Category Archives: The Round-Up

The Round-Up – Suffolk 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Season End

Suffolk Women’s Division

A Round-Up on a Friday? What’s that all about? Well with it being a hectic start to the week the season in Suffolk finishing this Thursday evening I thought I’d wait and put it all into one final edition.

Rewind the action to Wednesday 24th April, Needham Market Women having secured a 2nd placed finish in their debut season playing their last league match of the campaign at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 lead for Needham market at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals 2nd half to end with a 7-0 victory. A fantastic first season for the club together achieving a runners-up finish pushing league winners East Bergholt United Ladies all the way, and 2 cup finals to look forwards too. Top scorer Francesca Rainbird scoring a hat-trick their were goals too for Isabel Chaplin, Nicola Henderson, Milly Carter an a first Needham market goal for Jemma Mortimer.

Playing on Thursday evening Brantham Athletic Ladies were at home to Alresford Colne Rangers in their penultimate game of the season. A high scoring game between the sides had to settle for a share of the points scoring 3 goals each. Jodie Sharp, Sophie Crabtree & Shanice Leeks scoring for Brantham up to 3rd in the table, whilst Rae Clancy, Jo Harvey & Jasmine Warner scored the goals for 5th placed Alresford Colne Rangers in what would prove to be their final match of the season with Sunday’s opponents Coplestonians Ladies forfeiting the game.

Onto Sunday, the final weekend of the season 3 matches played, with Woodbridge Town Ladies at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Thursday. A 7-0 win for Needham Market in midweek as they prepared for Tuesday’s Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final their opponents and league champions for a 2nd successive year were ending their league season away to Leiston St Margarets. Annie Northwood, East Bergholt’s leading goal scorer this season on target for a brace in the game whilst their was a goal a piece for Stacey Teager, Cara Savage and Pippa King in a 5-1 win, East Bergholt impressive in the defence of their title losing just the one game. Looking to make it a 2nd successive league & cup double playing again on Tuesday against Needham Market in the League Cup Final.

Brantham Athletic Ladies away to Walsham Le Willows Ladies in their final game of the season getting the points they needed to be assured of a 3rd placed finish winning the game 2-0 thanks to goals from Lucy Dunnett and Lucy Elmes.

An impressive 2nd half to the season for newcomers Brettvale Ladies saw them end on a high with a crushing home win over bottom side University of Suffolk Women in their final game of the season. Tarnya McKew very much a part of their improved results the experienced striker scoring 8 goals in the match taking her to 27 goals from just 11 appearances. Brettvale winning the game 15-1 the rest of their goals spread out with Claire Turnbull, Danielle Lynch, Shaan Hayre, Georgia Lindon, Lucy Brown & Iris Gunnarsdottir all on the scoresheet along with Clara Gosling with her first goal for the club.

A win for Brantham on Sunday meaning they could not be caught by 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies another new comer to the league this season having an improved 2nd half to the campaign picking up some great results to climb up the table, as high as 3rd at one point are the reason I’ve kept this Round-Up till the end of the week as they were playing their final game of the season last evening at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Jenna Liverpool getting the goals for Woodbridge the clubs top scorer finding the back of the net for 2 more goals to end on 21 for the season with Kiera Hines also scoring in a 3-1 win to end the season, great form too with 9 wins from their last 10 league games. Leiston St Margarets Ladies finishing the season with 3 straight defeats nevertheless finish in 6th.

Before Woodbridge & Leiston St Margarets brought the curtain down on the 2018/19 Suffolk Women’s Division season their was the League Cup to be decided Women’s Football East was their and below is the full report from the game. A larger league this campaign great to see the game growing within Suffolk the new sides all making an impact and will be interesting to see how they progress in the new season.

Tuesday 30th April

Suffolk Women’s League Cup

Needham Market Women v East Bergholt United Ladies

A 2nd final in 3 days with a trip down to Suffolk for their League Cup Final to be contested by league newcomers Needham Market Women and league champions and current holders of the cup East Bergholt United Ladies.

The Suffolk Women’s Division seeing growth this season with a host of new sides joining the league 12 in total. Needham Market Women pushing East Bergholt all the way in the title race.

A great debut season for Needham Market Women coming together in the summer, the squad building several names familiar having been part of Bacton United Ladies and Coplestonians Ladies. Hit the ground running winning their opening 5 league games matching East Bergholt’s 100% winning start, their 1st league defeat of the season at home to East Bergholt losing narrowly 3-2 Needham market nevertheless bounced back well returning the compliment with a 3-0 win against East Bergholt at the start of March that though East Bergholt’s only defeat, Needham Market losing 3 in total clinching runner-up spot, more success too in the cup competitions reaching both the finals of the League and County Cup to be played on Tues 7th May at Portman Road against Ipswich Town Women. Plenty of goals within the squad over 120 scored Francesca Rainbird top scorer with 33 goals.

East Bergholt United Ladies completing the double last season unbeaten that year on their way to the title. Their squad a blend of experience and youth players learning their game opted for another season season in Suffolk to further player development rather than move up to the regional league above. Just that one loss to Needham Market blotting their league record this season the other 21 games won. Have applied to the ERWFL for promotion along with Needham Market themselves. Annie Northwood, East Bergholt’s top scorer with 40 goals to her name this season. Both sides growing within the county which ultimately is great for the game with one side dominating for so long.

Road to the Final

Big away wins for both sides in the opening round of the League Cup, Needham Market scoring 8 without reply against Brettvale Ladies. East Bergholt with over twice that total winning 19-0 against University of Suffolk Women.

Needham Market at home in the quarter finals of the competition taking on Leiston St Margarets Ladies a 5-1 win seeing them into the last 4. East Bergholt progressing without kicking a ball awarded the away win over drawn opponents Woodbridge Town Ladies.

A strong line-up for the semi-finals of the League Cup contested by the top 4 sides in the league itself, Needham Market away to Alresford Colne Rangers, scoring twice Needham Market secured victory and a cup final appearance in their first season together. East Bergholt away to local rivals Brantham Athletic Ladies. Always a competitive game between the two sides East Bergholt came out on top to win the game 3-1 to reach a 2nd successive League Cup final.

This evening’s final taking place at Hadleigh United FC. Traffic from Swaffham through Thetford and Bury St Edmund slow going arrived later than I like but nevertheless is a picturesque part of the county. The main carpark already full the gates to the overflow carpark open the field behind the stadium filling up rapidly. A good number already there, the bar open, hot food and drinks available, a small stand filling on the other side of the pitch. A warm evening dry and clear.

Needham Market Women starting – Amber Leeks, Niamh Thomas, Megan Stock (C), Amy Dunn, Maria Smith, Elysia Young, Nicola Henderson, Amber Sparkes, Milly Carter, Francesca Rainbird & Lois Balfour. Subs – Jemma Mortimer, Josie Haward, Amy Trenter, Emily Steward & Jemma Wessels

East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Jess Quinsee, Deben Faiers (C), Georgia Lockerbie, Millie Wilding, Charlotte McGrath, Jess Clarke Cara Savage, Stacey Teager & Annie Northwood. Subs – Katie Bruce, Pippa King, Charlotte Warren, Ellie Nitsche & Isla Romer-Lee.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A good crowd building prior to kick-off the overflow carpark filling up it’s Needham Market to get this season’s League Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing an all red kit with East Bergholt wearing green coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Pressing the ball straight away East Bergholt make ground on the left flank winning a couple of throws the final ball played long into the seen out for a goal kick by Needham Market captain Megan Stock. East Bergholt with the ball inside Needham Market’s half early on the ball played back to centre back Georgia Lockerbie she plays it long into the area safely claimed by Needham Market goalkeeper, Amber Leeks.

