Two games to end the year from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. Leaders ICA Sports Ladies were away taking on 7th placed March Town United Ladies. A competitive first half saw the sides level at 2-2 going into the break. March coming out the stronger in the 2nd half scoring a further 3 goals that sees them leap up the table into 4th spot with a 5-3 win. Naomi McGarvie netting a brace, there were goals too for Emma Frost, Adele Munday and Georgia Brown.
A 3rd defeat of the season now for ICA Sports Ladies they see their lead at the top of the Premiership cut to 3 points as Cambridge City Ladies Development return to wining ways in the league after losing for the 1st and only time at the start of the month. Were at home to bottom side Riverside ladies on Sunday. A 5-1 win in the finish securing the 3 points move onto 15 points 3 behind ICA Sports but with 3 games in hand. Yasmin Crow & Hannah Lock on the scoresheet for Cambridge City along with 3 players scoring their 1st goals, Ceri Flye, Rebecca Langthorne and Freya Standing making her 1st start too. Hannah Murphy with the goal for Riverside.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One outstanding quarter final from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior invitation Cup taking place this Sunday. An 11am kick-off with Premiership side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds hosting, Championship South side, Cambridge Rangers WFC. The higher placed league side proving the stronger in the finish despite ending the game with 10 players, Yasmine Upson amongst the goalscorers also shown a red card. Sharon Pinner, Amy Smith and Marie Stubbings all getting a goal too in a 4-0 win. Fulbourn will now face Burwell Tigers Ladies in the semi-finals.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
One group match from the League Cup taking place this weekend with Park Ladies away to Wisbech Town Ladies on Sunday in Group B. The game switched to 3G because of the bad weather. Park having just the 9 players available. Wisbech Town doing well in both the League & League Cup have alot of firepower in their squad and that proved too much for Park as they ran out 8-0 winners to climb up into 2nd spot in the Group B table with 9 points with one to play against Wisbech St Mary.
The final Sunday of football in Essex this weekend, the schedule hit by postponements after Storm Deirdre blew in on Saturday leaving some pitches unplayable. The Sunday saw the beginning of this season’s League Cup competition with just 2 of the 5 listed 1st Round games surviving. Both intriguing however seeing Premier Division sides up against the top two tussling for the title in Division One.
Harlow Town Development’s young side starting the season well a long run unbeaten only recently coming to an end were away to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves leading the way in the league below. Harlow enjoying the better of the 1st half getting themselves a 2-0 advantage going into half-time. Those goals crucial as Billericay came back to score 2 themselves in the 2nd period. Harlow though matching that total getting a further two goals themselves to win the game 4-2 to progress in the League Cup. Harlow’s goals coming from, Poppy Binding, Kaydee King, Lucy Edmeades & Hannah Smith. Kelsey Smith & Mya Turner with the 2nd half goals for Billericay.
Billericay’s rivals at the top of Division One are Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies, they were drawn away to Premier Division side, Silver End United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup this Sunday. A good contest between the sides both scoring twice in the 90 minutes the game heading into extra-time, Silver End United finding the back of the net one more time to win the tie 3-2 to advance. A brace from Rebecca Donnelly along with a goal for Ella Tooley for the hosts. Grace Tebb-Reading scoring for Dagenham & Redbridge, with Evie Doyle-Love also on the scoresheet with her 1st goal for the club.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two matches played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday. Runwell Sports Ladies finish the year up into 5th position. Played 12 now have won as many as they have lost. Their 6th win in the league coming away from home on Sunday against Belhus Ladies. A hat-trick from Rachael Selfe plus a 15th goal of the season for Aaryanna Simonelli securing a 4-2 result. Bethany Murray & Danni Jennings getting the goals for Belhus who slip back to the bottom of the table.
That coming as Island Ladies won for the 2nd time this season this Sunday away from home against Chigwell Ladies. The hosts playing most of the match with just 8 players, Island capitalising as Chigwell tired to get a positive result to end 2018. Megan Blackwell scoring twice for Island, there were goals too for Jess Bowen along with Chloe & Kirsty Simmonds both scoring their 1st goals of the season in a 5-1 win. Victoria Parker getting the goal for Chigwell.
