Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier League this Sunday. Moving 3 points clear of Watford Ladies who weren’t in action. 4 matches played in the league this weekend Crawley Wasps were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs back in after serving a suspension, Emma Plewa back in the squad after a spell out with injury. Portsmouth back in action after 3 weeks following a couple of postponed fixtures.
Crawley Wasps taking the lead soon after the opening quarter hour, Natasha Stephens running in on goal heading in close on goal as a left wing cross drops to her. Portsmouth coming back to equalise 10 minutes later a long range shot tipped onto the bar by Gibbs, Jade Widdows quickest to react latching onto the ball to make it 1-1. Crawley Wasps coming straight back to retake the lead, Plewa running into the left channel taking the ball into the box and finishing clinically for her first goal of the season. The visitors reduced to 10 on the half hour, Katie Jones shown a straight red. A player down Portsmouth battled on 2nd half Crawley Wasps eventually extending their lead in the final 15 minutes Plewa racing through onto a long ball forwards travelling into the box and slotting the ball under the keeper to see the match won 3-1.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue to apply pressure to the top two in the Southern Premier Division extending their winning run to 9 matches now in all competitions. A 7th straight league win coming this Sunday on their travels against bottom side Chichester City Ladies. An even start to the game Plymouth growing stronger as the 1st half progressed the dead lock broken late in the half Amber Pollock 40 yards out hitting a rocket on the half volley to make it 1-0. Plymouth with a 1 goal lead going into the 2nd half have been scoring plenty of goals this season. Mollie Taylor making her 150th appearance for the club this Sunday making it 2-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half, heading in from a corner kick. Chances for both sides before Plymouth made it 3-0 from another corner in the 71st minute, captain Katie Middleton heading in at the near post. Into the final 10 minutes and a quickfire double from top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing Plymouth wrap up a 5-0 win.
Yeovil Town Women climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after a a 3rd straight league win. Playing at home this weekend taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women who themselves have now suffered 6 straight defeats in the league. Jamie Sherwood returning to Yeovil as manager in his first game in charge. An even start Yeovil taking the lead with Annie Heatherson moving out wide delivering the cross for Kelly Aldridge to score. The hosts reduced to 10 with half an hour played attacker Sarah Wiltshire receiving a straight red card. Yeovil with a narrow lead at the break. Despite being a player short creating chances, Aldridge coming close early on rattling the crossbar. A crucial 2nd goal coming as Meesha Dudley-Jones drives on to the corner of the 18 yard box and unleashes a shot into the top corner. Goalkeeper Beth Howard keeping Milton Keynes out at the other end with a double goal line save from a corner. The visitors pulling it back to 2-1 from another corner late in the game 10 player Yeovil holding on to win the 3 points.
Keynsham Town Ladies getting a good result on the road on Sunday in the Southern Premier Division away to Oxford United Women to see their good run of results continue 7 points from their last 3 matches now after losing all of their opening 6 games following promotion to the league join Milton Keynes Dons Women on 7 points. Justine Lorton’s 16th minute goal proving the difference between the sides. Oxford creating numerous chances with a host of corners unable to get a reply, Keynsham goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes making a number of fine saves to ensure the 3 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
One match played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend with Stevenage FC Women travelling up to Cambridgeshire to face Cambridge City Ladies. The hosts opening the scoring in the 20th minute Sofia Castiglione netting from a free-kick. Stevenage coming straight back to level the scores Ashleigh Deacon heading in at the back post. Cambridge City retaking the lead before half-time Charlotte Gillies racing through on the right her shot across the keeper parried into the path of Laura Mills to turn into the back of the net. 2-1 up at the break, Stevenage pressing for a 2nd goal in the on the counter attack Erin Pope’s crossed ball in looping over the keeper into the net beyond to make it 2-2. Cambridge City with a penalty shout late on not given the sides sharing the points both moving up a place in the table.
Sofia Castiglione with the opening goal of the match for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Haverhill Rovers Ladies move back to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership going 3 points clear of Leverington Sports Ladies who weren’t in action this Sunday with their 5 straight win to start the season following promotion last season. A hard fought win at home against fellow promoted side Ketton Ladies, the side all square drawing 2-2 with 5 minutes left to play Haverhill scoring to win the game 3-2 at the death. Kayleigh Nolan with he 7th goal of the season along with a brace for Amy Evans for the hosts. Sascha Smith and Ellen Marson with the goals for Ketton.
ICA Sports Ladies move back up to 3rd in the Premiership coming out on top on a thriller away to Cambridge University Women this Sunday. 10 goals scored between the two sides, Clare Knibbs on target to score a hat-trick for ICA Sports to put on 5 for the season. Donna Nicholls has 8 goals now adding another two to her tally this weekend with Megan Purnell also getting a goal her first of the campaign to secure a 6-4 victory for the Peterborough based side.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves new the the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season are up to 5th in the table winning their 2nd match of the season. A local derby this Sunday against Riverside Ladies, a comfortable win for the visitors in the finish. Ellie Spendelow scoring a hat-trick for Peterborough Northern Star, there was also a brace too for both Eve Lomasney and Elli Gavaghan with Kimberly Fairweather on target for a goal to see it finish 8-0.
Ellie Spendelow with a hat-trick for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves on Sunday (photo credit PNS Ladies)
Histon Ladies Reserves are off the foot of the Premiership table as they win their first game of the season. Playing Cambridge City Ladies A for the 2nd successive weekend bounced back well after suffering a heavy 8-0 loss last time out. Goals scored by Abigail Davies, Anneka DeAth and Philippa Hayden-Evans securing a 3-0 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Three games taking place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend and with league leaders Cambridge Rangers Women involved in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup it presented an opportunity for 2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies to take over top spot themselves if they could secure a 5th straight win away to Pinchbeck United Ladies. Not an easy task however as Pinchbeck were defending a 100% winning start themselves winning 3 from 3 circumstances seeing them not play a league game for over a month. A big win the the league cup their only game in October. Pinchbeck making it 4 wins from 4 moving up to 3rd a point behind Mildenhall, Freya Peters scoring a brace to give her 8 goals for the season with Victoria Bradford also getting on the scoresheet with a goal in a 3-0 win.
Eaton Socon Ladies climb to 4th in the Championship table joining Pinchbeck on 12 points with their 4th win of the season 10 points won from the last 5 played. Were away to fellow league newcomers Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development who were still to register a point at the foot of the table. Eaton Socon finding their feet in the league plenty in their squad scoring goals, Cerys Richards and Hannah Hutchinson both getting a brace on Sunday. Mollie Childerley, Samantha Webster, Cara Howell and Rebecca Jones with her first goal of the season securing an 8-1 win. Natasha Caine with her first goal scoring for Haverhill.
Deeping United Ladies were at home this Sunday in the Championship playing Newmarket Town Ladies Development both new to the league this season and keen to push on up the table, the result could have gone either way Newmarket coming away with the 3 points to win their 2nd game of the season narrowly clinching it 3-2, Jordanne Sillitoe making her first start netting a brace along with a goal for Talia Irvine. Hannah Chapman on target to score her 10th goal of the season for Deeping United with Caroline Sutherland the other goal scorer.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Three ties played this weekend in the 1st Round of this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup. A big win at home for Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds taking in Championship side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Ebony Rule top scoring in the match bagging herself 5 goals to move her onto 7 for the season. Top scorer Marie Stubbings adding another 4 goals to her tally has 13 now for the season. Both Sarah Gee and Krissie Taylor with two goals each with Sarah Bodger also celebrating a goal in a comfortable 14-2 win to see Fulbourn safely through to the next round.
Premiership side March Town United Ladies also through to the next round of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, a trip to Championship side Isleham United Ladies in the 1st Round. March coming up against a stubborn and well organised Isleham side eventually going on to win the game 4-1 to progress with 3 players all scoring their first goals of the campaign, Louise Barbour making her appearance of the season getting on the scoresheet along with Sydney Davis and Jordan Turner with a brace her first goals for March. Laura Todd with the goal for Isleham.