Needham Market come left Francesca Rainbird driving on with the ball has support inside from Milly Carter 25 yards out she in turn plays it on central to striker Lois Balfour gets a shot away the ball racing low wide past the right post. Charlotte McGrath getting on the ball in the middle for East Bergholt passes to Cara Savage ahead of her the ball played into striker Stacey Teager she turns in behind her touch a little heavy, a race for it with the Needham market defence, Leeks coming for it but with Teager on her shoulder Amy Dunn clears it for a throw out left.

Rainbird and Carter looking to get on up the left support from full back Niamh Thomas, Harriet Meers slowing down progress for East Bergholt. Keeping possession Needham market win a free-kick out wide 25 yards out the ball whipped in towards the near post dipping, goalkeeper Kimberly Lynch meeting it on the volley to launch clear of her area. Handball spotted in the middle a free-kick given to East Bergholt the ball put forwards runners after it the ball claimed by Leeks. Rainbird a threat from the start for Needham market on the left picking the ball up and prepared to take players on getting up the line attempts to play the pass inside to Balfour outside the box, Deben Faiers captaining East Bergholt with the interception at the back.

Savage right playing the ball forwards Annie Northwood giving chase in behind, Leeks racing out of her area gets to the ball first. Millie Wilding central for East Bergholt out to Northwood making a run into the left channel into the box checks inside before sending a shot over. East Bergholt have the ball left a throw in leading to a cross, Stock winning it at the back for Needham Market.

GOAL! East Bergholt making a promising start are hit on the counter Needham Market breaking to open the scoring in the 12th minute. Faiers having played the ball up to Teager in attack Needham Market deal with the bouncing ball putting it on for Rainbird breaking on the left with Balfour coming inside Rainbird shoots from 25 yards out a low ball heading towards goal, Lynch leaving the ball thinking it’s going wide of the near post, to her dismay it creeps inside the post to see Needham Market take the lead 1-0.

Francesca Rainbird with the opening goal for Needham Market Women

East Bergholt with a free-kick wide left inside the Needham Market half Jess Clarke to play it on into the area, Leeks getting her gloves on the ball a split second before being clattered into, down Needham Market’s defence are back quickly to scramble it away. Nicola Henderson combining with Balfour as the pair enter the East Bergholt half the through ball forwards finding Rainbird running clear the flag up against her having gone too early, close mind.

Again East Bergholt have a free-kick wide left similar to the previous Clarke lifting the ball long to the far post defended headed out of the area straight to McGrath a touch to set herself then let’s fly with a shot from 20 yards out, safely held by Leeks. Rainbird is the outlet for Needham Market looking to get the ball out left whenever they have possession, a pacy dribbler of the ball her run taking her into the area forcing East Bergholt to concede the corner. Played in from the left central inside the six yard box Lynch up well to get a glove up to clear the danger. Needham Market giving away several free-kicks the East Bergholt bench complaining.

East Bergholt getting a corner on the right the deliver dropping near post met turned goalwards Leeks with a reactive save stopping the ball on the line with her legs deflecting it back out to the left put back in the keeper catching it this time. Needham Market make the first change of the game Carter the player coming off on comes Josie Haward. East Bergholt get bodies forwards left a cross delivered into the box, Stock meeting it to clear, Wilding looking to reclaim it outside the box pushed over a free-kick. 20 yards out left of the D Wilding on it goes for the shot over the bar.

The ball played on up the right by Amber Sparkes, Balfour and Faiers in a race for it, Lynch out well to the right corner of her area to slide in claim the ball. A corner won on the right East Bergholt bring players forwards the 1st ball in defended near post back with east Bergholt on the right flank the 2nd ball in attacked by Teager and Lockerbie near post the ball headed over the bar. East Bergholt with their first switch of the game Katie Bruce on fr Savage. Build up play on the left McGrath over to support Clarke, Jess Quinsee bombing forwards from full back, Needham Market preventing a cross.

Needham Market with a free-kick on the left played into the box, McGrath back defending heading the ball out of the area drops straight to Rainbird positioned top of the D, her shot whistling over the crossbar. Half an hour played a 2nd change for East Bergholt Wilding the player off on comes Charlotte Warren. Faiers and Lockerbie winning the ball as Needham Market look to get Balfour away in behind, Rainbird and Sparkes getting on up the wings. Another free-kick awarded Faiers adjudged to have brought down Balfour 30 yards out looked a tangle of legs. Balfour on the set-piece a great ball in on target, Lynch with a terrific save the merest of touches to tip the ball onto the bar and away behind for the corner. Lynch up at her back post making a confident claim from the corner.

Kimberly Lynch making the save

Northwood with a shot 25 yards out left sends it wide across the box. Elysia Young putting the ball on for Rainbird to chase into the box keeping it in play Lockerbie gets across to tackle. Young into an advanced position supporting Rainbird attacking left the pass squared to Young looks to play Balfour into the box, Faiers reading it cutting the ball out for East Bergholt.

GOAL! Less than five minutes of the 1st half left to play East Bergholt break away to score the equaliser, McGrath getting hold of the ball on halfway with a fantastic ball forwards, the Needham Market defence static as Northwood breaks in behind no flag runs on into the box one on one with the keeper Leeks staying big, Northwood putting the ball wide of her left to find the back of the net 1-1.

Rainbird full of running making a nuisance of herself pressing the east Bergholt defence 25 yards out the ball popping loose to Young getting forwards she sees a shot drop wide of the mark. Ellie Nitsche entering the game late in the first half for East Bergholt as they press the attack late on. The ball played right sees Leeks beaten as she comes for it the ball cleared away by the back tracking defence, light fading fast the half-time whistle blows. All square at the break.

Half-time Needham Market Women 1-1 East Bergholt United Ladies

An entertaining first half a vocal crowd spurring both sides on the best attendance I’ve seen for a Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final, 400 plus. East Bergholt with the early pressure, Needham Market though with the early goal however. Working hard in defence East Bergholt getting more players forwards when they attack, Rainbird a threat on the left wing looking to create something more often than not. East Bergholt drawing level late in the first half. set up perfectly for the 2nd period, the lights on now.

Needham Market with a change at the start of the 2nd half Emily Steward on for Balfour in attack. East Bergholt to get the 2nd half underway. Straight on the attack the ball pushed on through the middle Nitsche looking to race away in behind the Needham Market centre backs close Maria Smith putting in the challenge the ball scrambled away. East Bergholt pressing high the ball won inside the final 3rd lifted into the area right side six yards out Stock grappling with Teager to win the ball comes straight to Nitsche outside the box a shot struck back in pace and power smashes against the crossbar!

GOAL! East Bergholt capitalising on their fast start to the 2nd half the ball played in through the middle sees Nitsche burst clear of the defence this time carrying it into the area she slot a shot past the keeper to put East Bergholt into the lead. 2-1.

A sluggish start to the 2nd half from Needham market not switched on, Sparkes looking to get an attack going on the right, Quinsee in to make the challenge a corner conceded. Lockerbie defending the ball put in to the near post area. Young with the ball at her feet 20 yards out sees a shot charged down. A corner won for Needham Market on the left the ball defended near post back with the taker up the line top of the area rolled inside to Henderson she has a go driving a shot wide.

Needham Market’s Nicola Henderson

East Bergholt get Teager away left side to attack the box, Leeks out to meet her sliding in the ball not claimed Teager spotting Nitsche free 25 yards out central drags a shot wide. East Bergholt keeping a closer watch on Rainbird the ball not getting to her as much as it did in the first half. Clarke with Bruce and McGrath closing the ball down well further up the pitch. Lynch confident as she rushes out to the right of her box to slide in a claim the ball with Sparkes attacking.

