A handful of matches played in Essex this weekend, just 4 taking place spread across 4 different competitions.
One game played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division featuring the top two with unbeaten league leaders Collier Row Tigers hosting Silver End United Ladies both clear of the sides below. Collier Row coming into the game off the back of a 25-0 mauling of Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves in the League Cup last weekend found it alot harder to break down a stubborn Silver End United defence this Sunday got the win in the finish though an own goal seeing them win 1-0 to move 6 points clear at the top.
Essex Women’s League Cup
One outstanding tie to be played in this season’s Essex Women’s League Cup an all Division One clash between Hutton Ladies Reserves and Tigers Ladies. The game switched to Tigers ground with Hutton’s waterlogged. Ellie Wallace with her 10th goal of the season firing Tigers into a 9th minute lead. Leigh Gell with her first goal for the side doubling Tigers advance 9 minutes later. 2-0 up at the break, Poppy Le-Beau came off the bench to make her first appearance for Tigers to score on her debut with 18 minutes left to send Tigers into the last 8 of the competition.
The 2nd/Quarter Final games being played this coming Sunday 15th a 1:30pm KO the draw as follows:-
Collier Row Tigers v Billericay Town Ladies Development
Frontiers Ladies v Southend United Ladies
Chelmsford City Ladies v Silver End United Ladies
Runwell Sports Ladies v Tigers Ladies
Essex Women’s Division One
Leaders Corringham Cosmos Ladies were away to Aveley Ladies this Sunday in Division One, the pair the early pacesetters, Corringham have dropped just 2 points so far this season, Aveley in a false position having struggled for points in recent games falling to 6th in the table. Corringham with Michelle Sumpter leading the attack opening the scoring at the weekend with her 23rd goal of the season midway through the 1st half, Rebecca Corcoran hitting a 1st half brace too to see Corringham come away with the 3 points winning 3-1, Bethany Murray scoring for Aveley.
Tiptree & District Cup
A game played too this Sunday in the Tiptree & District Cup, Rayleigh Town Ladies at home to Frontiers Ladies. Rayleigh coming out on top at in the all Premier Division cash to advance with a 2-1 victory the win secured thanks to goals from Eleasha Reeves and Nancy Craven both on the scoresheet for the first time this season. Kelly Holdsworth getting the goal for Frontiers.
The race for the title continues to intrigue in Suffolk with the Women’s Division highly competitive this season. Woodbridge Town Ladies with a fantastic run leading the way now 3 points clear at the top as they sat out the weekend others attempting to close the gap. Bury Town Ladies with a good league run themselves moving clear into 2nd now 5 games as they came home with the 3 points against Needham Market Women Reserves this weekend. Needham Market with just the bare 11 available, Bury Town have plenty of goalscorers within their squad with no less than 19 different names on the scoresheet so far this season. Julie Brind well clear on that list as top scorer getting another this Sunday to go to 23 for the season. Sophie Hemming on target for her fifth and captain Lisa Pratt with her 3rd of the campaign seeing Bury Town to a 3-1 win. Taylor Cooke getting the Needham market goal. Bury Town now 3 points behind Woodbridge with 2 games in hand.
A good result away from home for 7th placed Brightlingsea Regent Ladies have improved well in their 2nd season playing women’s football up into the top half of the table picking up some good results along the way. Brettvale a strong side amongst the early pacesetters also into the last 4 of the League and County Cups. Tarnya McKew an experienced goalscorer playing at regional level top scoring for Brettvale getting her 21st goal of the season on Sunday. Hannah Goldsmith also well out in front as top scorer for Brightlingsea getting her 25th goal of the season to see the points shared in a 1-1 draw.
Holland Ladies new to the Suffolk Women’s Division this season are up to 3rd in the table above Brettvale on goal difference with games in hand on everyone around them still. Have lost just once this season and that back on the opening day just 2 more points dropped since are having a strong debut season solid in defence whilst scoring freely in attack were at home this Sunday playing 2nd bottom side Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. The goals coming again for Holland this weekend with two players celebrating hat-tricks, top scorer Jasmine Cox moving onto 32 goals for the season and midfielder Lauren Bourne who has 18 to her name. A brace too for Michelle Hodgson sees her become the fifth Holland player to reach double figures for the season, the final score 9-0 with Sophie Blowers alos getting her name on the scoresheet.
A high scoring win too for Brantham Athletic Ladies away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies in the Suffolk Women’s Division at the weekend. Brantham regrouping well now after the loss of a few players during the summer retain a good squad which as always produced goals. Sophie Crabtree opening the scoring at the weekend putting Brantham 1-0 on 10 minutes. Maddie Hubbard quickly making it 2-0 with he 8th of the season. A goal for Carra Marie Seeley and a 2nd for Crabtree seeing Brantham leading 4-0 at the break. Went on to match that tally in the 2nd half winning the game 8-0 with top scorer Danielle Harvey scoring a 2nd half hat-trick to close in on 20 goals for the season. Seely also adding a 2nd goal.
In the final game to bring you from the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday 7th placed Henley Athletic Ladies were at home to Alresford Colne Rangers in 8th. The visitors getting into the lead to hold the advantage at half-time 1-0 up the 2nd half a total contrast with a flurry of goals another 10 in fact! Alresford going on to add a further 3 goals to their tally with Donna Leggett scoring a brace and one each for Jenna Cash and Rae Clancey. Ended up going home empty handed however as Henley Athletic came back well to fire home 7 goals in the 2nd half to win the 3 points, top scorers Amy Gilson and Enya Moore both netting a brace remained locked on 14 goals apiece. An own goal plus one each for Clare Bevan and Megan Tucker helping to secure the victory.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies sat out last weekend’s fixtures that saw nearest rivals St Albans Ladies lose for the 2nd time this season in a 9 goal thriller with 3rd placed Northwood Ladies to keep their lead at the top of the table by 3 points. Were back in action this Sunday away to Hitchin Belles, Hemel Hempstead made it 10 wins now from 12 played, losing and drawing once each. Natasha McConville pulling away from Bianca Hedgecock as top scorer for the club netting a brace at the weekend to move onto 17 for the season. Captain Steph Cripps also on target with her 2nd goal of the campaign to help secure a 3-0 victory.
A high scoring defeat for St Albans Ladies last time out there was no close scoreline this Sunday as the club bounced back with a double figure win. St Albans at home to Hartham United Ladies. Grainne Kellet opening the scoring for St Albans on 22 minutes the host with a quickfire 2nd from top scorer Eleanor Lovelock who make it 3 on the half hour. Hartham pulling it back to 3-1 before Kellet popped up with her 2nd of the 2nd of the game late in the first half, Jessica Cavaree on target to make it 5-1 to St Albans at the break. A past start to the 2nd half seeing St Albans go further ahead, Kayla Johnson making it 6-1 4 minutes after the restart, Lovelock going on to complete her hat-trick soon after with her 29th goal of the season. St Albans in control goals coming at regular intervals Holly Williams to make it 8-1 on 70 minutes, Cavaree with a quick brace to make it a hat-trick with Johnson adding a 2nd goal to the tally late on and Lacey Kavanagh-Blake with her first goal of the season making the final score 12-1 in the final minute.
