Category Archives: SWF Blog

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Sunday 6th August

A new beginning on Women’s Football East the first match report published straight to the website as it becomes the new home for the SWF Blog my other women’s football adventure moving here after 3 and a half season’s to better streamline my coverage of the game. Still as it is a continuation of the SWF Blog, (same writer) just a different platform this is match report 291.

A new season will soon be upon us pre season well under way for some clubs the FAWPL season beginning in less than 2 weeks. Still plenty to do on the website. Have had a good break over the summer after completing 102 matches in 2016 then pushing straight on into 2017. Needed the rest did me the power of good. Would have been back sooner covering a few more friendlies only family matters took a turn for the worse and needed my whole attention. Settled down now and time to get back into it.

Enough about me however onto the football. Began my season with a trip up the A47 to King’s Lynn the venue The Walks stadium to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies beginning their 2nd season under the King’s Lynn Town FC banner hosting Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who ply their trade 2 leagues higher in FAWPL South East Division One.

A good test for King’s Lynn Town Ladies as they get to host another showpiece game at The Walks following on from taking on a West Ham United Ladies XI last season. A club on the move beginning 3 seasons ago as Lynn Ladies winning promotion from Norfolk Women’s Division Two in their 1st season establishing themselves in Division One the following season. Merged with King’s Lynn Town FC last season as the club sort to build better community spirit and relations. The move bringing about more progress as the ladies side challenged for the Division One title and won their 1st ever piece of silverware the Ladies League Plate. Finishing 3rd in the end applied for promotion to the regional league and accepted won a place in ERWFL Division One North. The squad preparing for their 4th season playing at a higher level.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies will be amongst the favourites for the FAWPL South East Division One title this coming season having clinched runners up spot last time around. Bring a squad of both 1st team and development squad players up to Norfolk for today’s pre season friendly including new recruits Alice Hughes a recent signing from Nottingham Forest Ladies and striker Sarah Payne back to full fitness after recovering from a long injury lay off making the move from Stevenage Ladies.

The playing surface at The Walks looked immaculate a great pitch to play on will see alot of action over the coming season with King’s Lynn Town FC having 6 teams, 1st’s, Reserves and U18s using it on a regular basis. King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing any home ties they receive in this season’s County and FA Women’s Cup here. A good sized stadium a large seated main stand, bar and refreshments. The weather was perfect bright and sunny another great opportunity to showcase women’s football at the ground.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies squad – Bryony Russell-Smith, Millie Wilson, Winnie Lee, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Bethan Jones, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C), Josie Turner & Elle Bocking, Vikki Burkauskaite, Tegan Wheeler, Lisa Wilson & Louise Coggles.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies squad – Sophie Shults, Khakr, Taylor Shields, Zoe Lander, Abbey Roberts (C), Sarah Harrison, Charley Aldridge, Molly Corbett, Taylor Duffy, Charlotte Murphy, Sarah Payne. Jemma Brittain & Alice Hughes.

Kick-off

It’s the visitors to get the game underway Milton Keynes wearing an all red strip with a black and white vertical band upon the sides of the shirts and shorts along with a black ad white hoop upon the socks. King’s Lynn are wearing their new kit for the season sponsored by Adrian Flux Insurance, blue shirts with a yellow collar and sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Milton Keynes start on the attack the ball played out to Taylor Duffy on the left wing runs inside taking the ball into the box, King’s Lynn centre back Albany Hodgson closes her down pushing her away from goal before tackling putting the ball behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! The last thing you want to do when facing higher league opposition is concede an early goal, Milton Keynes have several tall players in their side those fill the box for the set piece flighted in towards the far post by Duffy, Sarah Harrison is there connects knocking the ball into the ground on target one bounce taking it past goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith into the back of the net 0-1. 2 minutes played.

A positive start from the visitors, King’s Lynn yet to settle pushed back as Milton Keynes push players forwards win another corner on the left played in near side towards the top of the box, Charley Aldridge locks onto the ball her shot is deflected wide of goal by a King’s Lynn leg to concede another corner. The ball comes in central is cleared by Hodgson for King’s Lynn the home side attempt to break the ball played long for Elle Bocking to chase threatening to get in behind is tackled by Zoe Lander for Milton Keynes.

Charlotte Murphy gets hold of the ball in the middle for Milton Keynes attempts to play the ball in behind for striker Sarah Payne to chase taking her to the right of goal attempts to lift the ball over the defence into the middle of the six yard box the ball cut out is turned behind for the corner. Plenty of bodies in the six yard box the referee spots a foul as the ball is turned in towards goal a nervous start from the hosts.

King’s Lynn look to make progress down the right side the ball into Becky Russell helped on for Josie Turner up front again Lander gets across her to slide the ball into goalkeeper Sophie Shults to clear up field a counter attack on the pass from midfield finds Duffy running clear on the left carrying the ball into the box King’s Lynn’s Shanice Burch times her tackle perfectly going to ground to take the ball away from Duffy and behind for the corner.

King’s Lynn need someone to get hold of the ball in the middle of the park. Coming forwards Bethan Jones gets the ball up the pitch Russell 25 yards out headers the ball on in towards the top of the area, Turner makes the run in behind, Lander goes with her however and gets her head on the ball to play it into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Just over 15 minutes played and King’s Lynn get themselves back on level terms with some good build up play the ball with midfielder Jade Kelly 30 yards out she has possession drives forwards fires the pass into Bocking left of the D good hold up play from the attacker sees Russell making a central run rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out central she lets fly straight at the keeper it dips late Shults goes to block with her gloves doesn’t get a good connection the ball slipping beyond her and to her dismay into the back of the net 1-1.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Becky Russell

Play is stretched Milton Keynes prepared to play a high line at times, King’s Lynn try to counter get their strikers in behind, Lander isn’t letting anything past her, last player on a couple of occasions times her tackles well. With Kelly finding a little more room to exploit King’s Lynn a posing a few problems going forwards. Risk being hit on the counter Milton Keynes quickly turning things around players going forwards Payne up front ready to break clear of the last defender a good tempo to the game. A shot wide from outside the box by Milton Keynes, Molly Corbett as she receives the lay off from Payne dribbling inside from the left.

King’s Lynn captain Shelley Woods playing on the left fires the ball in towards Turner inside the box her snap shot is wide of the near post. Harrison carries the ball forwards for Milton Keynes play in on for Murphy ahead of her, she in turn sends it on into the box with Payne breaking, Burch goes with her tackling to put the ball behind for a corner kick on the right. Players go forwards a high ball into the six yard box central is met by Milton Keynes, Abbey Roberts who sends her header up over the crossbar.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Shanice Burch

GOAL! Milton Keynes score soon after to retake the lead the ball won up field is lifted forwards picked up by Harrison central drives forwards his challenged by Russell outside the area, charged down the ball pops back to Harrison she hits it first time a sweet strike that flies like a bullet past the keeper before she can react into the back of the net 1-2.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Harrison

Milton Keynes make a change bringing right back Khakr off for Jemma Brittain. An injury blow for King’s Lynn, Kelly hurt as she goes in to tackle Duffy on the attack down the left side, the free kick awarded to the visitors Kelly can’t continue is carried off the pitch, Lisa Wilson coming on to join the action. Harrison to take the free kick the ball long towards the far post a touch but sent wide. Murphy wins Milton Keynes a corner on the right another good delivery into the box a point blank header from Harrison straight at Russell-Smith gloves it up into the air but claims as it falls. The referee plays an advantage as Duffy is brought down again on the left Taylor Shields on the overlap picking up the ball fires the diagonal ball inside to Murphy tees up a shot 20 yards out is wide of target.

Payne has been threatening to do it all through the 1st half, this time succeeds in beating the offside trap clear bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith comes rushing in to close her down, Payne shoots too close to the keeper takes a deflection off her putting it wide for the corner.

GOAL! The set-piece is played in from the left played up the line then fired into the area missed by the King’s Lynn defender attempting to clear runs through to Murphy beyond 8 yards from goal stabs her shot to the right of the keeper to score 1-3.

Up the other end Shults produces a fine save to deny Turner tipping her 20 yards strike over the bar, However both she and fellow striker Bocking had moved to soon as King’s Lynn looked to break as Jones and Russell break up another Milton Keynes attack. Penalty! A hand ball is spotted by the referee inside the King’s Lynn box as Milton Keynes attack down the left Duffy on the ball firing a ball into the area. It’s Duffy to take the spot kick fires her low drive narrowly wide of the left post the chance to extend their lead gone.

Payne finds herself in the clear again chasing another ball over the top 30 yards out closing in on the top of the area Russell-Smith comes out to close her down the pair collide as Payne squeezes her shot past the keeper the ball rolls wide across goal. Payne stays down a moment of concern as she clutches her ankle but it’s short lived as she gets back to her feet as the 1st half moves into stoppage time.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Payne

GOAL! Milton Keynes go on to grab a 4th goal in the closing seconds play stretched King’s Lynn over committing to an attack lose possession the ball is played long for Murphy as she moves out to the right attacking down the line beats the full back taking the ball inside the area closing in on the six yard box has Payne free in a central position picks her out a simple stroke into the back of the net 1-4.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-4 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Changes for both sides at the beginning of the 2nd half a switch of goalkeepers for Milton Keynes, along with Khakr coming back on for Roberts. King’s Lynn make a change bringing on Vikki Burkauskaite for Wilson going into the left back position, sees Millie Wilson move inside to centre back with Hodgson pushed up into a midfield role. King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half.

The home side win an early free-kick on half-way Wilson to play the ball forwards left side into Woods combines with Turner the ball lifted in centrally into the box, Bocking getting onto the ball has just strayed offside. Hodgson wins the ball in the middle the pass on for Bocking up top good hold up play before shifting it out to Jones on the right shoots from the angle the 25 yard drive wide of the near post. A positive start to the 1st half from King’s Lynn.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Albany Hodgson

GOAL! 6 minutes into the 2nd half ad King’s Lynn pull a goal back a well timed run from Turner attacking left into the box as the ball is lifted forwards composure as she opens up her body to curl her shot wide of the keeper to score 2-4.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Josie Turner

GOAL! A sluggish start to the 2nd half from Milton Keynes the King’s Lynn goal waking them up the ball won in midfield played out to Duffy on the left side takes her the full back getting inside carries the ball on into the area before shooting firing a low strike across the keeper and into the far corner of the goal 2-5.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Taylor Duffy

Another chance for Duffy moments later as the ball is played into Payne central back to goal outside the D, works it wide into Duffy’s run as she charges into the box pulls the trigger shooting across goal this time the ball races wide of the far post. both sides make a change with Roberts back on for Milton Keynes replacing Harrison, Wilson back on for Jones. Good work from Russell on the right for King’s Lynn the ball rolled on for Bocking to attack inside the box sliding in at her feet the keeper can claim 1st.

Duffy plays an inviting cross in from the left Payne leaps inside the box a glancing header puts the ball wide of the far post from 10 yards out. What happened next I didn’t think was possible but even a 50+ goals a season striker can blaze over from 3 yards! King’s Lynn are attacking down the right good build up into Turner inside the box to the by line right of goal turns inside gets the ball past the keeper at the near post Woods is there unmarked looks certain to score but doesn’t the ball deflecting up off her boot over.

GOAL! Moments from pulling it back to 3-5 Milton Keynes go up the other end and extend their lead, a swift counter move the ball turned around played wide to Duffy on the left an early diagonal cross into the box players free running in at the far post Payne and Murphy one of then turns the ball into the back of the net think it was Murphy but either way Milton Keynes lead 3-6.

A dominant spell from Milton Keynes follows King’s Lynn pushed back, Lee does well to keep Duffy getting inside the box before sliding in to challenge for the ball. Jones returns to the field for King’s Lynn replacing Hodgson. Milton Keynes press Payne picking up the ball centrally screws left then right before passing the ball forwards into the box for Roberts making the run, left of goal she shapes to shoot Russell-Smith dives in to save at her feet before Burch clears the ball. Harrison returns to the pitch for Milton Keynes as Duffy pushes inside from the left plays the pass across the top of the area into her inside the D, Harrison picks out Payne inside the box she drives her strike wide across goal.

Late into the game King’s Lynn have expanded alot of energy but break late on Russell finding space on the right cuts inside towards the area sees the keeper moving towards her opts for the early lob getting the ball over her, sees her effort bounce off the far post before Khakr gets back to clear.

GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Milton Keynes score a 7th goal, Harrison has made several attacking runs throughout the game finding space tired legs in front of her now drives in right side into the area closing in on the by line cuts the cross back along the face of goal beating the keeper Payne running in with a defender far post both sliding in the ball ends up in the back of the net as Payne claims her 2nd of the game 2-7.

King’s Lynn push on late on in stoppage time Burkauskaite goes forwards getting in behind looks to turn inside get into the box closed down by Khakr the ball put behind for the corner left side Russell with the inswinging ball teasing bounces at the far post inside the six yard box but no one can connect as it goes out for the goal-kick.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-7 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

The final whistle blows and Milton Keynes wrap up a 7-2 win as they prepare for the new season. Played well with some good individual performances and some well taken goals. A pre season friendly ultimately is about getting minutes in the legs, bedding in players and finding match sharpness in that regards a useful exercise for both sides. King’s Lynn recovering after a nervy start looked to be building momentum after equalising after Kelly started to find time on the ball, her injury a loss. Milton Keynes 1st team players having the experience to find the space and exploit it with Payne a good foil up front.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Today’s Women’s Football East (as a pose to the SWF Blog) – Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Done Ladies, Sarah Harrison good work on and off the ball always available for the pass and looking to make something happen carrying it forwards.

The 1st match report of the new season, have missed it now rested up and ready to go with a new home can’t wait for the competitive action to begin so check back soon.

New Home for the SWF Blog

As we prepare for a new season of women’s football, now is the perfect time to introduce a change of my own. Have been thinking about it for some time how to streamline my coverage of women’s football. My coverage of the game began with the Supporting Women’s Football Blog soon after the news regarding the rebranding of WSL side Lincoln Ladies. For 3 and a half season’s I have used it to help promote the women’s game up and down the country mostly writing match reports from the games I attend and even now it continues to grow. Soon after I came up with the idea for Women’s Football East a website designed to help in the promotion of women’s football in the East of England where I am based.

At first I wanted it to stand on it’s own not cover the WSL at all as there wasn’t the WSL presence in the region. Only Watford Ladies based in Hertfordshire and Arsenal Women who play in Hertfordshire. As I started to cover more and more games in the region began writing the weekly Round-Up’s whilst also using the match reports featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. The Women’s Football East side of thing’s has grown even more rapidly however have been thinking for a while about combining both if the match reports are going to end up here anyway why not publish them here in the first place.

Now is the best time I’ve had a break away from the game. With Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC both joining the WSL in the last two season’s I feel Women’s Football East is ready to take over from the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. Is a wrench to give up the SWF Blog especially as I know it is still growing after all I’ve not posted anything for 2 months yet views remain high have a new following from the Netherlands and France as interest in the game is peaking in that part of Europe due to the Women’s Euros.

Everything will almost stay the same the match reports and blog posts will continue as before just appear here instead of there. Women’s Football East is growing fast too and I need to spend more time on it suffered a little last season so stream lining thing’s will ultimately improve coverage for the whole of the region with the odd match further away dotted in between. Also find that Google’s blogspot platform and the wordpress based one I use for Women’s Football East are not always compatible which means the match reports don’t transfer as smoothly as I’d like familiar with both now going straight to wordpress will improve the quality of the match reports on here.

The image at the top of the page (show below) will highlight where the Supporting Women’s Football Blog has gone but in time it will all be part of Women’s Football East. Won’t close the SWF Blog down however as there are plenty of memories on there from the past 3 and half years 290 match reports alone and you’ll still be able to access those. Match report 291 will be the 1st to be written up exclusively for Women’s Football East, finally began my season in Norfolk today with a trip to The Walks to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies take on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and will bring you the action some time over the next 24 hours it was good to be back.

It’s a small change but I’ll miss the SWF Blog but I know bringing it together with Women’s Football East will ultimately better my coverage of the game well all love. Plenty more to come.

New page header image for Women’s Football East

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

On to the 2nd cup final in two days was another trip to Cambridgeshire for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog to watch Cambridge City Ladies and Cambridge United WFC go head to head once again this time the senior sides in action in the Women’s Invitation Cup Final at Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium.

Cup Final Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

The Cup Finals continue on Supporting Women’s Football as just 24 hours after watching the Junior Invitation Cup Final it’s back to Cambridgeshire to the Glassworld Stadium in Histon to watch the Women’s Invitation Cup Final once again featuring Cambridge City Ladies and Cambridge United WFC.

This time round it’s the clubs senior sides going head to her in Cambridgeshire’s County Cup competition sponsored by S-Tech Insurance. I recent season’s Cambridge United WFC have dominated the competition along with familiar rivals Great Shelford Ladies having contested the Invitation Cup Final for 4 successive season, Cambridge United WFC coming out victorious each time, reaching a 5th final in a row have new opponents as, the rivalry no less intense however as Cambridge City Ladies reach the final for the 1st time.

Both sides enjoying a good season in their respective leagues Cambridge United WFC playing two leagues higher in the FAWPL South East Division One were leading the table for a good portion of the season, cup runs seeing them overhauled are currently in 4th place in a good position to challenge for a higher finish come the end of the season.

Cambridge City Ladies winning promotion as Cambridgeshire Premiership Champions last season recruited several players from Cambridge United WFC returning to the club they had started playing for at youth level as they began life in the next step of the women’s football pyramid the Regional leagues, have stormed to the title winning the league with 4 games to spare, earning promotion to the Premier Division as well as reaching the final of the League Cup. A strong youth set-up Cambridge City are ambitious and ultimately looking to challenge Cambridge United WFC as the dominant force in women’s football in Cambridgeshire which can only be good for the game in the county as a whole.

Road to the Final

Two in form sides they racked up the goals on their way to the final. Both receiving a Bye in the 1st Round. Cambridge City Ladies were at home to Championship South side Cambridge Rangers in the 2nd Round easing through with a 15-0 win. Double figures too for Cambridge United WFC away to Championship North leaders, March Town United Ladies winning 12-0.

