Four games played on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Needham Market Women remain top ahead of East Bergholt United Ladies only separated by goal difference. East Bergholt with that superiority up until the withdrawal of Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves the goals earned against them chalked off, it’s Needham Market’s turn to push their own goal difference up as they recorded a huge win away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this weekend.
Needham Market going from strength to strength in their debut season the squad full of goals. 7-0 up at half-time there was no let up in the 2nd half with a further 12 goals scored. 19-0 Abbie Wilkinson top scoring for Needham Market in the game with 4 goals. Francesca Rainbird is Needham Market’s top goalscorer a hat-trick on Sunday moving her to 26 for the season. Also scoring a hat-trick and her first goals for Needham market in only her 2nd game was Emily Steward. Four players netting a brace with Josie Harward, Jemma Wessels, Nicola Henderson and Eboni-May Shephard with her first goals too for Needham market celebrating a brace. Another player getting her first goal for Needham market on Sunday was Amber Leeks in only her 3rd appearance.
East Bergholt United Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers, another high scoring game with the sides sharing 9 goals! Top scorers Jo Harvey with a brace and Tiffany Reeves scoring for Alresford have 27 goals between them now. East Bergholt have plenty of goals in their squad too however and hit Alresford for six up the other end to collect the 3 points. Annie Northwood scoring one of those goals has 26 goals recorded for the season now. Elena Nitsche bagging herself a brace there were goals too for Stacey Teager and Charlotte McGrath with Isla Romer-Lee scoring for the 1st time this season in East Bergholt’s 6-3 win. Still have a game in hand on Needham Market.
Brantham Athletic Ladies took advantage of Alresford losing and 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies game being postponed to win big at home to climb back up to 3rd place in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday. At home were taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Brantham are another side with a strong attack and Brightlingsea felt the full force as the hosts claimed all 3 points with a 14-1 win to move back up the table.
Brettvale Ladies are having a fantastic start to 2019 strengthening the squad have now won 4 of their 6 league games played so far with just one defeat. A 3rd successive league win coming at home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. Brettvale holding a 2-1 lead at half-time that score was repeated 2nd half to see the hosts run out 4-2 winners. Tarnya McKew joining the squad has added a real goal threat playing at a higher level before hit a hat-trick for Brettvale on Sunday to move onto 14 goals from just 6 appearances. Georgia Lindon with the other goal for Brettvale. Abigail Eley netting both goals for Coplestonians.
Cambridge City Ladies Development return to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership with victory away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Top of goal difference over ICA Sports Ladies, Cambridge City have 3 games in hand on their rivals. Megan Tonks getting on the scoresheet once again for Cambridge City scoring her 28th goal of the season, A goal too for Yasmin Crow along with one for Philippa Witherspoon returning to play for the 1st time this season. Cambridge City winning the game 3-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
Semi-final weekend for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition introduced last season for the clubs competing in the Championship North & South. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East ventured this weekend to watch league rivals Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies go head to head in the last 4 of the competition. Ketton leading the way with a 100% record at the top of the Championship North, Wisbech Town just 3 points behind having lost their first league meeting with two to come. Meeting in the Division One Cup this Sunday the game switched to 3G due to the weather the rain almost gone replace by the blustery winds that affected so many games across the country.
Not ideal weather for a semi-final match, Wisbech adapting to the conditions better taking an early lead Amy Newell firing home from outside the box to make it 1-0. Ketton though they had equalised when a long range free-kick from defender Beth Goodman went in over the keeper but the effort was ruled out with players running offside one close to the keeper. A narrow lead for Wisbech at half-time the weather giving us a bit of everything. The hosts doubling their advantage early in the 2nd half with top scorers Sophie Swinden running clear on the right to send the ball past the keeper.
Chloe Stanborough with the ball at her feet for Wisbech Town Ladies
Claire Lawrenson coming close for Ketton moments later beating the keeper only for defender Kaylie Swinden to get back head her shot wide for a corner. Ketton frustrated couldn’t get anything happening in the final 3rd, the 90 minutes almost up Wisbech were finishing strong pressing for a 3rd goal it came as Chloe Stanborough caught the ball perfectly outside the box to volley the ball home under the diving keeper. 3-0 up into stoppage time Ketton’s goalkeeper Georgia Ireland hurt diving for the ball unable to continue Amy Gray taking up the gloves Wisbech pressed the attack Swinden getting a 2nd goal then going on to complete her hat-trick with Stanborough’s cross/shot finding the top corner in the dying seconds to see Wisbech run out 6-0 winners to reach the final of the Division One Cup.
