 2nd half. Young with a fantastic ball long to the left Rainbird and Tuley after it, Cooper in between intercepting taking the ball to the left Tuley in to nick it turns back into the area, getting a shot away as Cooper slides in the ball blocked by the defender and Fagg in goal.
Cossey up the other end getting a shot away from distance, forcing Leeks to tip the ball over. Thomas surging into the box getting in behind shooting from the angle the goalkeeper parrying it behind for a corner right side put in central headed down, Rainbird on the post blocking for Needham Market. Ipswich strong in attack coming forwards with more intent Thomas moving across the back line to make herself available, Crump with several good runs from the middle to support.
Changes for both sides, with Milly Carter on for Steward, a double switch for Ipswich Stretch and Pannifer off at the back, Flo Cage and Jac Ball on. The support hasn’t been dampened in good voice another well supported final with 769 in attendance.
GOAL! close to an hour on the clock and Ipswich extend their lead further a fine individual goal for Nash as she attacks right, breaking on into the area stays on her feet as Henderson tackles, the evading Stock sliding in the ball sent across the keeper and inside the side netting to see Ipswich go 5-0 up.
Ipswich’s Amy Nash with Needham Market’s Francesca Rainbird (picture credit Gary Reed)
Nash coming off then replaced by Sophie Welton, Natasha Thomas off too with Toni-Anne Wayne. The substitutes looking to link on the right in attack straight away Smith doing the defending for Needham Market. A double switch for Needham Market then with Smith and Balfour coming off for Amy Dunn and Ashleigh Goddard. Cossey keeps trying her luck from distance another shot sailing over the bar. Needham Market aren’t deterred prepared to attack and try and get forwards whenever they can, Ipswich’s movement and counter attacking dangerous.
GOAL! 67 minutes on the clock and Ipswich score another with Wayne running in behind onto a long ball taking it into the box staying composed as she is closed down clever with her movement away left any tackle likely to result in a penalty she closes in on the keeper and slots it past Leeks to score. 6-0.
Dunn does well making a recovering tackle to concede the corner as Kellett gets forwards into the box.
GOAL! 3 minutes after taking a 6 goal lead Ipswich moving the ball well in attack score a well worked 7th, Crump with it at her feet on the left level with the top of the area passing it inside to Kellett central she sends it on to Welton ahead of her right of goal six yards out she shoots across the keeper to find the bottom corner 7-0.
GOAL! A purple patch from Ipswich as they add an 8th in quick succession Kellett bringing the ball on through the middle on for Wayne in behind inside the box sets up Crump forwards with her on the her left for a simple tap in to make it 8-0.
Ipswich running away with it now Needham Market making a change with Abbie Wilkinson on for Tuley. Ipswich substitute their goalkeeper Fagg off, Danni Clarke going on between the sticks. Ipswich who are restricted to three substitutes in the FAWNL rolling the changes at Portman Road in the County Cup make multiple changes towards the end of the game. Stock having battled for Needham Market coming off Smith returning to the action.
Needham Market despite the heavy scoreline continue with their positive intent getting forwards cheered on whenever they get the ball Sparkes through the middle stopped by Cage. Rainbird bursting forwards showing what she can do in attack getting in behind into the box one on one with the keeper, Clarke does well saving at her feet. Henderson prepared to bring the ball out of defence onto Young her pass for Wilkinson intercepted. Rainbird with Sparkes left Jac Ball cutting out finding Cossey central she puts it on for Crump top of the area she shoots over.
Thomas passing to Wakefield running on into the area left side her strike goalwards saved by Leeks the loose ball gathered by Welton 20 yards out her shot put over. Henderson defending as Wayne attacks conceding a corner on the right the ball met by Wayne near post her header dropping over. Thomas getting in behind 25 yards out tees up Wayne to send a shot in goalwards the ball smashing down off the crossbar. Wakefield taking the ball on plays a one two with Crump central before seeing her shot drop wide of goal.
Into added time Rainbird bursting clear right into the box taking the ball in close the the keeper placing it wide of her inside the near post, the crowd cheer seeing a Needham Market goal scored at Portman Road or so they thought Rainbird’s joy short-lived a chorus of boo’s ringing out at the sight of the flag raised for offside. Young winning the ball back high up the pitch on for Sparkes 25 yards out her low shot gathered by Clarke late on.