Into the quarter-finals a 9-0 victory over Premiership side Park Ladies seeing Cambridge City Ladies through to the semi-finals. Cambridge United WFC bettered that score by the odd goal in 10 breezing past Championship South side Milton Ladies. A tighter affair for Cambridge City Ladies playing Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies, edging the result 4-3 to reach their 1st ever County Cup Final. Familiar opponents then for Cambridge United WFC in the semi-finals albeit under a new name as Great Shelford Ladies are now Histon Ladies, play their home games at the Glassworld Stadium. Cambridge United WFC winning comfortably in the end 6-0 to make it to yet another Invitation Cup Final.

The venue Histon FC’s, Glassworld Stadium home to a number of Cambridgeshire FA Finals this year once again. A big pitch with a main seated stand housing the changing rooms below and bar above, Covered terracing either at both goal ends with a smaller seated stand running the length of the pitch on the opposite side. A few dark clouds around by no rain forecast plenty of spectators coming in through the turnstiles.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Amy Reed, Izzy Broadbent, Becca Fay (C), Robyn Phillips, Emily Reed, Bronte Rapley, Sarah Mosley, Charlotte Gillies, Stacey Fullicks & Philippa Witherspoon.
subs – Saffron Henry, Emma Littlewood, Grace Stanley, Carla Penny & Bella Simmons.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Baker, Becky Taylor, Laura Mills, Ashleigh Deacon, Sarah Wiltshire & Paige Logie.
subs – Carolyn Sarafian, Evie Gallop, Nicole Perschky & Liz Pamplin.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The two sides line-up before tonight’s final

As with last nights Junior Invitation Cup Final we have two Cambridge’s so to make life easier for us all it’s be City v United from now on. It’s City wearing white shirts and black shorts with black and white hooped socks to kick-off the 1st half. United lined up opposite in amber shirts and socks with black shorts. City get players forwards early to pressure the ball inside the United half, charged down centrally the deflection runs into the path of City’s, Stacey Fullicks sends it out to the right with Charlotte Gillies on the move taking the ball in behind cuts the ball inside to striker Philippa Witherspoon outside box right of the D, turns her shot in towards the near post lacking pace the ball is gathered by United goalkeeper, Verity Crook.

United counter attack quickly the ball played on by right back Emma Jenkins up the right wing with Laura Mills ahead of her already on the move, with plenty of pace in her legs Mills takes the ball on down the line sending the ball into the box as she tries to turn, City goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru has to keep her eye on the ball on her goal line as it swerves through the air landing on the roof of the net. United press down the left awarded a free-kick, Sarah Wiltshire over it sends the ball in towards the centre goal, Mhunduru right behind the shot claims the ball without challenge.

A few challenges coming in early on resulting in free-kicks being given away one on half-way for City, captain Becca Fay to play the ball up into the area, United captain Laura Bright gets her head on the ball to clear it wide right, Gillies looks to get hold of the ball but gives away a free-kick. A fast tempo at the start of the game both sides looking to use the width of the pitch.

GOAL! 7 mins played and United take the lead in the Invitation Cup Final Paige Logie up front for Cambridge after a ball sent up field picks it up on the right of the box flashes a cross along the City box no one central is gathered by Ashleigh Deacon on the far side drives forwards getting past players into the box taking the ball to the line crosses low towards the near post, Logie is there to met it her touch taking the ball past the keeper up onto the crossbar the ball crashing down into the back of the net 0-1.

GOAL! One goal is quickly followed by another a United press the ball in the middle the ball is with Becky Taylor bringing it forwards right of the pitch has Mills to her right making the run rolls the ball into her feet fires in a vicious ball across the goal face, Mhunduru can’t get anything on it as it runs through to the far post Deacon arriving on cue to send the ball in to score 0-2.

Paige Logie opens the scoring
in the Invitation Cup Final for
Cambridge United WFC

Down by 2 quickfire goals inside the opening 10 minutes the last thing the lower league placed side needs as City find themselves on the back foot. look to get forwards for a immediate response Sarah Mosley playing the diagonal ball out to Gillies getting forwards on the right, lays the ball inside to Witherspoon her 1st time strike from outside the box is charged down by United’s Bennett. The loose ball retrieved by City is threaded through the middle Fullicks into the box a Taylor tackles they both go down, the referee waves away the penalty appeals, play stopped as Taylor still down requires treatment.

50/50 balls contested all over the pitch no one is afforded any time on the ball, Fullicks lines up a strike from distance her 30 yard effort straight at Crook. Wiltshire into the box with the ball on the right turns inside looks to curl a shot into the far corner, too central is taken high by Mhunduru. Attacking with the ball on the left the ball is squared into Mills coming central, outside the box turns the ball goalwards with the outside of her foot looping up drops safely int Mhunduru’s gloves.

Good running from Gillies on the right for City wins her side a corner kick, the ball floated into the area is knocked back out towards the right lifted back into the area long Mosley has it at her feet pulls the trigger her shot charged down by Jenkins spins behind for a corner on the left, the ball in towards the far post headed clear by Bright. Taylor gets forwards for United on the right side tussles with Izzy Broadbent for the ball gets control before sending a cross long towards the far post Wiltshire gets her head on the ball puts it wide.

A driving run from Wiltshire on the ball as she is given it from a throw-in closing in on the area strikes the ball her shot held by Mhunduru. Logie link up with Jenkins on the right a high ball lofted into the area, Mhunduru takes it high with runners closing in. Fullicks pushes forwards through the middle looking to power her way into the area, is tackled by Kayleigh-Anne Burt the ball going away for a throw right. Bronte Rapley plays the ball left into Fullicks pushing forwards her ball goes long into the box Gillies closing in Crook come and sliding in claims the ball at the attackers feet.

Gillies breaking forwards down the right carries the ball on before crossing the ball skims off the crossbar back into play, Jenkins reaching it before City can put another ball in towards goal. City make a change Witherspoon coming off with Grace Stanley coming on taking up a forwards position. Logie is brought down in the middle players go forwards as Bright plays the ball up towards the near post, no one able to get a shot in nor clear the ball is turned wide of goal a corner awarded. From the right Taylor flicks the ball on across goal, Amy Reed winning it and clearing for City.

Mosley on the move with the ball central on for Gillies to her right back inside for Stanley is closed down by Laura Baker, runs back to Emily Reed for City lifts the ball into the box with Fullicks looking to get in round the back, Crook makes the call claiming the ball high in the air. Half and hour played United press forwards Baker looking to roll the ball into the path of Wiltshire making a run towards the area, defender Robyn Phillips intercepts for City.

A double switch for City as they bring on Saffron Henry and Carla Penny for Amy Reed and Mosley. City have possession in the final 3rd Gillies on the right lays the ball into Fullicks on her inside, Baker comes sliding in to make the challenge Fullicks is caught on the ankle as she tries to evade the tackle. Left on the ground, Baker is yellow carded another referee might have shown a different colour. Fullicks in alot of pain can’t continue and is carried off the pitch on comes Bella Simmons, City’s top scorer this season so far with 21 goals. Fay over the free-kick 22 yards out goes for goal puts her shot over.

Baker travelling with the ball has Wiltshire ahead of her lays the ball on Wiltshire has Mills out wide right passing her the ball looks to turn inside Broadbent challenges and winning the ball puts it out for a throw. United retain possession Baker central has Wiltshire ahead of her again closer to goal this time puts the threaded pass into the box, Mhunduru comes sliding in to gather the ball at Wiltshire’s feet. Wiltshire and Taylor play a one two outside the box looking for the return past inside the box, Phillips gets in front of the striker to win the ball back for City. A strong end to te 1st half from United, Taylor pressing forwards with the ball lifts it up over the City defence into the box with Wiltshire after it, closed down under pressure puts her shot wide of the post.

GOAL! Deacon wins United a corner kick on the left as her cross from inside the box is charged down, players crowd the six yard box as Mills comes over to take the corner, with her right for is a fantastic inswinging ball flies past the goalkeeper at the near post the City defence desperately try to clear off the line but can’t keep te ball out of the back of the net hard to tell from where I was standing whether it was already over the line or not but Mills’ ball was on target sure she’ll claim it 0-3.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-3 Cambridge United WFC

A third goal for United right on the stroke of half-time puts them in firm control of the Invitation Cup Final, another blow for City rocked early in the half by 2 quickfire goals took them a while to get back into the game, a competitve contest United not giving much away at 2-0 going into the break City would feel an early goal 2nd half puts them right back in it. 3-0 a tougher prospect to overcome against a United defence that doesn’t give too much away.

A change for United at the start of the 2nd half striker Nicole Perschky on for Baker the change seeing Logie who can play in any position in the spine of the team taking up a deeper midfield role. It’s United to kick off the 2nd half on the attack early the ball put out to the right Perschky looks to play it in central to Wiltshire closed down the corner is conceded. Played in with pace towards the near post City defend putting the ball behind for a 2nd corner. The ball flicked on near side, City claim it and go on the counter attack getting the ball into Gillies up top head down tries to mow her way through the middle, too much traffic is tackled by Bennett.

Jenkins gets forwards on the right Mills ahead of her plays the ball in, Mills knocks it forwards in towards the area her touch to heavy gives Fay time to close her down win the ball. City knowing they need an early break through if they are to find anyway back into the Final pressure the United back line, Simmons has the pace to close down Bright as she tries the shield the ball the ball back to Crook the clearance down’t go far the ball with Stanley out right moves into the area lays the ball back towards the top of the box, Simmons is wrong footed can’t adjust quickly enough as the ball come at her to get a shot away.

GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and City get the goal they needed is a brilliant individual goal too from Gillies is given the ball in a central position 30 yards from goal runs at the United defence looks to shift the ball left, then takes it right wrong footing Bennett ahead of her opening up a window to shoot lets fly the ball arrowing into the top corner, little Crook can do about it 1-3.

Cambridge City Ladies
Charlotte Gillies

Taylor is covering plenty of ground in the midfield for United getting forwards with the ball shifts it left playing in Deacon on the run looks to fire the central pass into the box with Mills coming into the area from the right reaching the ball is denied a shot on goal flagged offside. City make a change Witherspoon coming back on for Simmons up front. Good control from Perschky bringing the ball down onto her chest in the top right corner of the box lays it into Taylor making the run to the top of the area, her low shot is scooped up of the floor by Mhunduru right behind the ball.

Emily Read comes off for City, Rapley coming back on as Stanley wins her side a corner kick on the right side played in towards the far post drops to the floor inside the six yard box a block sends the ball back out to the right picked up by the corner taker Rapley her attempted cross back in is blocked by Deacon another corner. Comes in towards the far post for a 2nd time knocked down centrally by Henry is cleared by Burt.

GOAL! Pressing for another goal City concede a 4th goal in the 64th minute giving away a free-kick inside their half the ball is played high up into the area, Perschky running forwards the ball dropping over her shoulder, has Deacon with her stretches he right leg out meeting the ball on the bounce taking it up wide of the keeper and into the goal beyond to score her 2nd of the game 1-4.

Mills running onto the ball on the right plays the cross into the box Perschky looks to flick it on comes to Taylor 8 yards out meeting the ball sends her shot over the crossbar. Witherspoon makes room for a shot 25 yards out central, goes straight at Crook who collects as it bounces inside her six yard box. United have Wiltshire in possession plays the pass into the right channel for Mills drives a cross in near post Perschky making to run, Mhunduru gets hold of the ball.

Logie comes forwards with the ball, Wiltshire ahead of her makes a move from left to right across the top of the City box, Logie rolling the ball into her path, Wiltshire turns the all in towards goal, straight at Mhunduru the goalkeeper drops forwards to gather. Stanley comes off for City, Mosley returning to the action. Gillies twisting and turning on the ball right side gets the ball inside to Mosley outside the box sees Penny making a far post run, lifts the ball into the area to close to Crook who sees the danger gets across Penny to win the ball.

The game moving into the final 20 minutes both sides still showing lots of energy City counter attack as Broadbent wins the ball at the back played on from Penny into Witherspoon 20 yards out left of the D she shots her strike flying wide of the post. Bright plays the ball long up towards the area, Perschky can’t quite bring the ball down into her strike but carrying on into the area has it left of goal flashes the ball into the six yard box, Fay clearing with Mills coming on far side.

Witherspoon moves right to get the ball for City level with the top of the box plays in back into the middle for Rapley has Mosley inside the box right of goal plays the ball into her feet, back to goal Mosley holds off the United defence turning right looks to shot the ball deflected behind for a corner on the right. Into the middle of the box, Taylor clears for United. A double change for United, Logie and Deacon rested with Evie Gallops coming on along with Baker.

City come on again the ball central into Witherspoon has Bright on her shoulder as the two race for the box, Witherspoon is brought down by Bright inside the D the free-kick a foot outside the box. Rapley on the ball gets it up over the wall starts to dip as it heads towards the top corner but not by enough as it flies over the bar. United make a change at the back Burt coming off, Carolyn Sarafain comes on. Wiltshire with the ball running towards the City area lets fly from the edge of the box her strike smashing against the crossbar. Deacon returns to the field in place of Taylor for United, Stanley back on for City replacing Phillips. as the game moves into the closing stages

GOAL! Into stoppage time and United extend their lead Wiltshire pushing on with the ball is brought down 20 yards from goal a dangerous position she picks herself up to take the free-kick, is a great strike heading towards the top corner initially an excellent save from Mhunduru as diving across she takes off gets both gloves around the ball falling however she drops the ball and Deacon racing in is first the ball to bury it into the back of the corner and claim a Cup Final hat-trick 1-5. Not long after the final whistle blows and United celebrate having retained the Invitation Cup once again.

A Cup Final hat-trick for Cambridge United WFC’s Ashleigh Deacon

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-5 Cambridge United WFC

An enjoyable final watched in front of a good numbered crowd. Two early goals for United putting them in total control of the game took City a little while to recover momentum only to concede a 3rd right on the stroke of half-time. Gillies gave then home with a superb goal to make it 3-1 before United went on to extend their lead. Deacon scoring in injury time to get her hat-trick the icing on the cake. Two Cup Final wins for United in the space of two days, two losses for City who shouldn’t be too downhearted real progress made this season.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A few contenders for the SWF Blog – Player of the Match tonight. Charlotte Gillies with a great performance for Cambridge City, a Cup Final hat-trick for Ashleigh Deacon however tonight’s Player of the Match goes to Becky Taylor a strong all round midfield performance plenty of energy and vision helping out at the back when needed bringing other into play going forwards.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Winners, Cambridge United WFC

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, two cups in two nights for the club.

My thanks once again to Chris Abbott from from the Cambridgeshire FA for his help again tonight.

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies Development v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

Two cup finals in midweek covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog both in Cambridgeshire and both featuring Cambridge City Ladies and Cambridge United WFC. First up on Wednesday it was the sides Development and Reserves sides going head to head in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final.

Cup Final Report – Cambridge City Ladies Development v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

The midweek football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from Cambridgeshire, two Cup Finals this evening and Thursday. The action this evening from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final with new side Cambridge City Ladies Development in their 1st ever final taking on Cambridge United WFC Reserves the current holders of the trophy.

Tomorrow the senior sides from both clubs meet in the Women’s Invitation Cup Final both competitions sponsored by S-Tech Insurance who have supported women’s and girls football in Cambridgeshire for 12 years now.

A potential league and cup double on the cards for Cambridge City Ladies Development a new side formed this season have won the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South undefeated so far this season with a game left to play. With a strong and growing youth section the Development side a natural progression with players aiming for the 1st team that itself is enjoying a very successful 1st season at regional level.

A 4th successive Junior Invitation Cup Final appearance for Cambridge United WFC Reserves having won the final on the previous 3 occasions. Are also through to the League Cup Final as they were last season and are aiming to win both trophies this time around. Challenging for the title in the Women’s Premiership too.

Road to the Final

Both sides were handed a Bye in the 1st round of the Junior Invitation Cup. Into the quarter finals, Cambridge City Ladies Development advanced without kicking a ball handed a walkover against Riverside Rovers Reserves. Cambridge United WFC Reserves beat Fulbourn Bluebirds from the Championship South 4-1 to reach the semi-finals.

Cambridge City Ladies Development played fellow Championship South side Cambridge Rangers in the semi-finals winning the match 7-1 to reach their 1st ever Cup Final. Was a repeat of last seasons final in the other semi-final with Cambridge United WFC Reserves playing Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies, won the game 3-1 to reach the final once again.

The venue for this evenings final, Ely City FC has been a year since I last visited the ground, just off the A10 a new business development is taking shape in the former entrance to the multi-sports facility housing not only the football club, but also rugby, squash and golfing facilities. Several food outlets as well as a cinema are proposed for the sight a new road leading to the football club already built. A dry start to April the pitch looked hard bobbly in places. A few dark clouds around with a brief shower before the match the temperature starting to drop as the floodlights took effect.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Josie Cambridge, Lucy Hurst, Tegan Wyman, Gemma Clare (C), Amy Ozakpinar, Rachel Pearce, Erin Fox, Grace Stanley, Ellie Geoghan, Megan Tonks & Anna Wilson.
subs – Rachel Littlewood, Kayleigh Whitehead, Erin Walusimbi & Aniela Luxford

Cambridge United WFC Reserves starting XI – Sarah Carroll, Emily Ingle (C), Holly Northfield, Liz Pamplin, Carolyn Sarafian, Tahnee Perfect, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Lucy Gateson, Teonie Peyton, Ebony Rule & Lauren Gibson.
subs – Ellen Green, Kirsten Burt, Emma Roberts, Claire Kilmartin & MacKenzie McGregor

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Tonight’s prize

Two Cambridge’s playing it’s a challenge writing notes and to make thing’s easier for those reading the report too I’ll refer to the sides as City and United from now on. It’s United to get the final underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts, City opposite wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United press early the ball won by Gabrielle Whitehurst in midfield played out to Teonie Payton making a run down the right wing taking the ball down the line wins a corner kick, the ball is delivered towards the top of the area City’s Rachel Pearce to it first sends the ball up field.

An open start both sides looking to use the full width of the pitch, from a throw on the right inside the City half striker Lauren Gibson looks to drive inside towards the box, is tackled by Tegan Wyman at left back the ball played on City counter Ellie Geoghan up the left is stopped by United’s captain Emily Ingle the a ball rolled into midfield helped on as Gibson looks to get in behind the City defence, goalkeeper Josie Cambridge is out quickly to reach the ball first. Gibson is played through as she comes across to the right to receive the ball unleashing a low shot from just inside the box, Cambridge behind it makes the save.

