A full fixture list in the Suffolk Women’s Division with six game played this Sunday, a big game from the top of the table too with the top two going head to head for the first time this season. 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies hosting close neighbours and league leaders, East Bergholt United Ladies. A 100% record it was a crushing 35-0 win for East Bergholt last time out whilst Brantham with a depleted squad dropped points for the first time drawing away to Leiston St Margarets. This Sunday going head to head it was a much closer game a 1 goal winning margin all you need to earn the 3 points, East Bergholt emerged the winners in a tight contest, Millie Wilding with the crucial strike to see East Bergholt make it 9 wins from 9 and open up a 5 point lead at the top of the table.
That first defeat of the season for Brantham sees everyone bunch up in the chasing pack just 2 points between 2nd and 5th now. Another top of the table clash seeing 3rd placed Needham Market Women away to 5th placed Alresford Colne Rangers this Sunday another close game the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time it was Alresford who found the winning goal in the 2nd period to take the 3 points with a 2-1 win to close right up on the sides above. Leia Rudge and Lucie Stanbury getting the goals for Alresford.
Moving up into 3rd position in the Suffolk Women’s Division are Walsham Le Willows Ladies who now match Brantham Athletic’s points tally of 22. Won big at home on Sunday as they hosted new side University of Suffolk Women. Laura Brame striding ahead in the goal scoring charts for Walsham Le Willows scoring a double hat-trick on Sunday moves onto 17 for the season from just 7 appearances. Julie Brind giving her goals scored a massive boost as she found the back of the net for 5 goals, Mia Bambury, Kirsty Pollard and Lisa Pratt all with a goal each, Walsham Le Willows with 14 goals didn’t have it all their own way with University of Suffolk breaching their defence for 3 goals themselves.
Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves continue to struggle for numbers taking just the 9 to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday. The hosts taking full advantage to win for the 5th time this season. Jenna Liverpool and Sophie Crane, the top scorers for Woodbridge now have 19 between them with Liverpool scoring a double hat-trick on Sunday, Crane netting 5 goals. Natasha Williams also getting a goal whilst there were first goals for Woodbridge for Jaleh Shoghi, Georgia Marnell, Lauren Jacobs, Madison Tribley and Kerry Scott in a 17-0 result.
Lucy Eagle claimed a hat-trick for Leiston St Margarets this Sunday as they won the 3 points away from home against Brettvale Ladies. Eagle moving into double figures for the season now with 11 goals. Sarah Cooper also on target with a goal for Leiston St Margarets winning the game 4-0.
Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies claimed their 2nd league win of the season this Sunday. At home were taking on fellow newcomers, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Leading 2-0 at half-time both sides scoring the the 2nd half. Chantry Grasshoppers winning 3-1. Charlotte Archer scoring twice with Bernice Corney also on the scoresheet with her 5th goal of the season. Maddie Hubbard with the 2nd half strike for Brightlingsea.
A full league programme in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday although for some it’s a weekend to forget. League leaders East Bergholt United Ladies have made a strong start to the new season winning all 7 league games to date and scoring plenty of goals along the way, have a large squad full of goalscorers and they took their opponents to the sword on Sunday. At bottom side Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves new to the league were in good spirits despite not picking up a point yet, a tough test against the leaders made the more difficult by a shortage of players, just the 9, East Bergholt took full advantage the final score an eye watering 35-0. Annie Northwood getting 10 of those goals herself. Millie Wilding with a double hat-trick. Jessica Clark with 4 accounting for 20 goals. hat-tricks for both Charlotte McGrath and Elena Nitsche. Two goals each for Charlotte Warren and Isla Romer-Lee with Deben Faiers, Georgia Lockerbie and Helen Bruce also listed as goalscorers. 8 from 8 now for East Bergholt with a +94 goal difference.
A very harsh scoreline, the Suffolk Women’s Division much expanded this season with a host of new sides could have gone with 2 Divisions but I think the one larger Division was the best way, a test for the new sides and no doubt some harsh scores as the established teams dominate but it is a fledgling league news time to grow.
Keeping neck and neck with East Bergholt at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division were neighbours, Brantham Athletic Ladies 7 wins from 7 at the start of the season this Sunday saw their 100% record end away from home against Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Brantham short on numbers for the 1st time this season only the 10 available. Nevertheless it was a competitive game that saw the sides share 8 goals between them. Michelle Stanborough scoring twice for Leiston St Margarets moves into double figures for the season with 10 goals. Lucy Eagle with a goal too has 8 to her name whilst Sarah Cooper scored for the 1st time this season. Brantham matching that reply at the other end the 4-4 seeing points dropped for the first time.