Their opponents will be St Ives Town Ladies Development after they won their semi-final clash at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Also switched to 3G due to the awful weather. St Ives like Wisbech 2nd in the South table looking to chase down Haverhill Rovers Ladies for the title itself. Jade carpenter scoring a brace in the game for St Ives with Fran Worrall also celebrating a goal in a 3-1 victory.
The date for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Final announced, will be on Friday 12th April with a 7:30pm kick-off at Ely City FC.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday, Cardea Ladies consolidating 3rd position in the table with a home win against 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies. The hosts taking a 10th minute lead through captain Laura Rudd added a 2nd in the 21st minute to take her goals tally to 17 for the season. Naomi Hall scoring a 3rd 4 minutes later to see Cardea holding a 3 goal lead at half-time. Wisbech St Mary threatened a comeback with 2 goals early in the 2nd half Eilish Brown on target to score in the 48th minute, Josie Turner making it 3-2 7 minutes later. Cardea found the back of the net for a 4th goal past the hour to restore a 2 goal cushion, Phoebe Browness getting the goal. Cardea winning the match 4-2.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Haverhill Rovers Ladies extended their lead at the top Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South to 7 points with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC on Sunday. The visitors enjoying a good season themselves scoring twice against the league leaders, Haverhill in their debut season since returning to women’s football building a strong squad, Joeli Kirby’s goals helping the side as they aim for title success scored two more on Sunday taking her tally for the season to 35. Kayleigh Nolan amongst the goals too scoring at the weekend has 13 now for the campaign with a goal on her debut for Haverhill for Georgina Sparkes in a 4-2 win.
At the other end of a contrasting Championship South table Park Ladies were at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday the sides both with just 3 points each to date along with Burwell Tigers Ladies. Laura Todd, Louisa Harwood and Emily Ingle all getting on the scoresheet for Isleham it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Park scored 5 up the other end to collect the 3 points.
Thorpe United Ladies claim the first honours of the season as they were crowned Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions on Sunday. A 9 point lead at the top of the table going into the weekend have lost just the once in the league from 11 played. The introduction of youth stepping up into the 1st team rejuvenating the squad have led from start to finish. Injuries hampering progress in the cup competitions recently Thorpe went into this Sunday’s home game knowing a positive result would clinch the title. Were taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies who with games in hand on the leaders remained the only side who could catch them.
Sprowston Athletic unlucky in the finish having gotten themselves into a two goal lead with Katie Fray and Keri Boorman on the scoresheet, Thorpe coming back with 3 late goals to claim the win. Captain and top scorers Rebekah Lake on target for her 15th goal of the season. Laura Hedtke scoring for the 9th time with Alice Smith making her 1st start also celebrating a goal.
Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies on your title success. Champions!
One more game took place in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with 4th placed Gorleston Ladies travelling to 5th placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A big win for Gorleston takes them up to 3rd in the table ahead of Aylsham Ladies on goal difference. Mary Croft trebling her tally for the season finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match. A brace too for Sophie Gillett, with Bethany Turner also getting a goal in a 7-0 victory for the visitors.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
A reply for Beccles Town Ladies and Bulldogs Ladies in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate after the original tie was abandoned after 76 minutes with Beccles leading 4-0 due to a serious injury. Rearranged for this weekend an away trip to Aylsham Ladies awaiting the winner. Beccles getting players back from injury after a long spell without a game Bulldogs Ladies short on numbers. Beccles running out convincing winners to reach the last 4 of the competition, three players on target for a brace, Rosie Cook, Megan Vincent and the first goals of the season for Elisha Maher. Darcie Keiley also scoring her 1st goal, with Emily Coe and Francesca Heaney getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The fixture list virtually wiped out in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday due to the weather. Only one game surviving and that thanks to a reversal of fixture with Thetford Town Ladies down to visit Freethorpe Ladies becoming the home side. 7th versus 8th in the table, Thetford beginning to find their feet in women’s football recording their 6th win of the season. Melissa Boulton hitting a brace on Sunday moves onto 15 goals this season for Thetford. Shannon Richardson scoring too has 7 for the season with Rebecca White getting a goal too in only her 2nd game for Thetford in a 4-1 win. Kiera Squires the goalscorer for Freethorpe.