The final Round-Up for the county this year, although not the end to the football as Division Two looks set to continue through the festive period. Women’s Football East may well be at a couple pf those games if tempted (and that isn’t difficult).
This Sunday saw a couple of postponement’s Thorpe United Ladies ending the year 9 points clear at the top of Division One having injuries to key players (goalkeepers) calling off their match at home to Sprowston Athletic. Two matches were played. Sprowston Ladies moving clear into 3rd position end the year 3 points from 2nd placed Aylsham Ladies with a game in hand. Sprowston ending 2018 with a run of 5 games without a loss were at home on Sunday up against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A 2-0 win seeing Sprowston make 3rd spot their own.
At last a positive end to 2018 for Bungay Town Ladies. Getting numbers back into their squad and with it the results have come as last seasons defending champions make it 2 league wins on the bounce and a total of 7 points from their last 3. The ‘old farm’ derby as they titled this weekends game taking on local rivals Beccles Town Ladies at home on Sunday. A positive first half for Bungay taking control of the matching winning 5-0 at the final whistle. The goals coming from Selina Rowland and Imogen McGregor. Shannon Dade also scoring her first goal of the season along with Fiona Burrage getting a goal on her Bungay debut.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A huge game at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday with the leading pair both unbeaten so far this season going head to head. Leaders Fakenham Town Ladies with a 100% winning record away to Taverham United Women just two points behind in 2nd spot well clear of the chasing pack. Destined to be a close encounter and in the end it was just the one goal that separated the sides, Abbie Walker netting it for Taverham her 18th goal of the campaign seeing her side go to the top of the table as Fakenham suffer defeat for the 1st time this season, the sides meeting in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
Long Stratton Women finish the year in 3rd position in the Division Two table climbing above Gorleston Rangers Ladies with a comfortable home win on Sunday against Freethorpe Ladies. Striker Samantha Walker proving a useful addition to the squad too hot to handle this weekend scoring 5 goals moving her onto 27 goals from just 9 games. A brace to for Emily Watts who has 13 now for the campaign seeing Long Stratton win 7-0. Long Stratton travelling to Freethorpe next Sunday.
A Thetford derby this Sunday with the town’s young guns meeting for the first time in women’s football. Thetford Town Ladies at home to Bulldogs Ladies. A difficult start to lift in the league for both, Thetford Town struggling for numbers at times playing just their 6th league match, Bulldogs bottom of the table without a point, have nevertheless been competitve in several games. Melissa Boulton is Thetford Town’s top scorer a brace at the weekend taking her into double figures for the season. Emma Johnson getting the goals for Bulldogs scored another at the weekend to take her onto 8. Sara-Jane Langford also on the scoresheet for Bulldogs. It was Thetford Town celebrating the win at the end of the match however their 3rd of the season with goals from Laura Martins, Gemma Ramsey and Melena Smith seeing them to a 5-2 victory. Again the fixture reversed this coming Sunday.
Two sides in need of a confidence boosting win met on Sunday with Horsford Women entertaining Hockering Ladies. Both newcomers to the league with a single win on the board each so far. Hockering struggling for numbers have rarely been able to field a full team which hasn’t helped them, 2 to 3 more committed players will in time make all the difference. Ending up with 9 against Horsford, Hockering did well to limit Horsford to 3 goals enough to get them that 2nd 3 point haul of the season. Robyn Penn scoring for Hockering her first goal in her new teams colours. Likewise the two sides meet in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
2018 comes to an end in Suffolk with East Bergholt United Ladies out in front in an expanded league the defending champions with a 100% record and an incredible +100 goal difference from just 11 games. The latest 3 points awarded as an away win against Walsham Le Willows Ladies this Sunday.
There were 5 games played at the weekend the county largely unaffected by Storm Deirdre. Needham Market Women enjoying the best start of all the new names to enter the league this season up their with the leaders all season end the year 2nd on 27 points with 9 wins and two losses from 11 played. A large squad helping goals from several too were away to fellow newcomers Brettvale Ladies this Sunday. Francesca Rainbird, Needham Market’s top scorer netting a further two goals to take her tally to 19 for the season. Milly Carter also on target with a goal has 12 now for the campaign. Josie Harward on the scoresheet too along with Elysia Young scoring her first goal for Needham Market in a 5-2 win. Sheryl Nokes on the scoresheet for Brettvale along with Lucy Brown celebrating her first goal for the club.
