Category Archives: The Round-Up

The Round-Up – Norfolk 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Thorpe United Ladies winning form in the league shows no sign of fading made out 10 wins from 10 at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One starting 2020 where they left off the old year. A 3-1 away win against nearest rivals Sprowston Ladies opening up a 9 point lead at the top of the table. Were away this Sunday too making another short trip to Sprowston this time taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Thorpe’s captain Rebekah Lake a constant threat to opposition defences scoring plenty of goals this season eased past 30 on Sunday netting another brace to put her on 31 from 11 played. A new name on the scoresheet this weekend too as Thorpe ran out 3-0 winners, Melissa Belsey scoring her first goal for Thorpe against her former club.

Sprowston Ladies themselves bounced back from defeat to Thorpe last weekend moving back up to 2nd in the Division One table over Bungay Town Ladies on goal difference collecting the 3 points away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. The sides drawing 0-0 at the break a brace for Camilla Morgan her first goals for Sprowston in her 5th appearance and a 7th of the season for Ellie Hall securing the win by 3 goals to 1 in the 2nd period. Rebecca Carver scoring the goal for Wymondham.

Long Stratton Women where at home to Fakenham Town Ladies at the weekend. A close game between the newly promoted sides the game settled by a single goal at the finish. Samantha Walker wearing the captains armband for Long Stratton hitting her 9th goal of the season to win her side the 3 points. Long Stratton in 6th closing the gap to 5th placed Fakenham to a point.

Another clash between two of the promoted sides saw Thetford Town Ladies at home taking on Taverham United Ladies, both sides struggling for points in Division One. Thetford 2nd bottom going into the game finding a bit of form towards the end of 2019 to collect their first points with a win and a draw. Taverham one place above them with 2 wins from the 10 matches played so far. A close game between the pair a single goal in it in the finish, Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham the visitors though were to leave empty handed as Thetford clinched their 2nd win of the season 2-1 to climb above Taverham into 9th position. Melissa Boulton and Dayna Howard with her first Thetford goal winning the points.

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

One outstanding tie left to be played in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, a tough test for Division Two side as they hosted Division One high flyers Tavern Ladies. The game played at Easton College on 3G. Tavern are scoring plenty of goals this season and soon got the ball rolling strong to lead 6-0 at half-time, matching that scoreline 2nd half to win the tie 12-0 to reach the quarter finals. Will fancy their chances of making a 2nd successive League Cup final appearance having down so as a Division Two side last season. Katie Hart-Copsey closing the gap to joint top scorers Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean on target to score 5 goals in the game taking her to 11 for the season. A brace for Griffith puts her on 13 along with Kean getting a goal. A goal each too for Sophie Fuller & Meganne Smith with Kelly Gray and Natalie Wright both scoring their first goals for Tavern.

The quarter finals of the League Cup to be played Sun 26th January the draw as follows:-

Sprowston Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Waveney Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

Thorpe United Ladies Reserves v Long Stratton Women

Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Three games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this weekend. Stalham Town Ladies maintaining their 7 point lead at the top of the table winning their 8th game of the season at home to Horsford Women on Sunday. A goal in each half for top scorer Amber Mayhew securing the 3 points. Mayhew moving onto 16 goals for the season.

Beccles Town Ladies in hot pursuit and they were relentless in front of goal on Sunday as they rattled 15 goals past bottom side Bulldogs Ladies matching Stalham’s eye watering scoreline registered back at the start of December. The bare 11 available for Bulldogs always going to be a hard ask against Beccles young guns confidence high within the squad. Francesca Catchpole out for a lengthy spell suffering a nasty injury making up for lost time firing 5 more goals into the back of the net taking her tally to 9 goals from 3 appearances. Lola Barbour-King currently Beccles top scoring a hat-trick moves to 14 from 7 games. Chloe Pearce usually keeping goal netting a brace to add to the goal she has already got this season. A brace too for Francesca Heaney her first goals of the season. There was a goal each too for captain Megan Vincent, Elisha Bower and Bethan Owen.

Waveney Ladies are up to 3rd spot in the Division Two table scoring a dramatic late winner to take home all three points away to North Walsham Angels Ladies. Rhiannon Holt scoring her 8th & 9th goals of the season to fire North Walsham into a 2-0 lead. Waveney fought back well Maddie Cook heading home her first goal of the season to pull it back to 2-1 on the hour. 2-1 in remained to the hosts heading into the final 3 minutes of the game a free-kick awarded to Waveney Cook sending it in to equalise late on more drama a nervous end to the game 10 seconds left on the clock Chloe Dobson popping up with the winner for Waveney.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A packed weekend of action across both divisions in Cambridgeshire on Sunday the title race in both league continues to intrigue. A full programme of fixtures in both the Premiership and Championship. Premiership leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves remain 2 points clear of 2nd placed Leverington Sports Ladies as they clinched a 7th win of the season at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at the weekend. On target for 3 goals in each half to win the match 6-1. Frances Peeling opening scoring for Peterborough in the 16th minute with her first goal of the season. Eleanor Spendlow also scoring along with Eve Lomasney on her first start for the club. Spendelow going on to claim a 2nd goal on the hour with Elle Gavaghan and Hannah Flatters also scoring. Marie Stubbing with the goal for Fulbourn.

Leverington Sports Ladies keeping the pressure on the league leaders at the top of the Premiership 2 points the gap after the won at home this weekend against Ketton Ladies with they shared a fierce title battle with in the Championship North last season, Ketton finishing champions the title going to the wire, (should note Leverington were Wisbech back then) still the same side though under a new name and the pair contested another very evenly contested match on Sunday, Leverington scoring two late goals to win the game 2-0. Shushannah Feast with her first goal of the season and top scorer Sophie Swinden with her 19th.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies made a fantastic start to the season following promotion to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, the early pace setters winning their opening five games have since stalled going on to lose their next 3 in all competition’s a first league defeat followed by cup losses. have lost ground on the leading pair but despite that remain well positioned in 3rd spot as they travelled to play Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Coming out on top in a one sided game to win 2-0. Sian Cottrell with both the visitors goals her first of the season. Haverhill just 4 points behind leaders Peterborough with 3 games in hand.

Fifth versus fourth at the weekend as ICA Sports Ladies hosted March Town Ladies at the weekend. A good start to the season for ICA Sports bringing in several youth players to bolster the squad beating March in the reverse fixture early on in the season. March regrouping going on a good run to climb the Premiership table up to 4th spot both well placed to put pressure on the leaders. ICA Sports doing the double over March running out 6-2 victors to climb above them into 4th themselves. Annie Posnett netting her hat-trick to take her to 7 for ICA Sports from 5 appearances. Hannah Murphy scoring a brace with a goal too for Lauren Mapleston. Emma Searle and Louise Barbour on target for the March goals.

Just 5 league matches on the board for Netherton United Ladies so far this season a mixed back so far with 2 wins 2 losses and a draw games in hand could yet push their way into the top half of the table. Reaching the last 4 of the League Cup last Sunday beating ICA Sports Ladies, were away to Cambridge City Ladies A this weekend back in league action a strong performance to see Netherton collect all 3 points. Katie Barber on target to score the opening goal after just 2 minutes play. Yasmin Green doubling the lead on 10 minutes scoring a 2nd midway through the half to see Netherton 3-0 up at the break. Green going on to complete her hat-trick 5 minutes into the 2nd half taking her days haul to 4 with another strike with 10 minutes left to play giving her 13 for the season Netherton recording a 5-0 win.