City captain, Gemma Clare challenging United striker Lauren Gibson for the ball

United are beginning to see a little more of the ball keeping City out of their area the defence winning any through balls, bringing the ball down the right Peyton’s long crossfield ball is gathered by Lucy Gateson looks to take it down the line, tackled by City’s Lucy Hurst the ball out for a throw in taken quickly United win their first corner of the match the delivery in towards the top of he area, up from the back Liz Pamplin gets a glancing header on the ball knocking it down into the six yard box, City win the scramble to launch it clear.

City are left perplexed as they break forwards the ball from Pearce into attacker Megan Tonks 20 yards out is brought down by United’s Carolyn Sarafian with Geoghan in behind on the overlap stealing in on the ball the referee plays advantage it comes to nothing and City feels play should have been brought back for the free-kick. City build another attack the ball from left to right across midfield Grace Stanley running into space on the right takes the ball on into the box, United’s Holly Northfield gets back on her the pair tussle for the ball inside the box right corner, Stanley rolling the ball around the full back to get in behind is adjudged to have fouled Northfield.

Gibson closes the ball down on the right from a throw in getting hold of the ball travels into the area hitting the shot on the run, plenty of pace on the ball, goalkeeper Cambridge saves instinctively with her feet. Keeping possession in the final 3rd United eventually win a corner kick. High into the middle of the area, Stanley heads the ball out of the area for City, falls to Peyton outside the box closed down quickly gets a snapshot away the ball flying wide of the near post.

Cambridge City goalkeeper Josie Cambridge
warming up before the match

Bringing the ball on through the centre of midfield Stanley threads a great pass into Tonks up top in behind takes the ball on into the area, looking to shift the ball onto her favoured foot to take a strike, gives Northfield the opportunity to nip in to get her toes on the ball nullify the threat for United.

GOAL! The opening goal of the Final comes midway through the 1st half, United pile players forwards as they attack with purpose with Gibson having come over to the right side the ball down to the touchline is cut back in towards strike partner Ebony Rule unmarked inside the box opens her body up taking the shot looking to put the ball across he goalkeeper, Cambridge gets a glove on the ball but pushing it away into the centre of the six yard box, Payton is quickest to react reaching the ball and smashing it home to give United the lead 0-1.

Peyton winning the ball at the back for United sees her deflected clearance fly over the top with Gibson alert after it running clear of the City defence, heading for the box, Cambridge is out quickly sliding in to stop the ball getting beyond her. City make a change, Amy Ozakpinar coming off at the back, Anelia Luxford coming on. Soon after Erin Walusimbi comes on for City in place of Erin Fox.

Cambridge City’s Rachel Pearce

Pearce rolls the ball on into striker Anna Wilson pressuring the United defence she squeezes the ball into Tonks to her right shooting from outside the area her strike is blocked the deflection coming to Walusimbi on the right pushes on into the box her cross turned behind for a corner. A good delivery in towards the penalty spot it’s United’s Pamplin who wins the header. Geoghan comes off for City, Rachel Littlewood coming on. Gateson bringing the ball on down the right flashes a cross along the face of the City area comes all the way through to Peyton who takes on the shot from distance, Cambridge is right behind it to hold comfortably.

United very nearly double their lead a long ball played on through the middle, Gibson closes City captain Gemma Clare down as she looks to control, tries to head the ball back to her advancing keeper Cambridge gets too close Clare under pressure knocks the ball past her the ball heading towards goal the City defence win the race to clear the ball off the line. A corner on the left conceded City are down to 10 as Walusimbi is sent to the dugout to deal with a plaster on her nose. Kayleigh Whitehead being readied for a substitution comes on even as United take the corner, Clare dealing with the ball inside the box played out for a throw in.

GOAL! Moving into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half United double their advantage, Gibson having been a constant outlet for the ball in the game receives the ball played across from the left as United come forwards knocking it down into space in field, Whitehurst runs clear striking the ball from 25 yards out her shot whistling past the keeper into the back of the net 0-2.

The City bench aren’t happy the referee stops play to have a word. Walusimbi returns to the action replacing Hurst late on. City are very nearly undone for a 3rd goal as the defence looks to shield the ball played on by United as it trickles towards the edge of the box for Cambridge to pick up has her gloves on the ball just as Rule nips past the defence to take it from her, clear on goal play however is brought back by the officials. A strong end to the 1st half from United breaking down the right the ball squared in towards Gibson outside the D hits the shot on the turn as the ball comes into her the strike looping up over the crossbar. Tahnee Perfect breaks with the ball through the middle rolling it on for Gibson peeling off the shoulder of the last defender shoots from the top of the box the ball sent wide of the near post.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 0-2 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

A good 1st half from United having the bulk of the attack, getting the ball forwards Gibson a threat through the middle, Peyton too on the wing firing herself up with a bit of banter with the crowd. Up the other end their defence as snubbed out any threat winning the final ball little for goalkeeper Sarah Carroll to deal with. 2-0 always an interesting score United good for it as is often the case the next goal will be crucial.

It’s City to get the 2nd half underway looking for a positive start. Littlewood with a run on the ball into the left channel her cross into the area cleared by Sarafian. A diagonal ball played long up into the United area is headed clear falling to Pearce outside the area, won’t sit kindly as she looks to bring it under control adjust for a shot, is closed down the chance gone. Gibson goes after a heavy through ball running out to the left gathering on the line, Cambridge has come out to the edge of her box that side seeing the striker will reach the ball before it runs out of play, the angle is against Gibson as she tries to put the ball wide of the keeper runs wide behind the goal beyond.

City have started the 2nd half well more energy getting extra bodies forwards to put pressure on the ball. Pearce plays the ball on through the centre for Tonks, closed down outside the box as she goes to strike the ball spins across to Littlewood on the left plays the ball back across the top of the area, Perfect wins the header knocking the ball outside the box comes at Wyman quickly tries to connect with the ball 1st time slices her effort away from goal.

Up top for United, Gibson and Rule combine well both pressuring the ball Gibson almost playing Rule in behind, Clare with the tackle to stop her running clear. Awarded a free-kick wide right City send the ball up into the area, again it’s Perfect who wins the header clearing for United.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves striker
Lauren Gibson

GOAL! Cit’s positive start to the 2nd half is undone as United extend their lead in the 5th minute. breaking up at attack through the middle from City the ball from defence is played long up into Rule 30 yards out back to goal controls well his close support from Gibson to her left rolls the ball into her Gibson’s first touch gives her a yard on her marker as they race for the area, Cambridge coming out to meet her Gibson knocks the ball to the right taking her by the keeper clear to shoot putting the ball home off the inside of the post from 10 yards 0-3.

City attack from the restart the ball into Stanley moving left drives into the box looks to fire the ball across goal deflected off a defender the ball comes into Wilson at pace can’t adjust to turn it towards goal. Wyman plays the ball on for Littlewood to attack on the left side squares the ball along the top of the area looking to pick out Wilson, Whitehurst gets back to tackle the striker before see can line up a shot.

A throw for United on the right Gibson helping the ball in as Rule makes the run in behind takes the ball on into the area, Walusimbi trying to get across lunges in a wild attempt to win the ball, Rule caught could have gone to ground, doesn’t keeping control of the all sends her shot across the keeper, the ball striking the base of the far post, still in play cleared for a throw on the opposite side a long ball is swept in towards the near post, Cambridge coming towards it makes the claim.

A knock for United’s Ingle as they defend a City corner comes off to be replaced by Claire Kilmartin. A good tackle from City’s Wyman as Gibson brings the ball under control and looks to spin in behind off the full back to get into the box. Peyton brings the ball inside as she attacks down the right side rolled into Gibson her touch helps the ball on with Rule stealing in behind the City defence into the box puts her strike wide of goal. Another change for United with Payton giving way for Kirsten Burt.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves
Ebony Rule

GOAL! 25 minutes played in the 2nd half and United go further in front. Possession on the left from a throw in inside the City half Gateson and Gibson link up the ball played long in towards the far post Rule times her run perfectly arriving to head the ball in at the near post inside the six yard box 0-4.

Tonks sees a shot from 20 yards charged down the ball deflecting wide to the left Littlewood winning a corner kick the ball flashes in through bodies gathered at the near post a snap shot far side swoops up over the bar. Ingle returns to the action replacing Sarafian at the back for United. Fox comes back on for City in place of Wyman. McKenzie McGregor also on for United Gateson the player off. A high ball played in from the left is chested down by McGregor as she comes across the D left to right knocking it on into the area, shoots wide as she is closed down.

More changes late on Ozakpinar back on for Clare for City, Ellen Green replacing Pamplin. Fox skips past two players in the middle sending the ball through for Tonks, Ingle gets across her run shields the ball back into the keepers gloves as the game moves into the last couple of minutes.

GOAL! Pushing forwards looking to find themselves a goal late in the game City are hit on the counter the ball won back and sent up field by Perfect into Rule in space 25 yards out turns and sends her shot in up over the goalkeeper to score her 2nd of the game 0-5.

GOAL! Another goal soon follows as Gibson capitalises on some hesitant play at the back from City the ball closed by Gibson as the keeper starts to come between goalkeeper and defender Gibson closes down the ball knocking it wide of both into space inside the box and sends the ball into the goal beyond to score her 2nd of the game 0-6.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 0-6 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

It’s Cambridge United WFC Reserves who celebrate at the final whistle winning comfortably 6-0 with a good all round team performance that gave their opponents little opportunity to make an impact in the final 3rd. A harsh scoreline for Cambridge City Ladies Development conceding 2 late goals as they became a little ragged looking for something up the other end. Cup Final runners-up and league Champions is a fantastic achievement for a side in it’s first season.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A good all round team performance from Cambridge United WFC Reserves the SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to striker Lauren Gibson, scoring 2 goals was a constant threat and outlet up front working the space in the channels well keeping the opposition defenders from bringing the ball out.

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC Reserves on another Junior Invitation Cup success.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners
Cambridge United WFC Reserves

My thanks to Cambridgeshire FA’s Chris Abbott for his help tonight. A quick turnaround for all do it again tomorrow night.

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

Not a coat or umbrella in sight the sun cream applied a trip across to the west of Norfolk this Sunday to watch a top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division One just a point between leaders Thorpe United Ladies & King’s Lynn Town Ladies in 2nd going into the game, the hottest day of the year and it’s only April, plenty of action in this one..

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

Hot and sunny! Haven’t said that to often at the start of a new match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. A top of the table clash in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday as leaders Thorpe United Ladies travel west across the county to play 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies just a point between the sides.

8 teams in the Norfolk Women’s Division One this season playing each other 3 times most sides having completed 2 thirds of their games still alot of football to be played, nothing will be decided to day however it could give one side or the other a huge advantage along with next weekends reverse fixture. 3rd placed North Walsham Angels and 4th placed Bungay Town Ladies 5 and 6 points off top spot themselves aren’t out of the race yet and will be interested observers.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies began their season at Thorpe United Ladies and won’t thank me for reminding them they suffered a heavy defeat. However since then King’s Lynn have gone unbeaten in the league, 6 straight wins followed, 10 in total now with 2 draws in their 13 games played have led the table themselves this season as their opponents suffered from postponements. Could yet be a league and cup double for King’s Lynn having reached the final of the Norfolk Ladies Plate. Captain, Shelley Woods is way out in front as the leagues top goalscorer closing in on 50 goals so far this season.

Thorpe United Ladies looked like they were going to take some stopping at the start of the season leading the way winning 9 league games in a row before their run was halted away to Bungay Town Ladies. A win and 2nd loss followed, taking over at the top again last time out a point clear of King’s Lynn both having played 13 games in the league. A double on for King’s Lynn, it could be a treble for Thorpe United as they have reached both the finals of the Ladies League Cup and Norfolk Women’s County Cup where they are the defending cup holders. However the challenge will test the Thorpe United squad to the max as the finals have been scheduled to take place just 2 days apart!

River Lane Playing Fields in Gaywood, King’s Lynn the venue for today’s match. A beautiful day, temperatures into the twenties, sun cream needed and not a coat or umbrella in sight. A good covering of grass on today’s pitch firm underfoot. Sunny skies however there is a strong breeze blowing across the pitch from one goal to the other.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Christina Vivas, Vikttorija Burkauskaite, Lisa Wilson, Albany Hodgson, Millie Wilson, Millie Hopkisson, Becky Russell, Emma Woods Tegan Wheeler, Shelley Woods (C) & Josie Turner.
subs – Natalie Bunton, Amy Gillon & Leanne Keeley-Smith

Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Bethan Sommerfield, Olivia Mungham-Gray, Lisa-Marie Riches, Lauren Kett, Alice Ford, Sophie Jermy, Laura Hedtke, Vivian Moyo, Shanice Sutton & Rebekah Lake (C).
subs – Nicole Read, Chelsea Clarke & Jade Powell.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Thorpe to get the 1st half underway wearing dark pink shirts with black across the top of the sleeves, black shorts and pick socks. King’s Lynn lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with a blue and white band across the front, blue shorts and socks have the breeze at their backs 1st half, new signing Tegan Wheeler recently joining King’s Lynn from Spalding United U18s Girls starting in midfield for the home side, Leanne Keeley-Smith on the bench looking to make her 1st appearance for King’s Lynn today.

Getting hold of the ball early King’s Lynn look to play the ball out to Wheeler making a move into the right channel, looking to turn in field take the ball in towards the box, Thorpe full back, Olivia Mungham-Gray closes Wheeler down putting in a crunching tackle to win the ball back. The ball played up the pitch for Shanice Sutton comes together with King’s Lynn’s Emma Woods a bit of shoving as they regain their feet the referee quick to blow up call them over and issue a warning to both.

The ball is rolled into the feet of King’s Lynn captain Shelley Woods as she looks to make a run down the left closing in on the area, Thorpe right back Bethan Sommerfield goes to ground stretching her leg to take the ball away from the striker concede the 1st corner of the game. The corner goes long bouncing out of play without a touch at the far post. A bright start form King’s Lynn, Becky Russell who used to play for Thorpe getting forwards linking up with Wheeler as the ball is brought out to the right another corner won the ball is fired in low towards the near post Thorpe have it covered launch the ball clear.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell

Russell is all over the pitch in the opening minutes left then right side on the ball from the left looks to thread a ball into the box for Josie Turner, is intercepted by Thorpe’s Lisa-Marie Riches her clearance lands at the feet of Wheeler 25 yards out sends a shot in towards goal, Cara Anderson keeping goal for Thorpe today is right behind it sees the ball safely into her gloves.

Tegan Wheeler looking to get forwards for King’s Lynn Town Ladies

GOAL! Capitalising on their start, King’s Lynn preventing Thorpe from getting the ball beyond the midfield the ball closed down quickly and the inch rule ball through the middle has Turner running in behind on the shoulder of centre back Lauren Kett both racing towards the area, their is contact Kett ends up on the ground Thorpe want the foul, Turner keeps going into the box slides the ball past the static Anderson into the bottom corner to hand the home side the lead in the 8th minute 1-0.

GOAL! No sooner have King’s Lynn taken the lead however Thorpe come right back at them with an almost immediate response winning the ball on the right side played into the feet of Vivian Moyo she slides the ball in towards the top corner of the area, Thorpe captain Rebekah Lake playing off the shoulder of the last defender makes the run in behind looking to get onto the end of the ball, King’s Lynn goalkeeper, Christina Vivas comes rushing out to close her down, Lake reaching the ball 1st sends the lob over the keeper and into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

GOAL! A complete turn around 4 minutes after conceding Thorpe not only equalise but go on to take the lead! King’s Lynn are looking to push on up their right the ball is closed down with space in behind both Lake and Sutton make runs to the left as the ball is played forwards, Sutton gets there 1st taking the ball on into the box Vivas comes Sutton looks to send the ball low past her right into the near post, the goalkeeper diving to her right gets a glove on the ball pushing it away from goal but it is still alive Sutton goes after it the angle going away from her defenders rushing back sends the shot in on target, King’s Lynn defender, Millie Wilson almost gets there to clear the ball off the line but her effort is in vain 1-2.

Thorpe United Ladies, Shanice Sutton

A vital header from Wilson moments to stop Thorpe getting through on goal for another shooting opportunity as midfielder Alice Ford drives forwards with the ball having won it out on the right coming inside 30 yards out looks to put the ball in towards the top of the box, Wilson gets her head on the ball if she hadn’t Lake drifting in behind would have be through on goal. A busy start to the match the breeze has gotten stronger a physical game developing on the pitch.

Shelley Woods is given the ball from midfield moving out wide left sends the diagonal ball into the near post area with Turner providing the run, Riches sliding in throws herself at the ball reaching it 1st clears the threat. Thorpe deal with the resulting corner kick. Attacking down the right King’s Lynn get the corner kick Turner plays the ball into Russell coming towards the ball near side, Ford on her won’t let Russell turn and shoot the ball is deflected back towards Emma Woods top of the area, her shot is closed down the deflected ball coming back out to Turner on the right plays it long across the face of goal Shelley Woods putting the ball over the line at the far post however the flag is raised against her for offside.

Sutton has taken a knock for Thorpe the visitors make a change bringing on Jade Powell. Not long after King’s Lynn make their 1st change Emma Woods making way for Natalie Bunton. Thorpe cut an opening through the middle of the park the ball over the top Lake shoots early Vivas diving low to her right pushes the ball away from her goal conceding the corner. An injury to Thorpe’s Sophie Jermy, she comes off to be replaced by Chelsea Clarke. Turner comes off for King’s Lynn up front Millie Hopkisson pushed further forwards as Leanne Keeley-Smith comes on for her 1st appearance for King’s Lynn.

Clarke gets into the action straight away hassling King’s Lynn as they try to bring the ball out winning possession her diagonal ball putting the King’s Lynn centre backs under pressure struggling to get control, Lake is ready to pounce inside the D her snap shot whistling over the crossbar. Nobody is thinking about the guy trying to write notes on the side of the pitch the action is soon up the other end, the ball from Lisa Wilson into Russell ahead of her on the left played on for Shelley Woods making a charge for the Thorpe area, Kett lunges in to win the ball take it off her toes for a throw.

King’s Lynn’s Vikttorija Burkauskaite with Thorpe United’s Chelsea Clarke

An action game, Vikttorija Burkauskaite closes the ball down and wins it for King’s Lynn at right back sends the threaded ball up the line for Bunton has Hopkisson in field plays the pass into her breaking forwards fires the ball up towards the D with Shelley Woods making the run from the left side chests the ball down into the area Riches goes with her gets fouled as Woods tries to get a shot away the ball running out of play.

Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake looking to get a shot away

Lake is a nightmare for defenders to deal with specialises in playing off the shoulder you just never know which one to look over. Small of stature but rapid from a standing start the ball is played over the top peeling away to the left Lake controlling the ball well looks to sends the ball across the face of goal towards the far post, Albany Hodgson throws herself into the path of the ball making the block deflects back to Clarke outside the box space to her right, has the vision to control and drill the ball in low towards the opposite post Vivas seeing it late does well diving to her right to save and pull the ball into her body.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-2 Thorpe United Ladies

A busy 1st half King’s Lynn starting on the front foot taking the early lead only for Thorpe to come straight back at them equalise then take the lead with 4 minutes. Has been a competitive contest, physical from both sides a bit of banter two which isn’t fazing either side both can give as good as they get. End to end no one getting any time on the ball Vivas with a couple of saves to keep the deficit down the a single goal for King’s Lynn all to play for 2nd half.

King’s Lynn to get the 2nd half underway, Wilson also off at left back, Burkauskaite coming over to that side with Amy Gillon on at right back. A few testing balls put long at the start defences clearing the ball. King’s Lynn win a free-kick inside the centre circle, Hodgson on the ball sends t long up into the area Anderson not distracted by the on coming runners gathers the ball cleanly. Hopkisson makes a move to the right outside the box as Wheeler wins the ball slides her in, Anderson comes rushing out towards the attacker makes the block with her legs as she pulls the trigger the ball deflecting away for a throw.

GOAL! The throw in level with the top of the box is taken quickly played into Wheeler the cross comes in going long towards the far post players over for the throw, Shelley Woods arrives unmarked to header the ball in from close range to put King’s Lynn back on level terms 2-2.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Shelley Woods

A good start to the 2nd half from King’s Lynn, getting bodies forwards, Keeley-Smith playing the ball on for Russell, Hopkisson to her left looks to pick out Woods, Kett intercepts the pass. The physical contest continues the referee again calming thing’s down.

GOAL! Just like the 1st half after conceding Thorpe aren’t long in finding a response pushing forwards the ball played into the feet of Laura Hedtke 25 yards out right of goal has Lake peeling into space on the wing that side rolls the ball into her path continues her run into the box, Lake cuts the ball back to Hedtke who leaning back hits it first tie sending her shot looping up and over Vivas into the back of the net 3-2.

GOAL! What are the odds of the same thing happening in the space of 2 halves of football, well they do like the 1st half after conceding Thorpe respond with 2 quickfire goals. On the counter attack Thorpe go forwards the ball with Powell in the centre of midfield his lifted over the top for Lake breaking into the area on the right side seeing the ball across her body strikes it on the bounces her looping ball flying in towards goal, Vivas throws her gloves up reacting quickly but doesn’t get enough of the ball to stop it falling behind her into the back of the net as Lake scores her 2nd of the match making it 4-2.

Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake (central) always looking to break forwards

Straight from the restart King’s Lynn get the ball forwards into Woods moving right hits the shot early on the angle her effort sailing over the bar. Thorpe attack through the middle, Hedtke onto Powell long for Lake moving into the right channel, her ball squared into the area no one making a central run, Keeley-Smith able to clear far post. Lake wins Thorpe a corner on the right the ball high into the box headed clear by Millie Wilson falls outside the box Powell onto the ball 25 yards out fires a shot in towards goal, Vivas behind it collects on the bounce inside her six yard box.

Russell gets hold of possession in the middle of the park has Shelley Woods ahead of her making a run left to right across the face of the area, plays the ball forwards, in a race to reach it before Thorpe’s Kett hurdles over the defender as she goes to ground inside the D taking a blow to the back of her head off Woods’ knee play is stopped so she can receive treatment both sides taking the opportunity to take on fluids. Kett needs a moment to recover Nicole Read comes on albeit briefly this time around.

Pushing forwards down the right players supporting Lake she wins her side a throw in taken quickly put into the path of Powell as she reaches the top right-hand corner of the box is falling back as she looks to turn and sends the ball goalwards slices her attempt wide. King’s Lynn bring Wheeler off send Lisa Wilson back on with a little over 15 minutes of the 2nd half left to play. Russell charging the ball down 30 yards out continues her run the ball now deflected into her path shoots from 25 yards out Anderson well placed in her goal to get her body behind the strike. Read comes on again this time to replace Hedtke in the centre of midfield.

Turner rejoins the action for King’s Lynn replacing Hodgson as both sides continue to press for a goal. King’s Lynn have upped the tempo pressing Thorpe inside their own half looking to pull a goal back Woods is fouled as she jumps for the ball outside the box Kett winning the header but adjudged to have taken the player too.

GOAL! A dangerous position 25 yards out right of goal, Shelley Woods on the ball takes on the shot a great strike arrowing across the diving keeper to nestle into the back of the net to pull it back to 3-4.

A nervy finish on the cards into the last five minutes King’s Lynn having regained momentum drive forwards, Hopkisson through the middle on for Woods inside the D lays it out to Lisa Wilson on her left, looks to fire the ball in across the face of the six yard box the ball is cleared by Thorpe out for a throw on the far side, King’s Lynn keep pressing are awarded a free-kick that side. Woods to take goes for goal again flashes inches wide of the far post.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Lisa Wilson

The game moves into stoppage time King’s Lynn have a corner kick on the right side players up into the box the ball played long Woods gets up highest far post to head the ball back across goal Thorpe do enough to prevent an attempt at goal before Kett is fouled trying to bring the ball out. Getting the ball up field into the run of Lake closing in on the box two King’s Lynn defenders slide in on her to win the ball as she reaches the top of the box the ball deflected back into the gloves of the goalkeeper.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 3-4 Thorpe United Ladies

The final whistle blows and despite late pressure from King’s Lynn, Thorpe United Ladies hold out to win the match 4-3 take the 3 points back to the capital with them go 4 points clear at the top of the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. A good win a few knocks to show for it however. An entertaining contest between two good sides they meet again next Sunday at Thorpe, a must win game for King’s Lynn you would think to prevent their rivals going 7 points clear still plenty of action to come in the league however a busy few weeks for both sides and still all to play for.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

Today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake, two well taken goals plus and assist, caused problems for the King’s Lynn defence all game some clever runs always looking for space and making herself available to receive the ball.

My thanks to both teams for their help with the team details today will see both at the respective finals come the end of the month best of luck to both.

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

A look at a new league this weekend on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog covered on Women’s Football East, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South a trip to the GER Sportsground to watch unbeaten league leaders march Town United Ladies play a local derby match against 3rd placed and in form Wisbech Town Ladies.

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog has covered plenty of teams a different leagues across the country in the past 3 and half years, today it was time to take a look at a new league not covered before which is surprising with it being so close to home, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North to watch the league leaders unbeaten March Town United Ladies take on 3rd place and in form Wisbech Town Ladies.

There are two Championship leagues in Cambridgeshire the North and the South that feed into the Premiership above. The Championship North is not only made up with sides in the northern part of Cambridgeshire but also sides in southern Lincolnshire such as Swineshead Institute Ladies and Boston United Ladies. Is a competitive league with the sides below March Town United Ladies all taking points off each other with just 5 points between 2nd and 7th.

March Town United Ladies are into their 4th season as a team have played in both the North and the South Leagues did see them play a long time ago getting on for 3 seasons now when they were in the South League away to Cambridge Rangers back in the early days of the SWF Blog when I didn’t cover a match as extensively as I do now. Have grown as a side. Finishing 2nd in the Championship North last season are going strong this season leading the table for most of the season 7 straight wins at in the league before they were held to a 1-1 at home to Wisbech St Mary Ladies last weekend. Lead the Championship table by 4 points. Another local derby match today at home as they host Wisbech Town Ladies.

Wisbech Town Ladies come into today’s match in great form having won 4 successive games in league and cup. 9 points from that ru taking them all the way up from 7th into 3rd. Have also reached the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitiation Cup for the 2nd successive season having reached the final last time around. Today they travel with just the bare 11 however having several players unavailable fo various reasons.

The venue for today’s game the GER Sportsground, home of March Town FC known as The Hares. An old ground that boasts the 2nd oldest wooden stand in the country. Painted blue the main stand is set a little back from the pitch however this is because the ground also hosted cricket cycling and greyhound racing up until 1960. The ground has a new clubhouse that houses a bar and kitchen along with the changing rooms. Tea and coffee also available. The pitch itself is a good size pretty firm the clocks went forwards this weekend everyone lost an hour in bed but at last it looked like spring was here bright and sunny nice to see able to take the coat off for the 1st time this year.

March Town United Ladies starting XI – Tori Sharpe, Sydney Davies, Claire Newton, Emma Searle, Kayleigh Churchyard, Jade Pointer (C), Georgia Brown, Adele Munday, Shannon Kelly, Emma Frost & Livvi Hodges
subs – Ella Nutter, Sue Bedwell-Byatt, Laura Coe, Gemma Ramsey & Paige Bedwell-Mann

Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Abbi Venni, Amy Hepting, Chloe Minall, Kaylie Swinden, Emily Stephenson (C), Polly Norman, Rachael Simpson, Shushannah Feast, Annie Rooks, Zoe Tyhurst & Sophie Gutteridge.
subs –

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A switch of ends before kick-off Wisbech opting to have the sun a their backs 1st half. It’s March to get the game underway wearing yellow shirts with a black band across the top and shoulders, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The visitors press the ball early keeping March pinned back in their own half striker Sophie Gutteridge, Wisbech’s top scorer so far this season with 20 goals closing down the defence getting her side a throw on the right the ball is crossed along the face of the area, with Gutteridge running onto it left of the D gets a shot away but never in control of the ball it rolls wide of the far post.

Wisbech Town Ladies striker
Sophie Gutteridge has scored 20
goals so far this season

A good start from Wisbech, won’t let March get out of their half winning a throw in on the left the ball is given to Annie Rooks good hold up play before twisting away from her marker playing the ball in across the face of the area with Shushannah Feast in a central position the bounce of the ball doesn’t favour a left foot volley adjusting to strike with her right foot the shot is pulled wide of the far post.

Getting the ball played into her feet on the right for March, Adele Munday drives forwards down the line, Wisbech left back, Chloe Minall gets across her tackling to put the ball out for the throw. Another attack for March the ball played long through the middle, Livvi Hodges with 3 goals in her last 3 league games is after it, Wisbech captain Emily Stephenson gets back with her to throw a leg out and put the ball out for another throw. March work the ball into midfielder Georgia Brown left side comes in field looks for the long diagonal ball in towards the box aiming for Hodges far post the ball is just over her head, beyond her Munday latches onto the ball but is halted by the offside flag.

A good tackle from March’s Emma Searle at the back to thwart Wisbech’s Gutteridge as she threatens to run clear through the middle, the ball out for a throw taken quickly March counter the ball into captain Jade Pointer into midfield plays it on over halfway into space left side with Emma Frost beating the offside trap and running clear heads for the Wisbech box 25 yards out with Stephenson closing the ground lets fly with a shot a swerving ball, goalkeeper Abbie Venni, celebrating her 18th birthday in the week, having initially started to go one way adjusts her body well to stop the ball slipping past her deflects it away for the corner kick.

An ever present this season, March Town United Ladies, Emma Searle

Played in from the left side whipped in with vicious pace the corner kick flies over Venni is heading straight into the net is blocked on the line by Wisbech midfielder Rachael Simpson chesting the ball down before clearing, March go up claiming it had crossed the line the appeals are waved away play goes on, I’m on the halfway line got a picture but no goal line technology in this league.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Rachael Simpson stops March’s corner kick going over the line

Both sides are using the width of the pitch, Hodges with space to run into on the right is closed down by Minall can’t squeeze her cross into the area, up the other end Feast with a surging run on the left with the ball fires a vicious cross into the box looking for Rooks running in, Searle gets their 1st slices her clearance high into the air. A good contest developing in the middle of the pitch plenty of energy from both sides.

GOAL! The deadlock is broken midway through the 1st half Wisbech are awarded a free kick inside the March half left side a good way from goal close to 40 yards Stephenson goes across to take it as players go forwards line up across the top of the March area. Is a sweet strike by Stephenson as soon as it is flight you can tell it’s a great ball plenty of pace the ball flies towards goal a difficult one for keeper Tori Sharpe with runners closing on her the ball flies over her dipping late under the bar to make it 0-1.

Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Emily Stephenson
opens the scoring with a superb free-kick

The ball is closed down inside the Wisbech half pinging around between feet eventually falls to March’s Shannon Kelly 35 yards out connects with the ball on the half volley sending a looping shot in towards goal Venni has time to set herself catch the ball inside her six yard box. March make a change Ella Nutter recently signed from St Ives Rangers Ladies coming on for Frost up front. Simpson has gotten forwards for Wisbech the ball is played into her at the top of the area back to goal she rolls it into Zoe Tyhurst moving central looks to bring the ball under control shift it inside to shot is closed down by March’s Claire Newton the chance gone.

Hodges is played through on goal by Nutter as March break with purpose taking the ball right clear of the Wisbech defence Hodges pulls the trigger from 20 yards blasts her shot wide of goal. Nutter getting forwards herself on the left is brought down by Wisbech’s Amy Hepting. Searle over the free-kick looks to play the ball in towards the near post runners breaking from the top of the box Venni is distracted sees the ball safely into her gloves. Venni is quickly out of her box soon after to clear the danger as a favourable deflection at the beck sees Nutter race in behind the Wisbech defence can’t reach the ball before the goalkeeper does.

March Town United Ladies, Jade Pointer with Wisbech’s Rachael Simpson

March make a 2nd change with Churchyard coming off at left back for Paige Bedwell-Mann a former Wisbech Town player. Brown with a powerful midfield run takes the ball on for March rolling it into the path of Hodges ahead of her, Minall gets on her shoulder prevents the striker getting a shot away as they enter the box marshalling the ball into Venni’s gloves as she comes sliding in to gather. The Wisbech defence giving very little away at the back, Brown finding room to get forwards for March lays the pass out to Nutter drifting into space wide left, Hepting gets back on her to close her down, Nutter keeps possession shifts the ball half a yard room to play the ball int Kelly breaking into a central position, Kaylie Swinden gets across her sees the ball back into her keeper.

Wisbech Town Ladies,
Chloe Minall

Into the closing minutes of the 1st half March pushing players on the ball from Pointer finds Brown taking it on has Hodges in front of her looking to get into the box on the right side picking her out with the through ball plays it across to Nutter on the penalty spot, shifts the ball between her feet to avoid the sliding challenge before sending the ball in towards goal, lacking pace the low shot is straight at Venni and gathered cleanly.

A 1st half injury time corner for March taken on the right the ball played in towards the top of the area, is won by Wisbech the counter attack on the ball launched up field for Gutteridge to go after, Bedwell-Mann is the last defender has to win the ball and does very well under pressure to nullify the danger. March with one last attack in the 1st half the ball rolled into Nutter looks to send Hodges through on goal, again it’s Stephenson who gets across to win the ball before the attacker can get in a one on one situation with the goalkeeper.

Half-time March Town United Ladies 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

A 1-0 lead for Wisbech at half-time in a hotly contested derby without the niggle and arguing off the ball. Played at a good tempo few clear cut chances a great delivery from a set-piece the difference between the sides. Wisbech with a good 1st half have done well to limit the threat from march’s attacks their defenders quickly moving in to close down the threat haven’t let very little get in behind. March’s defence too to their credit have prevented Wisbech getting into too many shooting positions albeit defending a deeper line restricting the space in wide areas. An intriguing 1st half a narrow lead all to play for 2nd half.

Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway, Newton at the back wins the ball for March as it is played forwards sends her clearance back up through the middle, Hodges latching onto the ball 30 yards out has Nutter on the move to her left slides the ball into her run, taking the ball into the area the shot comes in low towards the near post, Venni going to ground makes the save.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Polly Norman with March’s Shannon Kelly

Norman plays the ball into Feast on the left a clever turn gets the attacker in behind the March defence taking the ball down the wing squares the cross in towards the penalty spot Searle wins the cross getting the ball out of the area for March. Attacking the home side win a corner kick the 1st effort played in from the right is defended at the near post a 2nd corner awarded this one is played deeper in towards the top of the area the knock down out of the box is met by Nutter on the half volley 20 yards out her shot looping up into the air, Venni back on her goal-line sees the ball land on the roof of the net.

Annie Rooks on the ball for Wisbech Town Ladies

Bringing the ball forwards on the left Bedwell-Mann fizzes a ball in towards goal from 25 yards out straight at Venni the ball momentarily pops out of the goalkeepers gloves, she reacts quickly to pull the ball into her body as Hodges coming in throws a leg at the ball. The game continues to be end to end both sides attacking, Tyhurst away into the left channel, sends a long cross into the area, is dealt with by Bedwell-Mann, counter attacking the ball played into Pointer is helped forwards Hodges gives chase can’t reach it before Stephenson can come across and clear the ball for a throw.

Gutteridge is put through up top for Wisbech gets ahead of Newton as they close in on the box right side of goal, Gutteridge shoots her low strike saved by Sharpe getting down at her near post. Another counter attack from March, Brown through for Hodges in the middle bearing down on the box, Stephenson across to close her down even as Venni comes off her line Hodges squeezes the ball past both her attempt running wide of goal. Feast has the ball 30 yards out from goal opening up her body strikes it goalwards is straight at Sharpe who takes the ball cleanly into her body.

Shushannah Feast attacking for Wisbech Town Ladies

A double change for March, Frost returning to the action replacing Hodges, Gemma Ramsey comes on in midfield for Pointer. Kelly pushed further forwards now gets onto the ball shoulder to shoulder with Stephenson into the box closing down on the keeper all 3 go to ground in an attempt to win the ball, Kelly sends the ball on Venni makes the save the save blocking the ball it rolls loose across the six yard box, no other March players in the area the Wisbech defence can clear it.

Mid-way through the 2nd half Bedwell-Mann switches over to right back as Davies comes off with Churchyard coming back on for March. Winning a free-kick inside the centre circle March send players forwards a good ball played in by Searle drops into the area with Nutter timing her break perfectly on the end of it left of goal shoots early a low drive in towards the near post, Venni is down smartly to make the save.