Needham Market Women’s, Francesca Rainbird
Brantham Ladies Athletic had dropped points going into their last 3 games including two successive defeats were at home on Sunday against Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves who have been short on numbers for a while now soldering on despite suffering some mouth watering defeats, credit to them to keep going and fingers crossed numbers and with it fortunes can start to build in the new year. Just the 9 starting for Haverhill this Sunday against a strong Brantham side neck and neck with East Bergholt for 8 games. Goalscorers throughout out the side Haverhill ending the game with just 7 through injury beaten 21-0 in the finish. Brantham ending the year in 3rd spot.
Alresford Colne Rangers joining the Suffolk Women’s Division after spending a couple of season’s in the Essex leagues have started the season well just the one loss so far this season have been in and around the top 5 the whole time end the year in 4th a point back from Brantham after sharing the points at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday in a goalless draw.
A good result at home for Coplestonians Ladies sees them finish 2018 well in the top half of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were at home to University of Suffolk Women, the hosts enjoying a great 1st half to lead the game 5-0 going on to add a further 3 goals 2nd half to win 8-0. Abigail Eley had just the one goal before this Sunday’s game is now the clubs top scorer celebrating 4 goals in Coplestonians win. Courtney Farris-Whatling, Sophie Maul and Lottie Aldous all getting a goal each have 3 each to their name whilst Chloe York was on target with her first goal of the season.
A point back in 7th position are Leiston St Margarets Ladies who ended 2018 with an away win on Sunday their 5th of the season coming against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Lucy Eagle, Leiston St Margarets top scorer so far this season getting a goal to take her onto 12 for the season. Thalia Cloke also scoring a goal moves onto 5 with an own goal securing a 3-1 win for the visitors. Charlotte Archer moving ahead of Bernice Corney to lead Chantry Grasshopper’s scoring charts with the goal on Sunday takes her to 7 for the season.
The ERWFL fixture list suffering like most leagues across the country thanks to Storm Deirdre blowing in on Saturday affecting half the fixtures in Division One whilst County Cup action saw a reduced schedule in the Premier Division on Sunday.
Acle United Women will end the year top of the pile in the ERWFL Premier Division. Ended 2018 with a trip to Suffolk up against 2nd bottom AFC Sudbury. The visitors taking a little while to get going gradually building momentum creating opportunities, finally took the lead late in the first half with Grace Birchall’s shot blocked Ciera Flatt putting in the rebound. 1-0 up at the break Acle quickly added to the score early in the 2nd half defender Anna Larkins getting forwards to make it 2-0. Acle creating plenty of chances pushing forwards Lauren Bullard getting a 3rd for the visitors. Birchall scoring a brace late on to secure a 5-0 win for Acle moves her onto 21 goals for the season.
Cambridge City Ladies have had an excellent start to the season 9 wins from 9 they were looking to round that perfect record to 10 at home on Sunday as they welcomed Royston Town ladies to the Trinity Playing Fields. The hosts getting themselves into a 2-0 lead with 20 minutes played. Danielle Carty pulling it back to 2-1 for Royston from a free-kick. Striker Jo Rutherford putting the visitors back on level terms. Cambridge City coming back to restore their lead going 3-2 up, Teonie Peyton scored to see Royston equalise for the 2nd time in the game then Rutherford with her 11th goal of the season scored her 2nd of the match to put Royston 4-3 up. Erin Davies, Shannon Shaw and Charlotte Giles scoring Cambridge City’s 3 goal were down to 10 with Laura Mills shown a 2nd yellow. heading into injury time were in danger of losing for the 1st time in the league this season, very deep into stoppage time and the hosts found an equalising goal themselves to rescue a point with Giles scoring for the 2nd time in the match. Their 100% record gone Cambridge City nevertheless remain unbeaten in all a very successive 2018 for the club.