Yasmin Green scoring 4 goals for Netherton United Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Gary Reed)

An early kick-off Sunday morning for Cambridge University Women hosting St Ives Town Ladies Development. Just 2 wins so far this season for Cambridge University with St Ives in mid-table winning 5 in a row in all competition before being narrowly beaten away to the league leaders 3-2 last weekend. Suffered another frustrating 3-2 defeat this weekend to see Cambridge University win all 3 points for the 3rd time this season pulling away from the bottom 2. All three of their goals coming in the 2nd half with Lidiya Mykhaylechko scoring a brace. Amanda Wainwright netting in the 85th minute. Tash Applegate and Maisie Buckle with her first St Ives goal scoring for the visitors.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Cambridge Rangers Women remain 7 points clear at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship as they extend their 100% into 2020 having to wait a week after last weekend game against Hungate Rovers Ladies was postponed. Away to Isleham United Ladies this Sunday. Claire Kyndt scoring a hat-trick to take her Cambridge Rangers goals tally to 8 for the season. Top scorer Daniella Lewis moving onto 16 with another goal. Paris-Rose Brixey also getting a goal, with Barbara Williams finding the back of the net for her first goal in a 6-1 victory. 11 on the trot now for Cambridge Rangers. Rachael Turner with the Isleham goal.

A few changes at Mildenhall Town Ladies as they look to build on an impressive debut season up to 2nd in the Championship table. Luke Worley with plenty of experience in the women’s game coming in to assist the coaching team. New player joining two adding good experience to the squad. A long period without a game stretching back to the 8th of December, Mildenhall racked up the goals in a high scoring win away to Cambourne United Women on Sunday the hosts fielding the bare 11. Top scorer Katie Hayes netting a first half hat-trick to take her to 15 for the season. Lydia Vance repeating t feat in the 2nd period. Mildenhall holding a 4-2 advantage at half-time going on to rack up a 12-3 win. Annalise Brown adding to Hayes hat-trick with a goal in first half injury time. Megan Hobson and Eloise Gookley both celebrating a 2nd half brace with Rachel Pearce newly joined scoring hr first goal for the club. Emily Arnold and Sharon Pinner with her first Cambourne goal to first half scorers. Brooke McTaggart getting her first goal in the 2nd half.

Pinchbeck United Ladies matching Cambridge Rangers 100% winning record so far this season back in 3rd 3 matches in hand the gap 9 points were away to bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies this weekend. Libby Friel giving Pinchbeck an early lead opening the scoring inside a minute. Swavesey Spartans coming back to level with quarter an hour played. Friel with her 6th goal of the season restoring the visitors lead midway through the first half to see them 2-1 up at the break. That the scoreline going into the final fifteen minutes before top scorer Courtney Walker scored her 12th goal of the season to make thing’s more comfortable. Swavesey having other idea though as they came back to make it 3-2 5 minutes later. Pinchbeck ensuring their winning run continued scoring two late goals, China Smith making it 4-2 before Walker netting her 2nd of the match in the 90th minute.

Eaton Socon Ladies stay level on points with Pinchbeck in 4th spot as they won for the 8th time this season at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies on Sunday bouncing back from last weekends 4-0 defeat to Newmarket. Hit 4 into the back of the net themselves this weekend to collect the 3 points. Top scorer Hannah Hutchinson moving onto 8 for the season scoring twice. Goals too for Emily Wiseman and Samantha Webster.

Last weekends 4-0 win at home to Eaton Socon extending Newmarket Town Women Development’s unbeaten run to 6 matches winning 5 taking them up the Championship table into 5th. Were looking to extend that run to 7 matches as they hosted Deeping United Ladies who in contrast have lost their last 5 league games after making a promising start to the campaign. Ella Jons and Eleanor Barnes-Brown scoring for the visitors in the first half it was Newmarket who held the lead at half-time going in 4-2 up. The hosts going on to add a further 3 goals in the 2nd half to run out 7-2 winners. Laura Brame making her first start for the Development side scoring a hat-trick her first goals since joining Newmarket. A brace for Leah Harper taking her to 9 for the season. Evie Jakes on the scoresheet along with top scorer Talia Irvine collecting her 11th goal of the season.

Park Ladies climb above Cambourne United Women to move into the Championship’s top 6 as they made it 4 straight wins doing the double over Cardea Ladies in the league at the weekend. A 5-3 win for Park away to Cardea last weekend to get 2020 off to a flyer were the hosts this Sunday. The pair sharing the goals once again, Cardea with 2 goals, Park in great form putting 4 past their opponents to keep their winning run going. Demi Newman, Sophie Fenner and Sheree Martin all scoring their 3rd goal of the season with a first goal for Teagan Pulman.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development starting 2020 with a very welcome first win of the season beating Burwell Tigers Ladies 8-2 away from home last weekend. Meeting in the reverse fixture this Sunday it wasn’t to be for Haverhill as Burwell put in a much better performance to win for the first time in the league since the recording back to back wins at the start of the season. The final score 4-0 to the visitors.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A busy fixture lists across the Beds and Herts Women’s Football League with games in all three divisions and 8 cup ties from the Chris Renshaw Cup played this Sunday. Plenty of goals scored and some big games.

None more so than the top of the table clash in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One between 1st and 2nd. Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies 3 points clear at the top hosting 2nd placed St Albans Ladies who have a game in hand. Hemel Hempstead beating St Albans 3-1 in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. A cracking game of football by all accounts both sides on target for 2 goals in the first half Kayla Johnson netting a brace for St Albans giving her 8 for the season. Kayleigh Baker with her 4th of the season and a 10th goal of the campaign the Hemel Hempstead scorers all square at the break neither side able to breach the others defence for a winning goal 2nd half the points shared.

The other game in Division One at the weekend saw Garston Ladies 1st team in 5th spot close the gap to 4th placed Hartham United Ladies to just a point as they won away from home to 2nd bottom Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday. Garston edging the result 2-1 to take the 3 points home. Ruby Jager on the scoresheet for Garston was also given a red card the visitors ending with 10.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

The title race in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two remains as tight as ever the weekend starting with a 3 way tie at the top with Langford Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies all on 18 points, AFC Dunstable Women Blues just two points behind in fourth after drawing with Sherrardswood Ladies last time out. Another top of the table clash saw them at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses this Sunday the visitors ending Dunstable’s 100% winning start at the end of 2019 beating them 5-2 in the reverse fixture. A close game Dunstable keen to keep Woburn & Wavendon from scoring, taking a chance late in the 1st half to lead the game at the break 1-0 Holly Wilks putting away her 6th goal of the season. Chances to extend the lead coming in the 2nd half Dunstable eventually doubling their lead mid-way through the 2nd half Nicole Cameron on target for her 4th of the season, kept a clean sheet to win the match 2-0 and as a result go top of the table themselves by a point between the top 4 and 5th and 6th placed Garston Ladies Vintage Purples and Sherrardswood Ladies are far from out of it.

At the other end of the Division Two table a tough first half of the season for both Bedford Ladies Development and Evergreen Ladies. The latter making the journey to take on Bedford this weekend the hosts looking to build on last weekends 0-1 win away to bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies just their 2nd of the season the first coming against Wheathampstead back at the start of October. Just the one win too so far for Evergreen Ladies but the start of a new era, new management bringing a positive outlook. Evergreen falling behind early in the match Bedford doubling their lead scoring straight from a corner to go into half-time 2-0 up. Hannah Holden pulling Evergreen back to 2-1 early in the 2nd half. Bedford strong in the box going on to score a 3rd goal adding a further two, Ellie Smith with her first goal of the season scoring for Evergreen late on. Bedford making it back to back wins to start 2020, Remi Bains and Charlotte Demmon both scoring a brace apiece with Alicja Olszanka also on target to score her 9th goal of the season.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Also a top of the table meeting in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday with leader Herts Vipers taking their 100% winning start to 3rd placed Biggleswade United Ladies themselves just losing the one match in the league this season that a narrow 3-2 defeat to Herts Vipers early in the season. Just 3 points in at at the start of play. Herts Vipers opening the scoring on 30 minutes Kelsey Millen lobbing the keeper from outside the box to put the visitors 1-0 up, that the advantage at half-time. Millen scoring her 2nd and 10th of the season early in the 2nd half after the initial shot was parried by the goalkeeper Millen there to send over the line. Millen turning provider for Herts Vipers 3rd goal crossing the ball in put away in the 64th minute by top scorer Nicole Jancey for her 36th goal of the season. Helen Coster with her first goal for Biggleswade pulling it back to 3-1 with 15 minutes to play. Herts Vipers making it 9 wins from 9 to go 3 points clear of Harvesters Ladies at the top of the table.