Cambridge City Ladies extended their unbeaten run at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division to 16 games this Sunday to move 11 points clear. Were away at the weekend taking on Colney Heath Ladies for the 2nd successive week, a 2-0 victory at home in the League Cup quarter finals last time out. The weather conditions playing havoc as they would for everyone this weekend, Cambridge City on the attack chances created a goal disallowed took the lead in the 1st half went on to score 3 more to win the game 4-0 to clinch the 3 points, a brace for top scorer Erin Davies moves onto 22 for the season. Lauren Tomlinson also getting on the scoresheet along with Freya Standing scoring her first, first team goal in only her 2nd appearance.
Royston Town Ladies climb up into 2nd place in the ERWFL Premier Division ahead of Acle United Women, the Hertfordshire side enjoying a good season were at home on Sunday up against AFC Dunstable Ladies who travelled with just the 7 available, through a shortage of players and injuries. Damage limitation a tough ask against a Royston side with goalscorers all over the pitch. Sammy Tinsley top scoring in the match netting a hat-trick. Three players were on target for a brace, Angharad Chambers, Georgia Gannaway and top scorer Joanne Rutherford. Goals to for Samantha Edgar, Eva Ramsey and ex-Dunstable player Charlotte South in a 12-0 win. A tough season for Dunstable yet they remain positive, new signings and players returning from injury are already building for next season.
Another side struggling in the ERWFL Premier Division this season are, AFC Sudbury Ladies, bottom of the table they too are short on numbers, a trip down to Essex this Sunday to play Harlow Town Ladies, the promoted side tussling with Bedford Ladies for 6th spot in the table. Bethany Chambers new to the 1st team squad making just her 4th appearance this Sunday took her goals scored to 8 as she was on target for a double hat-trick. Poppy Binding, Harlow’s top scorer moved onto 15 for the season with a brace at the weekend. A brace too for Olivia Steele, with Rubie Smith also finding the back of the net for a goal. The final score 12-1 to Harlow, Tegan Burling also scoring her 1st of the season for Harlow.
Wymondham Town Ladies were at home to Bedford Ladies. The Norfolk side newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division consolidating 4th position just 2 points behind 2nd placed Royston. Got off to a good start on Sunday opening the scoring in the 9th minute Kayleigh Holloway shooting from outside the box. A minute later Wymondham were 2-0 ahead, Bethany Fretwell scoring from a Mollie O’Callaghan free-kick. Top scorer Laura Nicholls making it 3-0 inside the opening 20 minutes. Bedford reducing the deficit to 3-1 before half-time. Wymondham restored their 3 goal cushion with 15 minutes left to play, Nicholls cross put in at the far post by Holloway for her 2nd of the game. Wymondham winning 4-1.
Two goals for Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway
Behind the chasing pack lay Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in 5th another postponement this weekend sees them have up to 5 games on the sides above them, a busy run in to come.
ERWFL Division One
ERWFL Division One saw 4 of the scheduled 6 league games this Sunday fall foul of the weather. 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were on the road on Sunday off to Wodson Park to play Hertford Town Ladies. Have been their when it’s windy and know how tough playing condition can be. Hertford enjoying a revival in recent game a 4 game unbeaten run that included a credible 0-0 draw away to Bowers & Pitsea. Now the side met in the reverse fixture with Bowers & Pitsea looking to keep the pressure on leaders St Ives Town Ladies. Hertford taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes with the ball squirming under the keeper after a slip. Bowers & Pitsea soon back on level terms Megan Harley with a 30 yard strike finding the bottom corner in the 6th minute. The visitors with an opportunity to take the lead with a minute left on the clock 2nd half awarded a penalty the effort saved. The 2nd half remaining goalless the sides sharing the points once again drawing 1-1.
Recent results going against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies they have slipped down the Division One table, laying 9th going into Sunday’s home clash with Lawford Ladies a positive result would see them back into the top half of the table. The weather conditions not helping Hoddesdon starting slow the sides were level at 1-1 at half-time, Daisy Canny on target for Lawford, Rosy Wodhams scoring late in the half for Hoddesdon. The hosts getting the better of the 2nd half Kristina O’Connell putting them into the lead in the 51st minute, Hoddesdon were quickly 3-1 ahead with Leah Dunnage scoring for the 1st time this season. Grace Leslie securing the 3 points for Hoddesdon with a goal in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 4-1.