Full time Ipswich Town Women 8-0 Needham Market Women
Full time and Ipswich Town Women celebrate winning the County Cup once again matching the scoreline the last time they graced Portman Road winning 8-0. Found the clinical edge not with them 2nd half taking full advantage o Needham Market’s inexperience and as they tired create goal scoring opportunities taking their chances well. Showing good movement going forwards and using the space to full advantage, an early 3rd goal 2nd half putting them in full control after scoring at the death in the first half.
These defeats hurt, will take the gloss of what Needham Market Women have acheived the score raw in the memory, but over time those achievements will return, a goal would have been nice at Portman Road but it wasn’t to be. A great occasion nonetheless. In the end runners-up in all three competitions but to be in contention for a possible treble just months after forming is amazing and for Needham Market Women this is just the beginning.
Needham Market Women thanking their supporters
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time for tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few players to mention, for Needham Market, Elysia Young in midfield and Nicola Henderson at the back standing out. For Ipswich, Zoe Cossey was a threat all game running with the ball an unlucky not to be on the scoresheet. Natasha Thomas did score two goals crucial to either side of half-time great movement and desire shown in attack runs tonight’s winner close with Ipswich captain Amanda Crump getting the award make some fantastic runs forwards and scoring two herself whilst setting up chances for others.
Ipswich Town Women, 2018/19 Suffolk Women’s County Cup winners
Congratulations to Ipswich Town Women on winning a 5th successive Suffolk Women’s County Cup.
Not the pre-match to a game I wanted but got there in the end and enjoyed the game Portman Road a great venue, a fantastic crowd in support. My thanks to those that helped me out and thanks to Gary Reed for the additional pictures used.
Semi-final weekend for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup, the final to be held back at Ipswich Town FC’s Portman Road Stadium on Tuesday May 7th.
Ipswich Town Women will be their once again as they look to keep thier hands firmly on the trophy in a competition they have dominated in recent seasons. Are through to the final without kicking a ball after opponents AFC Sudbury Ladies took the decision to withdraw from the competition, the ERWFL Premier Division side having a tough season struggling with numbers and injuries.
Contesting the other semi-final were Haverhill Rovers Ladies leading the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South up against Needham Market Women top of the table in the Suffolk Women’s Division going into the match. Both making their debut season in women’s football a huge incentive a place in the County Cup Final at Portman Road for the winners. Played at a neutral venue Long Melford FC, Stoneylands Ground. A well contested match placed in front of a crowd of over 300, it was Needham Market who came out on top to win the game 4-1 and book their place in a 2nd final of the season. Currently the treble is on for Needham Market but no matter how thing’s go from here it’s a season that will live long in the memory.
Needham Market Women, through to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final (picture credit Gary Reed)
Suffolk Women’s Division
Whilst Needham Market Women were writing another chapter in their short history, their title rivals in the Suffolk Women’s Division, East Bergholt United Ladies were playing their vital game in hand at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday. Level with Needham Market at the top a positive result would see them move clear of their rivals with both having 5 left to play. Just the one league defeat to date East Bergholt made no mistake getting the 3 points thanks to a 4-0 win. Elena Nitsche scoring a brace, along with a goal a piece for Annie Northwood and Stacey Teager.
Lauren Page was on target for a hat-trick on Sunday her first goals for Brantham Athletic Ladies as they came home with the 3 points comfortably beating bottom side University of Suffolk Women. Along with Page’s hat-trick their was all a brace for Shanice Leeks with Carra Marie Seeley also getting a goal. 3rd placed Brantham Athletic winning 9-0, Toni Mott and Jessica Ryan on the scoresheet too celebrating their first goals.
Coplestonians Ladies were also in action at the weekend at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Goals from Abigail Eley her 10th of the season, along with a first for Coplestonians for Ashley Bustos and a strike from Sophie Allen seeing the home side leading 3-1 at half-time. Laura Brame on target for Walsham Le Willows, pulled it back to 3-2 in the 2nd half with her 25th goal of the season, it wasn’t enough however as Coplestonians held on to take the 3 points.
Quarter finals weekend for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup competition. Ipswich Town Women with an iron grip of the trophy winning six of the last seven finals. This Sunday also the start of a new era for the club with Carla Dickinson stepping down as head coach in mid-week U21s coach Joe Sheehan to the 1st team mangers role. His first game in charge Ipswich’s home quarter final tie against Suffolk Women’s Division side Brantham Athletic Ladies. A 3 league gap between the sides a big gulf.