Northwood Ladies in 3rd were playing a double header this weekend away to Houghton Athletic Ladies as they look to get their games finished before the end of the season. Northwood winning the 3 points in the first match with top scorer Emma Steele netting a brace along with a goal for Honor Cantrell to see it finish 3-1. Emily Wilson with the goal for Houghton Athletic. Steele scoring again in the 2nd match to take her onto 27 goals for Northwood this season, Houghton Athletic though getting a goal with Sophie Lee finding the back of the net to earn a share of the points 1-1. 4 points at the weekend for Northwood not enough to take them above St Albans into 2nd spot lay a point behind pressure on both side above however with 5 points the gap between the leading trio now having all played 12.
The points also shared at the weekend between 5th placed Hitchin Town Ladies and 4th placed Garston Ladies 1st team. The match ending in a 1-1 draw with Ruby Jager scoring her 6th goal of the season for Garston who are looking well placed to secure a top 4 finish in their 2nd season playing in Division One.
At the other end of the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One table, Royston Town Women Development in 8th were away to bottom side Letchworth Garden City Eagles, both promoted from Division Two this season. The pair sharing the points in a 2-2 draw back at the start of February, Royston hadn’t played since another close game against the pair this Sunday with Tayla Murray scoring for Letchworth. Royston though coming away with the win thanks to a brace from Paige Rolfe to see them win for the 2nd time this season and open up a 4 point gap on the bottom pair.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday the top 4 were all back in action as the battle for the title goes on. Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses topping the table on goal difference over AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies were away to Evergreen Ladies at the weekend. Evergreen short on numbers with just 9 on the field, did well putting in a shift but against the league leaders it was always going to be a tough test and tiring in the 2nd half Woburn & Wavendon scoring goals went on to win comfortably 7-0. Holly Venn giving the visitors an early lead on 5 minutes with her 11th goal of the season. Evergreen holding their opponents at bay for much of the first half Charlotte Bedford doubling the lead on the half hour Georgia-Rose Edwards and Jessica Greaves adding a goal each to see the lead 4-0 at the break. Bedford with her 2nd of the game early in the 2nd half. Goals from Edwards and Kelly Randall in the final 10 minutes .
AFC Dunstable Women Blues were finally back in league action having not been involved in the title battle since the end of January, falling to third rearing to go as they travelled to face 2nd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies on Sunday. Nicola Hollick captaining the side amongst the goals for Dunstable netting 4 times in the match including one from the penalty spot to put her on to 25 goals for the season. Errin Murray also on target with her first goal for the club in just her 3rd appearance to help Dunstable to a 5-1 victory closing the gap to 2nd to 2 points with a game in hand a 5 behind leaders Woburn & Wavendon with 2 in hand.
Sherrardswood ladies in 5th spot were away to 4th placed Langford Ladies at the weekend in Division Two, points dropped in their last two fixtures including a first loss of the season seeing Langford slip away in the battle above for the title. A tough game agianst Sherrardswood the visitors opening the scoring from a corner in the 15th minute, Francesca Novelli scoring the goal. Leah Holmes getting her 5th goal of the season for Langford however 2nd half strikes from Kally-ann Westgarth and a 2nd of the game for Novelli her 5th of the season 10 minutes from time sealing a 3-1 win taking Sherrardswood to within 2 points of Langford with both having played 11.
Sherrardswood Ladies winning 3-1 against Langford Ladies this Sunday (photo credit Sherrardswood Ladies)
Garston Ladies Vintage Purples earning a point at home in a tough contest with Langford Ladies last weekend were on the road this weekend to face Bedford Ladies Development struggling for points this season in the bottom 3. Short on players at times too Bedford took the lead from a hopeful ball played into the box not dealt with by Garston feel to Lauren Prior to score her first Bedford goal making just her 2nd appearance. Garston coming back to level before half-time Emma Trill in good goal scoring form this season running at the Bedford defence before shooting from 25 yards out to score her 19th goal of the season. Garston pushing on 2nd half creating better chances but none taken the game was to end with the sides sharing the points.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Just two sides left across the East now with 100% records, Pinchbeck United Ladies in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship and Herts Vipers now 15 points clear in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, their record now 16 wins from 16 were taking on bottom side Whetstone Wanderers Ladies this Sunday the game switched around to get played with Herts Vipers at home. Kelsey Millen with her 15th strike of the season opening the scoring for Herts Vipers inside 8 minutes, Lois Ruane adding a 2nd 2 minutes later. Both players going on to score another goal each before half-time with Tasmin Symonds-Bishop also scoring to see the lead 5-0 at the break. Goals throughout the side this season Rosie Langston finding the back of the net early in the 2nd half to put Herts Vipers 6-0 up, Sarah Payne soon adding a goal to make it 7-0. Rachel Wall coming off the bench to score a brace the first on the hour, in between her goals Millen on target to score her hat-trick. Symonds-Bishop making it 11-0 with 11 minutes left. All this without top scorer Nicole Jancey entering the fray on the beach however didn’t take her long to get amongst the goals managing to complete a hat-trick herself in the final 12 minutes, the final score 14-0.
The rest of the field left in their wake, Biggleswade United Ladies having a strong season themselves are well placed to secure runners-up spot with 7 matches left to play are 3 points clear of Harvesters Ladies in 3rd who have played 2 more. Were away to Kempston Rovers Ladies this Sunday in Division Three. Angelica Fachechi on target to score a brace for Biggleswade has 7 for the season now, a goal too for Sarah King. There were also first Biggleswade goals for both Helen Spencer and Louise Grocott in a 5-1 victory. Hoffi Pursey with the goal for Kempston Rovers.
Harvesters Ladies were at home in Division Three this weekend hosting Flitwick Eagles Ladies. Eve Shaw with her 14th goal of the season firing Harvesters into a 10th minute lead. Flitwick coming back well to level the scores on the half hour with Brittany Holdsworth scoring for the 13th time this season. The scores level at half-time. Harvesters having to work for the win pushed all the way by Flitwick, retaking the lead with 20 minutes left Isobel Hughes making it 2-1 then 3-1 with a quick fire double. Sammy Beharry pulling it back to 3-2 with 12 minutes left for Flitwick. Eleanor Keating ensuring the victory for Harvesters making it 4-2 in the final minute.
Hitching Town Ladies Reserves were hosting Bedwell Rangers Ladies this Sunday in Division Three. The pair sharing 6 goals between them to take home a share of the points Bedwell Rangers with goals early in the 2nd half from Rachel Young and Freya Rampley getting onto the lead Hitchin Town fighting back with Ellen Beary scoring twice in the final 20 minutes and one from Fiona Davies her first for the club 6 minutes from time to see it finish 3-3.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies back in action this Sunday were hosting Buntingford Town Ladies and with other results going in their favour in mid-table in Division Three won the 3 points at home to move up to fifth level on points with Kempston Rovers Ladies. Stotfold winning the game 3-0 thanks to goals from Georgia Dollman and Gemma Robertson and a first of the season for Jessica Clarke-Patrick.
The race for the title at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership remains wide open as leaders Haverhill Rovers dropped points for the 2nd successive match. A 3-2 defeat at home to Leverington Sports Ladies last weekend Haverhill were entertaining Netherton United Ladies this Sunday. The visitors leading 1-0 at half-time thanks to a goal from Georgina Parrett. Haverhill coming back to level the scores in the 2nd period with Sian Cottrell scoring from the penalty spot. The hosts pushing hard to find a winning goal, Netherton keeping them at bay to see the sides take a share of the points.