The Round-Up returns after a weeks absence. My apologies but it couldn’t be helped family matters taking priority needed my full attention. All sorted now I hope. This Sunday saw another wet beginning with strong blustery winds affecting all games in the afternoon making for difficult playing conditions for all the games that managed to get played across the country.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
The FAWNL affected by the weather as much as most, with 5 matches across the Southern Premier & South East Division One called off. Gillingham Ladies home match with Watford Ladies the only postponement in the Southern Premier Division. Coventry United Ladies made it 13 games unbeaten at the top of the Southern Premier with the league leaders away to bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. Amy Wathan putting Coventry into the lead in the 14th minute. Wathan was then brought down inside the box midway through the 1st half, Chenise Austin doubling the advantage from the penalty spot. Shannon O’Brien adding a 3rd goal in the 38th minute to see the visitors lead 3-0 at half-time.
Coventry United Ladies, Amy Wathan
Bethan Merrick scoring from an Amber Hughes cross midway through the 2nd half saw Coventry extend their lead over the Essex side a 5th goal coming through an own goal, Merrick’s shot deflected in. Coventry awarded another penalty for handball in stoppage time, Austin scoring to secure a 6-0 victory opening up a 4 point lead.
A third successive league defeat now for former Southern Premier Division leaders, Chichester City Ladies. The 2nd placed side seeing Coventry pull further away as they were defeated at home to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Started well taking the lead in the 17th minute with Jess Lewry on the scoresheet. Loughborough coming back to equalise with 10 minutes of the 1st half remaining, Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner. The visitors taking the lead themselves 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick, Chloe Young scoring from the spot. Chichester pushed hard for an equaliser themselves 2nd half creating opportunities Loughborough defending, 15 minutes left on the clock Laura Steele struck from 25 yards out the ball in off the post to put the visitors 3-1 up and take the 3 points home with them.
Cardiff City Ladies in 3rd in the Southern Premier Division close the gap to Chichester to just 2 points now with their 7th straight league win on Sunday. Left it late however away from home against Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Kelly Issac’s strike in the 19th minute seeing Cardiff take the lead. Plymouth battled back to level the scores in the 36th minute with Zoe Cunningham scoring. The hosts doing well despite the conditions took the lead themselves on the hour with Jessie Jones making it 2-1. The game moving into the final 10 minutes a ball played into the area from a corner put in at the far post by Cori Williams to level it up at 2-2 for Cardiff. Plymouth pressing for a winning goal were hit on the counter in the final minute with Kylie Nolan firing in what would prove to be the winner for Cardiff.
Portsmouth FC Women were at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies this Sunday in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. The hosts opening the scoring just before the half hour with Katie Jones . New signing Jade Widdows scoring her 1st goal for Portsmouth since joining from Chichester 7 minutes later running in behind with the ball cutting inside to score from inside the area to make it 2-0. Portsmouth 2-0 up at the break Alex Collighan introduced to the action in the 59th minute making an immediate impact scoring with her 1st touch to put the hosts into a 3 goal lead. Rachel Panting adding a 4th with 20 minutes to go to seal a 4-0 win for Portsmouth.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games survived in FAWNL South East Division One, the weather conditions not great, no goals to report either as both games finished goalless. That though some achievement for Cambridge United WFC as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season. 12 straight wins for Crawley before this Sunday since promotion to the FAWNL. Worked hard to find an opening, frustrated as Cambridge battled hard defensively to keep them out.
A point to between Denham United Ladies at home to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. A scrappy affair with the blustery conditions not helping at all, few chances created.
A packed Sunday of league fixtures across all three divisions in the Beds and Herts Women’s Football League. The league changing in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One as the top two drew against each other. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires benefiting as they won the 3 points at home at the weekend to return to the top of the table. Were taking on Garston Ladies 2nd XI. Janiece Allen having previously scored plenty of goals for Welwyn Pegasus’ sister club the Azures scoring 4 against Garston on Sunday. Takes her to 17 for 11 appearances this season. Chemise Huitson also finding the back of the net for her 9th goal of the season as Welwyn Pegasus won the game 5-2 . Maddie Gordon and Charley Kelsey with the goals for Garston who slip to the foot of the Division One table, have played just 6 league games to date.
Northwood Ladies went into the weekend narrowly leading Beds & Herts Division One were away to 2nd placed Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies this Sunday. Northwood looking for a positive result after suffering defeat last weekend with a depleted squad, dug deep against Hemel Hempstead to ear a point Holly Gilder scoring twice. Bianca Hedgecock and Charlene Turturici-Clarke with the goals for Hemel Hempstead who still have games in hand on all the other title challengers in Division One.