Of all the newcomers to the Suffolk Women’s Division, Needham Market Women have enjoyed the best start up in 3rd position with just the one loss that at home to East Bergholt. At home this Sunday were taking on another new side, Woodbridge Town Ladies. Amber Sparkes making her 1st start for Needham Market celebrated scoring 2 goals. Nicola Henderson also finding the back of the net with Needham Market securing a 3-1 win to remain in contention at the top of the table. Jenna Liverpool scoring for Woodbridge.
Walsham Le Willows Ladies too in 4th position won their 6th game of the season on Sunday to keep themselves in touch with the leading trio a 5 point gap to the leaders. Were away from home at the weekend taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. The visitors getting into a 3-0 lead before Maddie Hubbard pulled a goal back for Brightlingsea. Walsham Le Willows adding 1 more before half-time to lead 4-1 went on to double that tally in the 2nd half to win the game 8-1. Laura Brame scoring a hat-trick, Norma Locker grabbing a brace, with a goal each for Mia Banbury, Kirsty Pollard & Lisa Pratt.
Walsham Le Willows, Laura Brame
A good result at home for Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday sees them win for the 4th time this season to consolidate their position in mid-table were hosting Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Both Felicity Cooper and Abigail Eley scoring their first goals for Coplestonians, with Sophie Maul and Lottie Adams also both on target with a goal to seal a 4-0 home win.
7 points from their last 4 league matches and a 2nd successive win sees new side Brettvale Ladies move up to 9th in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were on the road on Sunday taking on fellow newcomers University of Suffolk Women. Sheryl Nokes playing her first game for Brettvale getting a hat-trick on her debut to secure a 3-0 win for the visitors.
Quarter Final weekend in the Suffolk Women’s League Cup and progress for 4 of the top 5 sides currently in the league sees a very strong semi-final line-up. Holders, East Bergholt United Ladies advancing to the last 4 courtesy of an away win awarded against Woodbridge Town Ladies. That left 3 of the 4 quarter finals to be contested on Sunday.
Alresford Colne Rangers were at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies in the quarter finals of the League Cup. A comfortable win seeing them into the last 4. Tiffany Reeves scoring 4 goals in the match to see her leading the goal scoring charts as she moves onto 11 goals for the season. Jo Harvey finding the back of the net with another 2 goals has 9 now for the season. Lucy Stanbury and Vicky Hall also getting a goal a piece the final score 9-0 to Alresford, Laurel Harknett also on the scoresheet with her 1st of the season.
Brantham Athletic Ladies 2nd in the Suffolk Women’s Division with a 100% win rate at the start of the season were away to Coplestonians Ladies in the quarter finals of the League Cup. Sophie Allen and Courtney Farris-Whatling getting a goal each for Coplestonians, Brantham getting 3 times that up the other end winning the game 6-2 to book their spot in the last 4.
Needham Market Women were at home in the quarter finals of the League Cup hosting Leiston St Margarets Ladies. The hosts falling behind with Michelle Stanborough putting Leiston St Margarets in front. Needham Market fighting back to level the scores took their chances in the 2nd half to win the game by 5 goals to 1.
The draw for the semi-finals of the competition seeing the top 2 in the league going head to head the games scheduled for the New Year, Sunday 10th February are as follows:-
Needham Market Women v Alresford Colne Rangers
Brantham Athletic Ladies v East Bergholt United Ladies
Suffolk Women’s Division
One game taking place in the Suffolk Women’s Division at the weekend with Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at home to University of Suffolk Women on Sunday afternoon. Brightlingsea holding a 1-0 lead at half-time, the difference as both sides scored again in the 2nd half the 2-1 win Brightlingsea’s 2nd of the season lifts them up to 9th in the league table. Paige Knight and Jessica Scott scoring their goals. Amy Yeldham with the goal for University of Suffolk.
It remains neck and neck at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division with defending Champion’s East Bergholt United Ladies and 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies keeping up their 100% winning starts to the season 7 each now both on 21 points. East Bergholt with the superior goal difference some big scorelines this season this Sunday saw their closest result of the season a 2nd half winner enough to see them to victory away from home as they took on Woodbridge Town Ladies. A goal from Jemma Liverpool seeing Woodbridge drawing 1-1 at half-time. Stacey Teager and Elena Nitsche on target with a goal in either half enough to claim the 3 points keep East Bergholt out in front.
Brantham Athletic at home to University of Suffolk Women on Sunday, chipped away at the leaders superior goal difference with their biggest win of the season. Kirsten Hutchings and Jodie Sharp both scoring a hat-trick for Brantham. Danielle Harvey and captain Lucy Dunnett also on target with a brace each, Sophie Crabtree and Carra Marie Seeley also getting a goal each whilst Merlin Watson scored her 1st goal for Brantham in a 13-1 victory to keep up their 100% winning start to the season.