March Town United Ladies, Ella Nutter

A chance for Wisbech to send players forwards as they are awarded a free-kick wide on the right inside their opponents half the ball played in by Stephenson his headed on into the area by Simpson, Gutteridge is clear on the end of it slots the ball past the keeper, however the celebrations are cut short by the offside flag. More changes for March, Ramsey and Nutter off, Hodges returning with Sue Bedwell-Byatt another ex-Wisbech player also coming on.

Rooks bringing the ball on through the middle sends the ball into Gutteridge’s feet inside the D back to goal turns and shoots marked closely the ball is blocked, comes back to Gutteridge on her left gets a 2nd shot away this one off target rolls wide of the post. Pointer is back on the field for March as Wisbech successfully defend a corner kick. Munday brings the ball on through the middle of the park for March looks to send Hodges through in behind, Venni reacts quickly on the move early slides into claim the ball at the top of her area before Hodges can take it round her.

GOAL! A little over 10 minutes left on the clock and March get themselves back on level terms pushing players on in search of the equaliser it’d Brown breaking from midfield who latches onto a lay off on the left side space before lets fly from the top of the area the ball flies over Venni smashes down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Brown following up reaches it 1st stabbing the ball past the keeper who throws her leg at the ball but doesn’t reach it as it nestles in the back of the net 1-1.

Midfielder Georgia Brown scores the equaliser
for March Town United Ladies

Laura Coe comes off the bench for March to replace Bedwell-Byatt as the game moves into the last 10 minutes. Munday strong on the ball through the middle sends the pass on for Coe ahead of her the 16 year old playing her 1st season of women’s football heads for the box, Swinden coming across forces her left into Hepting who tackles and wins the ball. March able to rotate their subs are seeing more of the ball in the latter stages of the match, still it’s the Wisbech defence quickest to the final ball as they have been all game. Pointer is down struggling with an injury in the middle for March. Stephenson takes the opportunity to rally her side. Pointer can’t continue and his helped off the pitch.

On the attack as the game moves into injury time Frost is put through left side shooting from outside the box her effort is held by Venni. March push bodies on in search of a late winner, Munday rolling it through for Hodges top of the area, Venni comes rushing out to close her down and prevent the shot.

Full time March Town United Ladies 1-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

1-1 the final score the points shared, March remain unbeaten in the league with a 2nd half equaliser from Georgia Brown to extend their lead to 5 points at the top. An unstoppable 1st half free-kick from Emily Stephenson seeing Wisbech go in front defended well all game giving very little opportunity for March’s attackers take home a share of the points which is enough to lift them into 2nd spot over Ketton Ladies on goal difference

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

Today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Emily Stephenson. With a excellent free-kick to open the scoring, nothing was getting past her at the back today a solid defensive display from the whole defence.

My thanks to March Town United for their hospitality today and to both sides for their superb team-sheets today very much appreciated a nice touch to have a little info about each player. Best of luck to both for the rest of the season.

Match Report – London Bees v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

What’s this? A game from the FAWSL on Women’s Football East! Well it seems only right to give Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the coverage afterall they earned promotion to the FAWSL last May via the FAWPL Play-off game after winning the Southern Division title and after all Women’s Football East wants to see as many sides in the region reach and play at the top level of the women’s game. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was at The Hive to cover their debut match in the one off Spring Series as the new season got underway.

Match Report – London Bees v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

A new season of FAWSL football begins this Saturday, although it’s a much shorter season compared to the one’s we’ve been used to. With the FAWSL preparing to move back in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid in England for the 2017/18 season after 5 years of playing during the summer months there will be a one off Spring Series. A trophy for both the FAWSL 1 & 2 competitions with each side playing each other once to decide the overall winner. The FAWSL 2 Spring Series starts with London Bees versus FAWSL newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion WFC at The Hive.

Wrote a preview for the FAWSL 2 Spring Series in the post prior to today’s match. As I said then I’m excited by what the one off competition has to offer, is silverware to play for but not the pressure a full blown season offers sides can bed in new players, try new thing’s for better or worse. Momentum can’t be under estimated mind a good Spring Series will send a side into the new 2017/18 season with confidence.

London Bees enter the Spring Series with a stride in their step having had a much improved season in 2016 under Dave Edmondson. Playing some attractive football eventually ending up 7th their highest FAWSL 2 finish in amongst the mid-table sides the perfect platform to go on and improve. Have made several new signings over the winter bringing in Laura-May Walkley from Reading FC Women. Defender, Anne Meiwald joins from Chelsea Ladies along with Watford Ladies trio, Jordan Littleboy, Amber Tullett and Mollie Burgess aswell as retaining the services of several of their stand-out performers last season.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, winning the FAWPL Southern Division title last season went on to beat Northern Division Champions, Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off match at Wycombe Wanderers in May to win their place in the FAWSL the 2nd side to be promoted to the league following Sheffield FC Ladies last summer. So began the long wait to make their league debut at the higher level in FAWSL 2. As I mentioned in my Spring Series Preview could benefit the most by the Spring Series as it will give their players time to adapt to playing at a higher level, although I do feel the top FAWPL sides are on a par with certainly the sides in the lower half of FAWSL 2. Have a strong fan base and behind the scenes have been working hard off the pitch to ensure they would meet the FAWSL 2 licencing criteria.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC haven’t been quiet on the transfer front either strengthening their squad before the start of the Spring Series bringing in Chelsea Ladies trio, Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg and Alessia Russo. Sophie Perry returns to the club after a short spell with FAWSL 1 side Reading FC Women. Have also added highly experienced Irish International goalkeeper, Emma Byrne to their squad, with regular 1st team goalkeeper Faye Baker working her way back to fitness following injury.

Has been a while since I last visited The Hive, London Bees home ground 18 months or so. Sharing with Barnet FC it is very much a club in the heart of the community, practice pitches open to all age groups outside the main stadium. The stadium itself has undergone development now has a large seated stand behind one goal aswell as the one along the side of the pitch opposite the former bar & clubhouse which is now divided into the Tea Hut where you can purchase hot & cold drinks & snacks along side the new Pecking Order Restaurant. Tickets for a London Bees match are £4 for an adult but for £15 you can purchase a deluxe ticket which gets you a meal at the Pecking Order Restaurant too and when we talk about the ‘matchday experience’ I think it’s a good deal. Car parking is a £1 you purchase a token from the club shop which stocks a good range of London Bees merchandise, and I may well purchase a London Bees mug the next time I’m in town.

Onto the playing surface itself is a large pitch plenty of width, holding up fairly well as the season enters moves into mid-February. It might be called the Spring Series but it’s still winter was bitterly cold with a few flakes of snow in the air before kick-off.

London Bees starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Anne Meiwald, Sophie Fogarty, Ellie Perkins, Amber Tullett, Emma Beckett, Jordan Littleboy, Ashleigh Goddard (C), Lucy Loomes, Paula Howells & Jo Wilson.
subs- Amelia Houghton-Boyle, Becky Anderson, Laura-May Walkley, Mollie Burgess, Evie Clarke & Hana Lalani

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicky Ashton-Jones, Ellie Dorey, Laura Rafferty, Kirsty Barton, Charlotte Young, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
subs – Bronwen Thomas, Hollie Olding, Lucy Somes, Natalie Taylor & Nina Wilson.

On to the football, 4 of London Bees new signings were making their 1st start in FAWSL 2, Anne Meiwald, Lucy Loomes, Jordan Littleboy and Amber Tullett with Laura-May Walkley and Mollie Burgess on the bench. With Sophie Harris injured, Shayla Burgess was making her debut in goal for London Bees. Emma Byrne, Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg and Alessia Russo all start for Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

It’s Brighton to get the 1st half of Spring Series football underway wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with London Bees lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with a black sash and horizontal piping, black shorts and socks. Brighton make a positive start the ball played back into Kirsty Barton in the centre of midfield, has Alessia Russo on the move on the right, the pass to her is perfect in behind the London Bees defence takes the ball on into the box cutting across the ball as she shoots it swerves away from the near post.

Both sides testing the other out on the flanks early on Amber Tullett playing the ball out to Sophie Forgarty on the left up the line Jo Wilson picks it up looks to get in behind is tackled by Brighton’s Vicky Ashton-Jones the ball out for a throw. Brighton work the ball from right to left sending Ellie Dorey down the line, Anne Meiwald goes with her sliding in to deny the cross the ball out for the 1st corner of the match. Goes long across the six yard box no one picking the ball up. Jordan Littleboy puts in the challenge in the middle of the park winning the ball plays it out to Paula Howells on the left wing sends the ball forwards for Wilson up front a surging run to take the ball into the area, Ashton-Jones gets across to challenge shoulder to shoulder forces the striker away from goal tackling well getting the goal-kick.

Jenna Legg on the ball for
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

London Bees win a corner on the right side as Ashton-Jones puts Lucy Loomes cross behind. Taken short to captain Ashleigh Goddard the ball is played to Emma Beckett in position at the top of the area, is closed down quickly by the Brighton defence before she can find room to shoot possession is lost. Jenna Legg links up with Russo ahead of her on the right, Kate Natkiel provides the run in behind, Tullett tackling to put the ball out for a throw, the ball finds it’s way into the box, Tullett clears. Good build up play from both sides Brighton looking strong, runs from deep to pressure the London Bees back line.

Loomes coming inside with the ball lays it forwards for Wilson, right of goal holds off Charlotte Young as she gets into the area, Emma Byrne comes racing out to close her down the striker takes the ball around her as she goes to ground looks to have an empty net to shoot at takes the shot, Legg saves Brighton getting back to throw herself at the ball clearing it off the line.

Alessia Russo scorer of Brighton
& Hove Albion WFC’s 1st ever
FAWSL goal

GOAL! 13 minutes played and the 1st ever Spring Series goal is scored. Brighton are on the attack Kirsty Barton in the centre of midfield plays the ball over the top for striker Amy Taylor to chase, Is won by Tullett in the area before she can reach it plays the ball out to Forgarty at left back, is caught on the ball as Russo moves quickly to close her down, taking the ball past her cuts in field driving into the area and sends a ferocious shot angling across the keeper into the top corner 0-1.

Brighton are looking a real threat on the right Legg and Russo finding each other with their passes, both Taylor and Natkiel making positive runs, Russo taking the ball inside tries to pick out Taylor sending the ball in towards the penalty spot, London Bees goalkeeper Shayla Burgess gets to it 1st claiming the ball. Howells is left on the ground needing treatment after a coming together with Natkiel but is okay to continue. The game restarts the ball at the feet of Laura Rafferty as she brings it on through the middle Taylor breaking into space on the right the midfielder picks her out, Tullett gets across to mark shoulder to shoulder the Brighton attacker is fouled the free-kick awarded players forwards into the box, captain Sophie Perry plays towards the far post Dorey gets her head to the ball sending it high, before anyone can react plays is stopped by the assistant referee’s flag.

Natkiel with a threatening run carves open the London Bees defence on the left getting into the box pulls the trigger sending the ball goalwards, Burgess get down sharply diving to her left getting her gloves to the ball an excellent stop the ball the pace taken off the shot the ball rolls across the face of goal, Fogarty reacts quickest getting the ball launched clear before Russo can reach it. The goal has seen Brighton dominate, London Bees a little careless in possession giving the ball away allowing the visitors to come at them.

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to stop London Bees Emma Beckett

Beckett getting the ball from Goddard picks out Howells making a move to get forwards down the left flank taking the ball down to the line screws her cross behind goal. A rapid counter from Brighton the ball played up to Taylor central controls well picking out Russo looking to get in behind on the right, Forgarty recovers well to slide in and prevent the cross coming in winning the goal-kick off Taylor. Natkiel looks to play the ball in over the London Bees defence with Taylor after it, Burgess comes out sliding in gather the ball keeps hold of it as Taylor having thrown herself forwards in an attempt to get to the ball crashes into her.

Brighton’s Kate Natkiel with London Bees, Emma Beckett

A throw on the right side for London Bees 30 yards out from goal the ball is played inside to Littleboy ties up a strike, sending it goalwards is straight and Byrne who gathers cleanly. The game is stretched end to end a high tempo as you’d expect from a FAWSL fixture, both keepers come out to the edge of their areas to clear a threat as the ball is played over the top. Howells closes down Russo winning he ball plays a great diagonal ball up towards Wilson heading into the area, Ashton-Jones closes her down quickly conceding the corner. From the left the ball bounces across the six yard box picked up by Wilson far post the referee spots a handball Brighton have the free-kick.

London Bees, Jordan Littleboy

Beckett wins the ball in midfield for London Bees sends it forwards for Wilson who switches play out to the right with Loomes on the move shoots from outside the box the ball flying towards the near post area, Byrne makes the save deflecting the ball behind for the corner kick. Coming in high near post Perry get’s her head on the ball nodding it behind for a 2nd corner, this one goes long no one can get onto the end of it as it flies across the six yard box. London Bees have regained some composure and playing some neat triangles are getting forwards better, Fogarty bringing the ball forwards on the left lifts a high ball in towards the area, Byrne calls for it claims well.

Into the last 10 minutes of the 1st half Brighton attack the ball played out to Dorey on the left side getting down the pitch squares the ball into the area a touch from a London Bees boot just about deflects the ball away from Taylor looking to get on the end of it, retrieving the ball Taylor attempts to turn back inside get a shot away, is closed down by 3 London Bees defenders the chance is gone. Howells gets a throw on the left as she tries to get forwards linking up with Fogarty the cross is is swept in towards the near post Wilson trying to get their is claimed well by Byrne.

Russo surges forwards with the ball at her feet on the right her powerful cross into the box misses everyone going out to the opposite flank Natkiel regains possession some 30 yards out coming inside, strikes the ball goalwards is well held by Burgess in goal.

Half-time London Bees 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

A fast paced and entertaining 1st Brighton starting life in FAWSL 2 with a confident stride taking the game to London Bees early on clearing the ball off their own goal line then going up the other end to take the lead. Dominated for a spell after that before London Bees found their way back onto level a level footing chances created at both ends.

A change for Brighton at the start of the 2nd half Bronwen Thomas coming on to replace Dorey on the left. London Bees to kick-off the 2nd half or they would if they had all their side on the pitch the midfield is missing, Littleboy and Goddard arrive the game kicks-off without Beckett as she emerges from the tunnel. Brighton win the ball early on get it out to Thomas on the left driving forwards her shot is saved by Burgess at her near post. Thomas influential in the opening minutes of the 2nd half looking to link up with Natkiel is tackled by Ellie Perkins inside the area the ball cleared. Thomas then wins a corner kick take short played back to the taker the cross is swept into the six yard box well claimed by Burgess.

Kate Natkiel on the attack for Brighton

Howells over on the right for London Bees as she and Loomes switch sides early on gets the ball down the line whipping a cross in towards the near post dropping forwards to take it Byrne spills the ball giving away the corner kick. Played in towards the near post is cleared. Howells is limping a bit picked up the injury 1st half is inside the D as London Bees win possession back on the left Goddard onto Fogarty the ball is squared across the face of the Brighton area into Howells, controls well and sends a curling shot narrowly over the crossbar.

London Bees, Paula Howells with Brighton’s Jenna Legg

London Bees make their 1st substitution, Littleboy the player coming off to be replaced by Hana Lalani in the middle. Perry plays the ball out from the back towards Natkiel moving left a powerful run taking her up the other end of the pitch wins the corner of Meiwald. The set-piece comes out to Rafferty top of the area, central her shot is charged down, London Bees look to counter, Legg wins the tackle on halfway. Russo with a good run down the right cuts the ball back for Taylor top of the area right of goal shoots sending the ball wide across the area.

GOAL! 10 minutes played in the 2nd half and London Bees get themselves back on level terms. Meiwald wins the ball back in defence playing it into Lalani in the middle, picks out Howells free on the right side getting forwards ties up the cross as players make runs into the box the cross goes long dropping far side beyond the goal, Goddard has timed her run to perfection getting her head onto the ball to drive it back in across Byrne and into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

London Bees captain,
Ashleigh Goddard

London Bees having equalised find that extra bit of pace that Brighton had in the 1st half after they took the lead. The tempo remains high, but it is freezing too so everyone might be running around to stay warm too. Loomes coming across to the right as London Bees build an attack plays the ball on for Howells as she looks to get into the area is stopped by a firm tackle form Perry. Brighton threaten to counter Natkiel with acres of space to run into on the left is prevented from doing so by Goddard as the London Bees captain comes running in sliding to tackle and put the ball out for a throw.

Goddard on the ball as London Bees attack passes forwards into Loomes top of the D looks to divert the ball into the area with Wilson looking to get inside from her left, calls for handball as the ball is stopped from reaching her, the referee waves the plea’s away. Competitive tussles all over the pitch, the referee has a word with Rafferty and Goddard. London Bees are almost through on goal to take the lead as they ball put forwards early threatens to send Loomes clear, Byrne comes racing out of her area doesn’t get their as Loomes knocks the ball past her, Wilson goes after the ball running wide of goal picking it up on the right inside the six yard box goes for goal but by the time she has it the Brighton defence is back to block.

London Bees, Jo Wilson with Brighton centre backs, Vicky Ashton-Jones & Charlotte Young

Closing in on the final 15 minutes and London Bees make their final substitution bringing on England Youth International Evie Clarke for Howells who has had a fantastic game. Clarke has an early opportunity to take a shot as she recieves the ball from a throw inside the Brighton half on the right plays the ball to Loomes outside the area right of goal laying it back to Clarke as she moves forwards her strike is charged down by a defender. Brighton come forwards Barton on for Russo with Taylor to her right her cross into the area goes long, Thomas tries to keep it alive inside the box, can’t get a ball around Perkins the defender winning the ball back with a good tackle.

Brighton make a change bringing on Lucy Somes for Taylor in the 75th minute. A break is on for London Bees Lalani playing the ball out to Loomes on the right sends an early cross into the box, takes a deflection on the way through to the near post, not enough to wrong foot Byrne who is across to lay claim to the ball. One end to the other Russo slips the ball in behind for Somes, Fogarty on her shoulder has support from her goalkeeper as Burgess comes racing out to slide in and gather the ball. Burgess is in the wars as she is clattered by Russo coming out to kick the ball clear as it is played down the wing. Is okay to continue.