Getting back to winning ways last Sunday away to Haverhill Rovers Ladies, Leverington Sports Ladies climb up to 2nd in the Premiership table this weekend to close the gap on the leaders to 3 points. Were away to Ketton Ladies the pair promoted last season from the Championship North after being neck and neck at the top all season. Leverington beginning life in the Premiership well amongst the early pacesetters have stayed in the top 4 since. A 2-0 win agianst Ketton in the reverse fixture at the start of the year. The visitors getting into the lead from a free-kick the ball put into the box Terri Ann Moeser with the shot an excellent save from the keeper however top scorer Sophie Swinden latching onto the loose ball to fire into the back of the net, Leverington with a 1 goal advantage at the break. Leverington starting the 2nd half well Savanna Plavecz doubling their lead. Kaylee Swinden up for a free-kick powering in a header at the far post to make it 3-0 with her first goal of the season. Chloe Stanborough put through by Sophie Swinden to round the defence and score her 17th goal of the campaign. Ketton pulling a goal back from a free-kick struck well in off the bar. Late in the game though and Leverington were to add a further 2 goals with Plavecz netting her 2nd of the game and 9th of the season. Amy Newell seeing it finish 8-1 with a well struck 35 yard dipping shot.
Amy Newell striking the ball (photo credit Steve Hone)
St Ives Town Development Ladies were at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday a competitive contest the pair ending up sharing the points as it ended all square, Ebony Rule netting twice for Fulbourn to put her onto 17 goals for the season, Maisie Buckle getting a goal for St Ives along with Jade Carpenter returning to the side after a long spell out with injury her 6th of the season, the hosts 5th in the table pushing for a winner late on it finished 2-2.
Cambridge University Women climb up the Premiership table into 6th spot as they won for a fourth successive match at the weekend. Were at home to then 6th placed side March Town United Ladies. A close game both sides creating chances March giving debuts to new signings Tilly Sands and Yasmin Holmes on the scoresheet twice with goals from Josie Turner and Emma Searle. Cambridge University pipping them to the points winning the match 3-2 with goals from Lu Liu, Anna O’Leary and a 13th of the season for Amanda Wainwright.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
Two of the youngest sides in the Cambridgeshire leagues meeting this Sunday in the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies new A side hosting Newmarket Town Women’s new Development side. Kaitlin Elsey scoring a double hat-trick on her Newmarket debut last weekend firing the visitors into the lead on 40 minutes to see them 1-0 up at the break. The Championship side going 2-0 up on the hour with Elsey on target for her 2nd of the game, the win sealed in the final 15 minutes with Clementine Key scoring Newmarket’s 3rd goal.
Newmarket’s opponents in the Junior Invitation Cup Final will be Histon Ladies Reserves the game scheduled for the 5th May with a 7:30pm kick-off at Histon FC.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
The title race at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship as exciting as the Premiership above, Cambridge Rangers Women long winning run coming to an end Park Ladies ending a run of 13 straight wins, a 2nd defeat of the season coming at home to title challengers Pinchbeck United Ladies 3-2. Were at home this Sunday taking on a rejuvenated Cardea Ladies. The visitors scoring goals while conceding in recent games a clean sheet last time out as they rattled in 13 goals against Burwell Tigers Ladies. A much closer contest this weekend the pair goalless at the break. Clare Kyndt putting Cambridge Rangers into the lead on the hour. Cardea quick to find a reply with Nicola Anderson scoring her 8th of the season 6 minutes later. Finished 1-1 the first draw for both sides this season.
Two further points dropped by Cambridge Rangers Women, Pinchbeck United Ladies close the gap to the leaders to 4 points as they kept up their own 100% winning run now at 13 matches away to 3rd bottom Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development on Sunday. Libby Friel on target to find the back of the net for four goals for Pinchbeck in the game takes her to 16 goals for the season. Freya Peters just a goal ahead of Friel to stay top scorer scoring a brace. Victoria Bradford also celebrating a goal along with Annie Vayro scoring her first Pinchbeck goal in an 8-0 win.
Park Ladies incredible run continues as they climb up to 3rd in the Championship table with a 10th straight win at the weekend. Were on the road played 2nd bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Francesca Piltsch getting another hat-trick for Park, leading the goal scoring charts with 18 goals for the campaign now. Sophie Fenner grabbing a brace their were goals too for Georgia Payne and Georgia Stimson moving to 10 and 13 goals respectfully to help secure a 7-1 victory. Emma Smart scoring for Swavesey. Park up to 3rd on goal difference over Mildenhall Town Ladies
Mildenhall Town Ladies have spent most of the season positioned 2nd in the Championship table the league newcomers finding their feet early on, slip to 4th of the back of this weekends results with in form Pinchbeck and Park moving past them, Mildenhall themselves losing out in a 7 goal thriller away to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Annalise Brown and Charlotte Nash scoring for Mildenhall in the first half. Isleham giving it a go with top scorers Laura Todd and Poppy Green both on target to score their 8th goals of the season. Becky O’Connor and Kerry Murry with her first of the season seeing Isleham into a 4-2 lead. Lydia Vince pulling it back to 4-3 scoring for Mildenhall in the 90th minute.
Eaton Socon Ladies another new comer doing well in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this season climbing the table with a good run of results into the top 4 mow lay fifth in the table were taking on fellow newcomers Cambourne United Women this Sunday won for the 11th time this season to earn another 3 points beating their opponents 4-1.
A huge game at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One played this Sunday as 2nd placed Bungay Town Ladies played host to runaway leaders Thorpe United Ladies. 13 successive wins for Thorpe at the top of the table 9 points clear going into the weekend captain Rebekah Lake having a prolific season in front of goal scoring 39 goals from just 15 games, Thorpe looking strong having a fantastic season so far into the League Cup final too. Bungay having a good season themselves losing just the one game that to Thorpe back in November losing away from home 1-0. 2 games in hand for Bungay, Sunday a crunch fixture you felt an eventful game in the finish a 7 goal thriller, Lake amongst the goals again racing past 40 onto 42 netting a hat-trick. Bungay though digging deep to get the 3 points and see Thorpe lose for the first time this season, Nicola Hazell scoring twice moving to 8 for the season. 2 goals too for top scorer Selina Rowland one from the penalty spot the game won 4-3. Thorpe ending the game with 10 players with Melissa Belsey red carded.
Selina Rowland
Nicola Hazell
Tavern Ladies enjoying a good season following promotion to Norfolk Women’s Division One join 3rd placed Sprowston Ladies on 27 points as they won for the 9th time this season away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the weekend. Strong in the final third Tavern are scoring plenty of goals since moving up a league. Atlanta Griffith top scorer this season so far well backed up by Katie Hart-Copsey and Lucy Kean all three on target on Sunday with Griffith finding the back of the net for four goals moving onto 19 for the season. Hart-Copsey scoring a hat-trick moves to 15 whilst Kean was also on target for her 14th goal of the season, Tavern running out 9-0 winners with midfielder Nicole Costin also celebrating a goal.
Long Stratton Women also promoted to Division One this season were at home to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend. Both sides short on availability for the match Long Stratton with usual captain Samantha Walker fielding the bare 11. Taverham winning the Division Two title with a very small squad had just the 9 on the pitch. Has been a tough season in Division One for Taverham continue to battle away a tight knit squad in 9th a positive end to the season could yet see them pull out of the bottom 2, earning a 2nd successive point on Sunday are up to 9th spot, Lucy Staff’s first goal of the season seeing Taverham leading at half-time. Long Stratton coming back to level the game 2nd half with Beth Stratton scoring. Long Stratton almost finding the winner hitting the crossbar late on.