East Bergholt United Ladies, Charlotte McGrath

Nitsche lively in attack causing Needham Market a few problems away on the right sends a ball into Teager top of the area catching it first time deflects it towards goal, straight at Leeks. Changes for both sides Carter back on for Needham Market. Isla Romer-Lee on for East Bergholt. Dunn defending an East Bergholt free-kick played into the box. A fluid attacking move from East Bergholt as they come very close to adding a 3rd goal. Starting with McGrath central on to Nitsche linking with Teager 25 yards out the ball out to Romer-Lee int space right lays the ball back into the middle for McGrath driving on into the box she shoots putting the ball across the keeper runs narrowly wide of the post.

Romer-Lee cutting inside from the right passing to Nitsche she tries to pick out Teager at the far post, Thomas defending for Needham Market. McGrath with another storming midfield run into the box, Dunn shielding the ball out for the goal kick. An injury blow for Needham Market as Stock going up to win an aerial challenge, lands awkwardly appearing to twist her knee, clearly in alot of pain the trainer on straight away play stopped as she requires lengthy treatment, wearing a knee brace is in alot of pain. Up gingerly cannot continue Jemma Mortimer heading on to take her place in the back line.

A double change for East Bergholt, Wilding returning to the field along with Pippa King on for Teager. Carter linking with Rainbird as they get forwards on the left the latter crossing to Steward out towards the far post she looks to cushion it down for Carter central, the defence intercepting and getting it away for East Bergholt. King with the ball attacking left high into the box for Nitsche 8 yards out connects with the ball not enough on it to beat Leeks in goal. East Bergholt with alot more of the attack 2nd half, Needham Market pushed back defending just the one goal in it still.

Savage back on for East Bergholt, Jemma Wessels on in place of Carter for Needham Market. The final entering the last 10 minutes. A free-kick won on the left as Rainbird is brought down outside the area, Wessels on it plays the ball long to the far post Lynch up well reaching up to make the claim caught lands heavily but okay. East Bergholt counter attack Romer-Lee clear on the right a Needham Market commit players forwards busting into the area she puts the ball low across the keeper her shot coming back off the base of the post.

Amy Trenter on for Needham Market. East Bergholt strong late on winning the midfield battle McGrath breaking it on. Northwood back on for Nitsche as Needham Market are forced back late on, Smith tackling to regain possession inside her box. Rainbird getting away left into the corner playing a cross into the area Faiers back in her six yard box winning the header. The final whistle blows and East Bergholt celebrate winning the League Cup and completing the double for a 2nd successive season.

Full time Needham Market Women 2-1 East Bergholt United Ladies

An entertaining final watched by a passionate and supportive crowd a good atmosphere and close result between the sides. All square after the 1st half, East Bergholt had much more of the attack in the 2nd period pressing the ball higher and preventing the ball getting into Needham Markets attacking players scoring early in the 2nd half a 3rd goal would have made thing’s more comfortable but it din’t come, Needham Market though unable to find a clinical goal scoring chance up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances of note, firstly for Needham Market, Francesca Rainbird was a constant threat especially in the first half. Megan Stock captain marshalling her defence well making some important tackles. For East Bergholt Ellie Nitsche was a danger in attack pacy with great movement and positional sense. The award though goes to East Bergholt’s Charlotte McGrath the midfield superb throughout the game winning the ball centrally, setting up attacks some fantastic runs forwards.

East Bergholt United Ladies, 2018/19 Suffolk Women’s League Cup winners (picture East Bergholt United Ladies)

Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on this evenings success and completing the double double.

Arriving late at the ground I didn’t feel prepared but the help I got from both sides plus Mandy from the Suffolk Girls & Women’s Football league plus a cheeseburger put me at ease, a busy start to the week 2 finals in 3 days both thoroughly enjoyable however, tired now but next up it’s 4 finals in 4 days! As daunting as that sounds I’m really looking forwards to it. Thanks to all for their help this evening.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies are the Champions! Winning their final game of the season on Sunday away to Houghton Athletic Ladies to clinch the title playing their first season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One edging out 2nd placed Northwood Ladies by just 3 points in the finish but with games in hand on the sides above them all season always knew what they had to do to get the job done. Charlene Turturici-Clarke netting a brace to take her into double figures for the season their were also goals for Lizzie Richardson and Bianca Hedgecock with top scorer Natasha McConville scoring her 22nd goal of the campaign and Eloise baker her first goal. Hemel Hempstead winning the game 6-2. Emily Wilson and Holly Thomson scoring for Houghton.

Congratulations to Hempstead Town Ladies on winning the Division One title. One game left to play the League Cup Final where they take on current holders St Albans Ladies on Sunday 12th May.

Two more games played in Division One on the penultimate weekend of league matches in the Beds & Herts leagues. St Albans Ladies finishing 3rd ending their league campaign with a win, last season’s champions away to Garston Ladies 1st team on Sunday goals from Michaela Johnson, Ellen Slater and Molly Slade securing a 3-0 win.

Their strong finish to the season continues for Garston Ladies 2nd XI as they win a 5th league match in April to secure a 6th placed finish in Division One with a game to play. Were away to Sharnbrook WFC this weekend having beaten them 6-0 at home two weekends ago. Competed a double over their opponents scoring 6 once again with Megan Allaway and Ruby Jager both scoring twice along with a goal each for Charley Kelsey and Chloe Hazell. No clean sheet this time though with Sharnbrook scoring through Millie Scott to see the game finish 6-1.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Hitchin Town Ladies were playing a must win game away to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday with the winner assured a runners up finish in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. Hitchin Town with an early goal leading 1-0 within the opening 5 minutes captain Emma Chaffey striking the crossbar the rebound dropping to Many Cain-Murnane to put into the back of the net. Chaffey making it 2-0 midway through the first half her free-kick in off the keeper. The win secured in the final 15 minutes of the game with Chaffey scoring Hitchin Town’s 3rd goal to secure 2nd spot. Letchworth playing their last game of the season finishing in 3rd.

Royston Town Ladies Development completing their Division Two campaign this Sunday a 4th place finish secured travelled to play Evergreen Eagles. Finished on a high with a comfortable victory. Eve Chappell scoring twice her first goals for the side in only her 3rd appearance. 8-0 the winning score with 5 other players on target for a goal each, Kierra Gabriel with her 11th of the season. Olivia Sole, Jazmin Racher and first goals too for Ami Ellis and Lydia Webb.

Bedford Ladies Development and Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies both winning at home at the weekend by a single goal, 1-0 wins against Welwyn Pegasus Azure and Watton Ladies respectfully.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three the title race is going all the way to the final day. AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies beating leaders AFC Dunstable for the 2nd successive weekend to see them slip to 2nd and move to within a point of them in 3rd and 3 behind new leaders Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Goalless at half-time Kempston took the lead in the 53rd minute. Nicola Hollick equalising for Dunstable with 12 minutes left to play, Kempston coming back to retake the lead in the 83rd minute to win the game 2-1, Rachael Mumford and Kayleigh Humphries with their goals.

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses enter the final round of league matches top of the pile two points clear of Dunstable and 3 ahead of Kempston. Were away to Kempston Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Giselle Randall top scorer for the club scoring five goals to move to 37 goals for the season from 19 played. Laura Sephton also on target for a brace with Nikita Blackburn and Zoe Griffiths also getting a goal each in a 9-2 win. Meghan Dimmock and Sabrina Stramaglia scoring the goals for Kempston Rovers.

Playing their final match of the season Stotfold Juniors Ladies end on a positive note finishing 6th in their debut season in women’s football with a 2-1 home win over 5th placed Biggleswade United Ladies.

Three sides all with a chance of finishing top on the final day a huge game between 3rd and top with AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies hosting Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses, the 3rd placed side with a better goal difference need the win a point for Woburn & Wavendon enough to finish top. AFC Dunstable Ladies away to Biggleswade United Ladies will be hoping Kempston do them a favour so long as they can secure a win themselves on the final day.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Cambridge City Ladies Development are the Champions! Another county league title settled this season as they got the result on Sunday at home against Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to win the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title. Just a point needed in fact from their remaining 3 games, goals for Ellie Cullum, Rachel Littlewood, Bronte Rapley and a 31st goal of the campaign for Megan Tonks seeing Cambridge City win the game 4-0. A league and cup double secured now the aim the treble with the league cup final to come in a weeks time.