Ipswich getting off to a great start their new signings Amy Nash and Georgia Box combining in the opening 5 minutes for Box to open her account for Ipswich. Toni-Anne Wayne doubling the lead on 15 minutes firing the ball home to make it 2-0. Captain Cassie Craddock quickly adding a 3rd to the home sides tally. Paige Wakefield scoring Ipswich’s 4th on 23 minutes Craddock with her 2nd before the half hour. Full back Jac Ball bombing forwards and shooting on the scoresheet to bring up a 6th goal in the 35th minute. Natasha Thomas scoring on the stroke of half-time to see Ipswich leading 7-0 at the break.
Five changes at half-time for Ipswich, Brantham to their credit putting in the hard work keep going, keeping the hosts at bay till the 65th minute with Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match an overhead kick inside the area. Craddock volleyed in her 3rd to complete a hat-trick. Nash finding the back of net for Ipswich’s 10th and her 1st for the club. Into the last 10 minutes, both Wayne and Thomas adding another goal each with Amanda Crump back with a stunning left foot strike. Box wrapping up a 14-0 result with her 2nd goal in the last minute. Ipswich comfortable into the last 4 once again.
AFC Sudbury Ladies were beaten by Ipswich Town Women in last two County Cup Finals the ERWFL Premier Division side drawn away to Coplestonians Ladies in the quarter finals of this season’s competition. 2 leagues between the sides Sudbury have been struggling for league form the County Cup different as they progress with a comfortable result, Emma Squirrel opening the scoring for the away side, Mia Etheridge doubling the lead, both players going on to score again. 4-0 up Olivia Gunn struck home for her 1st goal of the season to make it 5 with Ellie Mitchell making 1st appearance for the club scoring on her debut. 6 goals and a clean sheet for Sudbury.
The top two in the Suffolk Women’s Division were drawn together in the quarter finals of the County Cup this Sunday with 2nd placed Needham Market Women full of confidence after a fantastic first half of the season at home to East Bergholt United Ladies very strong themselves top of the table with a 100% record. An attacking game from both sides plenty of goalscorers amongst them, a 3-0 lead for Needham Market certainly caused the eyebrows to raise when I saw it on twitter. East Bergholt fought hard to get back into the game and pulled it back to 3-2, Needham Market’s keeper with a late save to deny them a 3rd as Needham Market knock them out of the competition to reach the last 4 of the County Cup in their debut season.
In the other quarter final game in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup two sides were meeting who too were making their debut seasons with Woodbridge Town Ladies at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies the latter playing over the border in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South leading the table it was a close match between the sides that when all the way to a penalty shootout with the game ending all square at 1-1 heading to a penalty shootout Haverhill the side emerging victorious to reach the semi-finals going through with a 4-2 win.
Suffolk Women’s Division
As well as the County Cup quarter finals there were also two matches taking place in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday. With 3 of the top 4 in the league playing in the competition 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers won their 10th game of the season to open up a 5 point gap between themselves and 4th placed Brantham Athletic with a comfortable away win against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies at the weekend. Alresford having a good spread amongst their goal scorers with most on the scoresheet this season. Were without top scorers Tiffany Reeves and Jo Harvey this Sunday others contributing in their stead Alresford winning 6-1 with six different players celebrating a goal, Leia Rudge, Ellie May Griggs, Lucie Stanbury, Donna Leggett, Laurel Harknett & Abigail Chambers with her 1st of the season. Charlotte Archer scoring the goal for Chantry Grasshoppers.
In the other game played in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday Leiston St Margarets were at home to Walsham Le Willows. A hat-trick for Lucy Eagle taking her onto 19 goals for the season along with a 13th goal of the season for Thalia Cloke seeing Leiston St Margarets win the game for one to climb above Walsham Le Willows into 6th place on the table. Laura Brame and Norma Locker scoring for Walsham Le Willows.
The County Cup action continues with the Suffolk Women’s competition too at the 2nd Round stage, 8 ties drawn out of the hat (it might have been a bag I’m just guessing) all vying for a place in the quarter finals, Ipswich Town Ladies dominating in recent season’s have an iron grip on the trophy. Progressed with an away win to make the last 8 this time around. Haverhill Rovers Ladies and Needham Market Women also progressing courtesy of home wins that left 5 ties to be decided on the pitch in Sunday.
AFC Sudbury Ladies were Ipswich Town Ladies opponents in last season’s final. They were drawn at home to Suffolk Women’s Division side, Leiston St Margarets Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup. A tough start to the season in the ERWFL Premier Division, AFC Sudbury proving the stronger side on the day gaining a positive result to reach the quarter finals of the competition. Carmen Joyce scoring a brace, their were goals to for Charlene Roach-Smith, Emma Paveley and Emma Squirrel in a 6-0 home win.