Cambridge City Ladies, Charlotte Gillies
Also enjoying a fantastic 2018 are Wymondham Town Ladies, making their debut at this level end the year in their highest position of the campaign up into 5th ending the year with a home win against one of the early pacesetters, Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies. Laura Nicholls enjoying a great year in front of goal leading the way in the scoring charts put Wymondham into the lead in the 21st minute of the game. Brentwood coming back to level 15 minutes later Leah Cowan first to a loose ball to fire in the equaliser. Wymondham restoring the lead late in the first half with Hannah Waters firing in her 19th goal of the season to make it 2-1. 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Chelsea Clarke fired in a shot across the keeper to make it 3-1 to the hosts. Wymondham enjoying a got run to end the year 6 unbeaten in a great position now to kick on in 2019.
ERWFL Division One
Every week the title battle at the top of ERWFL Division One takes a new twist remains as exciting as it has been with no clues yet as to who might emerge on top come the end of the season. Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies with a strong run of results at the end of the year unbeaten in 8 matches now moving to the top of the table.
Were at home this Sunday taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts getting off to a fantastic start taking the lead inside the first minute Sophie Dowman scoring the goal. Bowers & Pitsea pressing forwards creating plenty of opportunities it wasn’t until the 39th minute that they doubled the lead, Danielle Styles finding the back of the net to make it 2-0. Georgia Fraser scoring Bowers & Pitsea’s 3rd goal with the game moving into the final 20 minutes. Dowman on target with goals in the 76th & 81st minute to complete a hat-trick and take her onto 9 goals for the season Bowers & Pitsea winning the game 5-0 to see them stay top going into 2019.
If current form continues then the side in the strongest position to challenge for the ERWFL Division One title are newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies the Cambridgeshire side 2nd going into the New Year are unbeaten from 10 played two points behind Bowers & Pitsea with two games in hand. Ended the year with an away trip to fellow promoted side Newmarket Town Ladies on Sunday. The two sides enjoying some good encounters whilst playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership together. Both starting life at the higher level well, Newmarket in 5th spot. St Ives edging the first half leading 1-0. Kira Markwell making an excellent save denying Newmarket, who saw a goal ruled out. The 2nd half seeing both sides score Laura Bailey’s goal not enough for Newmarket with St Ives winning 2-1. Top scorer Tierney Coulson scoring from the penalty spot with Hannah Seymour-Shove also scoring. A whole calendar year unbeaten in the league for St Ives.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves long time leaders of Division One slipping to 3rd in the table late on dropping points for the 3rd successive match in the league. Were away this Sunday taking on Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. The hosts leading the game at half-time, Kristina O’Connell’s strike from outside the box finding it’s way into the back of the net in the 33rd minute. Stevenage getting back on level terms 7 minutes into the 2nd period with Gemma Biggadike scoring her first of the campaign to make it 1-1. Melody Jones making just her 2nd appearance for Stevenage shooting from outside the area in the 77th minute getting her first goal in the process to make it 2-1 to the visitors. The game deep into stoppage time and Hoddesdon found an equalising goal themselves to see the game end 2-2 and the sides take home a share of the points.
The last edition of The Round-Up in 2018. Several sides already finished until the New Year, for much of the rest this their final game of the year. Storm Deirdre blowing in across the country on Saturday bringing wind and rain saw a large chunk of those fixtures wiped out to, so sadly it’s a reduced Round-Up across most of the region to bring you.
The FAWNL suffering with over half the scheduled fixtures gone. Just the one fixtures surviving in the Southern Premier Division. In Wales, Cardiff City Ladies welcoming Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies this Sunday. A big win for the hosts seeing them end the year up two places into 5th in the table still with games in hand on all the sides above them.
Grace Horrell opening the scoring for Cardiff firing them into the lead in the 15th minute. Kylie Nolan on the scoresheet too quickly doubling Cardiff’s advantage scoring 3 minutes later. Moving into the last 15 minutes of the 1st half 3 goals inside 6 minutes put Cardiff in full control of the game, Ffion Morgan making it 3-0, Chelsea Jumratie on target too along with Jordan Guard both finding the back of the net for the 1st time this season. Cori Williams adding a 6th goal for Cardiff early in the 2nd half. Jasmine Simpson made the final score 7-0 with 15 minutes left. A big win for Cardiff, a heavy loss to end the year for Basildon who switch places with QPR Women at the bottom of the table as a result.