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development upon their title success.

March Town United Ladies close the gap to 4th placed Fulbourn back to a point with a game in hand winning at home on Sunday in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership up against Histon Ladies Reserves. A goal each from Naomi McGarvie and Eleanor Mcleish her first goal for March seeing them to a 2-0 win.

March’s opponents in their final two games will be 3rd placed Cambridge University Women, 3 games left to play themselves can chase down 2nd spot with ICA Sports Ladies having finished their fixtures now just 5 points ahead. Cambridge University winning away from home against bottom side Riverside Ladies on Sunday. A 2-0 lead for the visitors at the break, didn’t have it all their own way 2nd half with Annie Posnett scoring twice for Riverside. Cambridge University matching that however to clinch a 4-2 win. Amanda Wainwright netting a brace along with goals for Lu Liu and Mariana Barona scoring her first goal for Cambridge University.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

The title race in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North is still very much on and looks certain to go all the way to the final day with the top two meeting and 2nd placed Wisbech Town Ladies inflicting a first league defeat of the season upon leaders Ketton Ladies to close the gap back to 3 points with a game in hand. 12 straight wins for Ketton before this Sunday including a first league defeat over the season over Wisbech Town when the sides previously met in the league. 3 meetings between the sides in the league two to come both at Ketton including the last game of the season Wisbech travelled knowing nothing short of a win would do if they wanted to keep their ambitions of completing a double alive. Top scorer Sophie Swinden with her 41st goal of the season scoring for the visitors, Fran Kavanagh, top scorer for Ketton hitting her 46th goal of the season the score level at 1-1, Wisbech clinching the win with a late winner scored by Chelsea King. Their game in hand this Thursday against Hungate Rovers Ladies win it and they goal level on points with Ketton with both having 2 games left to play.

A dramatic game elsewhere in the Championship North with Pinchbeck coming back late on in their game away to 3rd placed Cardea Ladies to clinch the 3 points and move off the bottom of the table in the process. A 7 goal thriller, Pinchbeck drawing first blood an early lead scoring in the 6th minute. Cardea getting back on level terms with half an hour played Jessica O’Sullivan with the goal. Laura Rudd then firing Cardea into the lead in the 38th minute to see the hosts leading 2-1 at the break. Rudd scoring her 18th goal of the season seeing Cardea into a 3-1 lead early in the 2nd period. Pinchbeck coming back into the game well to pull it back to 3-2 before a dramatic finish, just 3 minutes left when they scored to pin Cardea back to 3-3 the visitors going on to score the winning goal in the final minute of the match to take it 4-3. Courtney Walker and Rebecca Navarette both celebrating a brace each.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development kept their title ambitions alive winning away to Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday. Taking home the 3 points with a 5-1 victory close the gap to leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies to 6 points with 2 games in hand. A huge game this coming Sunday as St Ives travel to Haverhill Rovers.

A 2-0 away win over Burwell Tigers Ladies in midweek Isleham United Ladies were at home this Sunday playing their final league game of the season against Park Ladies. A brace from Lily Turner seeing Isleham drawing 2-2 with Park at half-time. Park with a much better 2nd half securing the win scoring a further 3 goals to see them consolidate 4th spot with a 4th win in 5 league games towards the end of the season a double header with St Ives Town Ladies Development to come. Sherrie Martin scoring a hat-trick for Park to put her on 17 goals for the season. Georgia Stimson with her first goal for Park and a penalty scored by Jemma Brown the other scorers.

The Round-Up – Essex 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Painted an exciting title run in possible in both the Premier Division & Division One in the county in last weeks edition of The Round-Up, after this Sunday’s results it all changes with Division One settled (more on that below) and the readjusted Premier Division table seeing Leigh Ramblers Ladies now needing just a point from their remaining two matches to become champions.

Beginning with Leigh Ramblers they were playing the first of two potential tricky games against 3rd placed Collier Row Tigers this Sunday. Home advantage for Leigh Ramblers, Collier Row Tigers needed to win to keep alive any chance of chasing down top spot the gap 8 points going into the match. Leigh Ramblers holding a narrow 1-0 advantage at half-time going on to strike the ball into the back of the net twice more 2nd half to win the game 3-0 with Rebecca Dalgarno scoring a brace taking her onto 15 goals for the season along with a goal for Emily Diwell. Leigh Ramblers guaranteed 2nd at the very least 11 of their squad still U18.

Frontiers Ladies, 2nd in the Premier Division table seeing their own title hopes gone after they suffered defeat away at home this Sunday to Southend United Ladies. The visitors holding a 1-0 lead going into the half-time interval. That goal proving the difference as both sides fought to draw the 2nd period 2-2 meaning Southend claimed all 3 points courtesy of a 3-2 win and with 3 games left to play are now 3 points back from 4th placed Collier Row Tigers their run in seeing them taking on 3 of the top 4 including Collier Row Tigers in the last game of the season for both. Lauren Johnson with a brace for Southend along with Emily Pert on target for her 17th goal of the season. Frontiers with one game left to play now 4 points behind Leigh Ramblers their 2nd half goals scored by Sharon Ferguson and Charley Sandford.

Harlow Town Ladies Development climb back up into 3rd spot in the Premier Division table, maximum points now from their final 3 games can see them catch Leigh Ramblers currently on 36 points on goal difference, a huge ask, runners-up spot too on with the gap to 2nd placed Frontiers 5 points with 2 games in hand and one of there last 3 games at home to Frontiers. Still alot to play for. All set up this Sunday with a big home win against Chelmsford City Ladies. Top scorers for Harlow doing the damage Hannah Smith and Ellie Nicholls, the latter scoring a hat-trick to see her go to 21 goals for the season. Smith going one better scoring 4 goals in the match 33 goals for the season now from just 16 appearances. Harlow winning the game 7-2, Shannon Kelly and Georgia Sleep scoring for Chelmsford.

Essex Women’s Division One

Billericay Town Ladies Reserves are the Champions! Winning the Essex Women’s Division One title in their final game of the season a strong performance away to fellow title chasers Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Top of the table on goal difference over Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies going into the game a win would see Billericay assured top spot. A win for Rayleigh Town however would see a 3 way tie at the top on 48 points with a game left for Rayleigh to clinch the title themselves. As it was Billericay got the job done both sides scoring plenty of goals this season 242 between them going into the game Billericay scoring 4 more to end the season with 131 goals scored and keep Rayleigh at bay up the other end to clinch the title with a 4-0 victory to go 3 points clear. Rayleigh can still clinch runners-up spot with a win away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves in their final game of the season.

Hutton Ladies Reserves having secured a 4th placed finish in Division One were away to bottom side Island Ladies this Sunday. A brace each from Danielle Hindley and Rachael Agombar and a goal for Giulia Francesconi seeing Hutton win the game 5-0. Have two games left to play can’t catch 3rd but could close the gap to just 2 points and in doing so lay down a marker for next season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

ERWFL Premier Division

The top three not in action in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday, the league action begins with Acle United Women the 4th placed side hosting 5th placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. The Norfolk side to become Wroxham Women from the start of next season holding a 2-0 lead at half-time, substitute Grace Birchall on for the injured Kate Pasque with both the goals. Emily Leach joining from Bungay Town Ladies scoring her 1st goal fr Acle 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Alexa Hunter pulling a goal back for Peterborough Norther Star her first goal of the season. Acle going 4-1 ahead midway through the 2nd half with Birchall completing a hat-trick defender Chloe Shields scoring her first goal of the season with 3 minutes left on the clock to put Acle 5-1 ahead Hunter getting a 2nd goal late in stoppage time for the visitors. A 3rd straight league win seeing Acle move above Wymondham into 3rd position.