Has been a tough spell for Fakenham Town Ladies bouncing back to Division One at the first attempt a good run had seen them climb as high as fifth in the table as they look to consolidate. A slump in results though seeing them lose ground with 6 loses in league and cup got back to winning ways at last this Sunday at home at Clipbush Park to fellow promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. Thetford beginning to find their feet in Division One themselves it was a close match with the scores level at 2-2 with the game entering the final three minutes, Fakenham getting the ball into their opponents goal for a 3rd time winning the game at the death. Top scorer Sophie Lubbock scoring her 9th goal of the season for Fakenham, Megan Spurrell also on target for a goal along with a first Fakenham goal for Gina Pooley. Thetford’s goal scorers Shannon Richardson with her first of the season and Jessica Knight with her first for the club.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Stalham Town Ladies remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two, following their return to 11 a side football have lost just once in 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw lead the way by 4 points over Beccles Town Ladies who do have two games in hand the chasing pack a further 5 points back. Amber Mayhew’s goals going a long way to Stalham Town’s points tally this season is in great form in front of goal. On target for another hat-trick again this Sunday away to 5th Waveney Ladies to see the club make it 10 wins for the season the game won 3-0. Mayhew on 22 for the season now. The top two meeting this coming Sunday.
Beccles Town Ladies looking to bounce straight back to Division One have themselves lost just the once this season, looking to chase down Stalham Town Ladies at the top of the Division Two table have had a frustrating season in terms of getting games played, that though has allowed injured players to return to fitness and ready to push on towards the latter 3rd of the season. Were at home to struggling Red Rose Ladies at the weekend 2nd bottom Red Rose were short of a full side meaning it would be a tough test against a Beccles sides scoring goals. Did well though to keep it down to 4-0 at half-time but eventually tiredness was going to play a part and Beccles ran amok in the 2nd period. 3 players all netting 5 goals each, top scorer Lola Barber-King, Francesca Catchpole and Ellie Hills doubling her tally for the season. The final score 19-0 with Elisha Bower, Chelsea Caplin, Megan Vincent and Beth Owen all getting a goal.
Horsford Women are up to 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table as they made it 4 straight wins on Sunday away to Hockering Ladies. The pair drawing 1-1 at the half-time interval Hockering added a 2nd goal 2nd half Horsford though scoring twice more to win the match 3-2 to take home the 3 points. Natalie Roope moves onto 10 for the season for Horsford with goals to for Amanda Vincent and Laura Hudson on her debut. Olivia Baker and Shelley Woods scoring in each half for Hockering.
North Walsham Ladies move above Hockering into 6th in the Division Two table with a 5th win of the season away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday. Both Keira Brown and top scorer Rhiannon Holt scoring twice to move to 6 and 12 goals for the season respectfully. Ella Chambers also scoring in the match celebrating her first goal of the season as North Walsham ran out 5-0 winners.
After a long month of postponements Peterborough Northern Star Ladies finally played their County Cup semi-final match against Moulton Ladies a convincing 11-0 win seeing them through to the final of the Northamptonshire Women’s up where they will face local rivals Peterborough United Ladies. That game out of the way the ERWFL Premier Division side had another cup game long lined up at home to fellow league side Colney Heath Ladies in the ERWFL League Cup quarter finals a home tie against Wymondham Town Ladies awaiting the winners. Early chances for both sides Katie Steward firing wide for Peterborough, Sarah Hudson in goal making a quality save to deny Colney Heath. Leah Cudone top scoring for Peterborough through one on one with the keeper to open the scoring for the hosts, Cudone in again to send the ball over the keeper to make it 2-0 with her 20th goal of the season going on to complete a hat-trick with just 21 minutes played. Samaira Khan top scoring for Colney Heath this season pulling it back to 3-1 10 minutes before half-time. The visitors threatening a comeback as Colney Heath pulled a 2nd goal back 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Pushing hard Colney Heath unable to find a levelling goal, Cassie Steward returning to the side recently having had a baby on target to score her first of the season to wrap up a 4-2 victory and send Peterborough into the last 4 of the league Cup.
A first half hat-trick on Sunday for Peterborough Northern Star’s Leah Cudone (photo credit Jason Cox Photos)
ERWFL Premier Division
ERWFL Premier Division leaders Harlow Town Ladies stay 6 points clear at the top of the table as they kept their unbeaten season going at home to 4th placed Bedford Ladies this Sunday. Both sides scoring goals their were plenty on show with the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. The fourth match in a row Bedford have score 4 or more goals, Natasha Fensome leading the attack getting a good portion of them on target to score a hat-trick against Harlow, Jasmine Ajayi also scoring a goal for Bedford. 4 goals for Bedford too last weekend ended up with just a point against local rivals AFC Dunstable Ladies, disappointment at the final whistle this Sunday leaving the Harlow Arena empty handed as a hat-trick from striker Georgia Box helped Harlow to a 5-4 win. Amy Nash and Tayla Handscombe also celebrating a goal each.
Georgia Box scoring a hat-trick for Harlow Town Ladies this Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)
Luton Town Ladies move 4 points clear in 2nd spot in the Premier Division table, 6 points back from Harlow with a game in hand. Were at home to Wroxham Women this Sunday in the league. Wroxham having seen a few games called of recently slipping down the Premier Division table, Luton in good form creating opportunities opening the scoring late in the first half Zara Carroll with the ball in for Jess Mckay to head in. 1-0 up at the break Luton were quick out of the blocks 2nd half Dionne Manning with an early chance saved Funmi Babalola putting over on the rebound as McKay’s strike struck the crossbar. McKay finding the top corner for her 2nd of the game in the 58th minute sees her onto 19 for the season. Rebecca Kane with a shot in the final five minutes rolled in by a defender to see Luton win the match 3-0.
Wymondham Town Ladies manager Alex Guy, celebrating a milestone this Sunday his 200th match in charge of the side, the Norfolk side enjoying a great spell in that time rising through the leagues and back to back successes in the County Cup, are up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division table now after coming home with the 3 points secured away to 2nd bottom AFC Dunstable Women. The hosts though taking an early lead going 1-0 inside 2 minutes scoring from a corner. Wymondham getting themselves back into it starting to control possession equalising on the half hour, Chelsea Clarke putting in a cross for Laura Nicholls finish first time. Wymondham going on to take the lead on the closing minutes of the first half Mollie O’Callaghan with the corner kick Mia Etheridge rising to head home. 2-1 up at the break Wymondham went on to seal the win midway through the 2nd half good work from O’Callaghan in midfield the ball on to Etheridge shooting into the bottom corner to make it 3-1.
Royston Town Women another side to have slipped down the ERWFL Premier Division table due to called off fixtures, in good form at the start of the season recent results a mixed bag have reached the last 4 of the League Cup were at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this weekend. Rebecca Vass doing well for Royston since joining the club scoring twice at the weekend to move onto 21 for the season off 14 appearances Charlotte South alos getting a goal for the Hertfordshire side her 5th of the campaign along with a first for Becki Ingram in just her 4th appearance for the side. The 4-0 win for Royston lifting them above Bowers & Pitsea into 7th a point out of the top half with games in hand on a couple of sides.