The Herts Vipers squad lining up before Sunday’s 3-1 win away to Biggleswade United Ladies (photo credit Herts Vipers)

Evergreen Eagles were celebrating their first win of the season in Division Three from open play last Sunday getting 2020 off to a positive start. This weekend they were away to bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies who were the only side in the league without a point on the board losing all 7 league games played so far. The pair playing a high scoring game Buntingford getting themselves into a 5-0 lead. Evergreen Eagles mounting a terrific fight back Samantha Takis scoring in the 50th minute would go on to complete her hat-trick in the final 10 minutes of the match Christine Brewer also scoring for the visitors Buntingford survived the sustained pressure going on to win the match 6-4 and celebrate their first win of the season.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

Plenty of cup action to report on too this weekend with 8 ties from the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Alot of goals scored and some big wins too. The biggest by far Northwood Ladies home win against Whetstone Wanderers Ladies. A huge gap between the sides with Northwood fighting at the top of Division One, Whetstone Wanderers in contrast struggling for results at the bottom of Division Three. Despite having only 10 players available due to illness and injury Northwood proved too strong and opponent, Whetstone kept going but Northwood found the back of the net at regular intervals to win the game 17-0. 4 goals each for Emma Steele and Scarlett Keightley. Both Joanne Horwood and Samantha May netting a hat-trick there were also goals for Leanne Jones and Emma Marshall.

Been a tough season so far for Hitchin Belles since winning promotion to Beds & Herts Division One collecting just the 1 point from 10 games played. The Chris Renshaw providing a break from their league struggle, were taking Division Three side Flitwick Eagles Ladies on at home this weekend in the 2nd round of the competition. A much welcome victory for Hitchin Belles the final result 7-1 to see them progress in the cup. Millie Fraser scoring a hat-trick. Emily Field on target for her 5th goal of the season. Their were first goals of the season to for Charlotte Peters and a brace for Kayleigh Grey. Brittany Holdsworth with a late consolation for Flitwick.

Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies were drawn away to Division Three pace setters Harvesters Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup a potentially tricky tie. Houghton Athletic coming through safely to advance into the next round winning the match 5-1 despite having Shakeela Hussain sent off. Louise Spendelow on target to score a brace their were goals to for Emily Wilson and Ciara Craig along with Eireann O’Donoghue scoring her first goal of the season. Louise Avery with the goal for Harvesters.

One Division One side knocked out of the competition though are Royston Town Women Development as they lost in the final minute away to Division Two side Sherrardswood Ladies. The sides level at 2-2 heading into the closing minutes, an OG and a 55th minute goal from Abby Cardell for Sherrardswood. Eve Chappell and Sabrina Purser scoring for Royston and 89th minute goal for Rhianna Rose saw Sherrardswood clinch the game at the death 3-2.

Leading Beds & Herts Women’s Division Tow going into the weekend Langford Ladies were at home to fellow league side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Goals from Leah Holmes and Ayesha Brown enough to see of the club bottom of the league 2-0.

Also in the mix for the Division Two title are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. Were at home to Division Three side Stotfold Juniors Ladies in the 2nd round of the competition on Sunday. The host safely through to the next round winning the game by 4 goal to nil. Freya Green scoring her first goal for the club. Natasha Wing also on the scoresheet along with Helen Spalding with a brace.

Emma Trill on target for five goals as Garston Ladies Vintage Purple won comfortably at home to Division Three side Bedwell Rangers Ladies in their first match of 2020 to advance in The Chris Renshaw Cup. Yasmin Sabri opening the scoring for Garston. Trill leading the attack making it 2-0 overnight rain making playing conditions tricky Bedwell pulling it back to 2-1 a great strike from Jessica Sullivan. Garston getting themselves into a 3-1 lead Lucy Zecchin slotting the ball under the keeper. Trill with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper from outside the box to see the hosts 4-1 up at the break. Garston starting the 2nd half where they left of the first Trill going on to complete her hat-trick. A 4th goal for Trill turned in at the near post, then put through on goal to score her 5th of the game. 7-1 up Garston adding an 8th from a corner Samantha Roads rising highest to head home celebrating a goal on her birthday. Bedwell scoring an absolute screamer with the final kick of the game to make it 8-2 Georgia Miller the scorer.

Hitching Town Ladies Reserves the only Division Three side left in the competition as they took their recent good form into the cup knocking out Division Two side Watton Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup on Sunday. 5 straight wins going into the game and despite not being in action for 5 weeks that run continued. April Spang enjoying herself in attack for Hitchin scoring an early brace adding a hat-trick in the 2nd half. Her 5 goals taking her to 20 for the season a goal too for Ellie Coyler as Hitchin Town Reserves ran out 6-3 winners. Elizabeth Dowton, Gemma Bickell and Sian Owens scoring for Watton.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

ERWFL Cup

A break from the league this weekend in the ERWFL (well almost) with the knock-out stages commencing for both the League Cup and Plate competitions. The first half of the season seeing the 16 Division One sides North and South competing in a group format, 4 sides playing each other once with the group winners progressing the the League Cup joining the 12 Premier Division sides the rest going on to compete for the League Plate.

Newmarket Town Women, Millwall Lionesses, Needham Market Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies to 4 Division One sides to win their groups all draw against higher league opposition in the League Cup. All 4 involved in a close game. 8 ties in the 1st Round just 7 played at the weekend. The game between Wymondham Town Ladies and Harlow Town Ladies cancelled after Harlow’s parked mini-bus was hit by a lorry at the services on their way up to Norfolk. Everyone okay, a new date for the tie to be announced.

Wroxham Women were drawn away to ERWFL newcomers Needham Market Women the in first round of the League Cup on Sunday. Needham Market making a good start to the game early chances, it was Wroxham though who opening the scoring captain Anna Larkins getting forwards from full back on the 14th minute her cross come shot finding the back of the net. Needham Market coming back to level the scores 6 minutes later, Amber Sparkes bringing the ball on from halfway shooting from 20 yards out making it 1-1. Needham Market coming close to leading before the break it was level at half-time. Larkins on target to score her 2nd of the match restring Wroxham’s lead before the hour. The visitors going further ahead in the 67th minute with Lauren Bullard scoring the goal. A 2nd for Bullard coming with 10 minutes left heading in a corner to put Wroxham 4-1 up. Alot of stoppage time to be played with both sides seeing a player needing lengthy treatment for injury. Needham Market having chances all game mounting a late fightback 3 minutes into injury time Abbie Wilkinson scoring her first first team goal to get it back to 4-2 turned provider 3 minutes later setting up Annie Northwood to pull it back to 4-3. Needham Market finishing strong time running out however Wroxham progressing into the quarter finals.

Luton Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies meeting for the 3rd time this season having been drawn out to play each other in the 1st Round of the League Cup having met twice in the league and in the Women’s FA Cup this season. Both matches at Bowers & Pitsea ending in 3-0 wins for Luton. This Sunday’s League Cup tie Luton’s home ground The Branche. Funmi Babalola putting Luton in front on 11 minutes scoring her 8th goal of the season. Bowers & Pitsea breaching Luton’s defence for the first time this season coming back to level with 20 minutes on the clock Yasmin Cowley 7th goal of the season. The pair drawing 1-1 at half-time. Luton getting back in front with 20 minutes left on the clock Kelsey Gibson putting Jess McKay through on goal to score her 10th goal of the season. The win assured in the final minute McKay with a superb finish to score her 2nd of the match and see the tie won 3-1.