London Bees, Anne Meiwald

Close from Wilson for London Bees as Loomes wins possession inside the Brighton half on the right passes infield into Lalani outside the box lays it across to Wilson left of the D sends her strike narrowly over the crossbar. Moments later Clarke has a shot from inside the six yard box right of goal that flies into the side netting after she controls a cross fizzed into her from the right wing. Somes controlling the ball 25 yards out back to goal turns an rolls the ball in for Russo to try and burst into the box, both Meiwald and Goddard are quickly n the attacker squeezing her off the ball.

The game could go either way neither is settling for the point Beckett plays a long diagonal ball into the area from the right looking to pick out Wilson, Byrne coming for the ball punches it clear of her area. Goddard finding space on the right squares her cross along the penalty spot, just beyond Clarke she manages to lay it back for Loomes who sends her 1st time shot wide of the goal. Loomes on the right manages to squeeze a cross in Clarke winning the corner as her attempt to help the ball on is blocked by Young. The corner is won by Brighton headed out of the area they threaten to break, again it’s Goddard who tackles to win the ball.

Into injury time late chances for Brighton, a 50/50 challenge in the middle sees the ball squeezed forwards to Russo on the left drives forwards into the box closing in on goal is a clumsy looking challenge goes down as Burgess gets hold of the ball, cries for a penalty, nothing doing London Bees attempt to clear their box get the ball forwards lose it in the middle the ball placed into the run of Natkiel right 20 yards out, Burgess comes rushing out to close her down as she enters the box making an excellent save on the final whistle.

Full time London Bees 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

A dramatic opening game to the Spring Series watched by 703 supporters, the points shared London Bees might feel they could have taken all 3 late on Brighton the same a draw in the end both get a point on the board. Brighton leading the table with the alphabetical advantage. Played at a high tempo throughout, no sign of rustiness or nerves from Brighton right from the start the early goal no doubt adding the their confidence their new signings fitting in well, Russo scoring their 1st ever FAWSL goal. London Bees new signing also doing well Tullett and Meiwald at the back, the London Bees fans already knowing what Loomes is all about, Littleboy too doing well in midfield. Getting themselves back into the game levelling in the 2nd half.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

Several contenders, both Lucy Loomes and Paula Howells with great performances on the flanks for London Bees, more often than not they were put through by Ashleigh Goddard, the London Bees captain with some fantastic tackles to break up Brighton’s attacks and scoring their 2nd half equaliser so the SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Ashleigh Goddard.

Enjoyed my return to The Hive don’t think I’ll be leaving it so long next time.

Match Report – Aston Villa Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

The featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday was from the FA Women’s Cup. The 3rd Round Proper where Cambridge United WFC flying high in FAWPL South East Division One were looking to continue their history making run taking on FAWSL 2 side Aston Villa Ladies as they enter the competition playing their 1st competitive match of the season.

Match Report – Aston Villa Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

The action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup. The clubs from FAWSL 2 enter the competition at this stage and it’s Tamworth FC, FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC head for one of the biggest games in their history as they take on Aston Villa Ladies.

The 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup is as far in the competition as Cambridge United WFC have ever gotten. Are enjoying a very good season to date leading the FAWPL South East Division One for much of the season, dropping to 2nd only because their game last weekend was postponed allowing Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to take over at the top. The attention today however is firmly on the FA Women’s Cup, already enjoying a fantastic run, making it through 4 rounds to get this far.

Have been drawn out of the hat at home in all of their other FA Women’s Cup games, starting in 3rd Round Qualifying against Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies, who had dumped them out of the Cup only 12 months previously. Have grown as a side since then and a influx of new players to bolster the squad saw them win the game comfortably 3-0. Onto 4th Round Qualifying and Cambridge were taking on fellow FAWPL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies again they progressed with a 3-0 to make it to the 1st Round Proper. Were drawn at home to FAWPL Southern Division side, QPR Ladies in form they beat the side bottom of the league above them 3-1. Southampton Women’s FC were their opponents in the 2nd Round Proper a side on a similar rise to Cambridge but playing a league below Cambridge were too strong on the day winning 4-0. Now drawn away for the 1st time in the competition away to Aston Villa Ladies. Two leagues between the sides.

For FAWSL 2 side, Aston Villa Ladies this is their 1st competitive match of the season as they prepare for the new one off Spring Series next weekend. Have reached the quarter finals in the previous 2 season’s in the FA Women’s Cup. Have a new home for this season moving from Sutton Coldfield up the M42 to The Lamb Ground home of Tamworth FC. The Conference North have a new state of the art 3G pitch a surface the Aston Villa Ladies players will be used to having played on an artificial surface back at Sutton Coldfield. The area around Tamworth has a large Villa following and the Ladies side are hoping optimistic more fans to come watch them in action. Have retained the services of much of last season’s squad and are a club willing to bring their youth players into the 1st team, Mollie Rouse doing well last season, Lucy Shepherd and Lucy Porter step up to the 1st team squad this season all all England Youth Internationals along with Alice Hassall who has joined the club having been with Notts County Ladies last season.

The Lamb Ground is a nicely laid out stadium. A large carpark outside. Not too far from the town centre. The new 3G pitch looks excellent, surrounded by stands on all sides, one large seated stand on one side with the opposite side and one goal end offering covered terracing the other goal end terraced. A clubhouse and bar. Sutton Coldfield always did a good cheeseburger so I’m glad Aston Villa Ladies have found a new ground that serves up one just as good. A little chilly, but it was dry a pretty good day for football.

Aston Villa Ladies starting XI – Chloe Beattie, Lucy Porter, Alice Hassall, Elisha N’Dow, Jade Richards, Chloe Jones, Maddy Cusack, Mollie Rouse, Amy West, Bethan Merrick (C) & Tash Baptiste.
subs- Katy Moran, Alys Hinchcliffe, Lucy Shepherd, Kerri Welsh & Chloe Dale.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Chloe Bennett, Mollie Kmita, Laura Bright (C), Laura Baker, Dawn Mallett, Danielle Puddefoot, Becky Taylor, Laura Mills & Nicole Perschky.
subs – Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Hollie Jardine, Paige Logie, Evie Gallop & Rosie Kmita.

It’s Cambridge to get this FA Women’s Cup 3rd Round tie underway wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts with Aston Villa lined up opposite wearing claret shirts with sky blue sleeve and collar. white shorts and sky blue socks. Alice Hassall starts for Aston Villa on the right side of defence. The ball is played out to Cambridge right back Emma Jenkins early on sent down the right with striker Nicole Perschky making a run into the channel, turns inside to evade the tackle from Jade Richards puts the ball into the area just inside the area Danielle Puddefoot back to goal lays the ball back to Dawn Mallet 20 yards out running onto the ball hits it hard, Maddy Cusack throws herself into the shot blocking the ball.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Danielle Puddefoot is fouled as she attempts to head the ball

Aston Villa counter attack the ball played into captain, Bethan Merrick in the middle taking the ball forwards lays in on for Mollie Rouse ahead of her, she has Amy West bursting forwards from the left side to get into the area threads the ball into the box, West picks it up in her stride gets a shot away is gathered by Cambridge goalkeeper, Verity Crook at her near post. An open game from the start both sides looking to get the ball forwards with purpose. Laura Mills getting onto the ball down the right has 2 opportunities to put the ball into the Aston Villa box, both attempts cleared by Richards.

Hassall finds space on the right to get ahead of the attack, Chloe Bennett gets across to put the ball out for a throw before the cross can come in, the throw is taken quickly the ball pushed in field 20 yards out Rouse shoots from 25 yards out her strike sailing over the Cambridge crossbar. Mallett is fouled in the middle as she tried to get her head on an Aston Villa clearance. It’s Mallett to take the set-piece sends the ball up towards the area, the ball is headed out of the area, Mallett moves quickly to close the ball down 30 yards out winning it back gets a shot away pulls the low drive wide across the face of goal.

Merrick is finding space up top getting past the midfield to attack the Cambridge defence, getting into the box wins Aston Villa the 1st corner of the match. The ball is played in high in towards the penalty spot, jumping Richards can’t get her head on the ball drops to Cusack behind her heads the ball down into the ground, Crook getting down sharply makes a good save, can’t gather the ball, her defence scramble it away before anyone from Aston Villa can follow up. No one is allowed any time on the ball, Aston Villa stretching play Elisha N’Dow and Richards both prepared to carry the ball out from the back into midfield. N’Dow send the ball up towards Rouse just outside the Cambridge box getting her head on the ball turns it goalwards, lacks power flies straight into Crook’s gloves. A busy opening 15 minutes.

Mallett winning the ball in the middle has support from Becky Taylor she gets the ball wide to Mills on the right side taking it on turns inside to evade Lucy Porter’s challenge her ball into the area is cut out by the long leg of Richards as she lunges to stop it pushes the ball outside the area into the path of Laura Baker, meeting the ball on the half volley drills a hot in towards goal, Aston Villa goalkeeper Chloe Beattie is right behind it gets down to save the ball bouncing in front of her.

Aston Villa Ladies, Chloe Jones

GOAL! Cambridge give away a free kick inside the centre circle, Aston Villa send plenty of players up into the area the delivery is a good one from the set-piece the ball flighted in centrally, Chloe Jones top of the six yard box gets a glancing header on the ball taking it past Crook and into the back of the net beyond to score Aston Villa’s 1st competitive goal of the season 1-0.

Aston Villa very nearly double their lead just 2 minutes later only to be denied by the offside flag. The build up is with Jones and Cusack in the middle, Merrick makes the forwards run moving left towards the area pulls the trigger hitting a swerving ball in low towards goal, Crook is moving across to cover the post, adjusts fantastically to throw her body in the opposite direction get a palm to the ball killing it’s momentum is stranded however as it rolls across the face of goal, Tash Baptiste following up blasts the ball into the empty net, the celebrations cut short by the officials flag.

Certainly a competitive game, Cambridge will give as good as they get and Aston Villa aren’t shy. Cusack breaks up play in the middle on for Merrick, shoots from outside the box the effort straight at Crook the keeper holds on to the ball. Mallett is fouled by Cusack 35 yards out on the set-piece goes for goal puts her strike a metre over the bar.

Bethan Merrick doubles Aston
Villa Ladies lead

GOAL! Closing in on half an hour played and Aston Villa double the lead Merrick has been all over the place in the 1st half so far and as Aston Villa build an attack on the left they win a throw the ball is played into Merrick turns and shoots from outside the area plenty of pace on the ball it is past Crook and into the far corner of the net 2-0.

Doubling their lead Aston Villa have Cambridge on the back foot unhappy with a few decisions and going 2-0 down the home side press the advantage Cusack getting forwards is fouled on the right 30 yards out. Merrick plays the free-kick long aiming for the pack attacking the far post over everyone, Hassall at the back keeps the ball in play lay it back for a teammate at the edge of the box not a clear view of who the shot comes in is straight at Crook, the keeper down smartly dragging the ball into her body.

GOAL! Cambridge don’t keep Aston Villa at bay for long however as just 2 minutes after going 2 up the home side make it 3. Players are still up the pitch from the previous attack as Cambridge trying to get the ball up field lose it on the left side the ball is played on by West to Rouse down into the corner time to cross into the box, Mollie Kmita stretching as she attempts to intercept the ball can only knock it into the path of Cusack who left of goal smashes her shot back across the keeper and in score her 1st goal since 2014 to make it 3-0.

Aston Villa Ladies, Maddy Cusack

Cambridge are visibly frustrated at going 3 goals down are working hard to get the ball back, Aston Villa with good movement on and off the ball are just a fraction ahead of their opponents evading tackles and moving the ball on quickly. Afters between Baptiste and Crook as the keeper is clattered after claiming a Cusack cross from the right threatening to dip under her crossbar. The referee breaks up the flashpoint and books Baptiste. Perschky has had little service put into her up front for Cambridge when the ball is played over the top giving her something to attack she is ahead of the Aston Villa defence only to find Beattie moving up to the edge of her area to clear the ball before she can reach it.

Jones plays the ball into Merrick trough the middle helps the ball on laying it into the path of Baptiste moving across the D, left to right, latches onto the falling ball sending it angling in towards goal, Crook is well placed in her six yard box to get her body behind the ball. Another chance for Baptiste moments later as Aston Villa regain possession in the centre the ball played into her inside the D, works space for the shot drags her effort wide across the goal. Rouse moving out to the right with the ball has support from Hassall the ball is crossed into Baptiste just inside the area shoots puts the ball straight into Crook’s gloves.

Cambridge United WFC’s
Laura Baker

Cambridge are in danger of being overwhelmed late in the 1st half as Aston Villa keep coming forwards, Rouse sending the long range ball out to West on the left her cross is fired across the top of the area Baptiste latches onto it her shot blocked as Baker throws herself in front of her the ball racing back to Rouse who fires over from 25 yards out. Hassall is fouled as she brings the ball on down the right, Merrick plays the set-piece long towards the far post back pedalling Crook plucks the ball down keeping hold of it well as she falls under challenge from Richards.

5 minutes left in the 1st half Aston Villa have a corner on the right the ball is played short into Porter moving forwards unmarked from a defensive position takes the ball into the area taking on the shot drives the ball wide across the six yard box. Hassall surges down the right with the ball whips in a dangerous cross near post Cusack furthest forwards can’t connect, the ball cleared out of the area is won back rolled back across to Cusack outside the box she looks to send a shot wide of the keeper Crook dives to her right makes the save.

Cambridge launch a rare counter attack the ball Jenkins bringing the ball on sends it out to Perschky on the right side a clever turn to get room to cross the ball is angled high in towards goal, loops over Beattie dropping far post Taylor throwing herself at the ball can’t get anything on the ball to divert it into the net. Aston Villa are forced into a change late in the 1st half, Jones can’t continue Chloe Dale comes on to replace her.

Half-time Aston Villa Ladies 3-0 Cambridge United WFC

A comfortable 1st half for Aston Villa in the end after a positive start from Cambridge it looked like it was going to be an open contest both sides wanting to attack get the ball forwards. Taking the lead on the 17th minute Aston Villa went on to dominate the 1st half, runners from every position pulling Cambridge out of position their movement just a little sharper than their opponents. Crook with some good saves to keep the score down. Cambridge have scored 3 or more goals in all of their other previous FA Cup matches will need to score early 2nd half to get a chance to get back into the tie.

It’s Aston Villa to get the 2nd half underway, Merrick with a driving run through the middle over run the ball is gathered by Crook.

GOAL! Just the start to the 2nd half the visitors needed as they pull a goal back inside the 1st half of the 2nd minute, Mallett heads Crook’s kick out from the back on, goes straight on for Perschky who controls and looks to play in Taylor making a forwards run on the left, capitalises on a mistake at the back from Aston Villa to latch onto a ball intended for the keeper nicks it past the onrushing Beattie and keeping her composure rolls the ball into the empty net beyond 3-1.

Becky Taylor scores early in the 2nd half for Cambridge United WFC

Dale breaks up play for Aston Villa inside the Cambridge half plays the ball down the line for Hassall on the right, taking it on down the wing cuts the ball back for Rouse top of the area scooping the ball up off the ground her effort flies narrowly over the crossbar. N’Dow is allowed to travel with the ball from the back for Aston Villa crossing the ball into the Cambridge area the ball is intercepted by Bright, runs back to N’Dow who wins a corner. the ball swept into the six yard box Bright defends well up against Richards.

The 1st corner of the match for Cambridge comes in the 2nd half as the ball is played into the area with Puddefoot getting forwards wins a corner off Cusack. From the right the ball is swung in centrally, Bright gets something on the ball far post knocking the ball down towards goal, Aston Villa have players on the line to clear the ball. Getting the ball forwards Cusack lays the ball out right to Hassall the cross is cut back from the byline in towards Baptiste making a near post run strikes the ball hard, Mollie Kmita makes the block. Richards turn to come forwards with the ball fires it into Baptiste inside the D back to goal lays it off for Rouse to strike from 25 yards out the shot straight at Crook who saves comfortably.

Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright clears the ball

GOAL! 57 minutes played Aston Villa have the ball on the left rolled on for West to take down the line squares the ball across the face of the six yard box, is behind Baptiste at the far post adjusts well to get a leg wrapped around the ball play it on for Rouse at the top of the box right of the D drills a low shot back across Crook and into the back of the net to restore Aston Villa’s 3 goal lead 4-1.

Merrick brings the ball on from midfield riding a challenge passes the ball out to Hassell bombing forwards down the right cuts the ball in towards Baptiste at the near post shoots forcing a great save from Crook on the post turning the ball away for the corner. Played in towards Richards she is challenged inside the box manages to get the ball back to the corner taker who lifts the ball up towards the far post drops to Rouse controls on her chest far post before attempting to put the ball in at the post Crook gets across falls on the ball to save.

GOAL! As in the 1st half having hit Cambridge with 2 quick goals, Aston Villa do it again 2nd half as 4 minutes after grabbing her 1st goal of the season Rouse gets her 2nd, the home side are attacking the ball is cleared up field by Cambridge only as far as Dale who headers the ball back towards Rouse ahead of her 25 yards out who shifts the ball to her right and hits a sweet strike into the top right corner, not much Crook can do about it as she throws herself at the ball 5-1.

Aston Villa Ladies, Mollie Rouse

20 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Cambridge make their 1st substitution bringing off Mallett and sending on Rosie Kmita. Cambridge get a free-kick in the middle, Mollie Kmita to play the ball up towards the area, Bright is up from the back collects the ball outside the box left of the D rolls it across to Baker who plays the ball into the area for Puddefoot, has Rosie Kmita free to her left gets the ball into her, Kmita shoots, Beattie back on her line makes a comfortable save.

West is played into space on the left by Rouse taking the ball down the wing fires a pinpoint cross into Baptiste at the far post six yards out gets her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, Crook denies her again going with the ball and down to claim it as it falls straight at her.

Alice Hassall scores on her
debut for Aston Villa Ladies

GOAL! Aston Villa keep coming and extend their lead in the 68th minute and it’s a debut goal for Hassall. Aston Villa bring the ball on down the left side West plays the ball into the box Cusack making a near post run squares the ball across the six box Baptiste overruns the ball as it races past her however Hassall is coming in from the right side meets the ball 1st time blasting it home to celebrate her 1st goal in claret and blue 6-1.

Aston Villa make a change bringing off Baptiste, bringing on Katy Moran who dons the captains armband.