The other 1st Round tie in the competition was an all Championship affair with league leaders Cambridge Rangers Women making a 100% winning start to the season away to Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Meeting a fortnight ago in the league Cambridge Rangers coming out to win the match 4-2. Found Swavesey Spartans to be tough opponents again the league newcomers taking the lead with Meadow Wooldridge putting them 1-0 up. Cambridge Rangers coming back to level the scores and go on to win the tie 3-1 to progress with goals from Robyn Barlow, Stephanie Rowan and Vanessa Martinez Ramos.
The top two meeting in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this weekend with defending champions Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies 6 points clear of St Albans Ladies who have two games in hand both defending a 100% winning record at the start of the season 6 from 6 for Hemel Hempstead. Amy Bentall firing in the opening goal for the league leader midway through the 1st half with her 5th goal of the season. Bianca Hedgecock making it 2-0 a minute before half-time with her 14th goal of the season. St Albans not taking their chances came close striking the crossbar and post pulling it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes left Eleanor Lovelock with a lobbed header over the keeper to get her 6th goal of the season, Hemel Hempstead restoring their 2 goal cushion 3 minutes before the end Natasha McConville with her 7th goal of the campaign. Hemel Hempstead going 8 points clear at the top.
Their first loss of the season see’s St Albans drop to 3rd place in the Division One table overhauled by Hitchin Town Ladies moving 2nd after they came out on top in the first Hitchin derby of the season away to Hitchin Belles this Sunday. Hitchin Belles still looking for their first points following promotion as Division Two champions it was Hitchin Town who held the narrow advantage at the break taking the lead in the 19th minute Holly Darling put through on goal to make it 1-0. Hitchin Belles creating chances it was Hitchin Town who doubled their lead on the hour Darling sliding in to beat the advancing keeper for the ball and send it in to claim her 2nd of the match. Lauren Wyatt with a tap in putting Hitchin Town 3-0 with 15 minutes left to play a 4th goal coming deep in stoppage time Lucy Huffer’s ball fired into the box deflected into the back of the net for an own goal.
Elsewhere in Division One the points were shared between Hartham United Ladies and Garston Ladies. Garston hosting 5th in the table Hartham United in 4th pushing for the top three. A hard fought game Garston creating opportunities in the first half scoring 4 goals, Hartham United matching that total to see the points shared in a competitive 4-4 draw. Janiece Allen taking her tally to 9 goals for the season for Hartham United scoring a hat-trick. Sophie Mandel also on target scoring her 4th. Cassandra Chase with her first goal for Garston, with 3 players all getting their 3rd goals of the season, a penalty from Chloe Farrell, with Holly Jury and Charley Kesley also scoring.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies took full advantage of league leaders Langford Ladies not playing this Sunday to join them on 12 points at the top of the Division Two table as they made it 4 wins from 4 to match them for the season. There 100% winning start continuing at home as they took on Watton Ladies. First goals for Sarah Fuller and Natasha Wing seeing Kempston edge the victory by 2 goals to 1 at the final whistle. Jodie Shackell with the goal for Watton her first for the club.
A first win of the season for Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses last weekend playing catch up in the league winning 9-0 in just their 2nd league game. Were at home to high flying Garston Ladies Vintage Purples this weekend. Garston feeling a little worse for wear up against another of the newly promoted teams, did well to limit their chances coming closest to opening the scoring first half Emma Trill seeing her shot touched onto the post by the opposing keeper. The visitors creating chances 2nd half, Woburn & Wavendon getting the only goal of the match 4 minutes from time a corner won headed in at the back post by Laura Taylor for her first goal of the season, enough to win the 3 points lift Woburn & Wavendon up to 5th in the table.
A 2nd win of the season too for Sherrardswood Ladies on Sunday as they travelled to play Bedford Ladies Development. The visitors taking an early lead Michaela Green scoring 2 minute into her Sherrardswood debut lobbing the keeper to make it 1-0. Sherrardswood going on to dominate the first half unable to extend their lead, Bedford coming back to level the scores before half-time Alicja Olszanka on target for her 6th goal of the season. A positive start to the 2nd half for Sherrardswood, Bedford’s keeper with a couple of saves, the visiting side retaking the lead on the hour Francesca Novelli striking from outside the box to find the back of the net for her first goal of the season. Both sides with chances after that, Sherrardswood making the 3 points safe in the final 5 minutes Manjinder Atwal onto the end of a cross to make it 3-1.
The points shared in the final match to bring you in Division Two, Evergreen Ladies playing bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies. A tough start to the season for both Evergreen with their first win of the season last weekend looking to build on that result. Another side feeling worse for the wear they conceded an early goal just the 2nd Wheathampstead have managed so far this season. Evergreen pushed hard for a reply Wheathampstead holding out to lead 1-0 at the break. The equalising coming late in the 2nd half Leane Pickett coming of the bench to score.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Herts Vipers and Harvesters Ladies neck and neck at the top of Division Three with 5 wins from 5 each, Harvesters not playing this Sunday saw an opportunity for Herts Vipers to go 3 points clear at the top as they looking to continue their 100% winning start playing Flitwick Eagles Ladies for the 2nd successive weekend. 10-0 to Herts Vipers last time out unfortunately for Flitwick it was more of the same, Herts Vipers young side full of goals Flitwick held out for half an hour then the floodgates opened with a flurry of goals to end the first half. Top scorer Nicole Jancey with a rapid fire hat-trick had 5 to her name before the break, Chloe Underwood also scoring first half would go on to make it a hat-trick herself in the 2nd period giving her 4 goals from just two appearances. Jancey scoring a 6th goal to put her on 25 goals already this season from just 7 games. Ellie Bates making her 2nd appearance of the season opening her account for Herts Vipers with a goal. Annalie Wood and Kelsey Millen also getting a goal a piece the final score 13-0.
A high scoring win too on Sunday away from home for 4th placed Biggleswade United Ladies in Division Three taking on Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves. A strong first half seeing Biggleswade race into a 7-0 lead top scorer Leeanne Davison opening the scoring on target to make it 1-0 inside the opening 5 minutes, Kayleigh Saunders quickly making it 2-0, Davison getting another to put Biggleswade 3 up inside the opening quarter hour. Saunders going to to complete a hat-trick plus a 4th before half-time to give her 10 goals for the season. Angelica Fachechi with a goal too late in the 1st period. Davison scoring 2 more 2nd half to put her on 14 goals for the season, Biggleswade leading 9-0 a late consolation goal coming for Hitchin Town, their goalkeeper Zoe Nemeth scoring the goal. A free-kick won outside the box the initial strike hitting the wall deflected back to Nemeth hit it first time sending the ball high looping down under the crossbar and bouncing over the line. Winning 4 of their opening 5 league games Biggleswade well placed to put pressure on the leading trio.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies are up to 5th in the Division Three table now as they continued their fine run of form at home to Whetstone Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. 10 points now won from their last 4 matches a 3rd win in that run coming this weekend against Whetstone Wanderers still looking for their first points since joining the league. Stotfold Juniors leading 2-0 at half-time going on to win the match 5-0. Chloe Ward scoring her 7th goal of the season for Stotfold their were goals too for Gemma Robertson and Georgina Yates plus first goals of the season for Holly Konopka and Hope Page.
Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away this Sunday taking on 3rd placed Kempston Rovers Ladies who had made an great start to the season winning 4 of their opening 5 league games. Bedwell Rangers making a good start taking the lead Freya Rampley on target from a corner to make it 1-0. Maisie Main doubling the lead for the visiting side firing Bedwell Rangers into a 2 goal lead from the penalty spot. Kempston Rovers getting it back to 2-1. Captain Georgia Miller sending in a cross for Jessica Sullivan to meet putting Bedwell Rangers 3-1 to the good at half-time. Kempston Rovers improving in the 2nd period fighting back to score twice and see the points shared in a 3-3 draw, Jessica Pitts with her first goal and Sabrina Stramaglia with a brace.