It was a massive win on the road on Sunday for Needham Market Women as they kept up the pressure on the leading pair 3 points back in 3rd spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were at fellow newcomers Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves bottom without a point on the board so far this season. Francesca Rainbird top scoring for Needham market in the match with 5 goals. Lois Balfour scoring 4. Abbie Wilkinson with a hat-trick. Jemma Wessels and Nicola Henderson with a brace a piece. Isabel Chaplin and Milly Carter with a goal each whilst their was a 1st Needham Market goal for 4 players, Maria Smith, Megan Stock, Ria Delves and manager Freya Louis in a crushing 22-0 result. A big win for Needham Market, was positive to see after the game to the spirit and togetherness show by Haverhill this is very much a fledgling league and they are a fledgling side that will carry them through a tough start.
A goal from Michelle Stanborough gave Leiston St Margarets Ladies a first half lead on Sunday away to 4th placed Alresford Colne Ladies. The hosts though undefeated since the opening day of the season came back 2nd half to secure a point drawing 1-1 with Jo Harvey scoring her 7th goal of the season.
A draw for Alresford Colne Rangers seeing them drop a place as victory at home for Walsham Le Willows Ladies saw them move up to 4th spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division just the one defeat themselves were taking on Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday. Laura Brame scoring a hat-trick has 8 goals for the season now from 5 appearances. Julie Brind, Katie Grimwood and Norma Locker also on target with a goal each in a 6-1 win. Sophie Maul with her 1st goal for Coplestonians.
A first ever league win at the weekend for Brettvale Ladies playing their 7th game of the season were at home to fellow newcomers Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Kelly Hannington’s goal struck in the 1st half the difference as Brettvale defended to celebrate at the final whistle.
It’s raining goals in Suffolk with some very heavy showers in the East Bergholt area as the league leaders continue their 100% winning start to the season with another huge win at home to bottom side Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves this Sunday. East Bergholt United Ladies now have an incredible 60 goals from just 6 league matches as they dominated their opponents. Annie Northwood top scoring in the game with for goals. 3 players all celebrating hat-tricks too for East Bergholt, Elena Nitsche, Millie Wilding and Georgia Lockerbie. Jessica Clark with a brace and Charlotte McGrath on target with a goal in a 16-0 win.
East Bergholt though need the goals right now to keep their noses in front as they are joined on 18 points by Brantham Athletic Ladies who themselves have six wins from six at the start of the season an impressive goals record themselves with 31 now from their six games whilst defensively the leading pair have conceded just 5 goals between them. Brantham’s latest victory coming on the road as this Sunday they travelled to play Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Captain, Lucy Dunnett scoring a brace for Brantham, with goals too scored by Danielle Harvey, Jodie Sharp and a 1st goal of the season for Carra-May Seeley. Brantham winning 5-0.
Brantham Athletic Ladies captain, Lucy Dunnett
A big win on the road too for Walsham Le Willows Ladies on Sunday to see them close the gap on the leading pack in 5th position. Were taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Laura Brame getting herself a hat-trick moves onto 5 goals for the season. Norma Locker opening her account for Walsham Le Willows netting a brace. Olivia Hodges also finding the back of the net whilst their were also 1st goals of the season for Julie Brind, Kirsty Pollard and Katie Grimwood as Walsham Le Willows ran out 10-1 winners. Bernice Corney with the consolation goal for Chantry Grasshoppers.
In 6th position Coplestonians Ladies young side whilst conceding goals early in the season have nevertheless got 9 points on the board 3 coming courtesy of a home win they have scored just the 2 goals so far this season but each of those goals has been worth 3 points. The latest coming this Sunday at home as they took on Brettvale Ladies. Courteney Farris-Whatling with the goal for Coplestonians in the first half to secure the win.
3 straight wins now for Woodbridge Town Ladies in the league and cup climb up to 7th spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division with a good result on the road against Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday. Woodbridge getting themselves into a 2-0 half-time lead, Leiston St Margarets fighting back 2nd half getting 2 goals, Woodbridge scoring for a 3rd time though enough to see them edge the win by 3 goals to 2. Michelle Stanborough and an own goal for Leiston St Margarets. Goals for Sophie Crane, Kimberley Edwards and Jenna Liverpool winning the game for Woodbridge.
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.
Another top of the table clash from the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday on Women’s Football East, the top 2 meeting both starting the season with a 100% win rate, new comers Needham Market Women leading the table hosting East Bergholt United Ladies the defending Champions.