Harlow Town Ladies got back to winning ways on Sunday as they look to secure a top half finish in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division were away to fellow Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies at the weekend. Tayla Handscombe on target netting twice along with a goal a piece for Chloe Bassett, Poppy Binding and captain Kaydee King seeing Harlow run out 5-0 winners.

5 straight league wins now for Colney Heath Ladies as they regain the form they showed at the start of the season to climb up the Premier Division table, up to 7th spot now above their weekend opponents Bedford Ladies. Away from home. Christina Freestone firing Colney Heath into the lead. Bedford coming back with a shot from distance flying in to make it 1-1. The game all square at half-time Colney Heath winning the game in the 2nd half thanks to a 25 yard screamer from Sheree Oliver.

Has been a difficult two seasons for Haringey Borough Women regrouping after a year in the FAWNL, dropping back to the ERWFL this campaign bottom for a long period glimpses of better times around the corner wins coming late in the season they got themselves off the foot of the table a coming out on top away to fellow strugglers AFC Sudbury Ladies in an 8 goal thriller have secured their league status. Mia Etheridge, Sophie Jeffery and Olivia Gunn scoring for Sudbury the final game of the season for both sides Haringey found the back of the net for 5 goals up the other end to win in their last game finish 3rd from bottom. Sudbury finish bottom have struggled for numbers all season a tough season as they drop down to Division One.

ERWFL Division One

St Ives Town Ladies are the Champions! Winning the ERWFL Division One title in their debut season playing at regional level top of the league making a winning start haven’t looked back since unbeaten winning 16 of the 20 league games played so far. A rapid rise clinching 3 promotions in 4 seasons still very much a young and developing side too.

Just a point needed as they took on familiar rivals Newmarket Town Ladies at home. The 3rd placed side the last side to claim a league win over St Ives back in 2017. Often a close game between the sides and this Sunday no exception, St Ives not conceding too many goals by far the best defensive record in Division One with just 9 in the against column. kept Newmarket out whilst a single goal was enough to clinch victory and the title, scored by Emily Smith in the 2nd half.

St Ives Town Ladies ERWFL Division One Champions (picture credit Gary Reed)

A fantastic achievement from St Ives Town Ladies congratulations of winning the title.

2nd spot assured for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies the Essex side enjoying a strong first season under the Bowers & Pitsea banner. Silverware collected too in the form of the Essex Women’s Trophy were taking on their fellow finalists again this Sunday in the league Lawford Ladies. Sophie Dowman heading Bowers & Pitsea Ladies int the lead on 15 minutes. Lawford soon getting back on level terms with captain Daisy Canny making it 1-1 6 minutes later. As good as it got for Lawford however as 3 minutes later Bowers & Pitsea were back in front form a cracking strike from Megan Harley. Harley scoring again on 30 minutes to put Bowers & Pitsea 3-1 ahead. Dowman with her 2nd of the game seeing the hosts 4-1 up at the break. Alesi Harris bringing up a 5th goal for Bowers & Pitsea in the 54th minute. Holly Moore sealing a 6-1 win with goal in the last 10 minutes of the game.

Hutton Ladies are up to fifth in the ERWFL Division One table now 6 points behind 3rd and 4th placed Newmarket Town Ladies & Stevenage Ladies with 2 games in hand on both. A comfortable scoreline at home this Sunday as they took on Stevenage. Top scorer Vicky Kinsman on target for another hat-trick edges closer to the 50 goals mark with 47 on the board so far this season. Goals too for Hayley Piggott, Sally Appleton and Hayley Critchell seeing Hutton run out 6-0 winners.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies were playing their final game of the season an away trip to Cambridgeshire to face Histon Ladies. A goal from Kristina O’Connell in the 33rd minute seeing Hoddesdon leading 1-0 at the break. Histon back into it early on in the 2nd half a free-kick played long to the far post difficult to handle coming back to Rebekah Fisk to head over the line. Tied at 1-1 going into the final 10 minutes of the game Hoddesdon got their noses back in front with Charley Handley on the scoresheet. The win eluding them however with Histon on the attack in the final minute, Sophie Lanham shooting wide left to put the ball across goal into the bottom corner to equalise for a 2nd time a 2-2 draw the points shared, Hoddesdon in 7th for now Histon 2 points back in 8th have 3 games left to play, Lawford 9th with 2 left to play.

Hertford Town Ladies also complete their season this Sunday their final ERWFL Division One game as Hertford Town as from next season they become Wodson Park Ladies. A positive end to a difficult campaign picking up some great results as their squad has strengthened. End with a victory at home were taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Christie Seakens and Lauren Barnard scoring their first goals of the season, with Dempsey Favell and Riley Bennett on target too for a goal a piece securing a 4-1 win, 16 of their 19 points won in 2019, a positive outlook for the new season ahead.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

FAWNL Cup

This Sunday saw the Final of the FAWNL Cup taking place at Burton Albion FC’s Pirelli Stadium. The two sides contesting it looking to complete the double both league champions with Crawley Wasps Ladies winners of the South East Division One title taking on Blackburn Rovers Ladies once again the Champions of the FAWNL Northern Premier Division. Both losing just one league game all season Crawley Wasps were without centre backs Darcey James and Ellie Russell along with forward Sian Heather.

Blackburn taking an early lead Saffron Jordan scoring from close range notching up her 100th goal for the club in the process. Blackburn applying more pressure in the 1st half Crawley Wasps keeping them out the lead 1-0 at the break. Into the 2nd half and once again it was n early break though for Blackburn, Lynda Shephard playing Natasha Flint in the attacker lobbing the keeper to double the lead in the 52nd minute. Few chances for Crawley Wasps the game made secure in the final 10 minutes with Jordan scoring her 2nd of the match to see Blackburn win the game 3-0 and lift the trophy.

2018/19 FAWNL Cup winners, Blackburn Rovers Ladies (picture Blackburn Rovers Ladies)

Congratulations to Blackburn Rovers Ladies on winning the FAWNL Cup. Their next game will be the FAWNL Play off game taking on Southern Premier Division Champions, Coventry United Ladies the game to be played on Saturday 18th May at Bradford City FC’s Valley Parade Stadium the kick-off 3pm.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

The penultimate weekend of fixtures in the FAWNL and following their 3-2 midweek win away to Oxford United Women, Cardiff City Ladies go the points they needed on Sunday to secure runners-up spot in the Southern Premier Division. Were on the road again travelling the Stadium MK to play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The hosts holding the advantage going into half-time however Charley Clarke scoring from a corner with half an hour played to see Milton Keynes Dons leading 1-0. Cardiff soon back on level terms at the start of the 2nd half with Nadia Lawrence scoring 2 minutes after the restart to make it 1-1. Cardiff going on to score what would prove to be the winning goal past the hour with Jordan Guard finding the back of the net to make it 2-1.

Chichester City Ladies have secured a top 3 finish in the Southern Premier Division having been in the top two for much of the season leading for a good period, Cardiff coming on strong late on to overhaul them. Third assured at home as they took on QPR Women. Natasha Stephens getting Chichester off to a perfect start tapping in from a corner kick inside the opening minute. Lauren Cheshire doubling the hosts lead with the game approaching the half hour scoring direct from a corner. A 3rd goal seeing Chichester into a 3-0 lead before half-time Stephens brought down inside the box Tammy Waine stepping up to score from the spot and claim her first goal of the season. Late drama as goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear was sent off for Chichester handling the ball outside the area, Waine donning the gloves the clean sheet remaining in tact.