GOAL! Another debut goal follows a couple of minutes later for Aston Villa as one of their development players gets her 1st goal for the 1st team. With the majority of the attack Aston Villa are sending players forwards at will Moran puts the ball out to West linking up with Cusack she whips a fierce cross into the middle of the area, Dale is the furthest forwards gets hold of the ball controlling well before placing her shot wide of the keeper 7-1.

Cambridge make their 2nd change with Paige Logie coming on for Puddefoot. Aston Villa have a corner on the right swung in towards the penalty spot N’Dow gets up for the header can’t direct it on target. Aston Villa make their final change Kerri Welsh coming on for Cusack. Cambridge make their 3rd change to Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming on for Mollie Kmita. Aston Villa keep pressing forwards, head coach Joe Hunt urging his players to keep up the tempo and threat as the game moves into the last 10 minutes. Merrick sends a high ball into the box from a free-kick on the right, both Richards and Welsh go for it neither connects.

Laura Mills looking to get on the attack for Cambridge United WFC

West plays the ball inside to Welsh 25 yards out the striker goes for goal placing her shot over the crossbar. Mills is playing through the centre late on with Perschky wide right for Cambridge the final ball just won’t come off as Perschky lifts the ball into the area with Mills making the run across the centre backs, Beattie is out quickly to gather at the top of her area. Into injury time Cambridge break on the left Rosie Kmita attacking with the ball fires a cross into the box, is headed out to the right by Richards, Perschky picks up the ball wide drives a shot over the bar.

Full time Aston Villa Ladies 7-1 Cambridge United WFC

Full time and Aston Villa Ladies are through to the draw for the next round of the FA Women’s Cup. A clinical performance from a side who looked anything but rusty good movement on and off the ball sharper to the ball all over the pitch and put on a great show at their new home at Tamworth. For Cambridge it’s a brutal way to see their superb run in the FA Women’s Cup come to an end, history made and a financial boost too with 4 rounds won. Learnt a harsh lesson today, knew they were outplayed no shame in that it’s how you respond, you only test yourself by raising the bar, going strong in the league all to play for.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

Several contenders in the Aston Villa Ladies side today, the midfielders in particular, you can tell by the report I write alot of notes and perhaps it’s the bits I don’t include that add up sometimes, certainly in this case the SWF Blog Player of the Match is Maddy Cusack great energy shown throughout the match to break up attacks before they could even start and getting forwards into attacking positions when the opportunity presented itself, plus a goal to cap her performance.

Maddy Cusack winning the header

The draw for the next round of the FA Women’s Cup will be made on Monday and will update this post once it is made, thanks to both clubs for their assistance today.

*UPDATE* The draw for the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Aston Villa Ladies playing a local derby match away to Coventry United Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division, who beat FAWSL 2 side Oxford United Women 2-0 in the 3rd Round. The tie scheduled to be played Sunday 19th February.

Match Report – Lowestoft Town Ladies v Denham United Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog ended the year with a trip to the Suffolk coast to watch Lowestoft Town Ladies take on Denham United Ladies in the FAWPL South East Division One. Bottom of the table with just 3 points on the board Lowestoft Town were playing their 1st game of 2017 having been affected like so many other sides by the awful January weather. Denham United Ladies in 7th place in the table in a good position to challenge for a top half finish, plenty of goals in this game…

Match Report – Lowestoft Town Ladies v Denham United Ladies

Ended January with a trip to the Suffolk coast to watch Lowestoft Town Ladies play Denham United Ladies in FAWPL South East Division One.

Has been a postponement hit start to the New Year affecting alot of clubs, lack of game time, Lowestoft Town Ladies are playing their 1st game of 2017 having last played back on December 18th. Were one of the 40 postponed matches across the East last weekend. Not only in need of a game but also points as the club are currently bottom of the FAWPL South East Division One with just the one win in the league to date. Looks like a 3 way battle at the bottom between Lowestoft, Norwich City Ladies and Stevenage Ladies. Play Denham United Ladies home and away over the next 2 weekends before an away trip to Stevenage Ladies on Sun 12th February. Have seen the departure of striker Molly Hall going to America to play. Have brought in attacking player, Nettie Stillinger from Cambridge United WFC.

Denham United Ladies are currently 7th in the FAWPL South East Division One table with 5 wins from the 13 league games they have played so far. One of the biggest all female clubs in the country are an established side in the league are capable of beating anyone else in the league on their day. With 5 of their next 6 league games against sides below them in the table have an opportunity to pick up points and not only pull well clear of the battle at the bottom but challenge for a top half finish.

The venue for today’s game Crown Meadow home of Lowestoft Town FC, the ladies side are one of a handful of sides in the FAWPL who share their ground with the men’s club. A large pitch has seen a fair bit of wear. A large seated stand on one side opposite the dugouts, a bar and clubhouse open behind the goal as you walk in through the turnstiles. Was another wet weekend across the region but not so bad as last time out. Overcast, cold and cloudy there were a few spots of rain around so with a covered stand to take advantage of I headed there.

Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Tiffany Forshaw, Ellie Froud, Abbie Everson, Cassie Craddock, Ciera Flatt, Gemma Moore, Nettie Stillinger & Hannah Waters (C).
subs – Lauren Bullard, Broghan Scully & Jess Green.

Denham United Ladies starting XI – Elizabeth Rose, Joanne Torr (C), Emma Spencer, Rachel Blackburn, Laura Holbrook, Chloe Jarman, Alissa Down, Aimee Durn, Natalie Murray, Elisha Allen & Annie Hewitt.
subs – Ellen Wardlaw.

Lowestoft get the match under way kicking off the 1st half wearing blue shirts, shorts and socks all with white trim. Nettie Stillinger starts on the left. Also making her 1st start for the club is Ciera Flatt in midfield. Denham lined up opposite wearing an all navy kit with a red and white band across the front of the shirts and red and white hooping on their socks. Are without a few 1st team regulars with just one substitute to call upon. Lowestoft look to get the ball out wide to Gemma Moore on the right from the start, Denham captain Joanne Torr winning the ball as she looks to knock it in behind her.

The ball is sent long out to Elisha Allen in space on the right side for Denham making an attacking run to get into the Lowestoft area, can’t get her cross in. Denham pressure the ball on halfway keeping Lowestoft penned inside their own half in the early minutes, the visitors winning a free kick in the middle play it early to Natalie Murray moving right getting in behind plays the diagonal ball into the box, Lowestoft goalkeeper, Eilish Brogan makes the call and claims on the bounce before Allen can get to the ball coming through the middle.

Another free-kick for Denham on half-way the ball played up high towards the top of the area, Allen left side gets her head on the ball knocking it down into the area goes after it, Charnelle Riggall, Lowestoft’s left back goes with her prevents Allen getting the ball into a shooting position before winning the free-kick. A counter from Lowestoft the ball helped on by Abbie Everson on half-way for Ciera Flatt ahead of her, looks to slide the ball in behind the Denham back line for Stillinger cutting inside from the left, too straight the ball is gathered up by Denham goalkeeper, Elizabeth Rose. Up the other end Denham have another free-kick wide on the left inside the Lowestoft half, Alissa Down on the ball plays a pacey ball in towards goal, bouncing across the six yard box no one gets a touch, Brogan can see it run wide of her far post.

Lowestoft’s Cassie Craddock feels the full force of Alissa Down’s clearance

Denham capitalise on a short goal kick winning the ball back 30 yards out, Aimee Durn getting involved in the thick of the action, having joined Denham from Watford Ladies Development U19s side. Durn central plays the short ball into Annie Hewitt ahead of her back to goal she lays it out to Allen breaking into the area from the left, gets a shot away as she is closed down shooting low near post, Brogan is down sharply making a good save.

It’s a big pitch plenty of width available and both sides want to exploit it at every opportunity attacking early ball are often sent long with runners willing to go after the ball. Laura Holbrook gets on the ball and plays it out to Durn on the left for Denham linking up with Hewitt the cross is sent on high towards the near post with Allen making the run, can’t bring the ball down to get a shot away runs off her behind for the goal-kick. With Moore and Stillinger keeping the pitch wide Lowestoft captain, Hannah Waters attacking through the middle is released by Cassie Craddock 25 yards out drives for the Denham area looking to power her way into the box is closed down by 3 Denham players, Rachel Blackburn putting in the challenge to win the ball from her.

Aimee Durn bringing the ball forwards for Denham United Ladies

Emma Spencer having broken up a Lowestoft attack carries the ball out from the back on the right sends the pass long for Hewitt outside the box a clever turn as she brings the ball down plays it on for Murray moving into the area behind her, moving to the right looks to lift a cross to Allen far post, too close to Brogan the keeper is able to pluck it down out of the air. Murray is played in behind shortly afterwards by Holbrook on the right gets into the area into the six yard box tries to play the ball across goal again puts it to close to Brogan the Lowestoft keeper well placed to gather the ball.

Waters pressuring the ball high up the pitch on the left gets Lowestoft a throw the ball is played in field the cross fired along the top of the Denham area is collected by Moore in a central position, looks for an opening to shoot as she moves the ball to the right, Durn slides in to win the ball for the visitors doesn’t go far picked up by Flatt 25 yards out takes on the shot good pace on the ball is straight at Rose the keeper holding onto the shot comfortably.

Ciera Flatt on the ball in midfield for Lowestoft

Brogan is called into action up the other end as Denham press bodies forwards Chloe Jarman playing the ball on for Down the ball is sent on for Murray on the right, driving forwards takes it all the way to the byline beside the area before cutting the cross back along the ground towards the top of the area with Hewitt meeting it inside the D her shot running low towards the far corner, Brogan throws herself to her right getting her glove on the ball pushing it wide for the corner kick. Lowestoft are almost caught out from a short corner for Denham the ball played up to Down top of the area left side sends the ball curling in towards goal, flies over Brogan, is headed off the line by Stillinger.

Lowestoft’s Nettie Stillinger with Denham’s Chloe Jarman

Denham break from the back as they win the ball from a Lowestoft free-kick the ball is played long up to Hewitt who passes it out to Allen attacking on the right, Lyndsey Adams cuts out her cross the ball runs back to Allen wins a corner this time another short one on the right the ball rolled into Down, Adams intercepts her ball into the area clearing it for a throw. The free-kicks in the middle are adding up Denham having most opportunities to play the ball up into the Lowestoft area. Down is on the set-piece in the middle to the right sends a high ball into the area, Murray central leaps the highest but can’t get anything on the ball.

Ellie Froud gets hold of the ball at the back for Lowestoft as Denham’s Hewitt looks to slide Allen through into the box, bringing it out from the ball plays a good ball out to Moore on the right taking on her marker and getting in behind turns into the box cutting the ball back from the byline looking for Waters, Blackburn coming across to defend the near post slides in to clear the ball.

GOAL! 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half and the stalemate is broken. Bodies up field from the previous attack Lowestoft put pressure Denham’s midfield it’s Moore who closes the ball down on the right to take it in past the visitors defence playing the ball early into the area looking to pick out Waters, Spencer goes with the attacker challenging as the ball arrives at her feet, Waters does well staying on her feet and connecting with the ball helps it on past the keeper into the bottom corner of the net to see Lowestoft lead 1-0.

Lowestoft captain, Hannah Waters opens the scoring

The goal sees Lowestoft step up the tempo closing down the ball inside the Denham half, Craddock linking up with Adams on the left side gets the ball on for Stillinger to go on a run down the left, attempting to get around Spencer to get into the area brings the full-back down conceding the free-kick. End to end in the closing 5 minutes of the 1st half both sides look to get their attacking players on the ball. Brogan comfortably claiming a couple of Denham crosses.

Up the other end as the 1st half moves into injury time, Lowestoft work the ball through the middle releasing Waters for a run at the Denham goal, is shoulder to shoulder with Blackburn as the pair race for the box, in goal Rose makes the decision to come early closing down the angle is a couple of yards inside her area as Waters gets a shot away going to ground Rose makes a great save with her legs to prevent the ball getting past her. Denham counter attack, the ball out to Durn attacking on the left carries it into the area, Riggall on her shoulder pressuring delays the shot the angle against her Dunn’s strike is held by Brogan at her near post.

Half-time Lowestoft Town Ladies 1-0 Denham United Ladies

Has been an open 1st half with both sides on the attack, Denham have created more opportunities up front, however they find themselves trailing 1-0 at the break with Waters giving Lowestoft the lead. Both goalkeepers having been called into action to make important saves. A narrow advantage all to play for 2nd half.

Denham get the 2nd half underway, Holbrook with the early ball out to Allen on the right wing, the attacker is stopped in her tracks by the offside flag. Denham overload the right side of the pitch at the start of the 2nd half with Murray and Allen linking up playing a one two as they work the ball down the line, Allen’s cross going behind.

Hannah Waters looking to control the ball inside the Denham box

A tussle in the middle of the park, Flatt wins the ball plays it into Craddock who sends it long up into the box for Waters, controlling the ball on her chest inside the box, closely marked by Blackburn looks to turn get a shot away, not before Spencer comes across from the left to get her foot on the ball clear it for a throw on the right.

Gemma Moore scores to make it
2-0 to Lowestoft.

GOAL! The perfect start to the 2nd half for Lowestoft as they double their lead inside the 1st 5 minutes the ball from the thrown in level with the top of the box on the right is played into Moore who turns off her marker to take it inside head down drives into the D before hitting a powerful shot that swerves away from the diving Rose and into the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Everson closes the ball down quickly inside the opposition half, driving forwards gets room for a shot 25 yards out hits the ball on the run plays the ball straight into Rose in a central position inside her six yard box gathers cleanly. Lowestoft are getting drawn over to the right side as Murray looks to take players on get in behind, that is leaving Durn with plenty of space to run into on the left. Caught offside in an earlier attack, holds her run this time getting the ball from a long diagonal pass, looks to take the ball inside get it onto her right foot for a shot, is closed down by the Lowestoft defence before she can release the ball.

Denham’s Aimee Durn with Lowestoft’s Abbie Everson

Allen with possession of the ball on the right side moves forwards cutting the ball inside for Hewitt outside the box, looks to turn and shoot her effort from 20 yards out deflecting up off Tiffany Forshaw as she throws herself off her feet to make the block the ball looping behind for the corner kick on the right. The inswinging ball coming on high is headed goalwards past Brogan as she attempts to come for the ball, heading goalwards the ball is headed off the line by Lowestoft again, Riggall with the vital touch this time.

GOAL! The ball is cleared out of the area as Lowestoft look to get everyone out of their box, they are hit with a sucker punch the ball is won back in the middle by Denham and sent back over the top, both Hewitt and Allen area central in front of the D, the offside flag doesn’t go up as Hewitt picks up the ball and takes it into the box, picks her spot sending the ball low past Brogan into the bottom corner 2-1.

Straight from the restart Lowestoft look to attack the ball is played over the top for Waters to chase through the middle, Rose is off her line and sliding in claims the ball inside her area before the striker can get there.

GOAL! All action, no sooner have they pulled a goal back and stopped Lowestoft’s attack from the restart Denham have the ball in the back of the net at the other end to level it up. Launching a counter attack the ball is fired up field into Murray running onto the ball right side takes on the early shot 25 yards out lobbing the ball up over Brogan and into the back of the next to equalise 2-2.

Two quick fire goals from Denham to level the scores 10 minutes after going 2-0 down sees them energised, the opposite for Lowestoft who dealt a double blow conceding 2 goals within a couple of minutes of each other. Play is drawn over to the right side again as Murray gets the ball from Down, pushing forwards delivers an high ball into the box coming central is a vital header by Riggall to put the ball out of play for the corner kick with Allen free behind her. The corner kick goes long is picked up by Holbrook outside the box left of the D shoots a vicious strike that is blocked by Riggall.

GOAL! A complete turn around for Denham as the visitors take the lead in the match a counter attack from a Lowestoft free-kick the ball on halfway played up towards the top of the area is headed clear and played on with Murray on the move down the right side, plenty of pace gets in behind and closing in on the box takes the shot early sending her low drive racing past the keeper into the back of the net 2-3.

2 goals by Denham United Ladies
Natalie Murray see the visitors go
level then take the lead.

Lowestoft make a substitution, Flatt is replaced by Broghan Scully in the midfield. Forshaw plays the ball up field controlled by Waters 30 yards out back to goal off her chest with Moore coming inside to receive the ball releases Stillinger making a run on the left side running into the box gets a shot away the strike racing along the ground across the six yard box and wide at the far post. Denham make a change Allen the player coming off, Ellen Wardlaw coming on for her 1st team debut.

Wardlaw is very nearly put through on goal moments after coming on as Hewitt squeezes the ball in over the top of the Lowestoft defence looking to run onto the ball inside the D, defender Froud makes a last ditch tackle lunging for the ball taking it away from Wardlaw and back to her keeper gather.

GOAL! Denham enjoying a dominant spell extend their lead, it’s a goal out of nothing a moment of magic from Hewitt the ball fed into her feet 30 or so yards from goal isn’t closed down quickly enough sets her sights and shoots the ball flying over the keeper and into the goal beyond 2-4.

Annie Hewitt celebrating with her teammates

15 minutes of the 2nd half left, Lowestoft make their 2nd change bringing off Craddock in the middle and sending on Lauren Bullard. Denham have their tails up are seeing more of the ball and keeping possession inside their opponents half. Forshaw heads a Denham cross clear of the area the ball helped on through the middle finds Moore moving inside from the right looks to play the diagonal pass into the area with Waters making the run to get into the area, Blackburn goes with her sliding in to put the ball behind for a corner on the right. Blackburn then defends the Lowestoft corner heading behind for a 2nd corner kick, this one comes to Everson moving towards the ball helps it on into the six yard box, Denham winning the scramble for the ball launch it clear.

GOAL! The game is stretched as the action moves into the last 10 minutes Denham bring the ball on the pass finding Murray on the move on the right play drawn across to that side of the pitch again, Murray crosses early her looping ball falling into the Lowestoft six yard box, Durn has made it all the way there, controls the bouncing ball well and manages to squeeze it past Brogan on top of her to score and see Denham lead 2-5.

Soon after scoring Dunn is denied another opportunity to score for Denham by Moore inside the Lowestoft box as she comes inside from the left Moore dives in a risky challenge but gets the ball putting it behind for the corner. The ball comes to Wardlaw 20 yards out from Holbrook takes on the shot the ball played straight into Brogan the keeper down low to make the save. Wardlaw wins Denham a corner kick on the right side the ball is lifted in centrally pops out of Brogan’s gloves dropping down into the six yard box favourably for her defence to clear. Denham finish strongly Wardlaw seeing her shot from outside the box charged down by Froud as the final whistle blows and the visitors claim all 3 points with a 5-2 win.