A 3-1 win at home too for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies at the weekend in the first round of the League Cup as they took on St Ives Town Ladies. Peterborough 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division scoring plenty of goals this season and in every game so far this season. Leah Cudone with a penalty on target for her 16th goal of the season , Evie Driscoll-King and Amy Magnus with her 1st goal for the club in only her 2nd appearance for the 2nd scoring the winning goals. Georgia Stancombe netting the goal for St Ives Town.

Penalty box action from Peterborough Northern Star v St Ives Town (photo credit James Cox)

Royston Town Women enjoying a good season in the Premier Division hosting another of the Group stage winners, King’s Lynn Town Ladies riding high in Division One North 2nd unbeaten in open play since mid-October winning 6 straight games in the league along with all three group matches. Good work with the ball at her feet from Georgia Gannaway leading to an own goal to see Royston take the lead. A free-kick struck in from distance seeing King’s Lynn bring the scores level 1-1 the score at the half-time interval. Royston captain Amy Cooper scoring her first goal of the season bundling the ball in from a corner to restore Royston’s lead, a fantastic break away goal from King’s Lynn bringing the Norfolk side back level for the 2nd time in the tie. The winner coming with 5 minutes left on the clock Emma Slater blasting in the goal her 8th of the season to see Royston into the quarter finals 3-2.

Newmarket Town Women winning Group A were at home to Premier Division side Bedford Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup this Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield heading Newmarket into the lead, Bedford though coming back quickly to equalise and then take the lead themselves through to strikes from range by Jasmine Ajayi and Natasha Fensome. 2-1 the lead at half-time both sides finishing the game with 10 players with both Newmarket’s Katie Webb and Bedford’s Ashley Emerton sent off. N further goals added in the 2nd period Bedford into the quarter finals.

Three of the Division One sides suffering narrow defeats in their clashes with higher league opposition, Millwall Lionesses the side to cause the upset and reach the last eight of the League Cup were drawn away to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women, working hard to improve every game Dunstable leaving the pitch frustrated having created a host of chances but failing to score Millwall Lionesses restricted in attacking opportunities scored from a free-kick to clinch a narrow 1-0 victory.

The final League Cup tie to report on saw Colney Heath Ladies travelling to play Haringey Borough Women in the 1st Round. The club 2nd bottom in the table coming close to getting the opening goal on 10 minutes hitting Colney Heath on the counter 1 on 1 with the keeper Amy Butler with a superb save to deny Haringey. The hosts keeper with a great save to deny Samaira Khan up the the end 2 minutes later. Khan leading the goal scoring charts for Colney Heath heading in her 22nd goal of the season 3 minutes later to put the visitors into the lead. A hand ball inside the box seeing Colney Heath awarded a penalty Lucy Hancock stepping up to score to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes played. Colney Heath starting to dominate going on to add a 3rd goal before the half hour Khan crossing for Adrienne Milton to score. Haringey getting it back to 3-1 scoring on the follow-up after the initial shot was saved. Sheree Oliver nodding in Charlene Moreton’s cross late in the half to see Colney Heath 4-1 up. Not many chances created 2nd half Colney Heath comfortable though safely through to the last 8.

ERWFL Plate

Three ties played in the 1st Round of this season’s League Plate competition won by Newmarket Town Women last season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies in good form going into the weekend 2nd in Division One South at home to fellow league side Lawford Ladies who have been struggling for numbers during the season. The visitors once again short of a full side in the 1st Round of the Plate Leigh Ramblers young side full of confidence, adding Georgia Holdaway to their squad this season. On target for a hat-trick at the weekend taking her tally to 8 for the season. There was also a brace each for Rhiana Castle and Megan Downes with her first goals of the season. Connie Mashford also getting her name on the scoresheet in a comfortable 8-0 win.

High scores in the other two 1st Round ties too at the weekend. Wodson Park Ladies struggling for form in the league this season with just one win hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies the Suffolk side finding some form after a tough start themselves. The visitors scoring twice, Wodson Park bringing in new faces to add to their squad progressing to the quarter finals of the League Plate with a 4-2 victory. A 5th goal of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay plus a hat-trick for Kristina O’Connell her first goals for Wodson Park making just her 2nd appearance.

East Bergholt United Ladies completing a trio of home wins in the 1st Round of the League Plate at the weekend beating Division One South side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies 6-2 to reach the quarter finals following a solid start to life in the regional leagues having joined the ERWFL this season. Cara Savage with a brace scoring her first goals of the season for East Bergholt. A first goal of the season too for Tiffany Reeves along with brace for Stacey Teager.

ERWFL Division One South

Just the one league fixture played at the weekend in Division One South and a lack of games through postponements seeing Hutton Ladies knocked off top spot down to 3rd behind Millwall Lionesses and fellow Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Were playing their first game since the 1st of December a 100% record from 5 games played were at home to Stevenage FC Women Development who had suffered similarly having not played since the 8th December. Keen to get going both sides with plenty of goals in them shared 8 between them both scoring 4 to see the points shared Stevenage scoring 4 past a Hutton side that had only concede 3 in their previous 5 matches. Hutton losing their 100% record still unbeaten the top scorers in the league go back to 2nd 3 points behind Millwall with a game in hand. Kate Lowen scoring a brace with captain Abigail Fry and top scorer Vicky Kinsman both getting a goal each for Hutton. Nicole Emmings netting a hat-trick for Stevenage with Sofia Carpenter also on the scoresheet.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Watford Ladies ending 2019 top of the Southern Premier Division 3 points clear of nearest challengers Crawley Wasps Ladies who like Watford had suffered just one defeat in the first half of the season following promotion as South East Division One Champions the season before and with Watford’s home game against Portsmouth FC Women falling foul to the weather, it presented a opportunity for Crawley Wasps to move back level on points at the top of the table. A tough test though with an away trip to another side making a strong start to the season Plymouth Argyle Ladies who ended 2019 with back to back defeats in the league after a long winning streak of 7 matches following an opening day loss away to Crawley Wasps.

Plymouth hit by injuries, Crawley Wasps starting well getting on the front foot few chances created the score 0-0 at half-time the 2nd half looked to be heading the same way both sides defending well the game closing in on the final 10 minutes, Plymouth seeing Katie Middleton Sin Binned for decent the hosts down to 10, Crawley Wasps attacking the ball on the right played central picked up by Rachel Palmer free 25 yards out to line up a great left foot strike to put Crawley Wasps into the lead and see the 3 points won.

Plymouth off the back of a 3rd successive defeat drop down to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table overhauled by Cardiff City Ladies the Welsh side making the trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham Ladies who beat Cardiff 1-0 in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season. A competitive start by both sides Gillingham suffering a blow midway through the 1st half as they were reduced to 10 Bethany Powell sent off. Cardiff taking the lead moment later Cori Williams heading in to make it 1-0, a 2nd goal coming for the visitors in first half stoppage time Williams on target to make it 2-0. Cardiff pressing for a 3rd goal went further ahead early in the 2nd half Carrie sending the ball home to make it 3-0 on 54 minutes. A quickfire double with 10 minutes to go sealing a 5-0 victory for Cardiff, Nadia Lawrence with a goal to make it 4, Williams wrapping up her hat-trick to take her goals tally for the season to 9.

Cardiff now a point ahead of Plymouth it is incredibly tight in the top half of the Southern Premier Division table with just 2 points between the sides making up the top 6. Oxford United Women joining Plymouth on 21 points in 5th spot with an away win against Keynsham Town Ladies on Sunday. Oxford opening the scoring inside the opening 15 minutes Georgia Clifford’s making a run down the left whipping in a cross for Cheryl Williams to turn in at the far post. Keynsham battling their way back into the game Oxford creating good chances Keynsham equalising on the stroke of half-time a curling shot finding it’s way into the top corner. Oxford straight back into the lead at the start of the 2nd half another left wing cross Stephaney Bent to tap home. Oxford pressuring the home defence in search of more goals a 3rd coming on the hour, Brogan Moore pouncing in a shot fumbled by the goalkeeper putting the visitors 3-1 ahead Williams striking from the edge of the box a minute later to net her 10th goal of the season. Oxford dominating adding a 5th goal with 10 minutes left Georgia Clifford scoring her first league goal for the club. A 6th coming moments later with Carly Johns scoring to keep pace match Williams tally of 10 for the season.