FAWNL South East Division One
The fixture list heavily affected in FAWNL South East Division one too with 3 of the 5 scheduled games falling foul to the weather. That left two games and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies in County Cup action it was an opportunity for second placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap as the Essex side side welcomed Norwich City Ladies to the AGP Arena on Sunday.
It was a close contest with a single goal settling the game the result going in favour of Billericay. Paris Smith’s goals were a huge part of Billericay’s title winning season last time out in the ERWFL. 24 goals from just 13 appearances. Games few and far between this season, just her 3rd appearance of the season, Smith was on target scoring her first goal of the season to score what would be the winning goal for the hosts who finish 2018 4 points clear of the chasing pack.
One side in that pack looking to chase down the leading pair are 3rd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies. They were at home on Sunday welcoming Actonians Ladies. The visitors in good form themselves recently pushing for a spot in the top half of the table themselves. A close opening 30 minutes it was the hosts who opened the scoring in the 32nd minute Caroline Bisson put through to round the keeper and score for Wimbledon. Into added time in the 1st half and Actonians grabbed an equalising goal through Naomi Graham to see the sides level at the break.
The visiting side getting into the lead straight after the restart with Jessica Byrne scoring to make it 2-1. Past the hour Byrne found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game giving Actonians a two goal cushion. Byrne’s first goals of the campaign. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca getting in on the goal scoring hitting a brace in the 70th & 75th minute to put Actonians 5-1 up. 13 goals for the season now for the striker. Bernice Tully on with 15 minutes left to play getting late goal for Wimbledon as they suffer a 5-2 defeat. The 3 points lifting Actonians up into 5th position in the table 2 points back on 3rd placed Wimbledon and Leyton Orient WFC in 4th.
Sadly it’s bad news to bring you at the start of another Round-Up and the loss of a team from the league, Hullbridge Sports Ladies gone from the Essex Women’s Premier Division, having only just secured a return to the league winning the Division One title last season that coming after a previous hiatus from the game. A tough start struggling to find enough players to fulfil fixtures. Sad to see, have made a real impact upon the league, will we see them again I hope so but for now wish everyone connected with the club all the best for the future.
Onto the weekends league action with leaders Leigh Ramblers Ladies seeing their game away to Collier Row Tigers postponed on Sunday it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies to close the gap back to 3 points and apply some pressure if they themselves could secure the win away to Corringham Cosmos. The hosts scoring twice in the match once in each half through Nicole-Marie Mitchell and Rebecca Gallagher, it wasn’t enough as Frontiers scored double up the other end. Amber Strows giving Frontiers the lead scoring from all of 45 yards. An own goal putting the visitors into the lead Kelly Holsworth on target with a goal to make it 3-1 Corringham Cosmos pulling it back to 3-2, Emma Best headed home from a corner to see Frontiers win the game 4-2.
Another side capitalising on the postponed match between Collier Row Tigers and Leigh Ramblers were Chelmsford City Ladies as they secured a home win on Sunday to move back into 4th position in the Premier Division table. Chelmsford were entertaining bottom side Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. All the goals coming in the first half, Mia Brisley on target scoring a brace. Gaby Freedman also on the scoresheet for Chelmsford. The final score 3-1 with Helen Clifford scoring for Brentwood in the 40th minute.
Southend United Ladies were away in the Premier Division this Sunday travelling to Silver End United Ladies. The visitors enjoying a good first half getting themselves into a strong 3-0 lead, adding 2 more 2nd half to win the game 5-1 and win for just the 2nd time this season. Emily Pert scoring a hat-trick for Southend with Ellie Wood and Lauren Johnson also getting a goal each. Lauren Hannah with the 2nd half goal for Silver End.
Essex Women’s Division One
A big game at the top of Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday with the top two going head to head for the 2nd time this season, Just goal difference separating Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies Reserves. Dagenham & Redbridge with a 100% winning start, Billericay with just the one loss that against Dagenham & Redbridge back in September a 3-2 win for Dagenham & Redbridge at Billericay. Dagenham & Redbridge the hosts this time around it wasn’t so close. Billericay winning the game 7-1 one to move 3 points clear at the top, Sophie Vale scoring 4 goals. Rachel Armstrong-Morris finding the back of the net for two goals with Darcie Salmons also on the scoresheet. Dagenham & Redbridge’s 100% record at an end, Juliet Thomas getting their goal.