The Suffolk Women’s Division expending this season with an influx of new sides, 13 in total for the 2018/19 campaign with 7 of those new names along with Alresford Colne Rangers who move to the league having previously competed in Essex.
Needham Market Women starting by far the better of all the newcomers. 5 wins from 5 to start the season their 100% winning start seeing them 3 points clear at the top from East Bergholt United Ladies and Brantham Athletic Ladies who have both started with 4 successive victories. A part of Needham Market FC’s Academy set up. Have bolstered their squad bringing in some ex-Bacton United Ladies players that already have experience playing in the Women’s Division. Today’s match representing the toughest challenge Needham Market have experienced so far.
If Needham Market are to get the win this afternoon than they will have to do something no one else has so far this season and that is breach the East Bergholt United Ladies defence. Did the double last season winning the league and cup. An unbeaten season too. A great start to the season as they look to defend their title. Are the team to beat know and that brings a different aspect to the squads development, a large squad backed up by an U18s side. Not conceding a goal in their opening 4 matches East Bergholt United have scored 41 goals up the other end including a 19-0 over new side University of Suffolk (albeit their opponents short on numbers on the day). Always likely to score from midfield have added Stacey Teager to their attack, regularly amongst the goals for former club AFC Sudbury Ladies.
Bloomfield’s the venue for this afternoon’s match home of Needham Market FC. The main pitch looking pristine, a clubhouse with bar and hot food leading to it. A new 3G pitch beside the main pitch, a good size, building work ongoing to improve facilities for the Academy. Room for spectators down one side aswell and behind one goal. A glorious sunny afternoon late in October in stark contrast the miserable wet Sunday just gone. Bright sun low in the sky would pose a few issues during the game. Another game on the 3G before the women’s teams could get onto it and warm-up little time for East Bergholt to get used to the new surface before kick-off.
East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Jess Quinsee, Katy Lambert, Georgia Lockerbie (C), Millie Wilding, Jess Clark, Charlotte McGrath, Katie Bruce, India Griffin-Jenkins & Stacey Teager. Subs – Deben Faiers, Elena Nitsche & Isla Romer-Lee.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s the home side to kick-off the 1st half, Needham Market wearing red shirts with yellow trim, red shorts and socks. East Bergholt United with the sun at their backs 1st half wearing green shirts with white trim, black shorts and socks. Jess Quinsee defending at left back for East Bergholt as Needham Market look to play in Eboni-Mae Shepherd on the right. Look to get the ball on down the left themselves, Charley Mussellwhite defending putting the ball out of play for Needham Market.
Building through the middle the ball up to Abbie Wilkinson, the Needham Market number 10 holding the ball up as midfielder Milly Carter gets up in support to her right the pass into her feet Carter puts the low diagonal ball through to Lois Balfour making a run into the box left of the D the pass weighted perfectly she strikes the ball goalwards past East Bergholt goalkeeper, Kimberly Lynch as she throws herself into the dive the ball strikes the base of the post the rebound back out into the middle of the six yard box, Lynch twisting pouncing on the ball.
Millie Wilding makes a run on the right wing the long diagonal pass reaching her taking it down the line no way past Jemma Mortimer as the left back closes her down the deflected ball cut back into the path of Charlotte McGrath as she bursts forwards into the area the sliding challenge coming in as she goes to shoot the ball deflected up and behind for the corner. A good delivery in from the right cutting through the box no one can get a telling touch on the ball to turn it towards goal.
Needham Market Women’s, Lois Balfour
A free-kick awarded to East Bergholt 30 yards out, Jess Clarke over the ball, takes on the shot, the sun at her back, going to be tricky for the goalkeeper, dips late, Natalie Green back on her line as the ball hits her crossbar before going out of play. Good combination play between McGrath and Wilding releasing Stacey Teager down the right channel, attempting to get inside the area is adjudged to have fouled the defender tracking back with her. Francesca Rainbird picks up the ball for Needham Market on halfway a powerful run forwards coming in field from the left looks to try and lift the ball in behind the East Bergholt defence with Wilkinson ready to go, Georgia Lockerbie wearing the captains armband for East Bergholt lifting her leg to make a vital interception.
Needham Market Women’s, Eboni-Mae Shepherd
A lively start to the game, Needham Market settling the quicker. Carter getting herself about in midfield winning the ball willing runners ahead of her. Isobel Chaplin sliding in takes the ball as Katie Bruce moves forwards. The ball forwards Wilkinson giving chase, Lockerbie across to tackle for East Bergholt. A change for Needham Market, Chaplin coming off on comes Josie Harward. Lynch’s goalkick is long finding Teager the striker heading the ball on with Bruce making a run in behind her, Needham Market captain, Megan Stock coming over to challenge the ball puts it out for a throw on the left.