Yeovil Town Women making up the top 6 with a big home win at the weekend over struggling Hounslow Women 2 points behind 3rd placed Cardiff. A battling performance to earn a point away to bottom side Chichester City Ladies last weekend the game finishing goalless. Hounslow with just 3 points haven’t won this season 2nd bottom fighting to stay in the league faced a Yeovil side with plenty of goals in them would finish the afternoon as the Southern Premier Division’s leading goalscorers. Early pressure from the hosts Hounslow’s goalkeeper making a couple of saves. Sarah Wiltshire putting Yeovil into the the lead getting onto the end of a ball put in by Charlotte Buxton with 20 minutes played. Meesha Dudley-Jones adding a 2nd goal for Yeovil just a 2 minute later put through to score by Katie Jones. Wiltshire scoring her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later to see Yeovil in control of the match a penalty stroked home by Annie Heatherson in first half stoppage time seeing Yeovil leading 4-0 at the break. Wiltshire on target for her 17th goal of the season completing her hat-trick 5 minutes into the start of the 2nd half. Ellie Strippel making her debut for Yeovil marking the occasion with a goal with the game entering the final 15 minutes. Wiltshire making it 7-0 with her 4th strike of the match in the 81st minute the final score 8-0 to Yeovil with Megan Wood scoring with 3 minutes left to play.

4 goals at the weekend for Yeovil Town Women’s, Sarah Wiltshire

Despite making a bright start to the season Milton Keynes Dons Women winning their opening two matches a poor run since has yielded just one more point. 6 straight losses to end 2019 despite some battling performances particularly in the cup competitions. Bringing in a host of new players were looking to get 2020 off to a positive start as they hosted bottom side Chichester City Ladies at the Stadium MK on Sunday. Milton Keynes creating opportunities early on, Chichester still in search of their first win of the season beginning 2020 with a goalless draw with fellow strugglers Hounslow Women last weekend with a couple of chances of their own over the bar. Jade Bell’s cross/shot from the wing finding the back of the net to put Milton Keynes 1-0 midway through the first half. Jamie Rowlands with a with a great save to deny Milton Keynes a 2nd goal late in the first half. Leading 1-0 going into the 2nd half. Around the hour Milton Keynes doubling their lead combination play between Louise Naylor and Kim Farrow seeing Jessica Driscoll score from the resulting cross. Emma Kirby off her line to make a fantastic save to in the final 5 minutes for Milton Keynes ensuring they kept a clean sheet and began the year with a much welcome 3 points.

FAWNL South East Division One

Ipswich Town Women ending 2019 4 points clear at the top of FAWNL South East Division One unbeaten in their first 9 matches played dropping just 2 points those coming back on the opening day a home draw 1-1 with AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Reaching the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup beating Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women last weekend were back in league action this Sunday with a top of the table clash against… AFC Wimbledon Ladies. One of a host of sides making a strong start to the season very tight in the top half of the South East Division One table, Wimbledon like Ipswich undefeated long into the first half the season suffering a 1-0 defeat to Actonians Ladies in their final game of 2019 to end that record. Up to 2nd in the table 4 points the gap to Ipswich. The visitors getting off to a fantastic start with Elouise King racing onto captain Amanda Crump’s fantastic forwards pass to turn inside outside the box and send a shot in off the bar to make it 1-0 inside 3 minutes. Wimbledon goalkeeper Charlotte Ferguson suffering a head injury bandaged up the game resuming making some vital saves to keep the scoreline at 1-0 with Ipswich pressing. Ipswich ending the first half with 10 Lucy Egan in the Sin Bin for descent the disadvantage continuing into the 2nd half.

Ipswich back up to full strength with was Wimbledon’s turn to go down to 10 however Stephanie Mann with shown a straight red the hosts a goal and player down with a mountain to climb 2nd half. Ipswich pushing forwards Ferguson on hand making several vital saves to deny to frustrate Ipswich. The game turned on it’s head in the closing minutes Wimbledon pressing just one goal in it new signing Lily Stevens sending a thunderous free-kick onto the crossbar. Five minutes left to play Wimbledon awarded another set-piece Steven’s with another well taken strike Ipswich goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles with a tremendous save getting a glove up to the ball fell to a Wimbledon players crossed back into the six yard box Georgia Heasman launching it into the back of the net. 1-1 the game deep into stoppage time Steven’s over another free-kick 40 yards out struck well again Runnacles unable to get to it the ball over her dropping into the back of the net to see Wimbledon snatch a 2-1 win at the death and end Ipswich’s unbeaten record closing the gap to the leaders to just a point.

That result seeing thing’s really tighten up in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One table, just 6 points separating the top six now positive results at the weekend for 3 more of those sides seeing 3rd placed Billericay Town Ladies who were in FA Cup action pushed down to 6th spot in the table, the Essex side with 2 games in hand on the leaders. Leyton Orient WFC now within 3 points of Ipswich themselves as they won the 3 points away to 2nd bottom Cambridge City Ladies at Ely City FC on Sunday. Early chances for Leyton Orient, Cambridge goalkeeper Dominika Szary wit a couple of saves, Leyton Orient’s top scorer Otesha Charles getting hold of the ball at the top of the box making room to get a shot away low across the keeper to make it 1-0. The visitors pushing for a 2nd goal Ellie Stenning sending in a cross at the near post with half an hour played. 2-0 the lead at half-time Cambridge improving 2nd half creating opportunities without really testing the goal keeper pulled it back to 2-1 with 20 minutes left Bella Simmons heading in at the near post. Leyton Orient keeping them from scoring a 2nd to win it 2-1.

Enfield Town Ladies just a point further back from Leyton Orient in 4th spot were hosting Cambridge United WFC who had ended the year with a confidence boosting 3-0 home with over Leyton Orient. Always a tough game between themselves and Enfield. The pair contesting a goalless first half. Enfield awarded a penalty 3 minutes into the start of the 2nd period. Beth Lumsden placing the ball into the bottom corner to give the hosts the lead. Nuala McKevitt captaining Enfield doubling the advantage on the hour heading home from inside the six yard box. Sophy Stonehouse saving a penalty up the other end for Enfield to keep their clean sheet intact Tyra Mills scoring in injury time to see Enfield take the points with a 3-0 victory.

AFC Basildon Women up to 5th in the South East Division One table coming out on top in a high scoring game away to Norwich City Women at the weekend. Basildon hitting Norwich on the break to score an early goal in the match Chelsea Garrett pulling Norwich back level with a quarter played finding the top corner to make it 1-1. Basildon soon coming back to restore their lead a strike from the edge of the box to find the top corner, the hosts failing to clear the ball leading to Basildon going 3-1 ahead. Aimee Durrant seeing a great strike from distance go in off the post to get it back to 3-2 in the 35th minute. Basildon though restoring their 2 goal cushion before half-time to go into the changing rooms 4-2 up. The Essex side further extending their lead early in the 2nd half a counter attack making it 5-0 in the 50th minute. Basildon capitalising in Norwich mistakes going 6-2 up Garrett firing home to score her 2nd of the game for Norwich midway through the 2nd half. Basildon making it 7-3 with a shot from distance the game into the final 15 minutes a corner for Norwich Reeanna Cook getting a touch to put it over the line, Basildon going up the other end to score an 8th of the game and take the points home with an 8-4 win.