ERWFL Division One North
Just 3 games left to play for ERWFL Division One North leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development enjoying a strong debut season in the ERWFL losing just one of their 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw end Sunday 4 points clear of 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies who sat out this weekends fixtures. Cambridge were away to fellow promoted side East Bergholt United Ladies, the Suffolk side an early pace setter along side Cambridge have since slipped all the way down to 7th in the table. 3 sides for Cambridge this season a big games elsewhere too travelled Suffolk with the bare 11. East Bergholt getting off to a good start 1-0 after just 5 minutes. East Bergholt playing well Cambridge got themselves back level in the 35th minute Bella Simmons brought down inside the box Carla Penny scoring the resulting penalty. East Bergholt came back to retake the lead from a well worked goal to go in 2-1 up at the break. Cambridge regrouping starting the 2nd half well early pressure seeing the ball handled inside the box a 2nd penalty awarded Penny up to score her 2nd of the game top scorer with 19 goals for the season. East Bergholt a threat going forwards fighting to retake the lead, instead it a Cambridge who get thier noses in front midway through the 2nd half with Simmons finding the bottom corner from 20 yards out to score her 12th of the season. Cambridge holding on to win the game East Bergholt left frustrated their goals scored by Jessica Quinsee and Pippa King both on target with their first goals of the season.
Needham market Women also new to the ERWFL this season finding their feet in regional football in just their 2nd season together climbing to 3rd in the Division One North table had closed the gap to leaders Cambridge to 6 points with a game in hand and two games against the league leaders home and away to come. Were away to Histon Ladies this Sunday the Cambridgeshire side 5th also have games in hand 6 left to play before the weekend and on 14 points could well press on into the top 3 themselves. Annie Northwood on target to score her 14th of the season putting Needham market into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A good as it would get for the visitors in the first half however as Histon bounced back well to losing the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final in midweek, equalising in the 22nd minute went on to take the lead on the half hour quickly adding a 3rd goal. Histon leading 4-1 at half-time, Poppy Kelly netting a brace to give her 12 for the season. Alison Wright scoring for the 7th time this campaign and a first goal for defender Amie Flack. An own goal seeing Histon go 5-1 up in the 2nd half. Needham Market getting one back through Millie Carter on the hour as good as it would get Histon moving onto 17 points up to 4th.
AFC Sudbury Women playing their last game of the season this Sunday rebuilding with a young squad after relegation last term have grown as a team results not coming early on but have picked up one notable scalp, Cambridge City’s only defeat this season against Sudbury. Ended the season on a high at home to bottom side Gorleston Ladies, the Norfolk side also new to the league this season enduring a tough campaign no points on the board for the 2nd successive weekend travelled with just the bare 11 players carrying injuries to playing on a tough task against a Sudbury side with 5 named on the bench. Rebecca Stephenson netting a hat-trick for Sudbury. There were also two for Charlene Roach-Smith with Evie Creaton and Phoebe Guiver also scoring in a 9-1 win that sees Sudbury 6th for now at least.
ERWFL Division One South
The fixtures wiped out again last weekend in ERWFL Division One South there was a full fixture list with 3 games on this Sunday. Unbeaten leaders Millwall Lionesses were hosting bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies travelling with just 10 players it was always going to be tough against a Millwall side with plenty of energy and creativity in attack. Molly Hawkins getting the hosts off to a fast start putting Millwall up inside 3 minutes adding a 2nd 5 minutes later was celebrating her hat-trick with 20 minutes gone. Shannan Drewe in on goal to make it 4-0 on the half hour Millie Connell making it 5 moments later. Connell on the scoresheet for her 2nd to score from the penalty spot after Hawkins was fouled inside the box. Matilde Strocchi rounding the keeper to score on her Millwall debut to see the hosts 7-0 up at half-time.
The goals kept coming 2nd half Kaitlyn Lewis heading in Millwall’s 8th. Hawkins in to score her 4th of the match, Sian Fitzpatrick bringing up double figures. Rebecca Scola getting one back for Hoddesdon midway through the 2nd half. Connell with her 2nd penalty of the match to bring up her hat-trick. Drewe with a quickfire goal making it 12-1 going on to complete a hat-trick with 15 to play. A flurry of goals at the death with Connell making it a hat-trick from the penalty spot Hawkins with her 5th and one from Daniella Colorado.
Millie Connell with 4 goals for Millwall Lionesses at the weekend including a hat-trick from the penalty spot.
Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to keep pace with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the ERWFL Division One South table the Essex side new to the league this season enjoying a strong campaign at regional level a very young side were away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway amongst the goals joining Leigh Ramblers this season was on target to score her 12th of the campaign at the weekend with goals to from Rebecca Dalgarno her 8th of the season and a goal each for Kate newton and Paige White to help secure a 4-1 victory. Harriet Douglas scoring for Stevenage.
Hutton Ladies 3rd in the ERWFL Division One South table the side the leading pair need to keep an eye on unbeaten themselves the Essex side have much more experience in their ranks and games in hand with the gap now 4 points were away to Lawford Ladies at the weekend their first league game since the 2nd week of the new year plenty of goals scored so far this season were strong in attack again this Sunday top scorer Vicky Kinsman with another brace to her name moves onto 36 now for the season from just 12 games. Lauren Knight on the scoresheet too for her 9th of the season along with a goal for Clare Edmondson and a first for Kayleigh Franklin in a 5-0 win.
A much delayed quarter final tie for Watford Ladies the club finally playing their game against Chichester City Ladies after a month. Winning through to the semi-finals Watford faced another long journey this time to the North West to play Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women in the semi-final. That game suffering from postponement last Sunday the Southern Premier Division side haven’t played a league match since the final weekend of January. At last this Sunday the game was on better weather finally. Few chances created on the first period a close contest the pair going in all square at the break 0-0.
The 2nd half starting in the same vein, Watford going down to 10 on the hour with goalkeeper Nina Wilson sent off for handling outside the area. 2nd half substitute Hattie Kettle going in between the posts. Watford with a good response after going down to 10, Alysha Stojko-Down shooting wide. The game into the final 20 minutes Watford get their noses in front a good ball to see Anne Meiwald through on goal her initial strike hitting the post is closing in on the follow-up to tuck away the rebound. Both sides down to 10 with 10 minutes left Middlesborough’s Rebekah Bass red carded for an off the ball incident. Watford push on in the final minutes a god chance on 87 minutes the game sealed in the 90th minute Megan Chandler in to win the ball outside the box with a fantastic strike to make it 2-0.
Watford will play West Bromwich Albion Women in this season’s Plate final the game taking place on Sunday 22nd March at Stafford FC.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Wet weather was to affect the FAWNL Southern Premier Division elsewhere with the games between Chichester City Ladies and Gillingham Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies called off. Two matches surviving. A mid-week victory for Oxford United Women 2-1 at home to Milton Keynes Dons Women saw them climb up above Plymouth Argyle Ladies into 3rd spot on goal difference, were back at home this Sunday taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Oxford opening the scoring in the 23rd minute pressure from the hosts around the penalty box the ball put into Kayleigh Hines 25 yards out an impressive strike clipping the woodwork in its way in to the top corner. Portsmouth coming on well both sides creating chances a gritty game at times the visitors back on level terms just past the half hour getting forwards the ball flashed in across the face of goal Hayley Bridge arriving at the far post to make it 1-1. Oxford with good chances to retake the lead however it was level at half-time Oxford had to dig in at times as Portsmouth came on 2nd half both sides with opportunities in front of goal, the winner coming in the 75th minute ex-Portsmouth player Daisy McLachlan lashing the ball home after coming in at the far post. 2-1 to Oxford close the gap to 2nd placed Watford to a point albeit Watford have 3 games in hand.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies too closing the point to Watford to a point on 14 games the same as Oxford United Women, at home this Sunday hosting 2nd bottom side Hounslow Women. Plymouth getting forwards well chances coming opened the scoring just past the half hour winning a corner kick a low ball played in by Helen Bleazard, Ebony Dover laying it on for Lydia Huntley to slot past the keeper for her first goal of the season. The advantage doubled 2 minutes before the half-time whistle Bleazard playing Dover through to put her shot past the keeper. A 2-0 lead for Plymouth, a quickly reply from Hounslow Women at the start of the 2nd half getting it back to 2-1 straight away. Plymouth settling after that coming on in search of a third goal Hounslow battling well to keep them out keeping the scoreline tight but not able to find an equalising goal Plymouth finishing 2-1 winners.