Oxford United Women bouncing back from their midweek defeat having won the Oxfordshire Women’s County Cup last Sunday made the trip down to the south coast to play Portsmouth FC Women. Georgia Timms putting the visitors 1-0 up in the 29th minute. Top scorer Emily Allen racing in to score her 18th goal of the season in first half stoppage time to see Oxford into a 2 goal lead, keeping Portsmouth out at the other end in the 2nd period to claim the 3 points and a 4th placed finish in the league.

Fifth placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies were hosting league champions, Coventry United Ladies. The visitors taking the lead on the half hour with Amber Hughes on target to make it 1-0. Plymouth awarded a penalty on the stroke of half-time going in level with captain Katie Middleton making it 1-1 from the spot. Coventry back in the lead early in the 2nd period with Amy Wathan scoring her 23rd goal of the campaign. Hughes notching up her 2nd of the game midway through the 2nd period to see Coventry take a 3-1 lead. Into the final 15 minutes Plymouth pulling it back to 3-2 thanks to a goal form Helen Bleazard. No come back however as Rosie McDonnell struck for Coventry just 4 minutes later to see the 2 goal cushion restored, Hughes completing her hat-trick in stoppage time to bring up her 20th goal of the season as seal a 5-2 win for Coventry.

That defeat for Plymouth sees them drop to 6th overhauled by Watford FC Ladies who secured the 3 points at home to bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. The game goalless at the break it was Basildon who drew first blood taking the lead early in the 2nd half. Sophie Kelly scoring form distance from a free-kick in the 52nd minute. The game closing in on the final 20 minutes Watford bringing on Alysha Stojko-Down made an instant impact scoring from inside the box to make it 1-1.2 minutes later Watford had the lead Leanne Bell in the right place to get hold of the ball and make it 2-1. The 3 points secured in the 78th minute with Adekite Fatuga-Dada on target to score Watford’s 3rd goal.

FAWNL South East Division One

The top two spots in FAWNL South East Division One secured already the two promoted sides enjoying fantastic season’s Crawley Wasps winning the title, Billericay Town Ladies sealing runners-up spot it remains very tight in the positions below with Actonians Ladies in 3rd just a point clear of 4th and 5th with one game each left to play. Actonians making the trip to Essex this Sunday to play Billericay. A first half brace for Mariko Eagles along with a goal in the 50th minute seeing the visitors on target for 3 goals. Not enough however to take anything from the game as Billericay found the back of the net for twice as many up the other end. Zoe Rushen scoring a hat-trick the clubs leading goal scorer taking her tally to 31 goals for the season. Goals too for Jay Blackie her 15th of the season, Danica Dougal and Freya Fuller making her debut for the 1st team.

Enfield Town Ladies move above Leyton Orient WFC into 4th spot with a better goal difference after they won away from home on Sunday against Cambridge United WFC. Nuala McKevitt with the only goal in the 1st period seeing Enfield take the lead in the 35th minute. Claire Ford making it 2-0 to Enfield early in the 2nd half. The 3 points make secure in the final 5 minutes with Molly Peters on target for her 15th goal of the season to make it 3-0.

Stevenage Ladies secured their FAWNL status for a 4th season on Sunday winning at home to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. The host opening the scoring on 28 minutes Ashleigh Deacon scoring to put Stevenage into the lead. Just 2 minutes later the hosts were 2 nil ahead Deacon through on goal setting up Amy Makewell to score. A 3rd goal coming late in the first half with Makewell setting up Deacon this time one one on one with the keeper to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 up at half-time Norwich threatened a late 2nd half comeback Aimee Durrant pulling a goal back with 15 minutes left to play. Natasha Snelling getting it back to 3-2 inside the final 5 minutes. Stevenage holding on to win the 3 points.

Luton Town Ladies are relegated from the FAWNL having battled with a young squad and multiple injuries throughout the season a difficult campaign after being in the top 4 on a regular basis in recent seasons. Travelled up to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Women and were in a good position going into the half-time interval leading the game 2-0. Remi Bains charging down the ball seeing it rebound off her into the back of the net t make it 1-0. Jess McKay quickly bringing up a 2nd. Ipswich making a triple change at half-time pulling it back to 2-1 on the hour from a corner Natasha Thomas scoring with an over head kick. Paige Wakefield with a stunning goal to level the scores just 4 minutes later. A goalmouth scramble seeing Ipswich take the lead in the 73rd minute Thomas on the end of it for her 2nd of the game completing a hat-trick just 2 minutes later to make it 4-2 to the hosts. 5 minutes left on the clock Ipswich adding a 5th goal with Charlotte Kellett scoring her 1st senior goal for the club.

The Round-Up – The Counties 21/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st April

The County Leagues

Another condensed version of The Round-Up for the county leagues this week with just 11 games played across all the leagues covered by Women’s Football East this Easter Sunday.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Starting in Norfolk, just two fixtures left to play with one on those taking place this weekend seeing Sprowston Athletic Ladies at home to Beccles Town Ladies, both sides promoted to Division One this season, will meet again in a fortnight in the League Plate final. Mixed fortunes with Beccles hit by injuries all season finishing bottom, Sprowston Athletic ending on a high results picking up towards the latter half of the season overhaul Bungay Town Ladies to secure a top half finish ending up in 4th place courtesy of a 5-0 win, K Welsh scoring a brace in the game with goals too for Keri Boorman, Melissa Belsey and Olivia Leggett in a 5-0 win.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

In Norfolk Women’s Division Two, Taverham Women United are the Champions getting the point they needed to seal the title away to Hockering Ladies in their final game of the season this Easter Sunday. A fantastic achievement for the club playing their first ever season of women’s football have led the way for much of the season a long winning run, just the one defeat late on to dent the record. All under 18 bar one have kept getting the results despite some strong sides their to challenge. Hockering Ladies sadly short on players as they have been for most of the season battling on a creditable effort form everyone. 9 players against Taverham the visitors a handful at the best of times got into a 5-0 lead comfortable the title secured opted to drop down to 9 themselves to match Hockering a noble gesture didn’t stoop the goals as they added a further 5 to win the game 10-0. Three players netting a brace, Hannah Artis, Maya Lawlor and Tiegan Robinson with Jasmin Snelling, Lucy Staff, Summer Rogers and Abbie Walker all getting a goal each. Staff and Snelling with their first goals of the season.

Taverham Women United, Division Two Champions

Congratulations to Taverham Women United on winning the Norfolk Women’s Division Two title.

The only side to defeat Taverham in the league this season were Tavern Ladies. Coming on strong towards the end of the season themselves victory at home to Fakenham Town Ladies on Sunday seeing them move into 2nd position and pole position for clinching the runners-up spot. A 4-0 defeat to Fakenham on the opening day of the season Tavern have been behind the top three in part due to a run in the league cup that has seen them reach their first ever final. Tavern’s winning streak now reaching 10 wins in all competitions scoring plenty of goals along the way too. Fakenham needing the points themselves to put them into 2nd it was Tavern holding the advantage at half-time leading the game 2-0 the hosts went on to win the game 5-1. Atlanta Griffith scoring a brace to move onto 23 goals for the season, Katie Hart-Copsey adding another goal to her staggering 51 goal tally. Nicole Costin also getting a goal for Tavern to take her into double figures for the season an own goal too.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

One game in Cambridgeshire at the weekend from the Championship North, leaders Ketton Ladies at home to bottom side Pinchbeck United Ladies. Ketton extending their 100% winning record to 12 games to go 6 points clear at the top courtesy of a 2-0 win with the usual suspects on target for a goal each, Fran Kavanagh scoring her 45th goal of the season With Claire Lawrenson finding the back of the net for her 26th of the campaign.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Essex saw the most league action at the weekend with five matches played. Sadly however there is some sad news to report from the league with Brentwood Town Ladies withdrawing from the Premier Division late in the campaign, no doubt a tough call to make, bottom of the league knew they were going to find it a challenge having been promoted despite a 4th placed finish last season, 11 losses have struggled to find a team on several weekends, with less than 75% of their fixtures played their results are expunged meaning adjustment to the table and some sides losing up to 6 points previously gained. Wishing everyone involved with Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves side all the best for the future.