Big wins elsewhere too in the league. Hutton Ladies Reserves keeping ahead of the chasing pack in 3rd position in the table with a double figure win away from home on Sunday. Were taking on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. With Hutton’s first team not in action the Reserves borrowed the goal machine that is Vicky Kinsman, she added another 5 goals to her impressive tally for the season. Those goals helping Hutton to a comfortable victory with further goals coming for, Samantha Kuski and Dani Gimbert. Danielle Hindley netting her 1st goal for Hutton along with a brace for Giulia Francesconi in a 10-0 win.
Rayleigh Town Ladies are another side scoring plenty of goals this season and in 4th position have games in hand still on those above. Were away to Belhus Ladies in Division One this Sunday. A close first half between the sides, Rayleigh edging it 4-3. A different story after the break however with Rayleigh piling on a further 5 goals to win the game 9-3 at the final whistle. Rayleigh captain Isabelle Wallings rarely not amongst the goals so it’s usually a matter of checking how many and she was once again on fire in front of goal scoring a double hat-trick. Megan Harley is also enjoying a good season in front of goal scoring a hat-trick herself for Rayleigh moves her onto 15 now for the season. There was also another hat-trick scored in the match with Amara Drummond claiming all 3 in the 1st half for Belhus including a penalty.
Lastly Runwell Sports Ladies were away to Island Ladies on Sunday. The sides level at 1-1 at half-time it was Runwell Sports who had the better of the 2nd half going on to score 3 goals to win the game 4-1 Rhianna Bird scoring twice for the visitors with Ashleigh Harvey also getting a goal, Aaryanna Simonelli on target too for Runwell with her 14th of the season. Megan Blackwell with the 1st half goal for Island Ladies her 1st goal in only her 2nd start.
Thorpe United Ladies made it 8 wins from 9 played this season in Norfolk Women’s Division One to go 9 points clear at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday. The featured game on Women’s Football East as first look at a game from that league this season.
Thorpe were at home taking on 3rd placed Gorleston Ladies. 8 teams contesting the league this season at the beginning looked to be a close one to call all sides capable of beating the other. Thorpe bringing a number of their U16s into the 1st team have added to an experienced squad hit the ground running and have led from the beginning. A good start against Gorleston it was the visitors however who opened the scoring a throw on the right into Bethany Turner inside the box strong up against the Thorpe defence the ball running on across the face of goal Samantha Hunn arriving at the far post to score. Thorpe soon back on level terms captain Rebekah Lake with a good run on the right shooting from the angle the keeper parrying the ball across the six yard box Chloe Young on the follow up turning it in. Thorpe going on to take the lead Lake firing in an unstoppable shot again from the right.
Two goals for Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake
2-1 up at the break a bitterly cold wind blowing across the pitch the home side lost goalkeeper Joanne Hooper through injury early in the 2nd half Natasha Leversley then Jess Newton both taking up the gloves in her place. The defence protecting both well Thorpe pressing the attack a strike from outside the area from defender Victoria McNorton seeing them go 3-1 up. Lake lobbing the keeper late on to see the game won 4-1.
A good start to the season for Aylsham Ladies were pushing Thorpe at the top in the early stage, recent form seeing points dropped however remain six point ahead of the chasing pack. Were at home to Bungay Town Ladies on Sunday bottom of the league with just the one point on the board a difficult start to the season from the defending champions struggled with numbers and injury signs thing’s are starting to turn a corner however and that was backed up by Bungay winning their 1st league game of the season beating Aylsham 4-1 thanks to goals from Nicola Hazell, Hannah Jones, Selina Rowland and Morgan Devine.
The first Sprowston derby played this Sunday in Division One with Sprowston Ladies at home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Honours even in the finish with two very late goals ensuring a point for the hosts after Melissa Belsey and Laura Jenkins had fired Athletic into a 2-0 lead. Paige Barnard and Victoria Leyer getting the equalising goals for Sprowston Ladies moving them level on points with Gorleston.