Incredibly tight still in the league with just 3 points between the leaders and 5th placed Houghton Athletic Ladies. St Albans Ladies the defending champions sandwiching themselves into 3rd now between Northwood and Hemel Hempstead all on 20 points as they secured the 3 points away to Sharnbrook WFC on Sunday. Eleanor Lovelock with a goal midway through the 1st half putting St Albans into the lead doubled the advantage just past the hour the win secured in the final 5 minutes with Sophie Hull on target to make it 3-0. Lovelock completing her hat-trick in the 89th minute, her 12th of the season sealing a 4-0 win.
A tough season all round so far for the Garston sides in Division One, Garston Ladies 1st team at home to fellow strugglers Sherrardswood Ladies this Sunday both sides earning a point, enough to move Garston’s 1st team off the bottom. Emma Trill scoring twice for Garston with Jane Hales also on target for a goal. A point for Sherrardswood Rhiana Rose scoring twice for the visitors one a penalty, with Francesca Novelli finding the back of the net in the 88th minute.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Hitchin Belles have a two week break now form the league, they go into it in good form with a 6 point lead at the top of the Division Two table. Just the one league defeat to date chalked up an 11th win of the season this Sunday at home to Evergreen Ladies. Leading 1-0 at the half-time interval Hitchin Belles going on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win 3-0. Keira How scoring her 11th of the campaign. Top scorer Katie White firing in her 18th of the season and a 3rd of the season for Bonnita Woodward the goalscorers for Hitchin Belles.
Local rivals Hitchin Town Ladies in 2nd position in Division Two have two games in hand on Hitchin Belles. This weekend saw their local rivals extend their lead at the top as they had to settle for a point away to 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies Development on Sunday. The visitors taking the lead in a battling encounter on 27 minutes captain Emma Chaffey there to nod home after Rebecca Day’s shot struck the crossbar. Royston pushing for a reply 2nd half equalising through Sammy Tinsley in the 67th minute. Hitchin working hard in defence to prevent the hosts getting another, 11 the final score.
The bottom two met in the league on Sunday with Evergreen Eagles and Welwyn Pegasus Azures having 4 points each going into the game. Christie Brewer winning the game for Evergreen as she scored a hat-trick for the hosts in a 3-2 win, Samantha Coughlan with her first of the season with a goal in the first half for Welwyn, Fiona Davies striking late in injury time with the 2nd goal.
Bedford Ladies Development also winning at home at the weekend were hosting Watton Ladies. A good result winning 4-0 seeing them win for just the 2nd time in Division Two.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
4 games played too in beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. A 9th straight league win for AFC Dunstable Ladies Development this Sunday as they travelled to play Kempston Rovers Ladies. Lauren Brooker scoring in the 6th minute and a goal from Holly Wilks saw Dunstable into a 2-0 half-time lead. The rest of the goals were saved for the final 6 minutes of the match with Nicola Hollick scoring to put the visiting side 3-0 up in the 84th minute. Kempston Rovers struck back immediately with Chelsea Jeffery breaching Dunstable’s defence for a goal. Dunstable responding by going straight up the other end to restore their 3 goal cushion Wilks with her 2nd of the game the final score 5-1 with top scorer Bianca Vassell adding another goal to her tally in the final minute.
Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses continue to keep the pressure on their Bedfordshire rivals at the top of Division Three a point behind in 2nd they won big at home on Sunday against Buntingford Town Ladies who were only playing for the 2nd time in 2019 their last game back on the 6th January. Woburn & Wavendon winning with a double figure scoreline. Top scorer Giselle Randall finding the back of the net for 4 goals moves to 18 for the season. Georgia Payne getting a hat-trick too in the match, with Laura Sephton on target for a brace with Molly Churchill also amongst the goalscorers with her 1st of the season. Woburn & Wavendon winning 10-1.
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies lay in 3rd position in Division Three and will be hoping either of the top two slip up if they wish to close the 5 point gap to the top. Were away this Sunday taking on Biggleswade United Ladies. Chloe Urbanowicz on target scoring her 17th of the season for Kempston, there were goals to for Bex Cray and Zara Garrad who move onto 14 and 11 respectfully and a goal for Taylor Kingston in a 4-1 victory to take the visitors to 23 points from 10 played. Karen Clark with the Biggleswade goal.
A 3-3 draw between Bedwell Rangers Ladies and Stotfold Juniors Ladies in The Chris Renshaw Cup last weekend. Bedwell missing out on penalties in the finish the two sides meet again this Sunday at Bedwell in the league, the hosts again scoring 3 with Rachel Young scoring along with two for Isabella Townsend her 1st goals of the season. It wasn’t enough unfortunately for Bedwell to get anything from the game as Stotfold secured the win scoring 4 against them.