FAWNL South East Division One
Battles shaping up at both ends of the FAWNL South East Division One table. The top half of the table competitive right from the start the tussle at the bottom livening up in recent weeks as sides attempt to get themselves out of trouble. A host of international call-ups seeing Ipswich Town Women leading the table not played another opportunity for AFC Wimbledon Ladies to return to within a point of the leaders, wouldn’t be easy though away to 6th placed Enfield Town Ladies at the weekend. Sarah Wentworth with her first goal of the season firing Wimbledon into the lead inside 5 minutes getting into box sending her strike up high into the net to make it 1-0. Enfield with a quick reply back on level terms just 6 minutes later captain Nuala McKevitt on the scoresheet from a corner. Chances coming for both sides Enfield hitting the crossbar. A cracking strike from Elizabeth Berkeley putting Wimbledon back into the lead in the 33rd minute. The visitors 2-1 up at the break. A bright start to the 2nd half Enfield awarded a penalty on 54 minutes, Beth Lumsden stepping up to put Enfield level at 2-2. Wimbledon straight up the other end to retake the lead Rosie Russell smashing the ball home from inside the box to make it 3-2 with her first strike of the season. The game into the final 15 minutes a fantastic run from Georgia Heasman before setting up substitute Helen Ogle to find the back of the net and put Wimbledon 4-2 up. The gap to Ipswich back to a point wit both having played 14.
AFC Basildon Women have won 6 in a row to climb up to 3rd spot in the South East Division One table were hosting 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC at the weekend looking to make it 7 straight league wins. Their opponents the last side to beat them in the league back in September a 3-0 win in the reverse fixture. Basildon on top in the first half unable to break the deadlock the pair going into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A goal ruled out for offside for Basildon right at the start of the 2nd half. Basildon finally getting their noses in front midway through the 2nd half, awarded a free-kick, Poppy Binding’s strike getting a touch of the Leyton Orient defence on it’s way through to goal. Kelly Wealthall and Holly Turner both coming close to doubling the lead. The game into the final 15 minutes, Courtney Clarke down the left putting the ball into Turner inside the box for a composed finish to make it 2-0. Leyton Orient pressing but unable to find a reply as Basildon extend their winning run.
Holly Turner finishing at the near post to put Basildon 2-0 up (photo credit Jason Clogg)
Billericay Town Ladies stay a point behind Basildon fourth in the South East Division One table with two games in hand as they won at ‘home’ to Actonians Ladies on Sunday, enjoyed an exciting match in the Women’s FA Cup at the start of the year. Postponed from last week rearranged for this Billericay winning more comfortably this weekend the game a Malden, Therese Addison sending the ball past the advancing keeper to open the scoring would go on to miss a penalty. Ellie Nicholls opening her Billericay account with her first senior goal. Hannah Smith also on target with her 6th of the season. Zoe Rushen celebrating a 2nd half brace going clear as top scorer once again on 13 goals. Billericay winning 5-0.
Crucial games to come at the bottom of the South East Division One table too, Cambridge United WFC winning 1-0 away to bottom side Kent Football United climbing above Stevenage FC Women and Norwich City Women into 8 position as they began a run of 4 games playing the sides down around them including the pair mentioned above a local rivals Cambridge City Ladies. At home this Sunday at St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium were hosting Stevenage FC Women. The featured game on Women’s Football East this Sunday the full match report can be found below this post. Amy Butler making her debut in goal for Cambridge United. Both sides looking to exploit width get up the flanks Stevenage making a good start a couple of chances Ashleigh Deacon causing problems with her pace out on the right getting on with the ball her cross in cut out straight to midfielder Amy Josland at the top of the area hit it back in to open the scoring put Stevenage 1-0 on 19 minutes. Cam close again the woodwork struck, Cambridge United building momentum as the 1st half wore on getting at their opponents with good opportunities before the half-time whistle.
Cambridge’s Charlotte Crisp getting a leg up to block Stevenage’s Nicole Emmings strike on goal.
A narrow advantage for Stevenage at half-time, Cambridge United began the 2nd half well getting forwards quickly an early goal from Amy Howlett ruled out for offside. The hosts winning a corner a good delivery in from the left clearing the keeper near post Faith Hewitt meeting it beyond to nod in from close range. Cambridge United doing well, Stevenage frustrated 2nd half Cambridge United going on to take the lead with 20 minutes left getting forwards well with pace Hewitt on for Kelly Blanchflower to pick out Emma Jenkins left side her cross put into the box saved by Grace Brooks the ball pushed out towards the top of the area Blanchflower quickest to it latching onto the shot firing the ball home to score her 7th goal of the season. Stevenage looking for a reply pushed on but Cambridge United defended well to make it back to back wins and pull further clear from the 4 sides below.
A massive 3 points too for Cambridge City Ladies at the weekend as they won at home to Norwich City Women the 2nd bottom side moving to within two points of the Norfolk side as a result and just one behind Stevenage. Confidence high as Cambridge City beat Histon Ladies 6-0 in mid-week to win this season Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final. Norwich though getting off to a good start taking an early lead winning the ball high from a goal kick a diagonal ball finding top scorer Chelsea Garrett free in the box right of goal shot across the keeper to put the visitors 1-0 up, Cambridge responding well Charlotte Gillies with a good opportunity. Norwich coming close as Aimee Durrant almost broke free into the box stopped by goalkeeper Dominika Szary. The hosts getting back on level terms midway through the 1st half Gillies pace causing problems right side was played in central running on lobbing the keeper to score. Karly Tolentino with a good chance to put Cambridge City in front, got the goal minutes later as she scrambled the ball in at the near post from a corner on the half hour. Cambridge City leading 2-1 at half-time Laura Mills clear firing a shot over early in the 2nd half for the hosts Gillies on the move making it 3-1 on the hour shooting into the bottom corner from the top of the box. Norwich unable to create a clear opportunity up the other end Cambridge City now breathing down their necks have games in hand on both Norwich and Stevenage.
The weather once again affecting the fixtures in the Beds & Herts women’s football league games called off in all three divisions alot of work put in to get other played however with sides trying to switch Garston Ladies Vintage Purples, Sherrardswood Ladies and Buntingford Town Ladies all originally at home travelling to their opponents.
Starting with the action form Division One this Sunday and a win for 2nd placed St Albans Ladies would see them return to the top of the table on goal difference over Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. Were hosting 3rd placed Northwood Ladies who themselves needed a positive result to keep up the pressure on the top 2 a high scoring contest won by the odd goal in 9! Northwood’s last league action way back at the start of the year. St Albans with an early goal Jessica McNamara scoring. Kayla Johnson scoring on the hour added a 2nd goal late in injury time with top scorer Eleanor Lovelock firing in her 26th goal of the season with 7 minutes to play. Not enough for St Albans to take anything from the match however as Northwood performed well as a team to take home all 3 points, Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick goes to 11 for the season whilst there was another brace for top scorer Emma Steele who has 26 now for the season. Northwood winning 5-4.