Women’s FA Cup

One more game to bring you and seeing as it features two more clubs from FAWNL South East Division One is worth a mention as Billericay Town Ladies and Actonians Ladies the two lowest league placed sides left in the competition met this Sunday in the 3rd Round of the Women’s FA Cup. History to be made a trip to Championship side Lewes FC Women. Postponed from last Sunday played at Aveley FC under the lights. An action packed first half Billericay’s Karissa Rodney capitalising from a corner to score at close range after a header from a corner smashed down of the crossbar in the 10th minute that goal the difference between the sides going into the break. Actonians a threat all game attacking came back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half top scorer Alessandra Barreca through on goal scoring from the tightest of angles. 1-1 with 15 minutes to play Actonians turning it around to take the lead a corner swung into the six yard box from the left headed home by Barreca to put Actonians 2-1 ahead. Billericay awarded a penalty soon after Therese Addison striking a powerful low drive into the back of the net. Extra-time looming the game deep into stoppage time Billericay winning a corner the high ball looped into the six yard box evading the keeper, the ball going in off Billericay captain Lindsey Morgan to see the game won at the death 3-2.

Lindsey Morgan celebrating after scoring the winning goal for Billericay Town Ladies in stoppage time (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

2019 saw a large expansion in the county leagues in Cambridgeshire a host of new sides joining saw the Premiership increase to 13 sides with a new look single Championship starting with 15 now down to 14 alot of football to be played an plenty of intrigue developing as the fixtures unfold. Newly promoted side Leverington Sports Ladies ending 2019 top of the pile in the Premiership a close battle at the top between themselves and Haverhill Rovers Ladies with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves joining the battle late on, several others well placed to mount a challenge in 2020.

Five matches in the Premiership to start the new year. Leverington Sports beginning the new year with a local derby match away to march Town United Ladies who ended 2019 in a rich vein of form with 3 straight wins taking them up to 5th in the Premiership table. Proved to be a tight game with March coming away with a 2-1 victory courtesy of a 7th goal of the season from Jordan Turner and a first of the season and first in 62 matches for Claire Newton (that stat provided by March). The result lifting march up to 4th in the table 3 points off the leaders with 2 games in hand.

That narrow defeat for Leverington Sports sees Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves take over at the top of the Premiership table as they came out on top in a narrow win at home to St Ives Town Ladies Development on Sunday. PNS Reserves 6th win of the season edging the result 3-2 to collect the 3 points. Hannah Flatters in her 4th appearance scoring her first goals for the club celebrating a 1st half brace with Ellie Spendelow also on target for the hosts.

Ketton Ladies promoted to the Premiership as Championship North champions last season are up to 6th in the Premiership table 5 points off top spot with games in hand themselves as they started 2020 with a win. Playing at home in the league for the first time this season were taking on Histon Ladies Reserves a brace scored by captain Beth Goodman securing a 2-0 victory.

A brace for Ketton Ladies. Beth Goodman on Sunday.

Ketton leading a trio of sides mid-table on 13 points well positioned to push on in 2020, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds getting off to a winning start in 2020 at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday. Top scorer Marie Stubbings netting a brace taking her tally to 20 for the season. Ebony Rule too also amongst the goals since rejoining the club on target for a brace herself to move to 11 for the campaign. Eleanor Woodley playing in just her 3rd game for Fulbourn scoring her first goal for the club helping the hosts to a 5-1 win. Cornelia Buettner making her first appearance for Cambridge University Women getting her first goal.

Finally in the Premiership Cambridge City Ladies new A side 9th in the table are far from out of the tussle above on 12 points, 6 from top spot with a game in hand as they began 2020 with a 4th win of the season at home to bottom side Riverside Ladies on Sunday. A spirited performance from the visitors battling back to score to goals but by then the damage had already been done as Cambridge City leading 4-0 at half-time went on to win the game 6-2. Bronte Rapley along with a brace for Phillipa Witherspoon along with a goal for Sasha Tristam the scorers in the 1st half for Cambridge City. Adding a 5th goal 2nd half Riverside getting it back to 5-2 with Ines Sophia Lopes scoring both goals. Witherspoon completing her hat-trick to see the match won 6-2.

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

One game outstanding from the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup played this Sunday a Peterborough derby with ICA Sports Ladies at home to Netherton United Ladies. A tough fought match Annie Posnett scoring for ICA Sports Ladies, it was Netherton United who edged the win however to reach the last 4 of the competition with Jenna Nairn on target to score a brace to clinch a 2-1 result setting up a home clash with St Ives Town Ladies Development on Sunday 22nd March. Last season’s finalists Cambridge University Women at home to Riverside Ladies in the other semi-final.

Goal mouth action from Sunday’s League Cup quarter final (photo credit Gary Reed)

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Plenty of drama going to unfold in the 2nd half of the season too in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship. A brilliant start to the season for Cambridge Rangers Women as they end 2019 well clear at the top with a 100% record 10 wins from 10 played. Very tight below with potential challenges lurking. The top two seeing their opening games of 2020 called off an opportunity to close the gap presenting itself. Pinchbeck United Ladies themselves with a 100% winning start to the season a number of call offs seeing them with games in hand 6 wins from 6 going into Sunday’s away match to local rivals Deeping United Ladies. The hosts holding the advantage at half-time leading the game 1-0 Pinchbeck fought back in the 2nd period to equalise and go on to score the winning goal to move up to 3rd in the table Courtney Walker scoring both goals taking her onto 11 for the season. Pinchbeck 9 points behind leaders Cambridge Rangers with 3 games in hand.

Eaton Socon Ladies new to the league enjoying a good start to the season 3rd in the Championship at the start of 2020. Began the new year with a trip to in from Newmarket Town Women Development climbing up into the top 6 at the end of 2019. Leading 2-0 at half-time Newmarket went on to score a further 2 in the 2nd period whilst keeping a clean sheet to win 4-0 and climb a place into 5th spot in the Championship. Maisey Flack and Olivia Caffarelli with their first goals for the side along with a goal for Brooke Wickens and top scorer Talia Irvine taking her to double figures for the season.

Park Ladies ending 2019 on a high recording back to back wins continued their excellent form into 2020 with a 3rd straight win away to Cardea Ladies this Sunday. Another high scoring match the sides sharing 8 goals between them. A good start to the season too for Cardea a winning start 4 from 4 behind with their fixtures a first loss coming at home to Pinchbeck in their final game of 2019. Park opening the scoring in the first minute 1-0 up Cardea coming back to level 10 minutes later Phoebe Deidda with the goal. Park retaking the lead midway through the first half ending the first half well scoring two late goals to go in 4-1 up at the break. Cardea fighting back scored twice more in the 2nd half, Park though adding a 5th goal clinching a 5-3 victory. Francesca Plitsch with a hat-trick goes onto 11 for the season. Georgia Payne and Sherrie martin also on the scoresheet.

A mixed set of results so far in the new look Championship for Isleham United Ladies 3 wins and 5 losses from the first half of the season a positive start to 2020 as they won for the 4th time this season at home to Swavesey Spartans Ladies on Sunday. Poppy Green scoring her first hat-trick for the club helping Isleham United to a 5-2 win. There were first goals too for Becky O’Connor and Kayla Simpkins. Alexandra Herbert scoring for Swavesey Spartans who after this weekends results drop to the bottom of the table with just one victory so far this season.

That because previous bottom side Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development began 2020 with their first ever league win. A tough start to life since joining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship despite some battling efforts and good performances at times not collecting the points to show for it that changed on Sunday with a big win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Gemma Codling scoring a hat-trick for Haverhill was joined on 3 goals by Jenna Wright a hat-trick on her first appearance for the side. Amy Evans appearing for the Development side for the first time netting a brace in an much welcomed 8-2 win.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

League leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies sat out the first round of fixtures in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this Sunday giving another opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap at the top that had opened up to 6 points at the end of 2019. St Albans Ladies up to 2nd in the table mounting a strong challenge losing just one game so far this season with a game in hand on Hemel Hempstead were looking to narrow it to 3 points at home to Hitchin Town Ladies this Sunday before they meet Hemel Hempstead for the 2nd time this season this coming Sunday. This Sunday an early set back for St Albans as they fell behind Estelle Klausner with her first goal for Hitchin putting the visitors into the lead. St Albans though fought back to level and go on to win the match 3-1 with Cally Salter scoring a hat-trick to move her onto 16 goals for the season.