Frontiers Ladies beat Premier Division leaders Leigh Ramblers last time out to close the gap to a point, since awarded a home win, moved above them, and with Leigh Ramblers not in action this Sunday had the chance to go further ahead as they hosted 3rd placed side Harlow Town Ladies Development. A local derby, Harlow’s young side have been unlucky with injuries, a good test for both sides. Frontiers coming out on top to win the 3 points and go 5 points clear at the top of the table. Anna Freeman scoring a brace, with a goal for Charley Sandford in a 3-0 win. Harlow losing for just the 2nd time in the league this season.
That defeat allowing 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies to move level on points with Harlow as they secured the 3 points at home to Silver End United Ladies on Sunday. Tyler Christou getting her 1st goal since rejoining the club, Aimee Gannon also on target for Chelmsford for her 1st goal of the season scoring from the penalty spot. Chelmsford winning 2-0.
5th placed Collier Row Tigers are just two points behind Harlow & Chelmsford with games in hand on both. Were on the road this Sunday playing bottom side Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. A close contest between the sides Collier Row Tigers edging the result with a 3-2 win. Emily Dempsey scoring her 8th goal of the season, Helen Moreira also celebrating a goal along with a 1st of the season for Fran Pridie. Brentwood remain without a point at the bottom of the Premier Division their goals from Lauren Knight plus an own goal.
A hat-trick from Emily Pert helped to secure the home win for Southend United Ladies on Sunday in their Premier Division game with Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Pert with 12 now for the season. Lily Halliday also getting a goal for Southend, with Amber Popham and Louise Lawrence scoring for the first time this season in a 6-1 victory. Jo Smeaton the goalscorer for Beacon Hill Rovers.
Essex Women’s Division One
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves maintain their 6 point lead at the top of the Essex Women’s Division One table with their 15th league win of the season this Sunday away to FC Clacton Ladies. Have lost just the once this season fielded the bare 11 this Sunday, it was enough to secure the 3 points with 2 goals scored without reply, a 4th goal of the season each for Anna-Maria Rains and Kelsey Smith.
Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in 2nd place in the Essex Women’s Division One table also picked up another 3 point haul this Sunday away from home against Belhus Ladies. Both Grace Tebb-Reading and Juliet Thomas completing a hat-trick in the game for the visitors, Jodie Barden also getting a goal as well as a first of the season for Gracei Robinson in an 8-1 victory. Danni Jennings with her 11th of the season on target for Belhus.
8-1 was also the winning score at home for 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies this Sunday in their league match with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. Captain Isabella Wallings getting another goal to move to 41 for the season for Rayleigh. Holly Gash top scoring in the game with a hat-trick moves onto 18 for the season. 18 goals to for Eleasha Reeves now as she chalked up a brace on Sunday. There was also a brace for new signing Nancy Bulter making her first start for Rayleigh netting two goals on her debut. Rebecca Dalgarno with the goal for Leigh Ramblers. Rayleigh remain 4th some 15 points behind 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge but have a total of 6 games in hand.
Runwell Sports Ladies are 5th in the Division One table were at home this Sunday taking on Chigwell Ladies the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Runwell Sports getting the better of their opponents in the 2nd half winning the game 4-2. Runwell Sports’ goals scored by Victoria Martin and Autumn Ranger. Aaryanna Simonelli with a goal too the clubs top goalscorer now with 17 for the season, whilst it was a 1st goal of the season for Anna Winfield. Jessica MacNab with both the goals for Chigwell.
Plenty of goals too in the final match from Essex with bottom sides meeting Island Ladies at home to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves on Sunday in Division One. 8 goals shared between them the pair taking a point each from the game drawing 4-4 at the final whistle. Charlotte Stelmaszyk with a brace for Chelmsford, Rebecca Lucy also on the scoresheet with Jemma Debrick scoring her 1st Chelmsford goal. Olivia McDonnell getting her first goal of the season for Island this Sunday on the scoresheet along with Jess Bowen, Ebonnie Williams and Sarah McDonnell.
A lovely weekend for football in Cambridgeshire as it was across the whole of the country. The Women’s League Cup competition reaching the knockout stages with 3 of the 4 quarter finals taking place this weekend. The 8 sides coming through the group stages finishing 1st or 2nd in their group to progress a number of Championship sides amongst the last 8.