Two sides have started the Suffolk Women’s Division win a 100% winning start both entering the Suffolk Women’s County Cup at this weekends 2nd Round stage, defending champions East Bergholt United Ladies with an away trip to Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies who have graced the pitch at Portman Road itself in a recent final in the County Cup, East Bergholt are scoring plenty of goals whilst not shipping many at the other end so far this season and that form continue into the County Cup as they can away win a 4-0 win to reach the quarter finals.
Brantham Athletic Ladies too have started the season well a 100% winning start in the Suffolk Women’s Division neck and neck with East Bergholt at the top of the table, were at home in the 2nd Round of the County Cup taking on Bungay Town Ladies who themselves have endured a tough start to the season in Norfolk Women’s Division One as they begin the defence of their league title, the small shoots of recovery beginning last weekend. Brantham Athletic starting the game the better getting themselves into a strong 3-0 lead, Bungay with 2 players on debut and 3 just 16-years-old fought back to 3-2 thanks to goals from Leanne Smith and Imogen Mcgregor on her debut from the penalty spot, before Brantham Athletic settled the game scoring from a free-kick to win the game 4-2 to reach the quarter-finals.
Woodbridge Town Ladies were hosting Beccles Town Ladies in the 2nd Round of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup at the weekend, Beccles taking an early lead, Woodbridge responding quickly to level the scores. Both scoring again in the 1st half the tie remained all square at half-time no further goals 2nd half the tie heading into a penalty shoot-out, Woodbridge emerging 3-2 winners in the shoot-out to book their place in the last 8 in their debut season. Rosie Cook and Fran Heaney scoring for Beccles.
An all Suffolk Women’s Division clash saw Brettvale Ladies hosting Coplestonians Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup. The visitors advancing with a 4-1 win to complete the quarter final line-up. Another intriguing last 8 in the competition will be waiting with interest to see what the draw brings up.
Two ties to begin this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup competition, holders Ipswich Town Women drawn away to fellow Ipswich side Wanderers Ladies in the 1st Round. Met in the semi-finals of the competition last season Ipswich Town comfortable winners 7-0. A different story this time around Ipswich Wanderers holding their higher league to a goalless draw at half-time. Ipswich Wanderers taking the lead on the hour with Kristie Turner on target to put the hosts 1-0 up. Into the final 15 minutes and Ipswich Town came back to level the score Toni-Anne Wayne scoring the goal. Wayne combining with Harriet Petley to score again in the 80th to put Ipswich Town 2-1 up Danni Clarke making a late save for the visitors to stop Ipswich Wanderers from levelling the score the holders through to the 2nd Round.
Also competing in the 1st Round of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup were Walsham Le Willows Ladies at home to Beccles Town Ladies. The hosts getting off to a flyer taking the lead in the opening minute. Adding a 2nd goal were leading 2-0 with 30 minutes left. Beccles coming good at the end scoring 5 goals in 22 minutes to go on to win the tie 5-2 to progress. Taylor Whiting hitting a brace their were first goals of the season too for Eva Evans, Victoria Ottey and Lauren Runnacles.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup made earlier the 8 ties listed below : –
Brantham Athletic Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies v East Bergholt United Ladies
AFC Sudbury Ladies v Leiston St Margarets Ladies
Needham Market Women v University of Suffolk Women
Haverhill Rovers Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies Reserves
Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies v Ipswich Town Women
Woodbridge Town Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies
Brettvale Women v Coplestonians Ladies
ties to be played Sun 18th November
Suffolk Women’s Division
Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday and it was to one of these Women’s Football East headed to watch. A top of the table clash with league newcomers Needham market Women top of the table with a 100% winning start taking on defending champions, East Bergholt United Ladies who were also defending a 100% winning start and yet to concede a goal. Played in 3G, Needham Market started the brighter hitting the post before taking the lead on 18 minutes, Francesca Rainbird getting on the end of a miscued shot from Lois Balfour inside the box to shoot past the keeper and score. East Bergholt growing into the game hitting the crossbar themselves, Needham market leading 1-0 at half-time.