Full time Lowestoft Town Ladies 2-5 Denham United Ladies

An action filled game, both sides wanting to attack get the ball forwards use the big pitch. Going 2-0 up then conceding 2 quickfire goals 10 minutes later to level things up hit Lowestoft hard especially as they felt one was offside. Denham coming back well showing character after going 2-0 down to comeback and not only level but go on to win the game 5-2. The 2 sides meet in the reverse fixture next Sunday.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A few contenders for the SWF Blog Player of the Match in the Denham side today but I’ve gone for Natalie Murray. Pace and power caused trouble out on the right all game scoring 2 goals and an assist for Dunn to score the 5th goal.

My thanks to both clubs for their help today always appreciated.

Match Report – Acle United Ladies v Kings Lynn Town Ladies

It was a wet one across the whole country on Sunday with a huge amount of postponements disrupting a County Cup fixtures weekend. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog settled early on a 3G option, a quarter final from the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with Acle United Ladies hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Two league between the sides King’s Lynn encouraged by a bright start gave their opponents plenty to think about, lots of goals in the game read about them all in the report below.

Match Report – Acle United Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

The action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday comes from the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Ladies hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies from Norfolk Women’s Division One.

A wet Sunday right across the country saw a large number of fixtures called off, with their fixtures already piling up, Acle United Ladies took the decision early to switch the game to an all weather 3G pitch, at Flegg High School in Martham where the side trains during the week.

Acle United Ladies play their football 2 leagues higher than their opponents today in the County Cup 1 of 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside the county leagues. Currently 7th in the ERWFL Premier Division table have games in hand on all the sides above them. Won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 2 seasons ago. Entered this years competition in the 2nd Round winning 4-3 away home against Norfolk Women’s Division One side, North Walsham Angels Ladies. Acle announced the signing of California State University San Bernardino scholar Megan Todd earlier in the week after obtaining international clearance, makes her debut in the County Cup.

A good test for King’s Lynn Town Ladies today taking on a side 2 leagues higher, but come into the game on the back of a 7 match unbeaten run in the league which included 6 straight wins to see them up into 2nd place in the table. Also entered the competition in the 2nd Round, beating fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Fakenham Town Ladies 8-0 at The Walks

A nice 3G facility at the Flegg High School, room for spectators to stand beside the pitch, hot and cold drinks available from vending machines. A narrow pitch. Like I said a wet day across the country the waterproofs were needed the umbrella up, making juggling a camera and notepad tricky, but at least keeping both dry.

Acle United Ladies starting XI – Chloe Nixon, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodchild, Chloe Shields, Kate Pasque, Amber Rowland, Alice Ladbrooke, Bryony Knights, Megan Todd, Rebecca Burton (C) & Jody Wells.
subs – Joanne Hooper, Jade Copeman & Sarah Howard.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Christina Vivas Artacho, Winnie Lee, Lisa Wilson, Albany Hodgson, Emma Woods, Bethan Jones, Taylor Sarchet, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C) & Oksana Imanalijeva.
subs – Katie Garner, Emma Corbyn & Natalie Bunton

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Acle to kick-off the 1st half, wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, white shorts and red and white hooped socks, with King’s Lynn lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The home side push players forwards at the start Alice Ladbrooke playing the ball out to Megan Todd on the right wing, drives forwards with the ball flashes a cross into the area race wide behind the goal.

A lively start from both sides, Bethan Jones sliding in to win the ball in the middle plays it forwards early looking for Shelley Woods, the King’s Lynn captain looking to make a run through the middle, her 1st touch a little heavy allows the Acle defence to get back on her regain possession and sending it long, King’s Lynn goalkeeper, Christina Vivas Artacho is out of her area quickly to win the race for the ball. Starting and attack on the right full-back Winnie Lee brings the ball on playing it forwards for Becky Russell ahead of her sends the looping cross into the box, moving right side Oksana Imanalijeva brings the ball down well with her chest inside the area knocking to down right of goal shoots as she reaches the six yard box the ball is blocked at the near post as the Acle defence goes with her.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell

Acle’s front two link up captain, Rebecca Burton, only just returned to action after a two month injury layout pressures the King’s Lynn defence, has Jody Wells in close support rolls the ball forwards for her outside the box, Wells back to goal holds the ball up before laying it back to Burton who goes for the 1st time strike sending her shot over the bar. Acle win a free-kick inside the King’s Lynn half on the right, Anna Larkins over the ball sweeps it high in towards the far post area, Todd gets up highest, getting her head on the ball can’t direct it on target.

Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins

King’s Lynn get forwards on the right the cross in across the face of the area is intercepted by Chloe Shields rolled into the midfield for Amber Rowland to carry forwards, player break threads the ball into the path of Wells 30 yards out is closed down quickly by Jones still manages to get a shot away her effort flying over the crossbar. Chances for both sides early on King’s Lynn getting joy out wide play the ball out to Russell high on the right wing, fires a ball in across to top of the area, good control from Shelley Woods inside the D to kill the ball and turning hits the shot in the half-volley, arrowing for the top corner, Acle goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon produces a fantastic save a full stretch tipping the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

King’s Lynn are encouraged by their bright start, pressing Acle on the ball is a competitive match, Russell with another surge up the right wing gets the corner taking it herself is an inswinging ball flies across the six yard box low no one can get a touch as it kisses the far post running wide for the goal-kick. Bryony Knights has possession of the ball on the left side for Acle, plays the ball inside for Wells she is closely marked by King’s Lynn’s Emma Woods, the ball is won by the defender played into Taylor Sarchet in the middle and on quickly for Shelley Woods in attack a good 30 yards from goal wastes no time in shooting the ball landing in the side netting.

Acle United Ladies, Jody Wells, battling for the ball with
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Emma Woods

Shelley Woods reacts quickest to a poor kick out of the area from Nixon, dropping to the King’s Lynn captain 25 yards out drives on towards the top of the area moving right of goal Kate Pasque gets back on her shoulder as Nixon comes to close the angle, Woods shoots, Nixon throwing herself to the right makes the save pushing the ball wide across her area conceding the corner. Acle launch a counter attack from the corner, a strong run on the ball from Luka Goodchild from left-back sends the ball on into the area near post, Wells can’t quite reach it. Acle make a change, Joanne Hooper on in midfield replacing Rowland.

Acle have another free-kick on the right inside the King’s Lynn half the ball is played into the area, Todd the target again gets up for a free header, a tall player knocks the ball down into the ground inside the six yard box is straight at the goalkeeper, Vivas Artacho dropping to the floor and making the save. Both sides are pressing looking for the opening goal, Acle over load the right side win a throw taken quickly into Wells turns inside towards the box moving across the face of the area is fouled as she cuts the ball into the area for Burton, no advantage play is brought back for the free-kick 20 yards out right of goal, Wells to take it goes for goal sends the ball over the bar.

Albany Hodgson does well at the back closing down Knights as she is playing in moving in field from the left getting into the area Hodgson slides in to take the ball away from her out for a corner kick, Played in from the right, Todd in a central position outside the six yard box is allowed another free header, drops the ball wide trying to direct it into the bottom corner. More attacking play from Acle down the left Ladbrooke sending Knights in down the left swings the ball in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho gets down but spills the ball out into the middle of the box, Emma Woods gets their before the Acle attackers the ball is cleared long out to the left side, picked up by Imanalijeva the striker takes it up the wing has Jade Kelly on that side with her lose sight of both as the crowd get excited, a shot comes blazing in however from distance, Nixon throwing herself to her right can’t get to it the ball past her cannons off the post and deflects behind for a goal-kick.

GOAL! 27 minutes into a busy 1st half Acle go straight up the other end from the goal kick and take the lead the ball is played quickly through the midfield and a perfectly weighted pass picks out Todd as she cuts inside from the right, takes the ball on into the area, right of goal sends her shot across Vivas Artacho and into the back of the net to score her on her debut 1-0.

A goal on debut for Acle United Ladies, Megan Todd

Kate Pasque makes it
2-0 for Acle

GOAL! A blow for King’s Lynn after matching Acle competitively for nearly half an hour find themselves 2-0 down just a minute after conceding, Acle get forwards down the right Larkins linking up Todd, a corner is won. The ball is fired in along the six yard box, comes straight at Pasque central, at head height a difficult ball to deal with, can’t jump no time to stoop either makes good contact with her forehead turning the ball towards goal and into the back of the net 2-0.

King’s Lynn look for a response Sarchet getting the ball up to Shelley Woods moving out to the right turns towards the area holding it up before playing it back to Russell moving towards the right corner of the box, shoots her low drive held by Nixon at her near post. Acle attack down the right the ball played inside is helped on towards Burton who is fouled right on the edge of the area a shove in the back is OK after treatment, Larkins over the ball right of goal, Wells is free unmarked 20 yards out in a central position Larkins rolls the ball into her path fires the ball into the area too many bodies to squeeze through the shot is blocked.

Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva combine up front for King’s Lynn the ball with Woods on the right turns inside reaching the area lays it across the face for Imanalijeva inside the D, digs the ball out from under her feet sending a rising shot goalwards, Nixon palms the ball down and gathers cleanly. Another chance for Imanalijeva moments later as Emma Woods breaks up an Acle attack gets the ball up field to Shelley Woods passes it out to Imanalijeva left side outside the area meets the ball 1st time slicing her shot away from goal.

A throw for King’s Lynn on the left inside the Acle half Kelly into Imanalijeva heads the ball on towards the far post Shelley Woods coming onto it as it arrives in the six yard box fires the ball wide across the face of goal. Picking up the ball in half way Burton carries it forwards picking out Todd on the right, holding the ball up looks to spin in behind get into the area, Emma Woods goes with her gets a foot on the ball to push it on for Vivas Artacho to launch out of the area.

GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the 2nd half, Burton with another run from half way has Larkins bursting forwards on the right getting ahead of her rolls the ball into her path taking in on down the wing squares a fierce cross in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho throwing herself forwards can’t quite reach it, nor can Hodgson tracking back, somehow Wells gets in between them and pushes the ball over the line to make it 3-0.

GOAL! Acle continue to attack late on in the 1st half, are hit on the break as Lisa Wilson wins the ball back plays in infield the ball on through the middle finds the attackers Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva next to each other in a central position 25 yards from goal, it’s Imanalijeva who spins inside with the ball, a surging run into the area reaching the top of the six yard box fires her shot past Nixon to pull a goal back for King’s Lynn 3-1.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Oksana Imanalijeva

Half-time Acle United Ladies 3-1 Kings Lynn Town Ladies

An action paced 1st half Acle United Ladies leading the quarter final 3-1 at the break as the rain starts to slow and eventually stop. A competitive battle King’s Lynn encouraged by a positive start had chances to take the lead, Acle prepared to push bodies on at timely intervals getting into a quick-fire 2-0 lead, more chances followed, Acle going on to score a 3rd goal, that scoreline harsh on King’s Lynn going into half-time they pulled a goal back before the whistle to keep the deficit down to 2 goals.

It’s King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half. A change for Acle at the break, Burton off, Hooper moving up front with Rowland back on in midfield. Sarchet closes the ball down quickly in midfield for King’s Lynn played the ball backwards for Emma Woods who sends it long over the top with Shelley Woods breaking in behind the Acle defence, Nixon quick quickly off her line to come sliding in and smothers the ball on the edge of the area. Shields with a good tackle deals with a high ball put in from the right for Acle.

An early switch 2nd half for King’s Lynn with Kelly the player substituted, Natalie Bunton coming on, is involved in the action straight away as Sarchet bringing the ball on through the middle releases her on the right wing, takes on the early shot outside the area the strike off target. The 2nd half has started in a similar tempo to the 1st half, both sides looking to attack, Acle’s Wells has the ball on the left 25 yards from the King’s Lynn goal opens up her body as she shoots sending a curling ball wide of the far post.

A good turn in the ball by Shelley Woods as the ball is played into her 25 yards out back to goal, escaping her marker lays the ball forwards for Russell on the left, taking the ball to the by-line is tackled by Shields the throw leading to a corner kick, swung in from the left towards the top of the area, won by Ladbrooke the ball is cleared, King’s Lynn regain possession come forwards the ball played into the box claimed by Nixon. Acle press players forwards, Larkins going past Todd as the ball is held up by Hooper outside the area rolls it towards the on coming full-back shots the ball flying straight into Vivas Artacho’s gloves the keeper positioned in the centre of her goal.

Taylor Sarchet wins the ball for King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sarchet gets forwards for King’s Lynn as Shelley Woods has the ball out on the right for plays it across the face of the area, meeting it Sarchet fires a shot in across the keeper, diving full stretch to her right, Nixon makes the save pushing the ball wide of her goal. Larkins nips in to win the ball on the right inside the King’s Lynn half fires it into Wells holding position outside the area right of the D, Hodgson gets a toe on the ball to stop her turning in behind, Wells gets back on the ball pushed wide lifts a cross towards the far post Todd coming in puts her shot wide of goal.

A 50/50 tackle in the centre of the park leaves Sarchet down on the floor clutching her ankle in alot of pain, play is stopped looks a nasty one, receives lengthy treatment on the pitch, cannot carry on with her ankle now heavily bandaged is helped of the pitch, Emma Corbyn joining the action.

GOAL! Play held up for 4-5 minutes it’s Acle who take advantage going on the attack the ball played up to right Todd on for Larkins taking the ball into the corner sends the cross long across the six yard box, Wells is their the ball behind her, thinks about the overhead kick, however Knights is right behind her, meets the ball 1st time sending it under the diving goalkeeper 4-1 extending Acle’s lead with around 25 minutes left to play.

GOAL! As in the 1st half one goal is quickly followed by another however it isn’t Acle who extend their lead further. The ball is with Shelley Woods receiving it from a throw on the right side is inside the area, right corner shoved over the referee pointing to the spot, it’s Woods herself to take it Nixon guesses right dives to her right but the ball is placed perfectly by Woods into the bottom corner of the net 4-2.

Diving full stretch, Acle United Ladies goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon can’t stop Shelley Woods penalty

A rush of blood moments later from Nixon as the Acle keeper comes rushing out of her area as King’s Lynn, Shelley Woods is played in behind, gets to the ball 1st taking it past the stranded keeper on towards the edge of the box, Larkins gets back just in tome to stop Woods taking an early shot into an empty net, by the time the striker manoeuvres herself into a position to shoot her strike is cut out by Pasque and the threat cleared. King’s Lynn bring Kelly back on replacing Bunton.

Nixon hasn’t been put off coming out for the ball the save is needed as Shelley Woods sends Kelly through on the right, the keeper coming outside the box making it the ball before Kelly can push it past her. A change of formation for King’s Lynn as they look to try and pull a goal back, Wilson off at right back, Bunton back on to join the attack as they go 3-4-3 as the game moves into the final 15 minutes.

Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland gets to the ball ahead of Becky Russell

Rowland takes the ball forwards for Acle playing the pass out to Todd on the right, 30 yards from goal is given time and space to line up a shot, whips the ball in towards goal, isn’t too far over the cross bar. Knights with a strong run on the left wing gets a corner for Acle the ball is playing into the middle, Pasque jumping highest heads the ball down into the ground right in front of Vivas Artacho the goalkeeper down quickly getting hold of the ball. A minute later up the other end Pasque head the ball clear of her area as Hodgson lifts in a free-kick from halfway.

Corbyn wins a 50/50 ball on the right plays it down the line for Bunton ahead of her travelling with the ball getting into the box on the right tries to cut the ball back into the six yard box from the by-line, Nixon has come the ball under her feet adjusted well to stab the ball away. Acle have a throw on the left, played in field into Rowland she attempts to lift the ball over the top for Todd breaking into the area, coming forwards Vivas Artacho get’s her gloves around it 1st. Into the last 10 minutes and Acle are looking for a 5th goal. The ball is played into Wells 20 yards out, tries to turn, Emma Woods wins the tackle the the foul for King’s Lynn.

GOAL! No let up in the energy both sides keeping up a good tempo, Acle have possession with Rowland in the middle a good move sees her play the ball up to Wells outside the box on the right side this time, holding the ball up has support from Todd lays the ball back to her, Todd with a burst of pace drives into the box goes to shoot is brought down by Jones the penalty kick awarded. It’s Todd herself to take it, hits the ball low and hard to the keepers right beyond Vivas Artacho’s outstretched gloves into the bottom corner 5-2 with just a couple of minutes of normal time left on the clock.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain Shelley Woods

GOAL! Again King’s Lynn respond with a goal, after a 20 strike from Imanalijeva is held by Nixon before King’s Lynn win the ball from the kick out is played over the top Shelley Woods beating the offside trap and Nixon as the Acle goalkeeper comes out to close her down taking the ball to the left of goal, turns and lifts her shot over the defenders racing back to drop into the net beyond, 5-3.

Into injury time Acle make a double switch, Jade Copeman and Sarah Howard on for Goodchild and Ladbrooke. A late chance for Acle who have the ball on the left getting a throw the ball is played into Knights fires a diagonal ball in across the face of the King’s Lynn goal, throwing herself at it far post Howard can’t get anything on the ball to deflect it goalwards.

Full time Acle United Ladies 5-3 Kings Lynn Town Ladies

A 5-3 win for Acle United sees them through to the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, a highly entertaining match plenty to cover, both sides playing their part in a competitive performance, both intent on attacking throughout the 90 minutes. King’s Lynn can take alot away from the match a good test for their side that continues to improve. Acle with some good attacking play getting players forwards will fancy their chances in the semi-finals, where they will be joined by Wymondham Town Ladies who beat Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 and last seasons beaten finalists Aylsham FC Ladies who beat Briston Wanderers Ladies 3-2 away from home the winning goal coming in the last 30 seconds. Holders Thorpe United Ladies will be away to Bohemians Ladies next Sunday.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A tough one this Sunday with so many players putting alot of effort into 2 good team performances, but with her 2 goals on debut I’ve chosen Megan Todd, her pace and power on the ball adding a new dimension to the Acle United Ladies side.

A great cup tie, entertaining plenty of goals and the rain even stopped. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team and sending my best wishes to King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Taylor Sarchet hope she isn’t too badly injured and makes a speedy recovery.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

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