Megan Stock winning the header for Needham Market.
Is a big 3G pitch plenty of space to exploit if players are drawn across, Shepherd puts the ball forwards into the middle, both Balfour and Wilkinson making runs, Katy Lambert intercepting this time for East Bergholt.
GOAL! 18 minutes gone and the East Bergholt defence is breached for the 1st time this season as Needham Market take the lead. Pressing the ball in midfield Carter with a pass forwards into Balfour positioned outside the area left of the D, controls the ball shaping to hit the shot on the volley, miscues her attempt, turns into a fantastic assist as the ball rolls on further to the left into the path of Rainbird closing in on goal she shoots, Lynch coming to close the angle gets something on the ball but not enough to prevent Rainbird scoring as she peels away in celebration 1-0.
Francesca Rainbird scorer of the opening goal for Needham Market Women
East Bergholt look to get players forwards from the restart, Needham Market break Rainbird on the ball running on left 25 out shapes to shot the ball striking her own player in it’s way through the deflection turning it up and over the bar for the goal kick. East Bergholt build well through the middle Clark with support from Bruce and Indian Griffin-Jenkins before the final pass is slide on through for Teager bursting into the area, a shooting chance denied by the offside flag.
The visitors overload the right side players drawn across as Wilding picks up possession squares along the top of the area Teager central can’t bring down Mussellwhite doing well to get the ball clear with Clark free coming in around the back. Changes for both sides, Jemma Wessels entering the action for Needham Market replacing Shepherd. A double change for East Bergholt, Isla Romer-Lee and Elena Nitsche on for Wilding and Griffin-Jenkins. Nitsche straight into action as she is played in on the right taking the ball on cuts the cross back into the box Teager hitting it first time central her effort blocked spins on for Romer-Lee behind her her shot running wide of the far post.
Quinsee getting forwards from the back for East Bergholt is tackled by Wessels. The favour returned a few moments later as Wessels tries to get in behind down the wing. McGrath doing well in the middle for East Bergholt breaking up play disrupting Needham Market’s quick build-up play. Clark finding room too for the visitors. McGrath n to put in the tackle winning the ball in the middle puts it long for Romer-Lee down the left a fierce cross fired into the area both Teager and Nitsche attacking it far post both jumping neither can get a touch.
Jess Clark with the header for East Bergholt.
East Bergholt finishing the 1st half strong pushing players on, Mussellwhite with good defensive work up against Romer-Lee as she tries to get inside her on the left. Harriet Meers coming inside to support Lambert in defence cuts out Rainbird’s forward pass. Clark in space in the middle spots Romer-Lee breaking into the left channel the ball put on into her run she shoots from outside the area the ball running wide of the post.
Half-time Needham Market Women 1-0 East Bergholt United Ladies
A competitive 1st half Needham Market starting well an early shot against the post, took the lead on 18 minutes, Francesca Rainbird the first player to score against East Bergholt this season. Pressing the ball took a little while for East Bergholt to settle but signs were building towards the end of the half they were likely to find a reply. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.
Katie Bruce holding the ball up for East Bergholt
East Bergholt to kick-off the 2nd half no changes for either side at the break. East Bergholt starting the 2nd half well pressing forwards, Romer-lee left with Bruce ahead of her picking her out she plays the ball inside to McGrath who releases Nitsche on the right side cutting inside her cross is charged down. East Bergholt keep possession in the final 3rd, McGrath laying the ball back for Clark who takes on the strike from distance the ball landing inside the area claimed by Green.
Play stretched even this early in the 2nd half with East Bergholt prepared to commit players forwards Needham Market came counter if the can get the ball into their attackers. Rainbird with the ball left cuts inside a good run plays it forwards for Balfour right side outside the box her cross back in towards the far post as she tries to pick out Carter breaking from the middle, Meers needs to and wins it for East Bergholt.
Teager holding the ball up for East Bergholt as players get up to support her McGrath receiving the ball puts on on for Nitsche bursting into the area from the right, Smith doing really well up against her in her own six yard box right of goal as she slides in to deny the shot and put the ball out for a corner kick. A fantastic ball in from the right side the penalty box congested the ball met at the far post Teager I think getting her head on the ball driven in towards goal blocked on the line by Mortimer before being scrambled away for a 2nd corner. Put in towards the top of the area this time is met well by Lockerbie striking it goalwards in through bodies it’s Mortimer to the rescue again her foot stopping the ball from crossing the line.
Needham Market pressed at the back get the ball forwards away down the right played into Rainbird making a central run free for a moment aims to drag the ball across her before shooting, Lockerbie recovering well to get back to close Rainbird down the ball spinning away off the defender for a corner. It’s East Bergholt’s time to clear the ball off the line, as the ball in is attacked near post.