Ketton Ladies with a 100% record leading the Championship North were away this Sunday a tough challenge in the League Cup were taking on Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. Ketton are full of confidence right now, Cambridge City keen to lift some silverware this season vying for the title in their own league. It turned out to be a close game with just a single goal settling it. Bella Simmons with the all important goal to send Cambridge City Ladies into the last 4 of the competition.
An all Premiership clash saw March Town Ladies at home to Cambridge University Women in the quarter finals of the League Cup this Sunday. Nothing to separate the sides at half-time with the scores level at 1-1. Emma Searle with her 7th of the season scoring for March. Cambridge University going on to score two more goals in the 2nd period to win the game 3-1 to advance into the semi-finals. Amanda Wainwright on target for her 7th of the season with Lu Liu also on the scoresheet along with a first goal for the club for Freja Ekman.
In the other League Cup quarter final match played this weekend it was raining goals between Championship South leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies and Wisbech Town Ladies fighting with Ketton Ladies for the Championship North title. Wisbech struggling with players injured playing with 11 sometimes 10 dug deep against Haverhill the sides drawing 3-3 after 90 minutes, the extra-time that followed no less dramatic with a further 6 goals scored. Wisbech edging Haverhill out in the dramatic encounter winning through to the semi-finals with a 7-5 victory. Sophie Swinden finding the back of the net for 4 goals, Leah Hall, Chloe Stanborough and captain Faye Kowalewsky also getting a goal each. Joeli Kirby, Haverhill’s top scorer netting a brace, along with captain Amy Evans with Julie Brown also scoring.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One other cup game playing in the county this Sunday saw Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds Ladies at home playing Burwell Tigers Ladies from the Championship South in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup. A brace each for Marie Stubbings and Sharon Pinner as well as a goal for Katie Luddy seeing Fulbourn ease through to the next round with a 5-1 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One league game played in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with 3rd placed side Cardea Ladies travelling to play Hungate Rovers Ladies. Captain Laura Rudd putting the visitors into the lead inside 5 minutes. Hungate coming back to level the scores 10 minutes later. Cardea retaking the lead in the final minute of the 1st half with Jessica O’Sullivan scoring. A good start to the 2nd half saw Cardea go 3-1 up with Nicola Anderson getting on the scoresheet. Hungate pulled it back to 3-2 with 53 minutes played, Cardea soon regaining their 2 goal lead with Courtney Coles making her 1st start making it 4-2. Hungate ensuring a nervy finish to the game as they got it back to 4-3 with 15 minutes left Cardea holding on for the win and 3 points a 2nd successive league win seeing them move 4 points clear of 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One game played too in the Championship South, which sees Cambridge Rangers WFC up to 2nd in the table going 3 points clear of St Ives Town Development with a 4th successive league win. Were at home taking on Isleham United Ladies for the 2nd successive week. A 5-1 win last weekend, an even better scoreline this weekend the 3 points won courtesy of an 8-0 result. Lauren Lock with one goal to her name before the game putting the ball past the keeper for 4 goals this Sunday. A hat-trick too for Vanessa Martinez with Zoe Newberg also on the scoresheet celebrating her first Cambridge Rangers goal.
The weather put pay to the Suffolk Women’s League Cup semi-finals a fortnight ago, no chance this weekend with glorious weather it was a strong line-up in the last 4 of the competition with the top 4 in the league itself reaching the semi-finals.
League leaders East Bergholt United Ladies with a 100% record at the top were away taking on 4th placed Brantham Athletic Ladies. East Bergholt the League Cup holders looking to reach the final for the 3rd successive season.Tasted defeat for the 1st time this season last weekend losing to Needham Market Women in the County Cup quarter finals. It was another close game this weekend against Brantham. Goals from Jessica Clark, Charlotte McGrath and top scorer Annie Northwood securing a 3-1 victory for East Bergholt to see them into the final.
A close game too in the other Suffolk Women’s League Cup semi-final between to sides looking to reach it for the first time 2nd placed Needham Market Women away to 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers. Needham Market going into the game on a high after their County Cup success last weekend, Alresford proving a tough nut to crack the sides going in goalless at the break. Needham Market getting the break through in the 2nd period Lois Balfour with her 15th of the season and Amber Sparkes netting her 16th goal of the campaign seeing Needham market win the game 2-0 to reach a final in their debut season in women’s football.