Jess Clark with the equalising goal for East Bergholt
A strong start to the 2nd period from the visitors pressing forwards prepared to shoot from distance bringing them the equaliser, Jess Clark making it 1-1 with a long range effort. Jemma Mortimer twice clearing the ball off the line for Needham Market before East Bergholt went on to take the lead from a corner captain Georgia Lockerbie scoring from inside the area. Elena Nitsche making ti 3-1 after she was played through on goal inside the six yard box. Needham Market on the back foot for much of the 2nd half came out in attack well after conceding the 3rd goal, Rainbird netting for the 2nd time in the match, involved in good build-up play on the left running into the box to get onto the forwards pass and send the ball across the keeper, East Bergholt tiring towards the end of the match had done enough to win the game and keep up their 100% winning start returning to the top of the table. Is a 3 way tie on 15 points at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division now with Brantham Athletic Ladies in 3rd awarded the home win over Coplestonians Ladies this Sunday
Close behind the leading trio are Alresford Colne Rangers the 4th placed side moving onto 13 points for the season after a home win against Brightlingsea Regent Ladies on Sunday. Paige Knight getting on the scoresheet for Brightlingsea. Jo Harvey with a brace for Alresford moves onto 6 for the season with Tiffany Reeves also on target with a goal just ahead of Harvey with 7 for the season. Alresford winning 3-1 now unbeaten in 5 with 4 wins after losing their opening fixture.
A first point of the season for Brettvale secured at home to fellow newcomers Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies on Sunday. Kelly Hannington with both of the goals for Brettvale. Keira Hines and Lucy Robson both scoring for Chantry Grasshoppers the point lifting them a place up to 9th in the league table.
A 12:00pm on Bank Holiday Monday at Colchester United FC saw Ipswich Town Ladies taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies in this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final. 3 successive wins for Ipswich Town Ladies they were looking to make it 4 in row on a very hot Bank Holiday.
It was ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury who took the lead Sophie Jeffery scoring direct from a corner in the 18th minute. Ipswich Town were level just a minute later Natasha Thomas making it 1-1. Ipswich came close to taking the lead striking the cross bar twice before captain Amanda Crump did score in the 35th minute to make it 2-1 the bar struck for a 3rd time Ipswich Town holding the narrow advantage at half-time.
10 minutes into the 2nd half Sophie Welton found the back of the net to make it 3-1 to Ipswich Town. Defender Lindsey Cooper heading home Ipswich Town’s 4th goal on the hour. Thomas with her 2nd of the game making it 5-1 five minutes later. Ipswich going on to seal the win and make it 4 in a row.
4 in a row for Ipswich Town Ladies, 2017/18 Suffolk Women’s County Cup Winners (photo credit Gary Reed)
Congratulation’s to Ipswich Town Ladies on their County Cup success.
Suffolk Women’s Division
One game played in the Suffolk Women’s Division, Brantham Athletic Ladies playing their final game of the season away to Leiston St Margarets. A chance to pull level with leaders East Bergholt United Ladies who have a game left to play, Brantham had just the 10 players available but a battling performance saw them share the points with Leiston St Margarets in a 1-1 taking Brantham 2nd. Bacton United Ladies 3rd & Walsham Le Willows in 4th can catch them with their remaining fixtures. Michelle Stanborough the scorer for Leiston St Margarets.
Most sides have 1 game left to play Walsham Le Willows Ladies have three one of which is against East Bergholt United Ladies.
The Suffolk Women’s County Cup Finals were played this Sunday after both were called off last weekend. At neutral venues, Ipswich Town Ladies the current holders of the competition were playing ERWFL Division One North side Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Initially the tie did start last Sunday, Jordan Arnoup from the penalty spot putting Ipswich Town ahead in the 16th minute but conditions were deteriorating and when an Ipswich Wanderers player was injured the game was abandoned the sides set to try again this Sunday.
Ipswich Town again getting in front inside the opening 15 minutes Sophie Welton scoring the goal. Ipswich Town fashioned further chances in the 1st half but weren’t able to extend their lead as Ipswich Wanderers held them to 1-0 at the break. Ipswich Town had a much better 2nd half Miagh Downey doubling their lead 5 minutes into the half. Zoe Cossey and captain Amanda Crump added a goal each to see the lead 4-0 on the hour. Welton with her 2nd of the game making it 5-0 to put Ipswich Town in full control of the tie. Natasha Thomas making it 6-0 with 15 left on the clock Cossey added her 2nd of the match late on to make the final score 7-0 to send Ipswich Town into their 4th successive final.