East Bergholt’s time to break forwards Nitsche right into Romer-Lee central 20 yards out lines up a shot the ball driven in towards goal strikes the bar, Green may well have gotten a touch on it too. Carter getting into an advanced position for Needham Market pulls the trigger from the top of the area right side her effort running low past the far post. Good running from McGrath coming right on for Nitsche down the line a good cross into the six yard box claimed well by Green before Romer-Lee can attack it running in from the left. Teager coming deeper for the ball turns putting it on for Nitsche right side cuts into the box, Stock getting back with a good tackle stops her.
Clark over a free-kick for East Bergholt as the referee brings play back with no advantage, 30 yards out central, Clark takes on the shot her attempt over the crossbar. Nitsche a threat on the right for East Bergholt making good runs has the ball at her feet lays the cross back into the middle for the advancing McGrath striking the ball from 20 yards out it bounces out wide past the far post. Needham Market are under pressure pushed back getting the ball forwards into their attackers isn’t easy. Lambert intercepting an attempted through ball. A change for East Bergholt, Bruce coming off Wilding coming back on.
GOAL! The equalising goal has been coming East Bergholt have been turning the screw comes from a strike from distance, Clark onto the ball, sends an effort in towards goal, Green trying to get to it can’t keep in out 1-1.
Jess Clark with the equalising goal for East Bergholt
East Bergholt press straight from the restart winning the ball, drive on, Teager onto the ball a powerful run towards the box, Stock doing very well up against her. Clark with another opportunity to have a shot at goal from a set-piece a free-kick awarded 25 yards out right of centre, curls a shot in looping towards goal, Green getting across to it pushes it behind conceding the corner.
GOAL! No sooner have they equalised then East Bergholt go on to take the lead in the match the goal coming from the corner on the right an inswinging ball is defended on the line by Needham Market pushed out into the box the ball comes to Lockerbie positioned at the top of the area just inside she meets it well driving the ball back in and this time no-one cane stop it as it nestles in the back of the net 1-2.
East Bergholt on top pressing the ball in the final third Needham Market with their backs to the wall defending deep a corner given away on the left. In towards the near post Lockerbie gets on the end of it headers over. Teager strong on the ball is fouled inside the D, Needham Market slow to close her down. Teager to take it as Clark is otherwise indisposed the striker putting the ball over. The visitors looking strong now as Needham Market struggle to regroup after falling behind. McGrath on for Wilding central attempts to loft the ball in towards the far post area with Romer-Lee making a run the ball going away from her out of play.
GOAL! East Bergholt press their advantage enjoying a purple patch add a 3rd goal attacking on the left the ball lifted forwards into the box with Nitsche racing in behind through the middle six yards out the ball landing in front of her holds off a defender opening her body to side foot the ball wide of the keeper and score 1-3.
Needham Market make a change, Chaplin back on coming into the defence with Smith pushed on into the midfield. Need to get forwards Carter on the ball, Rainbird and Wessels offering support on the left the ball helped on Wilkinson flagged offside. Into the final 15 minutes. Wilding shooting from distance central the ball safely held by Green. East Bergholt make a change Nitsche coming off, Griffin-Jenkins back on. Needham Market attack getting forwards well right side the cross fired in near post Rainbird there to attack in Mussellwhite doing well closing her down.
Balfour twisting and turning with the ball through the middle finds half a yard to shoot from 25 yards out her attempt dropping wide of goal. Harward comes off for Needham Market, Shepherd back on. A throw on the right for Needham Market inside the East Bergholt half put into Wilkinson she turns and shoots from outside the area Lynch down low to gather at her near post.
The game has taken alot out of both side, East Bergholt are tiring late on have been intense in the 2nd half, Needham Market pushed back come forwards now play stretched Rainbird getting forwards to support Balfour on the left, Meers across to defend for East Bergholt.
GOAL! The ball kept by Needham Market on the left brings the home side a 2nd goal, Rainbird putting it back up the line as Mortimer gets forwards to support the fullback playing it inside Rainbird in the meantime breaking into the box is seen the pass cutting open the East Bergholt defence, Rainbird throws herself at the ball her lunge putting the ball wide across the keeper an in to the back of the net 2-3.
Not much time left but Needham Market have found an extra reserve of energy with the goal the game is open now having been pushed back for much of the 2nd half the home side press forwards risk getting hit on the counter sense they might be able to yet to get something from the game. Rainbird their main threat her ball in from the left cut out by Lockerbie. Quinsee bringing the ball out from the back for the visitors however he forward pass for Romer-Lee sees the flag raised.