Silver End United Ladies keep up their fantastic start to the season their unbeaten run now stretching to 8 matches in the Essex Women’s Premier Division to keep 3 points in front at the top of the table over Collier Row Tigers. At home to 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies this weekend. Silver End with a narrow 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. Getting better as the season moves on scoring goals recorded a more comfortable result to clinch a 7th win of the season this time around. Ella Tooley putting Silver End 1-0 up inside the opening 5 minutes with her first goal of the season. Rosi Webb with her 9th strike of the season making it 2-0 on 12 minutes. Chelmsford restricting the hosts to just the 2 goals in the 2nd half Sarah Jolly with a quick fire brace early in the 2nd half seeing Silver End take a 4-0 lead. Lauren Hannah made it 5-0 in the 77th minute with another goal soon following Jolly completing a hat-trick to see the game won 6-0.
Match action from Silver End United v Chelmsford City (photo credit Ian Kendle)
A game in hand for Collier Row Tigers 3 points behind the leaders are matching Silver End all the way so far in the Premier Division both sides dropping 2 points so far and those against each other back in September. Collier Row getting a 6th win of the season at home this Sunday playing Frontiers Ladies. Not reporting a Laura Bunton goal this week, Collier Row winning the match 2-0 the goals scored by Ammarah Ali and Emily Dempsey with her 1st goal of the season.
Billericay Town Ladies Development coming from behind to earn a point at the weekend in the Premier Division away to Southend United Ladies. Christina Fragnito volleying Southend into the lead 1st half. Billericay getting it back to 1-1. Southend retaking the lead Lily Halliday with a lovely piece of skill sending a shot in over the keeper for her 5th goal of the season. Again Billericay came back to level the scores, Ellie Ashford tapping in a goal to put Southend into the lead for the 3rd time in the match see them 3-2 up at half-time. The hosts making a poor start to the 2nd half Billericay capitalising to come back for behind for a 3rd time in the match keeping Southend from scoring again the game ending 3-3. Sophie Nyiro netting a brace for Billericay takes her to 8 for the season, Rebecca Gallagher also scoring with her 6th goal of the campaign.
Essex Women’s Division One
The top two meeting in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday with Corringham Cosmos Women looking to maintain their 100% winning start to the season at home taking on Aveley Ladies who lost their own 100% record last weekend defeated for the first time in the league by Tigers Ladies. Both on 15 points going into the game Corringham with a game in hand. Sophie Corcoran scoring in the 35th minute giving the hosts a narrow lead at half-time. Just past the hour Corringham doubled their advantage going 2-0 ahead with Rachel Fleming scoring her first goal of the season. Top scorer Michelle Sumpter extending the lead to 3-0 with 20 minutes left scoring her 12th goal of the season to see Corringham to a 3-0 win. Aveley with back to back defeats.
In contrast it was back to back league wins this Sunday for Hutton Ladies Reserves in Division One, after taking just a point from their opening 4 league matches. Away to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development this weekend. Leading 1-0 at half-time Hutton going on to score twice more in the 2nd half to secure a 3-0 win. Lucy Blurton and Chloe Eastwell with their first goals of the season with Mathilda Cant also on target with a goal. Bowers & Pitsea slipping further down the table haven’t won since the opening day of the season.
The bottom pair meeting this Sunday, Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves without a point yet away to Chigwell Ladies who had just the one point so far. Chigwell getting that first vital league win of the season to earn the 3 points a narrow win, edging the result by 2 goals to 1 Jessica MacNab and Karen Ulyatt with her first goal of the season. Chigwell also on target with an own goal for Chelmsford.
Six matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday, Brettvale Ladies back in action this Sunday keeping up their 100% winning start to keep ahead of Needham Market Women Reserves by 2 points 8 from 8 now 4 played competitively were away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies this weekend who have yet to register a point a tough start to the season Brettvale with plenty of goal scoring experience in their side. Tarnya McKew and Abbie Fisher both scoring a brace each in the game have 6 goals each for the season. Kristie Turner and Claire Turnbull both with a goal each along with a first goal of the season for Rachel Linsdell and Samantha Hurr an own goal sealing a comfortable 9-0 victory.
Needham Market Women Reserves also keeping up thier 100% winning start to the season a postponed fixture seeing them miss out last weekend were back in action this Sunday at home taking on Henley Athletic Ladies themselves in good form coming into the game. Needham Market scoring plenty of goals at the start of the season opening the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes. Katie Moore striking from the edge of the box to make it 1-0. Abbie Wilkinson with a 25 yard shot scoring to put Needham market 2-0 on 17 minutes the hosts adding a further 2 goals midway through the first half to lead 4-0 at the break, Hannah Cobbold with both, through on goal for her first finding the top corner with the 2nd five minutes later. Soon finding their rhythm 2nd half Needham Market added a 5th goal after Cobbold’s shot was blocked the ball falling to Moore to send home on 54 minutes. Lois Balfour runaway top scorer getting a goal in the 70th minute to secure a 6-0 win capitalising after Ashleigh Goddard’s strike came down off the crossbar.
Match action from Needham Market v Henley Athletic (photo credit Ben Pooley)
Plenty of goals elsewhere in Suffolk at the weekend, Alresford Colne Rangers Ladies remain level on points with 2nd placed Needham Market as they themselves recorded a big win away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women, the hosts remain short on numbers, can only play what’s in front of you and Alresford in good form rattled in the goals. Georgia Egner moving into double figures for the season with a double hat-trick. Jo Harvey and Clarrissa Hodgkins with 4 goals each, Hodgkins first goals for Alresford. Kirsty Belfall, Abbie Hooper and Laurel Harknett all scoring their first of the season too. With captain Donna Leggett and Lauren Abbott also scoring in a 19-0 result.
Holland Ladies into the top half of the Suffolk Women’s Division with a 4th straight league win this Sunday at home playing AFC Kesgrave Ladies. The visitors short with just 10 available. Holland in good form Jasmine Cox scoring a hat-trick moving to 7 goals for the season there was a brace each for Charlotte Warren and Lauren Bourne taking them to 4 and 6 goals respectfully. Becky McDougall with a goal joins Cox on 7 for the season with Lauren Lucas and Kristy Lucraft also getting a goal each in a 10-0 win.
Woodbridge Town Ladies joining Holland Ladies on 12 points with their 4th league win of the season this Sunday away to newcomers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. Last season’s top scorer Jenna Liverpool back amongst the goals for Woodbridge this campaign moving into double figures on 11 now scoring a hat-trick. Hot on her heels is Kiera Hines more than doubling her tally for the season with 9 goals now scoring 5 at the weekend, Woodbridge putting 8 past Ramsey & Mistley didn’t have it all their own way the hosts breaching their defence for 2 goals Amy Cook and Farren Varty-MacDonald the scorers.
Lastly the points were shared between Leiston St Margarets Ladies and Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at the weekend. Brightlingsea coming back from trailing 2-0 at half-time to draw the game. Lucy Eagles and Leanne Morphew putting Leiston St Margarets 2-0 up. Hannah Goldsmith with a quickfire brace midway through the second half rescuing a point for the visitors has 11 goals now for the season for Brightlingsea.
Sprowston Ladies moved to the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One playing in the only league game two weeks ago joining Bungay Town Ladies, Thorpe United Ladies and Tavern Ladies all on 12 points. This weekend they were the only side not in action across the 11 strong Division One as the leading trio all continued their 100% winning starts to the season that see’s Sprowston back to 4th in the table.