Ipswich Town’s opponents in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final will be AFC Sudbury Ladies after the ERWFL Premier Division side beat Suffolk Women’s Division side Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Two league between the sides, Leiston St Margarets have been in great form AFC Sudbury taking nothing for granted opened the scoring midway through the 1st half, Rebecca Chandler getting the goal. Phoebe Guiver also scoring in the 1st half to see AFC Sudbury leading 2-0 at half-time. Striker Stacey Teager coming on in the 2nd half netted a brace to double AFC Sudbury’s lead the final score 5-0 with Sophie Jeffery netting a goal in the last 15 minutes.
A repeat of the 2014/15 final AFC Sudbury v Ipswich Town Ladies will be played on Monday 7th May (Bank Holiday) with a 12:00pm kick-off at Colchester United FC
Suffolk Women’s Division
Two matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division at the weekend. After 4 successive draws in the league, leaders East Bergholt United Ladies finally got back to winning way away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies on Sunday. All the goals coming in the 1st half Charlotte McGrath, Annie Northwood and Millie Wilding all finding the back of the net in a 3-0 win.
A comfortable win at home for Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday sees them climb back above Bacton United Ladies into 2nd spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division table. Were taking on Ipswich Athletic Youth Ladies. Goals from Lucy Dunnett, Kirsten Hutchings, Carra Marie Seeley and Jodie Sharp plus a brace from Danielle Harvey seeing Brantham Athletic run out 6-0 winners.
Quarter finals weekend in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup 8 sides vying for a place in the last 4 of the competition. Holders, Ipswich Town Ladies the favourites to retain the trophy were drawn at home to Bungay Town Ladies at the time leading the way across the border in Norfolk Women’s Division One. A big test for the side two leagues below Ipswich, the hosts getting off to the perfect start Jordan Arnoup giving them the lead in the opening minute from a free-kick. Ipswich were 2-0 up inside 3 minutes as captain Amanda Crump scored to double the lead. A strong 1st half from Ipswich dominating play Sophie Welton making it 3-0 before Crump added her 2nd of the match Zoe Cossey also on target to give Ipswich a 5-0 half-time lead. Not quite so clinical in the 2nd half Miagh Downey increasing the lead on the hour mark, Emily Leach getting on the score sheet for Bungay Town with 15 minutes left, Cossey scoring her 2nd of the game late on seeing Ipswich Town reach the semi-finals with a 7-1 win.
An all ERWFL quarter final in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup saw Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies at home to Ipswich Town Ladies Development from Division One North. It was goalless after the 1st 45 minutes, AFC Sudbury going on to score twice in the 2nd half to reach the last 4, Mia Etheridge and Semma Halil with the goals in a 2-0 victory.
ERWFL Division One North side Ipswich Wanderers Ladies were away in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup taking on Newmarket Town Ladies playing a league below. Newmarket Town would fancy their chances having knocked two Division One North sides out of the FA Women’s Cup earlier in the season. Got off to a good start too as Abbi Griffin scored in the 24th minute to put the hosts into the lead. Ipswich Wanderers found a levelling goal on the half hour and very quickly after scored again to get there noses in front to lead 2-1 at half-time. Newmarket Town fought back well in the 2nd half Chloe Slater with the strike to put them back on level terms in the 56th minute. Went 3-2 up in the 65th minute thanks to a goal from Sarah O’Rourke. Ipswich Wanderers coming back again with a late late leveller to make it 3-3 and force the tie into a penalty shootout. Tanya McKew netting twice in the game along with a goal for Megan Strickland. Heartbreak for Newmarket Town in the shootout jubilation for Ipswich Wanderers as they booked their place in the semi-finals winning 6-5.
In the last of the 4 quarter final it was an all Suffolk Women’s Division clash in the County Cup between Leiston St Margarets Ladies at home to Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Leiston St Margarets in good form recently with 3 straight league wins up against 2nd placed Brantham Athletic who themselves haven’t lost in 3. Hot off scoring 7 goals the week before in the league Michelle Stanborough was at it again on Sunday scoring 4 of Leiston St Margarets 5 goals as they reached the last 4 of the competition with a 5-2 win, Brianna Norcott also scoring in the match for Leiston St Margarets.
Suffolk Women’s Division
One league match played at the weekend and for the 2nd successive Sunday the points were shared between 3rd placed Bacton United Ladies and leaders East Bergholt United Ladies. Bacton United at home this time both sides scoring in the 1st half drawing the match 1-1. Jessica Clark with the goal for East Bergholt United. The lead at the top 5 points East Bergholt United still undefeated.