Hot on St Albans Ladies heels a point behind in 3rd place are Northwood Ladies as they racked up a big result away from home to bottom side Hitchin Belles at the start of the new year. A tough first half of the season playing in Division One for Hitchin Belles having won the Division Two title last season, the bare 11 available on Sunday, Northwood a strong side with plenty of goals in them. Top scorer Emma Steele captaining the side on Sunday scoring a hat-trick to put her on 15 for the season. Three players netting a brace, Leanne Jones, Hannah Marshall and her appearance Megan Warner. First goals too for Lucy Wallace and Lisa-Marie Carty with Zamina Rehemtulla also on the scoresheet in a 12-2 win for Northwood. Gemma Smith and Emma Wallis scoring for Hitchin Belles.

Making up the top four in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One are Hartham United Ladies, started 2020 with an away trip to 2nd bottom Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Steffany Cowell opening the scoring for Hartham with a fantastic 25 yards strike with the outside of her boot. Letchworth coming back to level the scores. Top scorer Janiece Allen put through on goal to beat the keeper restoring Hartham’s lead 2-1 up a misplaced goal kick presented to Kat Calvert 35 yards out a brilliant finish seeing the game won 3-1.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Incredibly tight at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with 3 points separating the top 4 sides at the end of 2019. Two of the top 4 in action this weekend 3rd and 4th placed AFC Dunstable Women Blues & Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses both looking to join the leading pair Langford Ladies and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies on 18 points.

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses losing just the one game back on the opening day at home to Watton Ladies to kick off 2020. Sian Owens and Elizabeth Dowton on target for their first Watton goals of the season, it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Woburn & Wavendon hit them for 4 up the other end top scorer Giselle Randall opening and finishing the scoring with a brace scoring in the 13th and 90th minute Holly Venn with her 7th of the season scoring in the first half with Jessica Greaves scoring her first goal midway through the 2nd half. Woburn & Wavendon moving into 2nd spot in the table on goal difference.

Just the one defeat too this season for AFC Dunstable Women Blues, they began 2020 with an away fixture with Sherrardswood Ladies. A head injury to Sherrardswood goalkeeper seeing the reverse fixture abandoned earlier in the season. Dunstable are scoring alot of goals this season Bianca Vassell and Nicola Hollick ending 2019 with 20 goals each, Vassell creeping back into the lead as she fired Dunstable into a 34th minute lead. Sherrardswood coming back to level the scores within 5 minutes a superb strike from the edge of the box by Laura Cousins finding the top corner to make it 1-1 with her 8th goal of the season. 1-1 at half-time few chances in the 2nd half Sherrardswood battling hard in defence with a couple of good chances themselves saved towards the end of the match the points shared.

At the other end of the Division Two table it was a close match between bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies and Bedford Ladies Development. The visitors Bedford celebrating the first Sunday of 2020 with a win a 3 much needed points. Just their 2nd win of the season coming courtesy of a single goal scored by top scorer Alicja Olszanka her 8th goal of the season.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

An away win awarded to Herts Vipers at the weekend against Stotfold Juniors sees them return to the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three after Harvesters Ladies suffered a surprise 2nd defeat of the season away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. A great result for Bedwell Rangers to start 2020 against the side leading the table at the start of play. Bedwell rangers doing well to hold Harvesters to a goalless draw in the first half got off to a great start in the 2nd period Rachel Young with her 11th goal of the season putting the hosts 1-0 up in the 47th minute. Georgia Miller seeing the lead doubled with 15 minutes left netting her 5th goal of the season added a 2nd goal 3 minutes from time to seal a memorable 3-0 win taking Bedwell Rangers back up to 5th in the table.

Right behind Bedwell rangers are Kempston Rovers Ladies a point back in 6th position enjoying a good 1st half of the season themselves began 2020 with a 5th win of the season at home to Flitwick Eagles Ladies. Six weeks without a game for Kempston Rovers, Hannah Meadwell opened her account for the season scoring a great headed goal in the 10th minute. Brittany Holdsworth with her 9th goal of the season getting Flitwick straight back on level terms. Kempston Rovers retaking the lead through an 8th goal of the season form Ellie Newberry-Bierton settling down Kempston Rovers went on to enjoy a strong 2nd half with Hoffi Pursey netting a hat-trick and Megan Burnapp firing in from a free-kick to see the match won 6-1.

Evergreen Eagles welcomed 2020 in with their first 3 points from open play this season. Previously awarded the 3 points against Whetstone Wanderers Ladies, Evergreen Eagles were the visitors this Sunday. Has been a tough season so far for both clubs a hat-trick from captain Samantha Takis along with a goal for Samantha Feeney helping Evergreen Eagles to a 5-1 victory enough to take them up to 8th in the Division Three table. Sophie Fisher scoring the goal for Whetstone Wanderers.

A winning start to 2020 for Evergreen Eagles Ladies (photo credit Evergreen Eagles)

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

One outstanding quarter final tie to be played from the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup postponed at the end of 2019 a tough tie for Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Garston Ladies 1st team as they travelled to play the current holders of the cup, Watford Ladies U23s. Leading the way in the FAWNL South East Reserves Division with just one defeat so far Watford proved too strong an opponent racking up a hefty scoreline. Ceri Milnes opening the scoring for the hosts in the 11th minute. Charli O’Connor and Chiara Meola with a quickfire double to make it 3-0 on 20 minutes, further goals from Echo Barrett, Anaisa Harvey and a 2nd from Meola saw Watford leading 6-0 at half-time. Ran rampant in the 2nd half adding another 10 to win the game 16-0. O’Connor and Harvey both going on to score a hat-trick. Eshe Davies scoring a brace there were goals to for Rubie Smith, Hannah Coote and Afiya Johnson along with an own goal.

That completes the semi-final line-up to be played in a fortnights time Sunday 19th January a 1:30pm kick-off for both as follows:-

Stevenage FC Women v Watford Ladies Development

Watford Ladies U23s v Colney Heath Ladies

The Round-Up – Norfolk 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Five games to begin the New Year in Norfolk on Sunday. A fantastic start to the season for Thorpe United Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One as they defend the league title won last season a perfect 1st half of the campaign ending 2019 with a 100% record 9 wins from 9 to top the table one of three sides making a perfect start to the season. Thorpe United maintaining that record started 2020 as they left off the old year winning away from home again a potential challenger Sprowston Ladies who themselves had lost just twice in the opening half of the season. One of those losses against Thorpe the defending champions have Rebekah Lake leading their attack and their captain has been in fine form in front of goal this season, scoring another hat-trick at the weekend to close in on 30 goals for the season seeing Thorpe seal a 3-1 victory. Calista Tink scoring the goal for Sprowston Ladies.

Keeping the pressure on Thorpe in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies themselves losing just the one game this season that away to Thorpe. In good form scoring plenty of goals Bungay are 6 points behind Thorpe with a game in hand. Were away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the beginning of 2020. A tough first half to the season for Freethorpe without a point on the board always going to be a tough as after being put up to the top division in Norfolk after the leagues were adjusted to accommodate a host of new sides. Nevertheless remain in good spirits and work hard for each other week in week out. Bungay making it 8 wins from 9 played with the goals spread amongst their squad 7-2 the final score. Leanne Smith netting a brace to take her to 11 for the season. Selina Rowland with a goal stays top scorer with 12 their were goals too for Lauren Purling, Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade and Nicola Hazell. Claire Garner and Amy Morris with her first of the season on the scoresheet for Freethorpe.