For the 2nd successive Sunday Beccles Town Ladies come away with a point after holding their opponents to a goalless draw. Last week a good result at home to Aylsham the same again this time away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The top two in Norfolk Women’s Division Two continue to be relentless in their pursuit of points, Fakenham Town Ladies enjoying the new season with a 100% winning record at the top to the table, 8 wins from 8 now and a good result at home too this Sunday against a side with the potential to challenge. Were taking on Long Stratton Women, the visitors with a few unavailable, Fakenham are gaining confidence with each match, ran out 3-0 winners at the final whistle, Fanny Danskanen, Megan Spurrell and Amie Hutchinson with the goals.
Just two points behind also undefeated this season are new comers Taverham United Women the young side scoring plenty of goals an opening day draw and since 7 straight wins the latest coming this Sunday away to Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Leading 3-1 at half-time Taverham went on to win the game 7-2 to keep the pressure on Fakenham at the top. Rebecca Sutton scoring a hat-trick, with a goal each for Maya Lawlor, Abbie Walker, Charlotte Hurren and Chloe Hall. Two huge games coming up as Fakenham and Taverham go head to head on successive Sunday’s, the 2nd of which is on the Women’s Football East radar.
Elsewhere there were some convincing wins, the table bunched up behind the top two, Gorleston Rangers Ladies with their 5th win of the season climb up into 3rd spot in Division Two with a comfortable home win against Horsford Women on Sunday. A strong first half performance seeing the hosts leading 7-0 a quieter 2nd half 2 more goals added. Three players claiming a brace with Rachel Adams, Lauren Dennis and Zoe Waite all scoring twice, goals for for Abbie Pogmore, Chloe Ashton and Abigail Bell in a 9-0 win.
Tavern Ladies are up to 5th in the Division Two table got the result away from home despite travelling with just the 10 available. So too opponents Bulldogs Ladies the Thetford based side struggling in their first season in women’s football bottom of the table, plenty of spirit. Tavern have goals in their squad none more so than Katie Hart-Copsey who netting 4 more at the weekend taking her to 25 goals already from 8 appearances. Lucy Kean also amongst the goals this Sunday claiming a hat-trick taking her onto 5 goals for the campaign so far. Tavern winning 7-0.
Another big win in Thetford on Sunday this time going the way of the hosts with Thetford Town Ladies who win for only the 2nd time this season playing just their 5th game after a number of call off’s. Were taking on Hockering Ladies who were once again light on numbers. No doubt Hockering have the ability in their ranks just need a few more committed players, are actively looking so if you fancy giving it a go drop them a message. Thetford Town doubling their goals scored tally for the season winning the game 8-0 in the finish. Melissa Boulton helping herself to 5 goals in the match Gemma Ramsey making her first start of the season netting twice so too Melena Smith with a goal on her first start.
Two ties from the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup this weekend, both falling foul to the weather last Sunday. Crawley Wasps Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season, a 100% winning record top of FAWNL South East Division One were handed a home tie against higher league opponents Chichester City Ladies, who themselves have enjoyed a brilliant campaign to date amongst the title challengers in the Southern Premier Division.
The game moved to Worthing FC, played on 3G. Crawley’s good form continuing the hosts taking the lead in the 38th, Kemina Webber with the goal heading in from a corner. The advantage quickly doubled with a 2nd goal late in the 1st half again from a corner Darcey James with the header this time powering the ball into the back of the net. Crawley leading 2-0 at half-time. Chichester frustrated couldn’t find a reply in the 2nd half Crawley winning to march on in the FA Women’s Cup and an away trip to Southern Premier Division leaders, Coventry United Ladies to look forwards to in the New Year.
Watford Ladies have an away trip up to the North East in the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup against Northern Premier Division side, Middlesborough Women in the New Year. Progressed with a narrow 1-0 home win to Buckland Athletic Ladies on Sunday. The South West Division One side giving a good account of themselves holding the Southern Premier Division side to a goalless score at half-time. The Watford goal coming with 20 minutes left on the clock, Katie O’Leary finding space inside the box to drive a low shot into the bottom corner.
Cup weekend in the Beds & Herts with the quarter finals of the League Cup and 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup taking place, plus a scattering of league matches too.