Bungay Town Ladies moving clear at the top of Division One in midweek playing at home to Long Stratton Women, a brace from Nicola Hazel aswell as a goal each for Shannon Dade and Selina Rowland seeing Bungay win 4-0. 5 wins from 5, keep 3 points in front at the top with a 6th straight win at home to Thetford Town Ladies this weekend. A strong first half seeing Bungay into a 4 goal lead. Thetford Town promoted from Division Two this season finishing 5th knowing life would be tough in the top tier, a better performance 2nd half battling restricting Bungay to a further 2 goals, scoring a goal themselves with Amy Skipp getting her first goal for the club. Selina Rowland on target to score 4 goals for Bungay doubling her tally taking her to 8 for the season from 6 played. Leanne Smith keeping top scorers spot with a goal moving to 9 with Samantha Penman scoring her 1st goal.
4 goals at the weekend for Bungay Town Ladies, Selina Rowland
Defending champions Thorpe United Ladies remain hot on Bungay’s heels recording a 5th straight win at the start of the season to keep the pressure on. At home this Sunday were taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Captain Rebekah Lake continues to be amongst the goals for Thorpe scoring again at the weekend to give her 12 now from 5 matches. Also getting on the scoresheet midfielder Laura Hedtke and footballing all rounder Joanne Hooper. Thorpe winning the game 3-0. Thorpe hosting Bungay this coming Sunday.
Tavern Ladies promoted to Division One this season after a 4th placed finish in Division Two last season continue their impressive start to the season keeping pace with the leading duo winning a 5th straight game at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on Scarning Playing Fields taking on fellow promoted side Fakenham Town Ladies whom they beat in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 1st Round a fortnight ago. Sophie Fuller impressing then was amongst the goals this time around too scoring a hat-trick. Natalie Merry also on target with a goal her first of the season securing a 4-1 win for Tavern. Vicki Lubbock getting the goal for Fakenham.
A competitive game between mid-table Long Stratton Women and Sprowston Athletic Ladies at the weekend. Host Long Stratton getting themselves into a 2 goal lead, Charlie Head and Samantha Walker captaining the side with her 7th goal of the season. Sprowston Athletic coming back to earn a share of the points on target for 2 goals themselves, O’Shea Winter with both goals her first for the club.
A first competitive league win of the season for last season’s Division Two champions Taverham United Ladies, their previous 3 points awarded as a home win. Were at home to fellow promoted side Freethorpe Ladies who having finished 6th last season knew it would be a difficult task as they were moved up with the leagues needing to be evened up following an influx of new sides. Taverham’s young side scoring plenty of goals on their way to the title last season finding thing’s tougher at a higher level themselves seeing two players celebrate a hat-trick, 3 goals each for Rebecca Sutton and Abbie Walker her first goals in the league. Tyla Cole also getting off the mark with a goal with Teigan Robinson also scoring in a 8-1. Freethorpe bottom at last registering a goal with Rebecca White scoring in the first half.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend, Stalham Town Ladies returning to the top of the table 3 points clear of Thorpe United Ladies Reserves with a home win over Waveney Ladies ending their fellow newcomers unbeaten start whilst maintaining theirs a 4th win of the season coming courtesy of a hat-trick from top scorer Amber Mayhew who has 7 for the season now. Megan Swain also getting her name on the scoresheet in a 4-1 victory. Waveney’s goal coming from the penalty spot.
Beaten for the first time this season a fortnight ago against Thorpe United’s Reserve side Hockering Ladies 4th in Division Two returned to winning ways away to Horsford Women on Sunday. Ella Wright putting Horsford into the lead, the visitors came back to level the scores 5 minutes later with Olivia Baker scoring to see the scores level at the break with her 7th of the season. Hockering going on to win the 3 points 2nd half, Shelley Woods making it 2-1 5 minutes into the 2nd half added a 2nd and her 6th of the season on the hour to secure the 3 points.
All change at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division once again this Sunday with Wroxham Women taking over the lead for the first time this season over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who achieved the same feat last weekend. This weekend Peterborough Northern Star’s match away to Royston Town Women falling foul of the weather.
Wroxham Women 2nd in the table travelling down to play Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A 3G playing surface. Bowers & Pitsea looking to arrest a poor run of league results after a fine run in the Women’s FA Cup was brought to an end last weekend. Wroxham looking for a 4th straight league win. An even start to the game Bowers & Pitsea coming close to opening the lead striking the woodwork with 2 efforts. Wroxham going 1-0 in the 34th minute, top scorer Grace Birchall receiving a crossfield ball from Naomi Cooper cutting inside to beat the keeper. Cooper again setting up Birchall to score her 2nd of the game. Bowers & Pitsea pulling a goal back late in the first half Megan Harley shot firing its way in from 30 yards out. Wroxham restoring their 2 goal lead in stoppage time Birchall out pacing the defence through to score her hat-trick and make it 26 goals so far for the season. Bowers & Pitsea striking the woodwork for he 3rd time in the match in an attack that saw Wroxham goalkeeper Amy Bell forced off injured defender Grace Parker donning the gloves. Wroxham though finishing the match strongly a host of chances getting a 4th goal deep into stoppage time, a long range free-kick struck by Naomi Cooper finding the bottom corner her 1st goal of the season. Wroxham moving to the top of the table winning 4-1.
Previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies back in league action themselves this weekend after enjoying a run in the Women’s FA Cup, surrendering their lead in the Premier Division in that time were back at home this Sunday taking on St Ives Town Ladies in the league, Harlow unbeaten in the league dropping just 2 points. In fine goal scoring form too the Essex side taking the lead through top scorer Becky Shephard free at the near post to score off Chloe Bassett’s left wing cross. Shephard going on to score a hat-trick to put her on 13 for the season. Captain Kaydee King making it 2-0 to Harlow scoring with a looping header off a free-kick. Tayla Handscombe put away on the left smashing the ball in high on the angle from outside the box to put Harlow 4-0 up. A strong first half from the hosts Bassett played through on goal by Amy Nash on halfway to score their 6th. St Ives pulling a goal back before King headed home from another set-piece to make it 7-1. Beth Chambers and Hannah Porter also celebrating a goal each in a 9-1.
4th versus 5th saw Luton Town Ladies away to Colney Heath Ladies this Sunday both in good form recently incredibly tight in the top half of the Premier Division table. Luton starting well creating chances, Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler with a vital save. The hosts coming back into it striker Rianne Townsend-Brown put through to play the ball over the advancing keeper her effort back off the bar on 21 minutes. Goalless at the break, Luton taking the lead early in the 2nd half Funmi Babalola stealing the ball off the defence running in on goal to score. Colney Heath getting back on level terms 10 minutes later Samaira Khan firing into the roof of the net to make it 1-1 with her 11th strike of the season. Colney Heath exerting late pressure in the game Luton standing firm Elly Wade saving on the line to ensure the points were shared.
The Premier Division leaders can’t afford to let their foot off the gas at all incredibly close in the table all the way down to 8th, Wymondham Town Ladies with several players out injured long term winning at home on Sunday to put them on 12 points are only 6 off top spot were taking on AFC Dunstable Women struggling for points at the bottom of the table as their new look squad is still settling. Wymondham bringing in several players to bolster thier squad over the close season have goal scorers within their ranks young midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan opening the scoring inside 15 minutes shooting into the top corner to make it 1-0. New signing Mia Etheridge involved in the build up to the goal involved again for the 2nd just a minute later setting up captain Hannah Waters to score. Freya Symonds another new arrival in the summer scoring to put Wymondham 3-0 up midway through the 1st half. A dominant opening half hour Waters with the assist to set up O’Callaghan on 31 minutes to make it 4-0. O’Callaghan scoring from 25 yards out at the end of the 1st half to complete her hat-trick and see Wymondham leading comfortably 5-0. Dunstable battling 2nd half preventing Wymondham from adding to their tally managing to get a goal back themselves with 15 minutes left to play Louise McCay the scorer.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan
A point ahead of Wymondham in 7th are Bedford Ladies, they picked up the 3 points with a comfortable win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Amy Magnus getting her goals account for the season opened scoring a hat-trick. There was a brace each for Lauren Murray and Setor Acolatse with both Maya Sidhu and captain Priya Bhatti also on the scoresheet with a goal apiece in a 9-1 win.