Three games played in the Premier Division on Easter Sunday. Leigh Ramblers Ladies returning to the top of the table winning away from home against Silver End United Ladies who were playing their last game of the season. Amy Jacobs scoring a brace has 16 goals now for Leigh Ramblers from 9 appearances. Emily Diwell also on the scoresheet with Leigh Ramblers running out 3-0 winners. Leigh Ramblers a point clear of 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies with a game in hand.

Collier Row Tigers are now 3rd in the adjusted Premier Division table and with games home and away against Leigh Ramblers to come could yet have a say in the title race with 4 games left to play. Won the 3 points at home this Easter Sunday against Southend United Ladies. Top scorer Laura Bunton hitting a brace moving onto 33 goals for the season with Emma Harrison and Natalie Oxby also getting a goal apiece in a 4-1 win, Emily Pert scoring for Southend.

A point behind Collier Row Tigers in 4th spot Harlow Town Ladies Development also have 4 league games left. Were big winners away from home on Sunday taking on Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Leading 2-0 at half-time Harlow ran riot in the 2nd half to score a further 7 goals to win the game 9-1. Hannah Smith, top scorer on target for another hat-trick has 29 goals for the season now. Ellie Nicholls with a brace has 18 for the season. Also on target for a brace was Hariot Douglas her first goals for Harlow in just her 2nd appearance. Maisy Wyer and Poppy Binding with a goal each also scoring.

Essex Women’s Division One

Home wins awarded for earlier games called of now taking effect, Billericay Town Ladies return to the top of Essex Women’s Division One, ahead of Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies on goal difference. Nothing Dagenham & Redbridge can do having completed their fixtures but they are now sandwiched between the title contenders, with Rayleigh Town Ladies moving up to 3rd awarded points and winning at home this Easter Sunday against Runwell Sports Ladies who were playing their final game of the season. 51 goals for the season too for Isabelle Wallings scoring at the weekend with Sophie Rhodes making it 2 from 2 appearances for Rayleigh as they won the game 2-1. Danielle Dorrington scoring for Runwell who finish with 10 victories and 10 losses but just 27 points with a 3 point deduction.

The title battle between Billericay Town Ladies Reserves and Rayleigh Town Ladies, One game left for Billericay away to Rayleigh this coming Sunday 3 points the gap, Billericay win it they will be champions, draw and they will almost certainly be there with a far superior goal difference. A win for Rayleigh however and we have a 3 way tie at the top on 48 points. A point then for Rayleigh in their final game of the season away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves will see them clinch the title… a huge game on Sunday.

One other game played in Essex Women’s Division One this Easter Sunday with Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves beating Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves 3-1 away from home to climb up to 7th in their final game of the season, ending on a high thanks to a brace from Kelsey Honeywood and a goal for Millie Richards.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Two games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this weekend both featuring Garston Ladies as the 1st team and 2nd XI met in a double header to get their games in towards the end of the season. 6 points up for grabs. Garston’s 2nd XI bottom of the table for much of the campaign finishing strong with 4 wins coming in their last 5 league matches. Charley Kesley with a brace along with a goal for Holly Jury her 10th of the season seeing them win one match 3-0. In the other game Kelsey was also on target for another goal to take her tally to 12 for the campaign. Top scorer Ruby Jager scoring a brace too has 15 for the season a closer game this time around with Garston’s 2nd XI edging it 3-2 the 6 points seeing them climb up to 6th in the table with 3 games left to play.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 21/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st April

ERWFL League Plate

Newmarket Town Ladies were hosting Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Easter Sunday as they met in the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Plate a week after meeting in the league itself. Annabel Cuthbert scoring a hat-trick to win the game 3-2 for 10 player Newmarket the wining goal scored with just 20 seconds left to play. At Newmarket meeting in the cup, Histon Ladies awaiting the winner. Newmarket making a positive start to the game few chances from open play for both sides Newmarket shooting wide across goal looking a threat from set-pieces Jess Linger good from dead ball situations coming close with one strike from distance putting Newmarket into the lead late in the first half a shot from 35 yards out getting the faintest of touches from keeper not enough as it smashed against the crossbar and over the line.

Newmarket 1-0 up at half-time dealt well with Hoddesdon in the 2nd half a hot day, the score remained 1-0 for much of the 2nd half Newmarket looking comfortable but Hoddesdon were never out of it Kristina O’Connell running clear into the area pulling a shot wide across goal. 5 minutes left and Newmarket found a 2nd goal, a fantastic assist from Jodie Woodfield (so I’ve been corrected) putting striker Annabel Cuthbert through one on one with the keeper to shoot past her and score. Newmarket into the League Plate Final on Sunday 12th May winning 2-0.

Jodie Woodfield with the assist to see Newmarket win the game 2-0

ERWFL Premier Division

Two games played this Easter Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division, a trip down south for 3rd placed Wymondham Town Ladies to take on 3rd from bottom Haringey Borough Women. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with strikers Hannah Waters and Laura Nicholls combining for the latter to score. 40 goals now this season for Laura Nicholls. 1-0 up at half-time Haringey got straight back on level terms in the 2nd half making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. Waters restoring Wymondham’s lead midway through the 2nd half scoring to make her 2-1 with her 24th goal of the season. Again Haringey came back to level within 5 minutes of going behind. 10 minutes left on the clock Wymondham with a free-kick just outside the centre circle, Chardonnay Johnston with a screamer finding the top corner to put Wymondham 3-2 ahead and this time they didn’t let it slip to win the game.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Chardonnay Johnston

A week after knocking them out of the League Cup to reach the final of the competition Bedford Ladies returned to the Branch Bros Stadium to take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the Premier Division. Bedford coming out on top in a close game a week ago winning 2-1. There wasn’t much in it again with just a single goal enough to see all 3 points secured, this time however the result going Peterborough Northern Star’s way the 5th placed side scoring through Jessica Driscoll.

ERWFL Division One

4 league matches played in ERWFL Division One this bank holiday weekend with a clash between the top two seeing St Ives Town Ladies now needing just a point to win the title in their debut season in the league. Unbeaten at the top of the table St Ives were hosting 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this Easter Sunday. The Essex side knowing they needed to win if they wanted to keep alive their own title ambititions, no easy task against a side unbeaten in the league and long before joining the ERWFL. Bowers & Pitsea starting well St Ives keeping them out however the sides heading in level at the break. The deadlock broken just past the hour with St Ives awarded a penalty Katie Stancombe fouled inside the box, Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring from the spot to make it 1-0. The lead doubled just 3 minutes later Ruth Fox powering a header home from a corner, St Ives weathering a late storm to win the game, next up Newmarket Town Ladies, the last side to beat them in the league back in 2017.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies are up to 5th spot in ERWFL Division One after mounting a 2nd half comeback in Essex to over turn a 2-0 half-time deficit. Hutton Ladies in 6th the hosts this Easter Sunday scoring twice in the 1st half. King’s Lynn Town Ladies meeting Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final this coming Sunday at Carrow Road matching their score coming back in the 2nd period to score 3 goals and win the match to extend their winning streak to 3 matches. Tiffany Forshaw, Becky Russell and Emma Corbyn with the goals.

Histon Ladies were hosting Lawford Ladies at the Glassworld Stadium this Easter Sunday. Jade Heath scoring her first goal of the season putting Lawford into the lead. Histon awarded a penalty kick on the half hour Sophie Lanham tucking it away to level the score. Lawford getting back into the lead 5 minutes later with Heath on target for a 2nd goal to put the visitors 2-1 up at half-time. Histon getting it back to 2-2 on the hour with Kirstie Smith playing the ball in from wide sending a shot over the keeper to score. Both sides taking a point from the game.