Garston Ladies 1st team also in the mix in the top 4 as they keep level on points with Northwood both now 2 points back from St Albans as they won at home this weekend against Hitchin Belles who claimed their first league win in Division One last weekend. Garston in good form in the league winning 4 in a row coming into Sunday’s fixture, Hitchin buoyed off the back of their victory the pair drawing 1-1 at the break, Bonnita Woodward with her first goal of the season for Hitchin Belles. Garston starting the 2nd half well taking the lead 10 minutes in going on to score a 2nd quickly 3-1 up added a 4th to make it 5 wins league wins in a row 6 if including their cup win. Paige Andrews with a brace her first goals of the season their was a goal each too for Cassandra Chase and Hayley Carr.
A good start to the season in Division One for Hitchin Town Ladies newly promoted to the league a run of losses against the top 3 sides seeing them slip down the table, arrested that run against local rivals Hitchin Belles were on the road this weekend taking on 5th place Hartham United Ladies a positive result would see them leap frog them back into the top half of the table. Hitchin Town taking the lead 1st half through their captain Emma Chaffey with a great strike from the edge of the box to find the bottom corner. The visitors going on to take a 2-0 lead into half-time a long ball on finding Chaffey through on goal to chip the onrushing goalkeeper. Chaffey doubling her tally for the season in the 2nd half Hitchin Town awarded a penalty the spot kick sent home to see Hitchin Town move back to 5th winning 3-0.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Two games surviving in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two both seeing a switch of venue, Garston Ladies Vintage Purples now away to 4th placed Langford Ladies. Emma Trill in great goal scoring form for Garston in recent games set up unselfishly by Lucy Zecchin through on goal with only the keeper to beat put in Trill to send home. 1-0 Garston had their backs to the wall as Langford pressed for an equaliser, Trill in a again through to beat the keeper to the ball to score her 2nd and 18th goal of the season seeing Garston leading 2-0. Langford pulling a goal back just before the half-time whistle. Langford strong at the start of the 2nd half Garston working hard to try and defend their lead Langford strong on the counter attack coming back to level the scores a 30 yard run leading to a 2nd goal. Garston put everything into defending the point glad when the final whistle blew. 2-2 the final score Tabitha Brown and Chloe Scott with the goals for Langford.
Sherrardswood Ladies now away to Evergreen Ladies this Sunday. Evergreen’s first game for 4 weeks, have had some eventful games with Sherrardswood already this season. A good first half from Evergreen however they found themselves trailing 1 nil at the break as a Sherrardswood fired a low cross into the box resulting on the opening goal in the 38th minute Melissa Wright with her first goal of the season. Evergreen starting the 2nd half well getting the ball up and around the Sherrardswood penalty box were awarded a penalty for handball in the 53rd minute captain Rebecca Freeman putting it away to score her 8th goal of the season. 1-1 Evergreen went on to find the winning goal with 15 minutes left on the clock a ball over the top saw Natalie Maher through to make it 2-1 and secure the 3 points.
Evergreen Ladies winning 2-1 at the weekend (photo credit Evergreen Ladies – Facebook)
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two matches also in Division Three this weekend, 3 points awarded to leaders Herts Vipers already with scheduled opponents Stotfold Juniors unable to field a side. Herts Vipers getting another league game sorted this time against 3rd placed Harvesters Ladies as they look to keep their 100% record going. The pair neck and neck at the top of the table in the first part of the season. Top scorer Nicole Jancey getting Herts Vipers into the lead inside 10 minutes after Rachel Wall had intercepted the ball. That the advantage going into the break, Jancey having a brilliant season in front of goal her first half strike her 49th of the season just 10 minutes into the 2nd half she was celebrating her 2nd and more significantly 50th goal of the season, these coming from just 16 appearances. Tazmin Symonds-Bishop ensuring the win with 20 minutes left the ball put to her six yards out to score.
Congratulations to Herts Vipers striker Nicole Jancey on reaching 50 goals this season (photo credit Herts Vipers)
A significant result too at the bottom of Division Three at the weekend as Buntingford Town Ladies win for just the 2nd time this season another side reversing their fixture now away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies. The pair fairly even in the first half both scoring, Flitwick through Brittany Holdsworth to see them level at 1 each. Buntingford having the better of the first half as they went on to take the lead and score another 3 to win the game 5-2. Sammy Beharry on target with Flitwick’s 2nd goal with 10 minutes to play, Buntingford off the foot of the table with the 3 points.
Another weekend of disruption across the county leagues with heavy rain falling at the start of the weekend leaving pitches waterlogged 3 games affected in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership leaving just the two on. Leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies on 3G , 5 points clear at the top as they hosted Leverington Sports Ladies in 4th. Haverhill starting the game well winning a series of corner kicks capitalising from one to take the lead. Leverington keeping solid at the back preventing any further goals as they got themselves back into the game trailing 1-0 at the break the visitors coming back to level the scores top scorer Sophie Swinden twisting and turning at the top of the box before shooting to net her 20th goal of the season. Five minute later Leverington were in the lead Savanna Plavecz playing Chloe Stanborough in to beat the keeper. Haverhill’s turn to press on in attack winning more corner the game entering the final 10 minutes the hosts coming back to level the ball in initially saved the keeper falling the ball loose scrambled over the line. Leverington poured forwards in the closing minutes Stanborough in again rounding a defender to send the ball into the bottom corner to score the winning goal. Leverington stay 4th but move level on points with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves. Haverhill losing for the 2nd time this season their goalscorers Joeli Kirby and Julie Brown.
ICA Sports Ladies 3rd in the Premiership table going into the weekend took full advantage of 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves match being called off to win the 3 points on the road and move above them in the table closing the gap to leaders Haverhill to 4 points. Were taking on Cambridge City Ladies A, some good football on show by both sides ICA Sports coming out on top with Hannah Murphy netting a hat-trick taking her onto 9 for the season. Lorna Hart getting on the scoresheet too with a brace. Also goal too for Donna Nicholls seeing her join top scorer Annie Posnett on 10 goals ICA Sports winning 6-1.
A hat-trick on Sunday for ICA Sports Ladies, Hannah Murphy
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
The first of this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup semi-finals played this weekend. Not wanting to be beaten by the weather the game switched onto 3G at Cambourne Sports Centre kicking off at 3pm, Histon’s Reserve side hoping to make it a cup final double for the club by matching the first team who will be playing in this season’s senior Invitation Cup final against Cambridge City at The Abbey Stadium this Wednesday evening. Both sides struggling for points in their respective leagues a cup final to play for Swavesey Spartans have saved their best form for the cups this season. Scored through Stacey Askew, proving a tough test for Histon the pair drawing 1-1 at the finish with Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes getting the goal the semi-final going to penalties, Histon edging the shoot-out 6-5 to book their spot in the final. Histon’s opponents will be either Cambridge City Ladies A or Newmarket Town Women Development the pair contesting their semi-final this coming Sunday.
Histon Ladies Reserves through to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup final (photo credit Histon Ladies Reserves)
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Four matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend, and a huge game at the top of the table with leaders Cambridge Rangers Women hosting 3rd placed Pinchbeck United Ladies. Cambridge Rangers with a long winning run topping the table ended by Park Ladies at the end of January. Just the one loss so far hosting Pinchbeck who themselves as the only 100% winning side left. games on hand can close Cambridge Rangers down these crucial games, Cambridge Rangers pushing Pinchbeck all the way scoring twice with Robyn Barlow and Laura Kelly on target, Pinchbeck themselves scoring twice the scores 2-2 late in the game the visitors nicking the win late on taking it 3-2 to extend their 100% run to 12 games stay two points behind 2nd placed Mildenhall, 6 points behind Cambridge Rangers with 4 games in hand. Pinchbeck’s three goals scored by Holly Coupland, Chloe Gray and Libby Friel with her 12th of the season.