The League Cup saw 3 of the 4 quarter final ties played this Sunday, holders St Albans Ladies home tie with Houghton Athletic Ladies no scheduled until the New Year. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires leading Beds & Herts Division One were drawn away in the quarter finals to play Division Three high flyers, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies, the lower league side causing an upset knocking Welwyn out of the Cup with a 2-1 victory, Emily Devereux on the score sheet for Kempston, Janiece Allen with the Welwyn goal.
Hemel Hempstead Town ladies 2nd in Division One were away to last season’s finalists, Northwood Ladies. Hemel Hempstead in a great vein of form winning 6 in all competitions prior to this weekends League Cup quarter final extended the run to 7 to reach the last 4. Charlene Turturici-Clarke and Leah Haley scoring in a 2-0 win.
In the other League Cup quarter final it was an all Division Two tie with Hitchin Belles at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday. The pair meeting for the 2nd successive Sunday, last time out in the league Hitchin Belles winning 4-1 away from home ending Letchworth’s winning streak of 5 matches. Hitchin Belles also ending Letchworth’s involvement in the League Cup this weekend as they won comfortably to book their place in the semi-finals. Although it’s listed as 6-0, Hitchin state on twitter it was 5, and seeings as I can only account for 5 goals I’ll go with that. Emma Wells scoring twice, their was a goal each for Bonnita Woodward, Keira How and top scorer Amy Jack who moves into double figures for the season.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
One league match taking place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One on Sunday between two sides looking for more points at the bottom of the table, Garston Ladies 2nd XI hosting Sherrardswood Ladies. A goal in each half from Laurie Marris securing a 2nd win of the season for Sherrardswood as they edged the win 2-1. Maddie Gordon on target with the goal for Garston.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Likewise their was just the single league fixture taking place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday with Royston Town Ladies Development in 3rd position at home to bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Kierra Gabriel scoring a hat-trick in the game moves onto 8 for the season. Abby Laughlin and Jazmin Racher also getting a goal a piece along with Ellie Pickard getting a goal in her first game for Royston. The winning margin 6-1 as Royston move to within a point of 2nd placed Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
You guessed it! There was the one league game played also in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday a top of the table clash with league leaders Langford Ladies away to 4th placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Two successive defeats of Langford going into the game both against sides pushing for top spot in Division Three themselves, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies beating them in the County Cup was followed by defeat in the league away to AFC Dunstable Ladies last Sunday. Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses another side starting the season well one defeat from 5 played were leading 2-0 at half-time, Langford getting one back in the 2nd half through Chloe Scott. Woburn & Wavendon adding two more goals themselves to win the game 4-1 and climb into 3rd spot a point off Dunstable, and to within 3 points of Langford at the top, both having 3 games in hand with Kempston in 4th now 6 points off the top with 4 games in hand. Giselle Randall and Victoria Harrold both scoring two each for Woburn & Wavendon.
Beds & Herts The Chris Renshaw Cup
This season’s Chris Renshaw Cup competition began this Sunday with 3 1st Round ties taking place. AFC Dunstable Ladies Development 2nd in Division Three in great form unbeaten in the league were away to Division Two side, Bedford Ladies Development. Bianca Vassell way out in front in the goal scoring charts for Dunstable adding two more to her tally on Sunday has 18 to her name now. Courtney McNamara and Lauren Brooker both getting a goal each in a 4-0 win for Dunstable.
Division Three newcomers Kempston Rovers Ladies were hosting Watton Ladies from Division Two in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup this Sunday. The lower league side getting themselves into a 2-0 lead with Chelsea Rose Jeffery and Sabrina Stramaglia on the score sheet. Watton rallied to come back into the game and go on to win it 3-2 to progress, Gemma Bickell, Zoe Hammick and Sian Owens getting the goals for Watton.
An all Division Three tie The Chris Renshaw Cup saw Buntingford Town Ladies hosting Bedwell Rangers Ladies in the 1st Round both at the wrong end of the table, Jessica Sullivan scoring a hat-trick for Bedwell before sadly suffering a serious injury. Hoping for the best and certainly wish her well for a speedy recovery. The goals helping Bedwell on to victory with Maisie Main and Georgia Miller also scoring a goal a piece in a 5-2 win to see Bedwell advance.
Evergreen Ladies with face Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies in the 1st Round of the competition in the New Year.