ERWFL League Cup
Plenty of goals scored in the final round of group matches in the ERWFL League Cup this Sunday with the Division One sides battling for a place in the knock out stages of the competition the 4 group winners going on to join the Premier Division sides with the rest entering the Plate competition.
To one of these games Women’s Football East headed this Sunday, a landmark occasion personally with the last report written my 400th since I started scribbling on a notepad at games. Enjoyed every minute of it and plenty more to come.
Onto the game headed to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies in Group D, both with a win and a loss in their previous games, needed King’s Lynn Town Ladies to slip up away to Leigh Ramblers to have any chance of progressing. Hutton top of Division One South with a 100% record scoring plenty of goals, Histon coming into the game on a good run of results. Hutton getting off the the better start Histon not settling, the Essex side creating opportunities taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Clare Edmonson scoring her first Hutton goal with a looping effort top of the area to beat the keeper on the line dropping under the bar. Despite their dominance Hutton leading by just a single goal at half-time Histon finishing the half well encouraged entering the 2nd half.
Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball
Came very close to equalising Sophie Hopkins by line cross put in across pushed away by the keeper straight at substitute Rebekah Finch unable to get her foot up around the ball, Hutton broke to score up the other end the ball laid back to the top of the area for top scorer Vicky Kinsman to make it 2-0. Histon coming back to make it 2-1 straight away striker Poppy Kelly with a terrific shot across the keeper after shifting the ball well top of the area. Again Hutton came back to restore their 2 goal lead Kinsman captain Abigail Fry running clear taking the ball round the advancing keeper unselfishly setting up Kinsman to tap home into an empty net. Histon kept attacking Hutton comfortable to hit on the break adding a 4th through an unfortunate own goal with less than 10 minutes left Kinsman completing her hat-trick at the death to see the game won 5-1. The whole match report can be found further down the page.
Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick
In the end Hutton having to settle for 2nd place in Group D, there only loss of the season coming away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the competition a week ago the Norfolk side buoyed by that result travelled down to Essex to play newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies knowing a positive result would guarantee top spot. Tiffany Forshaw getting her 5th goal of the season and a 1st of the season for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse securing a 2-0 victory for the visitors.
Group A down to three sides following the sad withdrawal of Bishops Stortford Ladies from the league. Their opponents awarded the wins Stevenage FC Women Development not in action moving onto 6 points joining Newmarket Town Women who had beaten Bishops Stortford 13-0 before they pulled out another good result beating Stevenage 4-0 seeing them head into their final game at home to East Bergholt looking to make it a clean sweep in the group. East Bergholt with 3 points on the board could yet finish on 6 themselves and got off to a great start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes extended the advantage on 30 minutes to lead 2-0 at half-time, Newmarket with a mountain to climb as East Bergholt struck again early in the 2nd half to lead 3-0, Megan Partridge with a brace along with a goal for Stacey Teager. Katie Webb setting up Annabel Cuthbert seeing Newmarket get it back to 3-1 on the 54th minute. Cuthbert battling her way through the East Bergholt defence to net her 2nd of the match midway through the half. Moments later the comeback was complete Chloe Slater with the strike to make it 3-3. Newmarket winning the League Plate in their debut season in the ERWFL winning the game in the final 3 minutes, Cuthbert scoring from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick after Katie Webb was brought down inside the box. Newmarket winning Group A.
Group C yet to be decided Gorleston Ladies away match against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies falling foul to the weather. Needham Market Women topping the group with 2 wins from 2 likely to progress after their opponents Wodson Park Ladies couldn’t get a side.
In Group B it was all going to come down to who could score the most goals with Cambridge City Ladies Development and Millwall Lionesses on 4 points drawing 4-4 when they mat in the competition after winning their opening matches. Cambridge City at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies this weekend. Suffering a surprise 2-1 loss to them in the league itself last time out looking to make amends this time around had top scorer Carla Penny back in the starting line up and she carried on where she left off finding the back of the net for 4 goals. Ellie Cullum on target for a brace along with a goal for Freya Standing securing a 7-0 victory.
Millwall Lionesses were at home taking on Lawford Ladies who were short of numbers on the day. Again the sides meeting in the league last weekend Millwall coming out on top winning comfortably 10-3. Emily Stanley opening the scoring off an Ellis Lunn cross after just 7 minutes. Shannan Drewe adding a 2nd goal in quick succession. Ellis Lunn scoring a 3rd Millwall goal with 20 minutes gone. Thalia Broadman making her Millwall debut scoring her first goal for the club on 22 minutes netting from a 25 yard strike. Captain Ruby Snowden putting Millwall 5-0 up. Drewe rounding the keeper making it 6-0 completing a 1st half hat-trick. Broadman with her 2nd of the game seeing Millwall dominant leading 8-0 at half-time. Hard work for Lawford, Millwall kept coming 2nd half adding more goals. Snowden seeing a shot in off the post in the 48th minute. Millie Connell striking from the edge of the 18 yard box to bring up double figures. Hannah Cheeseman recently signed scoring a quickfire brace. Broadman getting a hat-trick on debut to make it 13-0. Drewe going on to add a further 2 gals giving her 5 in total. Stanley netting a 2nd goal. Snowden the 3rd Millwall player to celebrate a hat-trick with Elissa Stonebrook opening her account late on to see Millwall win 18-0 to top Group B and progress to the knockout stages.
Two matches played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday featuring the bottom 3 sides. Chichester City Ladies young side at home to high flying Watford Ladies the visitors looking to return to the top of the table. Chichester with just the one point on board so far a difficult start to the season. Katie O’Leary getting Watford off to the perfect start opening the scoring with barely 3 minutes played. Chichester straight back on level terms Megan Fox scoring a screamer to make it 1-1. Isobelle Foster making a couple of important saves to keep Watford from retaking the lead the hosts scoring with half and hour played Gemma Simmonds chipping the keeper to make it 2-1. Captain Helen Ward bringing Watford back level for the 2nd time in the game 5 minutes before half-time pouncing on a poor back pass to slot the ball past the keeper for her 7th goal of the season. Watford pressing for a 3rd goal in the 2nd period chances coming eventually finding it as the game moved into the final 20 minutes O’Leary with her 5th strike of the season putting the ball into the top corner to see the game won and put Watford back on top of the table.
The other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this weekend saw Hounslow Town bottom with just a point on the board at home to Keynsham Town Ladies who after starting the season with 6 straight defeats following promotion got their first league win of the season at home to fellow strugglers Chichester last time out. Now away to Hounslow the first half saw few clear chances Hounslow getting their noses in front in the 15th minute Sue Kumaning with great footwork top of the area turning and looping a shot up beyond the keeper. Keynsham improving 2nd half an early opportunity to level the visitors equalised just past the hour Barbara Maros De Carvalho arriving unmarked in six yard box to meet a left wing cross to score her 1st of the season. 1-1 Keynsham pressed for a winner Caoimhe O’Reilly with a double save ensuring Hounslow didn’t concede again and see both sides take a point enough to lift Hounslow above Chichester at the bottom.