Mildenhall Town Ladies remain 2nd in the Championship table as they won at home this weekend against Cambourne United Women. Two goals in the 2nd half from top scorer Katie Hayes her 20th and 21st strikes of the season seeing Mildenhall come back from trailing 2-1 at half-time to win the game 3-2 after Emily Arnold and Abby Cotten had give Cambourne the lead at the break.
Mildenhall Town Ladies beating Cambourne 3-2 at the weekend (photo credit Mildenhall Town Ladies)
Park Ladies fine run of form continued this Sunday as they extended their winning streak in the league to 9 matches, up to 4th in the Championship just 3 points of 2nd placed Mildenhall with a game in hand. Were away to Deeping United Ladies this weekend, a 2-1 win for Park in the reverse fixture back in mid-December at the start of their winning run. Goalless in the first half Deeping pressing Park hard had to work for their win eventually coming out on top in the 2nd period scoring twice to claim the 3 points with both goals score by Georgia Payne giving her 9 got the season.
Cardea Ladies were also in action this Sunday in the Championship at home to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Frustrating results for Cardea in their previous two games taking early leads before going on to lose 7-3 & &-4 respectfully. Emma Frost getting her first goal for the club to fire Cardea into the lead in the 11th minute. Anna Langa quickly adding a 2nd. Cardea going on to dominate the first half adding a further 4 goals with Nicola Anderson, Courtney Coles, Frost with her 2nd and captain Laura Rudd scoring. The goals kept coming 2nd half Rudd on the hour making it 7-0. Langa with 15 minutes left adding her 2nd the last ten minutes seeing a flurry of goals. Coles and Anderson with another goal each, Langa completing her hat-trick adding a 4th goal her 12th of the season as Cardea ran out 13-0 winners.
Plenty of action around Norfolk this weekend the only county not to be affected by the wet weather at the end of the week all 9 games listed getting played. 4 games in Division One and 13 is not an unlucky number for Thorpe United Ladies as they extended their 100% record to 13 matches at the top of the table to stay 9 points clear of the sides below. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Thorpe with captain Rebekah Lake leading the attack scoring plenty of goals easy to overlook they have the tightest defence in the league too conceding just 6 goals so far this season. Lake on hand to fire in another 2 goal this weekend taking her to 39 for the season ran out comfortable winners in the finish 9-1. Sophie Jermy also netting a brace. Midfielder’s Alice Ladbrooke and Laura Hedtke forming a good partnership in the middle of the park this season both on the scoresheet at the weekend with their 8th goals of the season. Aneliese Smith and Natasha Levesley both scoring a goal each too along with Kelly Conroy in her 1st team debut. Rebecca Carver with the goal for Wymondham.
With Sprowston Ladies playing in the League Cup this weekend Bungay Town Ladies had the opportunity to move 3 points clear into 2nd spot in Division One as they travelled to play Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts with just the bare 11 available. Bungay themselves scoring goals this season whilst keeping it tight at the back just the one loss so far this season that a narrow defeat against Thorpe. Goals spread amongst the side too, Selina Rowland staying a goal ahead as top scorer with one at the weekend has 14 now for the season, Leanne Smith one behind on 13 also scoring a goal. Shannon Dade also celebrating a goal whilst their was a brace for Lauren Purling who has 6 goals now from 7 appearances. Bungay winning the game 5-1, now 9 points behind Thorpe with 2 games in hand, their next match at home to Thorpe this coming Sunday! Rebecca White getting the Thetford goal.
Tavern Ladies another side amongst the goals this season 4th in Division One make the trip to Clipbush Park this Sunday to face Fakenham Town Ladies for the 4th time this season. Beating them 3 times so far in league a cup (twice). Fakenham up against it this weekend with just the bare 11 battled hard in defence Tavern carrying a threat form midfield Atlanta Griffith on target twice to score taking her to 15 for the season with Sophie Fuller back in the side also scoring a goal to see Tavern win 3-0.
A tough season so far in Division One for Freethorpe Ladies bottom with just the one point so far this season from 13 played adrift at the foot of the table where hosting 2nd bottom Taverham United Ladies at the weekend, keep plugging away Lily-Ann Marples on the scoresheet for her first goal for Freethorpe seeing them drawing with Taverham 1-1 at half-time. Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham. Winning Division Two last season in their debut season in women’s football Taverham finding it tougher in Division One, not scoring the goals that won them the title the pair sharing the points in the finish neither adding another goal. Freethorpe celebrating a 2nd hard won point. Incredibly tight in the bottom half of the table Taverham if they can find them are just 2 wins away from a mid-table position.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
Postponed from last weekend Long Stratton Women were hosting Sprowston Ladies this weekend in the semi-final of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, both knowing they will be facing Thorpe United Ladies in the final after they beat Tavern Ladies 4-0 last weekend. Sprowston the current League Cup holders have Victoria Leyer leading their attack prolific in front of goal this season vying with Thorpe’s Rebekah Lake for the golden boot (or whatever the equivalent is in Norfolk) Long Stratton giving it a go have goals in them themselves the first half ending all square with both sides scoring twice, Charlie Head and Summer Moore for Long Stratton. Sprowston coming out on top in the 2nd period taking the lead and going on to add a 2nd goal to reach the final once again with a 4-2 victory, Leyer putting the ball into the back of the net for another hat-trick taking her to 33 goals for the season with Hannah Roe on target for her first goal of the season.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Four games too this Sunday played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. League leaders Stalham Town Ladies 4 points clear at the top losing just once so far this season were back in action for the first time since Jan 12th hosting 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies. No signs of rust as Stalham ran out comfortable winners in the finish. Amber Mayhew amongst the goals this season on target for a hat-trick to go onto 19 for the season from 12 appearances. A hat-trick to for Emma Gillespie who has 8 for the campaign now. Stalham winning 7-1 with the other goal coming from Charlotte Crane her first of the season. Molly Howes scoring the goal for Thorpe.
Beccles Town Ladies looking to chase Stalham down at the top stay 4 points behind with 2 games in hand as they themselves won convincingly away to North Walsham on Sunday. Beccles last game also back in 12th Jan. Have Francesca Catchpole back in their side after recovering from a nasty knee injury that had her out long term she was on target to score a hat-trick on Sunday her return now 12 goals from just 4 appearances. Lola Barber-King holding onto the top scorers position at the moment getting on the scoresheet too with her 15th goal of the season. Beccles running out 8-2 winners with 4 more names on the scoresheet, Elisha Bower, Francesca Heaney, Lucy Robbens and Beth Owen. Keira Brown and Sophie Hall scoring the North Walsham goals.
Waveney Ladies climb back above Thorpe United Ladies Reserves on goal difference as they won away from home on Sunday to 2nd bottom side Red Rose Ladies. The damage done in the first half a comfortable lead for Waveney went on to add another goal 2nd half to win the game 5-0 to come away with the 3 points.
Is a 3 way tie on 19 points now in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with 5th placed Horsford Women matching Thorpe United Reserves and Waveney’s points total as they extended their winning run to 3 matches 10 points from their last 4 overall Were hosting bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this weekend First half goals from Natalie Roope and Amanda Vincent helping Horsford to a 2-0 victory.