Is some tired defending at the end East Bergholt have put alot into the 2nd half, Wilkinson driving on, Lambert closing her down. the visitors counter Romer-Lee left side her cross into the area deflecting off Mussellwhite falls for Teager back to goal lays it off for the onrushing Wilding connects with the ball 20 yards out the effort whistling over the bar. The last action of the game East Bergholt making it 5 out of 5 go top of the table.
Full time Needham Market Women 2-3 East Bergholt United Ladies
Is a 3 ways tie at the top now East Bergholt with the superior goal difference, Needham Market taste defeat for the first time this season whilst Brantham Athletic Ladies receive a home win to keep up their 100%. 13 teams in the league however a long way to go. An entertaining contest played with some enjoyable late October sunshine. Needham Market starting well taking the lead 1-0. East Bergholt building momentum late in the 1st half kept going 2nd half pressing the ball in the final third shooting from distance got level then very quickly took the lead, Needham market slow to respond the visitors going further in front, Needham Market getting a goal back late on but East Bergholt went on to claim the 3 points.
The defending champions looking good after 5 games, know there is still a long way to go. Needham Market showing plenty of potential will only get better.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time for this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Sometimes a contender will emerge early on in a match and it’s a case of seeing if they maintain that level of performance. There were two this afternoon that caught the eye both for East Bergholt and it was a tough decision picking one out over the other, getting forwards into space and a threat from set-pieces Jess Clark stood out getting a goal too. Just edging it though for me was central midfield partner Charlotte McGrath. Played well throughout winning the ball getting across the park, setting up others and offering support with some well timed runs through the middle today’s award goes to the East Bergholt number 10.
An enjoyable trip out to Bloomfield’s this afternoon, the bright sunshine no doubt helping a good crowd in attendance too. Is a great facility and by the looks of the development will only get better. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated.
Needham Market Women new to the Suffolk Women’s Division move back to the league as they continued their 100% winning start on Sunday taking full advantage of East Bergholt United Ladies not playing. 5 wins out of 5 the latest coming on the road up against Leiston St Margarets Ladies. The sides drawing 1-1 at half-time, Lucy Eagles scoring from Leiston St Margarets. Needham Market coming out the stronger in the 2nd half scoring 3 goals to win the game 4-1, their goalscorers, Milly Carter, Isabel Chaplin, Francesca Rainbird and Jemma Wessels.
Brantham Athletic Ladies have also started the season well along with Needham Market and East Bergholt have begun with 4 straight wins their 100% record continuing as they recorded their biggest win to date away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Shanice Leeks top scoring in the game for Brantham with 4 goals her 1st of the season. Kirsten Hutchings adding a further 2 to her tally now 11. Lucy Dunnett, Shannon Giles, Danielle Harvey and Lucy Elmes also getting a goal each in a 10-1 victory. Keira Hines with the consolation goal for Chantry.
Brantham Athletic Ladies, Shanice Leeks
Alresford Colne Rangers climb up to 4th place in the Suffolk Women’s Division with their 3rd win of the season on Sunday coming away from home against Coplestonians Ladies. Goalless at the break goals from Jo Harvey and Tiffany Reeves secured the 3 points for Alresford in the 2nd half.
Heavy defeats in their opening 3 matches since joining the Suffolk Women Division, 2 games against the defending Champions, East Bergholt United Ladies, University of Suffolk Women are off the mark with their 1st win of the campaign coming on Sunday at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves who themselves were also without a point at the start of the season. A narrow lead for Suffolk University at half-time a goal to the good. Haverhill Rovers scoring twice in the 2nd half with Abbi Griffin and Claire Insole on target with a goal each. University of Suffolk adding further goals themselves in the 2nd half going on to celebrate a 4-2 win taking them off the foot of the table.
Suffolk Women’s League Cup
Meeting just last Sunday in the league, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies were hosting Woodbridge Town Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday, this time in the 1st Round of the League Cup. A 4-0 away win for Woodbridge then a much closer scoreline this time around. Drawing 0-0 at half-time it was Brightlingsea who opened the scoring 2nd half before Woodbridge fought back to equalise then take the lead themselves to win the game 2-1 to progress, Samantha Butcher and Sophie Crane scoring the goals.
This Sunday saw the 1st Round of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup taking place, 3 ties to be played with the rest of the sides given a bye through to the quarter finals. Two of those ties taking place this Sunday with Brightlingsea Regent Ladies playing Woodbridge Town Ladies each other in the (cup) next weekend. The top two in the league playing in the 1st Round.