FAWNL South East Division One
Ipswich Town Women move 3 points clear at the top of FAWNL South East Division One although they left it late scoring an injury time goal to beat Enfield Town Ladies away from home on Sunday. One of two matches played in the league this weekend, Ipswich travelling down to 5th placed Enfield Town Ladies looking to make it 7 straight wins on the league following an opening day draw. Ipswich striking the post in the 18th minute captain Amanda Crump striking from outside the box. Enfield taking the lead in the 36th minute awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position outside the Ipswich box the low struck shot taking a deflection off the wall taking it into the path of Tia Bailey moving in on the follow up reacted quickly to fire the ball home. Late chances in the half for Ipswich to level a goal disallowed Enfield with the slender lead. Ipswich getting the equaliser on the hour Natasha Thomas heading the ball across goal Maddie Biggs in position to poke the ball home 1-1. Ipswich knocking on the door late in the game chances coming Thomas getting the winning goal in the 94th minute a mix up at the back allowing her to steal in an tap the ball in score her 7th goal of the season and win the 3 points for Ipswich.
Natasha Thomas celebrating with her Ipswich teammates (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Actonians Ladies heading over to Kent this weekend to face bottom side Kent Football United, the newly promoted side without a point yet this season. Actonians beating Kent Football United 3-1 in the Women’s FA Cup earlier in the season. Kent Football United opening the scoring this Sunday Shannon Burden putting them 1-0 in the first half. Actonians coming back to level the scores on the stroke of half-time Alessandra Barreca with her 7th goal of the campaign. The visitors with 2 goals in the 2nd half to secure victory Barreca credited with one more in the 80th minute. Actonians with their 3rd league win of the season climbing a couple of places in the South East Division One table up to 7th.
FAWNL Plate
Two 1st Round games to complete this Sunday from the FAWNL Plate, a tough test for Norwich City Women’s young squad as the South East Division One side travelled to play Southern Premier Division side Oxford United Women. The hosts getting off to a flyer taking the lead on the 7th minute Sophie Barker lining up a shot from distance squeezing underneath the goalkeeper and in. 5 minutes later Oxford were 2-0 up striker Cheryl Williams finishing at the back post. Norwich getting it back to 2-1 on 20 minutes, captain Millie Daviss firing home with a 30 yard strike. Oxford creating opportunities awarded a penalty on the half hour Carly Jones tripped inside the box, Williams stepping up to make it 3-1. Jones getting on the scoresheet herself late in the first half to see Oxford leading 4-1 at the break.
Oxford continuing where they left off at the start of the 2nd half coming close with a couple of chances before Williams scooped the ball over the keeper to complete her hat-trick. Brogan Moore putting Oxford 6-1 up with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Georgia Timms only entering the game moments before getting a goal with her first touch of the ball making it 7-1 to Oxford. Immy Lancaster with her first Oxford goal wrapping up a comfortable 8-1 win in the final minute.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies unbeaten in FAWNL South East Division One were on the road in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate taking on South West Division One side, Brislington Ladies. Few chances in the 1st half Wimbledon edging it with a goal in the 40th minute to lead at half-time, Georgia Heasman with the tap in following a good through ball from Sian Wylie. Wimbledon with a couple of opportunities to extend their lead at the start of the 2nd period, before Brislington came back to level in the 57th minute with Shannon Burden making it 1-1. Wimbledon introducing Katie Stanley and Sophie Manzi go the game on the hour. Stanley scoring what would prove to be the winning goal in the 78th minute a mazy run forwards passing to Heasman getting back the return ball and shooting to see Wimbledon lead 2-1.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate listed below ties scheduled to be played Sunday 24th November:-
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Newcastle United Women
Nottingham Forest Women v Leeds United Ladies
West Bromich Albion Women v Leicester United WFC or Leafield Athletic Ladies
Stockport County Ladies v Middlesborough Women
Plymouth Argyle Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Maidenhead United Women v Stevenage FC Women
Watford Ladies v Oxford United Women
Cheltenham Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies
FAWNL Cup
The draw made to for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup 8 ties scheduled for Sunday 24th November outstanding 1st Round games will see some ties played later:-
Brighouse Town Ladies v Darby County Ladies
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Long Eaton United or Liverpool Feds Women
Chorley Women or Durham Cestria v AFC Sunderland Ladies
Stoke City Ladies v Wolverhampton Wanderers Women
Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women
Crawley Wasps Ladies v Portsmouth FC Women
AFC Basildon Women v Milton Keynes Dons Women
Chesham United Ladies or Exeter City Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Another milestone reached today, this Sunday’s game being my 400th match report since I started covering the sport back in 2012, originally as the Supporting Women’s Football blog now Women’s Football East have covered games at all levels across the country and enjoyed every minute of it. Today’s match action comes from the group stage of the ERWFL League Cup, Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies.
The Division One side usually contest the early round of the league cup in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) with the Premier Division sides entering later on. This season a different format in the early stages, the Division One sides split into a North & South Division this season starting off with 8 in each drawn into 4 groups, 2 from the North & 2 South in each play each other once with the group winners progressing to the knock out stages of the competition with the 12 Premier Division sides. The remaining Division One sides going on to contest for the ERWFL Plate. Histon and Hutton Ladies drawn into Group D along side, King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Leigh Ramblers Ladies. King’s Lynn Town Ladies in pole position to top the group with 2 wins from 2, avoid defeat today away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies in Essex and they will finish top.
A win and a defeat for both Histon and Hutton to date will need Leigh Ramblers to do them a favour if they hope to nick top spot. Histon Ladies come into today’s game in good form with 3 straight wins in league and cup. A 3-2 away victory to Leigh Ramblers getting them off the mark in the League Cup followed by back to back wins in the league to see them climb up to 3rd in the Division One North table. The Cambridgeshire side bringing in several new youngsters to bolster the squad over the close season, 3 in today’s starting line-up, Abby Laughlin, Poppy Kelly & Sydney Graham.
A perfect start to the season for Hutton Ladies, the Essex side topping the ERWFL Division One South table with a 100% record 4 wins from 4. 6 wins in all competitions that record hitting the buffers last time out travelling up to Norfolk to play King’s Lynn in the League Cup defeated for the first time this season the first time they had failed to score in a game too. That aside Hutton are scoring plenty of goals this season averaging over 8 goals a game so far helped in the main by the goals scoring form of striker Vicky Kinsman. Joining Hutton last season scored an incredible 49 goals in 27 appearances. Has 21 already this campaign. One of several experienced players to join last season with the likes of Hayley Piggott and Abigail Fry who have both played higher coming in. The squad bolstered again this season, have been amongst the silverware in recent seasons including back to back wins in the ERWFL Plate two seasons ago.
The Glassworld Stadium the venue for today’s match home to Histon FC and Histon Ladies. The heavy rain due the day before a threat to the match, it just about held out with no fresh rainfall on Sunday the game on. Wet would cut up and make for heavy going is a large pitch offering plenty of width. Plenty of cover too though for supporters a large seated stand over looking the pitch the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Light rain before the match as the sides warmed up, would thankfully fizzle out at kick-off and keep away, remained overcast.
Histon Ladies starting XI- Keeley Robinson, Abby Laughlin, Georgina Huse, Alison Wright, Tessa Shaw, Lauren Martin, Sophie Lanham (C) Sophie Hopkin, Sydney Graham, Siobhan White & Poppy Kelly. Subs – Rebekah Finch, Molly Blair, Casey Miller, Tara Fitzjohn.
Onto the match action, Hutton to kick-off the first half wearing navy blue shirts with red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Histon force Hutton to play it back to their defence the long kick forwards setting Lauren Knight away her ball forwards pushed on looking for Vicky Kinsman making a central run through towards the box intercepted and turned out for a throw. Hutton come on right side off a throw deep Clare Edmonson looks to take the ball on into the Histon box to the byline cuts it back inside the ball cleared at the near post.
Hutton settling quicker getting players forwards to the right another throw in conceded Kate Lowen to fire in the cross cut out by Alison Wright the ball loose top of the area Edmonson after it, so too Lauren Martin lunging in to get her foot on the ball first get it away for Histon. Histon make ground on the right side a throw in Sydney Graham combining well with Abby Laughlin, Graham cutting the ball back down the line to release Laughlin in behind, clipped rides the challenge recovering her footing to take the ball on her cross/shot taking a defection behind, play brought back however for the earlier foul. Siobhan White coming a cross to take it outside the box fired in towards the six yard box taken cleanly by Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover.