Suffolk Women’s Division
There were also two league matches played this Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division and the results see another new side nudge there way into the top 4 of the table. It was a 4th straight league win with 5 games unbeaten overall for Woodbridge Town Ladies. Were at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at the weekend. A slender 1-0 lead at half-time the hosts went on to score 3 more in the 2nd half to win the game 4-0 and move ahead of Brantham Athletic Ladies. Top scorer Jenna Liverpool scoring her 13th goal of the season for Woodbridge, Sophie Crane was also on target with her 7th. Natasha Williams and Kirsten Spooner both getting a goal a piece.
Another new name in the league enjoying a good run of form in 2019 are Brettvale Ladies. Strengthening their squad recently. Were at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies on Sunday. A competitive game between the sides. Olivia Hodges and Norma Locker finding the back of the net for Walsham Le Willows, Brettvale edging them out scoring 3 up the other end at the final whistle. 3-2 to Brettvale their 4th win of the season.
All about the Cup this weekend in Norfolk with both the semi-finals of the Ladies League Cup & quarter finals of the Plate competition taking place this Sunday.
Sprowston Lades are the current League Plate holders winning their 1st piece of silverware in women’s football last season. That and a runners-up position in Division One. This season have climbed into 2nd place in the Division One table and through to the last 4 of the League Cup. Were drawn away in the semi-finals to Division Two leaders Taverham United Women, a young side very much in the mould of Sprowston, unbeaten in their debut season in woman’s football. Came up against a Sprowston side that is beginning to find a bit of form and scoring plenty of goals too. Top scorer Victoria Leyer scoring 4 goals in the match moving onto 25 for the season two more than she scored in the whole of last season. Abby Hutchin also claiming a hat-trick in the semi-final for Sprowston has 9 now for the campaign with captain Calista Tink also finding the back of the net for a goal in an 8-1 win to see Sprowston confidently into the League Cup Final.
Sprowston’s opponents in the League Cup Final will be Division Two side Tavern Ladies after the Dereham based side pulled of something of an upset by knocking out Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies in this Sunday’s semi-final game. The game at Scarning playing field Tavern Ladies home pitch (and once home to the deadliest slide in the county, but I was 6-years-old I loved it!) Tavern in good form going into the game scoring plenty of goals Katie Hart-Copsey with 35 from 11 before kick-off. Thorpe missing several through injury with others unavailable. The scores level at the break with both sides scoring 1-1 Tavern went on to snatch themselves a winning goal and reach their first ever final, Hart-Copsey with her 36th of the season and Emily Bell with her first seeing the Division Two side cause the upset. Eloise Peek on target for Thorpe who crashed out of their 2nd cup semi-final in as many weeks.
Katie Hart-Copsey in prolific form for Tavern Ladies this season
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
The Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition at the quarter finals stage, the last 8 throwing up 4, Division One versus Division Two ties with the Division One sides all coming out on top to book their place in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday.
The Beccles Town Ladies squad were well rested going into their home quarter final tie against Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday having not played a competitve match since the middle of December! This has given them a chance to get a few back from injury and they got 2019 off to a winning start with a 4-0 win to book their place in the semi-finals with Lucy Robbens netting twice along with goals from Megan Vincent and a first of the season for Victoria Ottey. The game ending on a sad note abandoned through injury following a collision between Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce and Bulldogs captain Emma Johnson, wishing both players all the best for a full and speedy recovery.
*NB – Have been informed due to this game being abandoned due to the above incident the game between Beccles Town and Bulldogs Ladies will now be replayed a date to be set in due course.
Long Stratton Women from Division Two were in good form going into their quarter final tie at home to Aylsham Ladies on Sunday. The Division One side in need of a positive start after a difficult beginning to 2019, got it with goals from Amber Mayhew and Vicky Lubbock plus first Aylsham goal for both Katrina Carman and Emma Allsopp in a 4-1 victory to see the Division One side reach the last 4 of the Plate.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies won 6-1 away to Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies last Sunday to book their place in the quarter finals of the Ladies Plate competition. This Sunday were away once again taking on Division Two opponents, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Melissa Belsey scoring her 1st ever hat-trick, along with goals from Rachel Bussey and a 1st of the season for Nicole Read seeing Sprowston Athletic reach the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-1 win.
Also reaching the last 4 of the Ladies League Plate competition are Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Were away to Division Two side Thetford Town Ladies in the quarter finals. Sally Hammerton moving into double figures for the season for Wymondham scoring 5 goals in the match. Wymondham comfortably winning with Chelsea Pettifer and Hannah Claughton also getting a goal each along with Gabriella Stone getting her 1st goal of the season in an 8-0 win.