Holders, East Bergholt United Ladies beginning the defence of the League Cup away to University of Suffolk Women. A crushing 19-0 win in the league already this season this Sunday was no less painful for the league newcomers as they were soundly beaten once again. East Bergholt with a strong squad. Annie Northwood scoring 8 goals alone. Jessica Clarke with a hat-trick the other goalscorers all getting one each were Katie Helen Bruce, Jessica Oxlade, Jessica Quinsee, Charlotte Warren, Deben Faiers, Pippa King and Millie Wilding. 19-0 the score East Bergholt into the quarter finals. University of Suffolk Women enduring a tough start have faced sides contesting at the top of the table so far a big league have yet to mix it up with the sides also struggling for early season form
Needham Market Ladies new to the league themselves have started the season well a 100% league record continued that form in the 1st Round of the League Cup away to Brettvale Ladies. Several ex-Bacton United players in their squad Needham Market have an excellent base to progress. Francesca Rainbird netting a hat-trick, with Abbie Walker striking the ball into the back of the net for two goals. Lois Balfour, Milly Carter and Isabel Chaplin also getting a goal each in an 8-0 win to see Needham Market progress.
Suffolk Women’s Division
They meet in the 1st Round of the League Cup this coming weekend but this Sunday it was in the league itself for Brightlingsea Regents Ladies at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies. Both new names to the league this season. Both having clocked up one league win each so far going into this match. Woodbridge Town holding the advantage at the break leading 2-0 the visitors going on to celebrate their 2nd league win of the season adding a further two 2nd half to win the game 4-0. Kimberly Edwards, Jenna Liverpool, Natasha Williams with their 1st of the season and Sophie Crane getting the goals
4 wins out of 4 at the start of the new season, and scoring 41 goals without reply, East Bergholt United Ladies have started strongly in their defence of the Suffolk Women’s Division title this season 3 points clear the the top. Were taking on another side with a 100% record at the start of the season at home on Sunday, Leiston St Margarets Ladies who themselves had scored 19 goals in their opening 2 fixtures. Was a 1-0 lead to East Bergholt United before the defending Champions too control of the match in the 2nd half to eventually run out 7-0 winners. Stacey Teager scoring a double, along with Elena Nitsche making her debut for the 1st team. Top scorer Anne Northwood adding another to her tally taking her to 9 already this season. Goals to for Millie Wilding and Jessica Oxlade.
It was to Suffolk, Women’s Football East travelled this Sunday to watch a game between two sides who will be hoping to be n the title mix themselves come the end of the season both unbeaten at the start of the season. Brantham Athletic with 2 wins from 2 hosting Walsham Le Willows Ladies. Brantham starting the better attacking early doors, Kirsten Hutchings getting away on the right crossing into the box finding Danielle Harvey unmarked in front of goal composed a side foot to take the ball by the keeper into the back of the net in the 7th minute. Walsham Le Willows getting into the game started to push Brantham back the midfield crowded, Charlotte Osborne in goal for Walsham Le Willows with a brilliant save to deny Harvey a 2nd, the hosts scored a 2nd goal late in the first half Hutchings beating the offside trap to run clear with the ball and score.
Walsham Le Willows, Mia Banbury with Brantham Athletic’s Lucy Dunnett
A 2-0 lead for Brantham at half-time changes made for the 2nd half a 3rd goal coming with 20 minutes left Hutchings winning the ball turning in behind on the right her cross along the face of the area finding Sophie Crabtree unmarked at the far post to score her 1st goal of the season. Walsham Le Willows midfielder Zoe Klimcke suffering a nasty looking knee injury moments later saw her stretchered off the pitch. Brantham adding a 4th goal to wrap up their 3rd straight win to go third with Jodie Sharp running clear and rounding the keeper to score.
It was a huge win at home for Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday to see them climb up to 4th in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were hosting new side, Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Tiffany Reeves scoring a hat-trick for Alresford. There were 4 players celebrating a brace Rae Clancy, Vicky Hall, Kirsty Belfall and Lucie Stanbury all 4 netting their 1st goals of the season, Hannah Bingham also on target as was Leia Rudge with her 1st of the season in a 13-0 win.
A double figure win to for Brightlingsea Regent Ladies on Sunday as they won their 1st competitve game in the league away from home against Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves. Jessica Scott netting 4 goals, Maddie Hubbard getting a hat-trick to her name with Paige Knight and Ashleigh Goddard getting 2 each all with their 1st goals for Brightlingsea Regent who had scored just the one goal in their previous 3 games.
Just the one goal scored in the 1st half by Lottie Aldous was enough to see Coplestonians Ladies win on Sunday were on the road taking on new side Woodbridge Town Ladies. A much needed result for Coplestonians having suffered two heavy defeats in their opening 2 league matches, awarded a home win last Sunday have now added their 1st competitive 3 point haul of the season up to 7th in the table as a result.