Hertford Town Ladies got back to winning ways in Division One coming home with the 3 points travelling away to Hatfield Peverel Ladies this Easter Sunday. Despite Jasmine Cox scoring twice for Hatfield Peverel they conceded twice as many at the other end to see Hertford Town win the game 4-2.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 21/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st April

Glorious weather for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Easter Sunday itself seeing a reduced fixture schedule across the region with just 23 games played across the leagues covered by Women’s Football East.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

The weeks edition of the FAWNL begins with Cardiff City Ladies looking to return to 2nd spot in the Southern Premier Division at home to 5th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Cerys Jones firing in a shot from distance setting Cardiff on the way putting them into the lead in the 12th minute. Kylie Nolan running into the box and sending a shot across the keeper doubling the lead on the half hour to see Cardiff leading 2-0 at half-time. An hour on the clock and Cardiff further extended their lead a high shot sent in from the left pulled down, Cori Williams closing in on the keeper challenging for the ball forcing it over the line to make it 3-0. Plymouth responding quickly to going 3-0 down pulling a goal back through Leah Burridge straight away. Natasha Knapman scoring another for the visitors to make it 3-2 and set up a nervous final 15 minutes Cardiff though holding onto their lead to claim the 3 points and return to 2nd in the league.

Defeat for Plymouth good news for 6th placed Watford Ladies as win away from home on Easter Sunday to move back to within a point with both with two to play including facing each other at Watford on the final day. This Sunday Warford were away to Gillingham Ladies. 0-0 between the sides at half-time a single goal enough to secure the 3 points for Watford coming midway through the 2nd half Adekite Fatuga-Dada putting in the cross for Katie O’Leary to nod it at the far post to score her 7th of the season.

FAWNL South East Division One

Three games played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend. Billericay Town Ladies 2nd in the league fresh from winning the Essex Women’s County Cup for the first time on Thursday evening beating holders C&K Basildon Ladies 4-0 were on the road on Sunday taking on bottom side Luton Town Ladies. It was the hosts however who opened the scoring with Remi Bains putting Luton 1 up from a corner kick. Billericay coming back to level the scores went on to take the lead headed into the break 3-1 up. A fourth goal coming 2nd half, Luton pulling it back to 4-2 with a worldie from Kimberly Newns her 1st goal for Luton. Billericay winning the game 4-2 putting them 12 points clear of the chasing pack, Sam Pittuck, Karissa Rodney, Karen Stephanou and Zoe Rushen with the goals.

Incredibly tight in the middle of the FAWNL South East Division One table as it has been all season. 3rd to 7th separated by just 4 points with most sides having 2 games left to play. AFC Wimbledon Ladies were playing their penultimate game of the season this Sunday their final home game too played at AFC Wimbledon’s Kingsmeadow Stadium. The visitors Enfield Town Ladies in 5th, Wimbledon in 7th 3 points behind at kick-off. Sian Wylie putting Wimbledon into a 5th minute lead with a strike from outside the box. Enfield coming back to level the scores on 17 minutes through Molly Peters capitalising on a defensive mix up. Peters striking again for her 2nd of the game with 35 minutes gone to see Enfield leading 2-1 at half-time. That the score until late into the game Wimbledon pushing for an equaliser getting it in the 82nd minute Rebecca Sargent heading in from a corner to make it 2-2. Late heartbreak for Enfield, joy for Wimbledon as they pushed players on into stoppage time up popped Rosie Russell to score the winner for Wimbledon her 1st senior goal lifting a shot over the keeper to win the game 3-2. Up to 6th level on points with Enfield.

Sian Wylie with the opener for AFC Wimbledon Ladies

A trip to Suffolk for league champions, Crawley Wasps Ladies this Easter Sunday. Ipswich providing a guard of honour before kick-off. Ipswich opening the scoring Zoe Cossey played in by Amy Nash to take the ball past the keeper and score with 16 minutes gone. Ipswich doing well keeping Crawley out at the other end to lead 1-0 at half-time. Crawley finding an equaliser on 64 minutes as Faye Rabson was played through to score. The visitors reduced to 10 soon after with Darcey James shown a 2nd yellow card. Despite that it was Crawley who found the wining goal late in the game with 2nd half substitute Suzy Davies finding the back of the net in the 88th minute to win the game.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 14/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th April

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Following up from a comfortable 7-1 home win against Garston Ladies 2nd XI in midweek with both Bianca Hedgecock and Charlene Turturici-Clarke scoring a brace each, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies closed the gap to leaders Northwood Ladies to 3 points. Due to play Garston Ladies 1st team n Sunday their opponents forfeited the game see Hemel Hempstead awarded the 3 points and move level with the leaders. One game left away to Houghton Athletic Ladies a point or better will see them crowned Division One champions, Northwood will be cheering on Houghton.

Garston Ladies 2nd XI bounced back from their midweek defeat to Hemel Hempstead to win at home against Sharnbrook WFC on Sunday and as a result move off the bottom of the Division One table. Ruby Jager scoring a hat-trick in their 6-0 victory with Lauren Berryman, Leah Crocket and Charley Kelsey also bagging a goal each. Sherrardswood Ladies go bottom having played all their games.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

One more Champion to celebrate this week with Hitchin Belles getting the point they needed on Sunday to become Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two Champions! Were playing their final game of the season away to local rivals and 2nd placed Hitchin Town Ladies. The match at played at Top Field home of Hitchin Town FC, Hitchin Town Ladies were 8 points behind Hitchin Belles with 3 games left to play needed a win to have any chance of denying Belles the title. In the finish it wasn’t to be with the sides battling out a 0-0 draw usually a frustrating result but not for Hitchin Belles as they win the title and promotion to Division One.

Congratulations to Hitchin Belles on their title success.

That 0-0 draw good news for Letchworth garden City Eagles as they move back up into 2nd place in the Division Two table with a home win over in form Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kate Tempest, Katie Smith, Emily Jamieson and a 1st of the season for Anna Argiros seeing Letchworth win the game 4-0, one game left to play, that against Hitchin Town Ladies now basically a shoot off for 2nd place with one point between the sides even though Hitchin have a game in hand.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Three games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday and with two games left for the top 3 it is going to go down to the wire. Leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development top of the table were unbeaten dropping just 2 points before this weekends home clash with 3rd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. The visitors inflicting the first defeat of the season on Dunstable to close the gap to them down to 4 points. Rachael Mumford scoring a brace for Kempston Town & Bedford College with a goal each for Taylor Kingston and Kayleigh Humphries plus an own goal securing a 5-1 win. Bianca Vassell with the goal for Dunstable the pair meeting again in a fortnight in their penultimate game of the season. A win then for Dunstable putting Kempston Town & Bedford College out of the title race, if it goes the other way thing’s get very interesting on the final day!

That defeat for Dunstable good news too for Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses in 2nd place as they close the gap to the leaders to just a point with a big win away to bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies. Giselle Randall on fire with 7 goals in the game taking her onto 32 goals for the season, the visitors winning 10-0 with Victoria Harrold also on target with a goal and a brace for Laura Sephton. An intriguing contest between Dunstable and Kempston Town & Bedford College in a fortnights time Woburn & Wavendon are away to Kempston Town & Bedford College in the pairs final game of the season where all three sides could all still be in contention for the title!

One more game to bring you and it was victory in their final game of the season for Langford Ladies who secure a 4th placed finish in their debut season in women’s football. Were away to Biggleswade United Ladies in 5th spot. A brace from top scorer Amber Clark finishing on 25 goals plus one from Chloe Scott who ends on 21 goals for the season sealing a 3-0 win.