Lauren Martin on the ball for Histon Ladies
Glover setting Hutton on their way quickly a good kick up field over half way trapped beautifully at her feet by Edmonson killing the ball, flicks it on for Kinsman ahead of her, Hutton captain Abigail Fry bursting forwards to her right Kinsman rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out strikes it first time the shot over the bar. The resulting goalkick putting the Histon back line in trouble a slippy surface Kinsman latching onto it 30 yards out spins into a shoot left side the ball dipping late on goalkeeper Keeley Robinson right behind it down to stop it grabbing hold at the 2nd attempt. Kinsman showing good strength on the ball getting hold of it and turning to attack the Histon area, a cross in from the left dangerous, no one gambling through the middle.
GOAL! Closing in on 15 minutes played and Hutton take the lead, the goalkick straight to Kinsman, she passes it on to Edmonson ahead of her driving on plays it out to the left the ball crossed into the ox cut out deflected to the top of the area Edmonson there unmarked throws a leg out her first time attempt looping up over the defence and under the cross bar Robinson back on her line throws up a glove but can’t keep it out, 0-1. Edmonson’s first goal for Hutton.
Clare Edmonson opens the scoring for Hutton Ladies
Hutton capitalising on a good start winning the ball in the middle Hannah Page into Kinsman sending Lauren Knight clear in behind on the left down the line looking to get into the area, Wright getting across well to slide in and make the tackle taking the ball away from Knight’s toes. The defender up to play the ball up field doesn’t stick on the middle Kinsman rolled in again 35 yards out wide takes on the strike, on target but straight at Robinson.
Histon’s Alison Wright sliding in to win the ball back
Kate Lowen getting on the ball right side for Hutton drives forwards in behind into the area flashes a cross in, blocked by Wright, back to Lowen for a 2nd go on close to the near post, Robinson forwards down to smother the ball. The ball brought forwards from the back for Hutton played up to Kinsman up to head the ball on finds Lauren Knight out left bringing the ball on uses the outside of her boot to lift a diagonal ball into the area, Fry making a central run, Robinson can safely gather.
Hutton continue to have the lions share of the attack the ball not sticking up top for Histon the midfield having to track back often to help the defence as Hutton get players forwards. Edmonson with a great pass to find Lauren Knight on the left takes the ball on before squaring a cross into the area, Tessa Shaw doing well in central defence to keep in front of Kinsman to make sure she can’t get a touch the defender clearing. Hutton press the ball high keep Histon inside their final third, Page to Lauren Knight on the left crosses early an inviting ball along the six yard box, Kinsman throwing and outstretched leg forwards getting a tough, can only divert the ball wide out the far side.
Hutton striker Vicky Kinsman closely marked by Histon’s Tessa Shaw & Sophie Lanham
Shaw attempting to shield the ball back to her keeper is fouled by Kinsman gets the free kick. Histon get forwards White with the ball over the top on the left running on cuts inside looking for a shooting opportunity top of the area lets fly from 20 yards out her strike over the crossbar. Graham showing great close ball control bringing the ball inside on halfway looks to put it forwards almost succeeds in releasing Poppy Kelly through the middle but for an outstretched leg from Hutton defender Kristy Knight doing enough to take the ball out of Kelly’s path allowing Kelly Roberts to clear.
Abby Laughlin bringing the ball away for Histon Ladies
Signs Histon are starting to get a foothold in the game took a while to settle on the back foot. Captain Sophie Lanham back to clear the ball from her own box for Histon. White away on the left side comes inside for Histon, this time runs into Roberts neutralising the danger. Hutton remain a threat on the counter a throw right into Kinsman holds the ball up well turning to shoot on the angle, coming in near post Robinson sees it late gets a glove onto the ball knocking it behind for the corner.
Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball
Hutton make the first change of the match, Lauren Knight coming off for Hayley Critchell. The substitute with an early opportunity to take the ball on left side carrying it towards the area, Laughlin with a superb tackle right on the line to take the ball. Hutton with another change as Sally Appleton enters the game replacing, Edmonson. Kristy Knight with a good tackle at the back to deny Graham as shot as she carries the ball forwards into the area from the right.
Histon build through the middle Graham right inside for Lanham her pass forwards releasing Kelly right takes defenders on cutting back into the box running square of goal. Pushes the ball on for White on the penalty spot she back heels it on as Kelly’s run takes her past her the attacker taking on the shot, Glover saving with her legs. Histon win a free-kick inside the Hutton half players forwards into the box as White sets the ball down knocked down by the defence Kelly intercepts looks to bring under control and turn and shot her attempt blocked spins behind for a corner. Histon ending the first half well.
Sydney Graham looking to play the ball forwards for Histon
White coming left crossing in Kelly running in with a defender shooting, Glover hands up to make the blocking save. Hutton attack late on Kinsman putting the ball on for Critchell left tackled by Laughlin top of the area, the ball skipping up and behind Laughlin losing sight of it Critchell in to lift a cross into the middle, drops far side no one can reach it. Late in the half a throw right fro Histon, Graham receiving firing in a dangerous cross, Franklin getting a touch to take it away from Kelly attacking the far post.
Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Hutton Ladies
Hutton leading the match 1-0 at half-time have been the dominant side making a good start creating opportunities, getting players in behind, several dangerous crosses not finding anyone. Good hold up play and runs from midfield particularly from Fry. Histon took a while to settle starting to come into the match late on creating some good opportunities themselves, trailing by the single goal are far from out of it yet.
A change fro both sides at half-time by the looks of it, Rebekah Finch on for Histon replacing White, Hopkin now over on the left. Hayley Piggott on in defence for Hutton replacing Franklin. The sun doing it’s best to break through setting into the the end of the ground into the faces of the Hutton defence. Histon to get the 2nd half underway. An early chance for Histon coming close to equalising Hopkin off a throw left driving on to the byline a vicious cross put across the face of goal, Glover throwing herself at it palming it on straight to Finch central coming at her quickly tries to adjusted her body get a foot up to meet the ball minimal contact Hutton close in to clear.
GOAL! A golden chance to level the scores at one end Histon are hit on the counter the ball sent long up to Critchell left the defence don’t deal inside the box Critchell retrieving on the byline playing the ball back up to the top of the box Kinsman latching onto it left of the D to shoot place the ball wide of the keeper 0-2.
Histon bring the ball on Graham over half way passing to Lanham making a move on the right wing a cross lifted up into the area near side into Kelly’s path lays it on to Finch ahead of her Kristy Knight going with her run near post successfully defending for Hutton.
GOAL! Histon get a goal back straight away after conceding early in the 2nd half, Hutton looking to get the ball forwards quickly won at the back by Georgina Huse lifted forwards up the left to put Hopkin away into space, rolls it infield to Kelly 20 yards out left of goal head down looks to take on the Hutton defence, pushes right then shifts it left creating space to take on the shot a smash a shot high across the keeper 1-2.
Poppy Kelly central with the goal for Histon
Finch with a shot from 25 yards out for Histon brushes the top of the net on its way over.
GOAL! Hutton with a quickfire reply to score a 3rd goal attack quickly through the middle the ball put on for Fry racing trough left channel, Robinson coming out of her goal to meet her Fry knocking the ball past her on towards left open for the shot, sees Kinsman storming through unmarked inside her unselfish squared the ball into her path the striker with the simple finish to make it 1-3.
Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman
A busy start to the 2nd half 3 goals scored an open game Histon looking more of a threat scoring but hit for 2 up the other end. Appleton brings Hopkin down on the left outside the box giving Histon the free Kick. Lanham over it fired in low towards the near post a combination of defence and keeper getting it away for Hutton. the visitors break Kinsman on halfway playing it on for Lowen right support from Appleton a high ball into the box dealt with by the Histon defence.
Krissie Glover keeping the ball out for Hutton Ladies
Hutton break miss a great opportunity to go 4-1 ahead as Critchell bombs on left side crossing from a tight angle the ball across the keeper missed by Lowen close in at the far post. Histon come forwards Martin up for Kelly to attack brings the ball on towards the Hutton box, tackled well by Kristy Knight. Hutton are giving away alot of free kicks, Histon so far not making the most of them but it is a concern for Hutton’s bench, Dimmock receiving a talking too by the referee. Lanham on a set-piece right of the centre circle a good delivery in long to the far post Wright the runners catching it first time can’t get the ball down on target.
Hutton Ladies, Kate Lowen with Histon’s Georgina Huse
Histon winning a corner left side in towards the near post defended, Kelly putting the ball back to the corner taker crossed in again this time Fry and Page combine top of the box to get the threat away for Hutton. Histon do well to press the ball high regain possession Lanham lifting the ball on almost finding Wright stealing in behind. Histon make a change with 23 minutes left to play, Hopkin coming off on comes summer signing Molly Blair.
Kinsman getting hold of the ball for Hutton left side 30 yards out drives on towards the box a powerful run, tackled by Wright the ball pushed wide to the left gathered by the advancing Critchell puts it back to Kinsman backing away from the area 25 yards out puts her foot throw the ball blasts a shot towards goal, Robinson with a full stretch dive to her left lands to hear the ball thump into the boarding behind goal the shot narrowly wide.
Chances falling to both side prepared to shoot outside the box, Kelly smashes a shot from all of 30 yards out central that stings the keepers gloves rebounding out to the right picked up by Graham racing forwards she blasts over on the angle. Hutton make a change Lauren Knight returning to the game replacing Roberts. Another silly free kick given away by Hutton left side a chance for Histon to bring players up from the back Lanham on the ball sent in towards the top of the area a Hutton head on the ball looping high into the air and towards goal, Glover eyes on nothing else back on her line with the confident take.
Histon Ladies, Alison Wright
Graham brought down inside the Hutton half, the free kick met by Finch heading it in top of the area off target Glover coming across to claim. Histon capitalise from a bit of ping ball on halfway the ball deflected in behind for Graham right side to bring on plays in early for Kelly racing on through the middle shoots first time as it runs across her path a poor connection lacking power on target but Glover can shuffled across her goal to gather at the right post.
Lowen in an advanced position on the right for Hutton shifts the ball left the right before shooting from outside the area the ball held cleanly by Robinson in goal. Histon bring off Lanham with around 10 minutes left to play bringing on another summer signing Casey Miller. Hutton come on right side Lowen sending a cross into the box just behind the run of Lauren Knight central the ball cleared back out to the right Appleton up the pitch shooting across goal, Lauren Knight sliding in far post but Robinson down bravely has the ball safely into her body. Piggott fouls Kelly outside the area Wright on the free kick 20 yards out goes for goal on target by straight at the keeper.
GOAL! 7 minutes of normal play left the game stretched now players getting tired Hutton extend their lead making the game safe. Lauren Knight away on the left side putting in a dangerous cross into the six yard box a defender there first ahead of Kinsman throws a leg up to meet the ball is an unfortunate own goal the ball turned into the back of the net 1-4.
Changes for both sides now, Edmonson and Franklin back on for Hutton replacing, Lowen and Kristy Knight. Tara Fitzjohn on for Laughlin for Histon. Kinsman on the attack central for Hutton lays it on for Lauren Knight the ball cut out inside the box comes out to Appleton up on the right drives a shot in towards goal, Robinson getting her gloves up to save the ball cleared only to come straight back in headed away by Shaw.
Hutton win a rare free kick of their own outside the Histon box on the right Piggott up to take goes for goal a well struck effort that flies wide past the par post. Blair flicking the ball on Finch controlling and turning to shoot on the volley top of the area straight into the keepers gloves.
GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Kinsman central played in battles her way through in towards the top of the area Wright on her shoulder to beat the defender and get a shot away past the advancing keeper to complete her hat-trick 1-5.
Full time Histon Ladies 1-5 Hutton Ladies
Hutton with two late goals win the match 5-1, a better 2nd half from Histon came out strong at the start of the 2nd half only to concede a 2nd goal. Kelly with a superb strike to bring it back to 2-1 Hutton were quick to restore their two goal lead. Chances for both as the match opened up Hutton giving away free kicks Histon not able to find a 2nd goal apply some pressure Hutton going on to win comfortably. All for nothing in the end as they finish 2nd in Group D behind King’s Lynn Town Ladies who made it 3 wins from 3 away to Leigh Ramblers to advance to the knockout stages. Both Hutton and Histon who reached the final of the competition last season will fancy their chances in the Plate.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Notable performances from Poppy Kelly in attack and Alison Wright in defence for Histon. For Hutton it’s a close call in the finish, excellent work in midfield from captain Abigail Fry with several fantastic runs forwards during the match. Have chosen Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick of course but more than that her presence up front general hold up play and strength on the ball, drawing defenders towards her giving space for others to exploit.
400 match reports written and the thing I love about doing them is no two are the same get a buzz every time. The content comes solely from the players out there on the pitch and I merely try and put it into words. Plenty more left in the tank, need those team details as always and much appreciated… on to the next one.
A reduced fixture list across the Norfolk Women’s Football League this weekend with the 1st Round of the Ladies League Cup scheduled to take place. There was one league game played too in Division One newly promoted Taverham United Ladies hosting Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves both with 3 points on the board looking for the 2nd win on the season that could get their season going. Wymondham having not won since the opening day of the season getting their 2nd league win of the season winning 2-0. Rebecca Carver and Zara Krischer with her first goal for the club securing the 3 points.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
Four 1st Round ties due to be played this Sunday in the 1st Round of the Ladies League Cup last season’s finalists Tavern Ladies saw their game at home to Mulbarton postponed. Three tie played Division One side Fakenham Town Ladies were at home taking on Stalham Town Ladies who were setting the early pace in Division Two. Fakenham progressing into the 2nd Round courtesy of a 2-1 victory, Sophie Lubbock and Megan Spurrell with the goals. Amber Mayhew scoring the Stalham goal.
Sophie Lubbock & Megan Spurrell with the goals for Fakenham Town Ladies (photo credit Fakenham Town Ladies)
Long Stratton Women also through to the 2nd Round of the League Cup with a comfortable away win against Division Two side Bulldogs Ladies. Samantha Walker a potent threat in front of goal moving onto 6 goals for the season scoring 4 in the tie for Division One side Long Stratton. Leonie Green making her Long Stratton debut scoring her first goal for the club as the visitors progressed with a 5-0 win.
Also in the 1st Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup it was an all Division Two tie between high flying Thorpe United Ladies Reserves at the top of the table hosting Red Rose Ladies. A high scoring encounter with Thorpe running out 8-3 winners at the final whistle. All of Thorpe goal scorers celebrating their first goals for the club 3 making their debut for the side. Rachael Wall with their 1st goal going on to score a 1st half hat-trick adding a 4th in the 2nd half. Annika Skoog scoring a brace on debut. Rosie Leigh too getting her first goal a minute into the 2nd half on her first start. Silvia Ribeiro also celebrating her first goal for the club.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the competition made 8 ties to be played Sunday 24th November listed below:-
Horsford Women v Waveney Ladies
Taverham United Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies
Sprowston Ladies v Sprowston Athletic Ladies
Freethorpe or North Walsham Angels Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies
Long Stratton Women v Thetford Town Ladies
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves v Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves
Beccles Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
Hockering Ladies v Tavern Ladies or Mulbarton Wanderers