Another two of the promoted sides meeting at the start of the year as Division Tow champions Taverham United Ladies hosted Tavern Ladies, the Dereham based side with an excellent start to life playing in Division One right at the top with a long standing 100% winning run. Just the one defeat leaving them in fourth spot 9 points behind leaders Thorpe with 2 games in hand. Tavern scoring plenty of goals too, Taverham struggling for results after blazing the way in Division Two in their debut season in women’s football, just the 2 wins this season. Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean amongst the goals for Tavern this season have 23 between them now with both scoring a brace at the weekend to see their match won 4-1. Taverham with just the bare 11 available scoring through Rebecca Sutton.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Two games to start the year in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Newly reformed Stalham Town Ladies with a strong start well clear at the top of the table winning 7 of their opening 9 matches. 9 points clear of 2nd placed Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves side. Stalham Town not in action this weekend a host of sides below all with games in hand on the leaders, Beccles Town Ladies aiming to bounce straight back up to Division One have played just 5 matches so far this season 10 points adrift of Stalham with 4 games in hand were away to Thorpe United this Sunday. Beccles with just the one defeat so far getting 2020 off to the perfect start have Francesca Catchpole back in their squad after a long lay off through injury. Scoring a hat-trick at the weekend has 4 goals now from just two appearances. Top scorer Lola Barber-King also on the scoresheet with her 11th of the season as Beccles ran out 4-0 winners to move above Thorpe into 2nd spot.

In the other game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend new side Waveney Ladies were away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies who ended 2019 on a high with their first win of the season. Just the bare 11 available for Bulldogs in their first game in 2020, Waveney Ladies proved too strong as they opened the scoring in the 10th minute a strong first half seeing them leading 4-0. Two more goals coming in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 6-0 their 4th win in 6 played lifting Waveney up into 4th spot in the Division Two table well placed to mount a promotion push.

The Round-Up – Essex 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Essex Premier Division

Four matches to start the New Year across the two divisions in Essex. A strong 1st half to the season for Collier Row Tigers in the Essex Women’s Premier Division unbeaten winning all but one of their 9 league games to date to end 2019 3 points clear of Silver End United Ladies in 2nd. Scoring plenty of goals too Collier Row Tigers began 2020 where they left off in 2019 recording a large home win to collect another 3 points at home to Southend United Ladies on Sunday. Racing into a 5-0 lead at half-time in control of the game Collier Row Tigers went on t add a further 4 goals without reply in the 2nd half to win the match 9-0. Laura Bunton always amongst the goals well out in front as top scorer for the club hit a hat-trick to celebrate the first game of 2020 taking her tally to 33 for the season. There was also a brace each for Roseanne Shafier now with 14 for the season and Emma Harrison on 8 goals. Ammarah Ali and Sarah Finch with her first goal of the season also on the scoresheet.

Plenty of goals too in the other game played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division at the weekend with Rayleigh Town Ladies and Chelmsford City ladies sharing a 7 goal thriller. Rayleigh Town newly promoted to the Premier Division this season finding life tough at a higher level winning just one match in first half of the season. A series of postponed matches wiping out their fixture list in December Rayleigh were finally back in action starting 2020 at home to Chelmsford in 4th the visitors results up and down in the first half of the season. Errors from Chelmsford seeing Rayleigh capitalise to get themselves into a 3-1 lead at half-time and despite a spirited fightback from Chelmsford in the 2nd period scoring 2 more goals, Rayleigh found the back of the net for one more goal to clinch a 4-3 result and just their 2nd win of the season. Isabelle Wallings scoring plenty of goals last season moving into double figures this campaign striking home a hat-trick for Rayleigh with Louise Lawrence also getting a goal. A brace for Chelmsford’s Georgia James with Shannon Kelly also scoring both moving onto 5 goals for the season.

Essex Women’s Division One

A couple of matches called off in Essex Women’s Division One at the weekend saw 2 games played. Runwell Sports Ladies consolidating their 2nd placed position as they won away from home to early pace setters Aveley Ladies on Sunday. Now 5 points clear of Aveley after recording a 4-1 win to start 2020. Runwell Sports 7th league win of the season coming courtesy of a brace each for Ashley Debnam taking her into double figures for the season and 2 for Karen Whitmarsh her first goals of the season. Hayley Knott with the Aveley goal.

That result good news for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies new Development side as they climb above Aveley into 3rd position on goal difference in Essex Women’s Division One. Finding a bit of form towards the end of 2019 after a poor run of results Bowers & Pitsea got 2020 off to a great start winning at home to another in form side Chigwell Ladies at the weekend. Top scorer Ellie Jones coming off the bench in the 30th minute firing in a brace to give her 8 goals for the season Bowers & Pitsea 2-0, Chigwell with an immediate response Victoria Parker pulling it back to 2-1 That the scoreline going into the 2nd half Bowers & Pitsea battled to keep their narrow lead the 3 points made save in the final minute with a screamer from Kirstie Jackson to see the hosts win the game 3-1.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Suffolk Women’s Division

All change at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division at the start of 2020, a 4 way tie at the top of the league now with 4 sides all on 30 points, Holland Ladies with games on hand on all in 5th hot on their heels. Brettvale Ladies ending 2019 top of the pile ousting Needham Market Women’s new Reserves side, Bury Town Ladies and Woodbridge Town Ladies just 3 points behind.

5 games played on the opening weekend of the year Brightlingsea Regent Ladies awarded the home win against AFC Kesgrave Ladies on 23 points in 7th will be aiming to push their way in amongst the top six.

Extremely close at the top Bury Town Ladies losing just one game so far since reforming this season at home to leaders Brettvale Ladies on Sunday the away side themselves with just the one defeat from their 11 opening matches a strong start Bury Town were strong from the off at the weekend plenty of goals amongst their squad got themselves into a 3-0 half-time lead against a strong Brettvale side keeping their opponents out at the other end for a clean sheet went on to win the match 5-0 to go top on goal difference. Stacey Roper with a brace moves onto 8 for the season. Goals too for Norma Locker, Helen Cryer and Lyndsie Duemmel.

Woodbridge Town Ladies into their 2nd season together acheived their highest league position to date as they followed up a strong first half to the season with a 10th win of the season to start 2020 ending Needham Market Women Reserves 100% winning start. Newly formed following the successful debut of their first team now joining the ERWFL Needham Market Reserves had won all their league games in 2019 scoring plenty of goals along the way. Woodbridge Town are scoring plenty of goals themselves however primarily from strike force Jenna Liverpool and Kiera Hines who have 51 between them heading into 2020. Lucy Eagle recently joining the squad from Leiston St Margarets also wading in with goals 6 in 6 matches. Liverpool on target to score a brace rapidly closing in on 40 goals for the season and another for Eagle seeing Woodbridge move into 2nd spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division table.

Holland Ladies new to the league this season opened their campaign with a defeat have since been hot on the heels to the leading pack going on to win all of their next 8 matches to end 2019 on a high, closing the gap on the sides above with games in hand on all just 3 points behind the leading quartet now as they made it 9 wins in a row at home on Sunday at the start of 2020. Were taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies struggling at the opposite end of the table. Proven goalscorers amongst their squad, Michelle Hodgson leading the way at the weekend 3 from 3 going into the game scored 5 more goals against Chantry Grasshoppers on Sunday to make it 8 from 4 appearances. Charlotte Warren moves onto 12 for Holland with a goal also on the scoresheet Lauren Lucas with her 6th of the campaign and Sophie Blowers in an 8-0 victory.

Back to back wins to end the year for newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies after a poor run of results that had seen them lose 5 in a row after making a promising start since joining the league. Began 2020 on a high as they made it 3 on the bounce on consolidate their mid-table position and look to kick on. Were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday leading 2-0 at half-time Henley Athletic piled on the goals 2nd half to run out 7-2 winners. Top scorer Amy Gilson moving onto 11 for the season netting a hat-trick. Enya Moore not far behind onto 8 scoring a brace. There were goals for for Mollie Frost and captain Claire Bevan. Danielle Harvey pulling it back to 2-1 early in the 2nd half for Brantham with Shannon Giles scoring the visitors 2nd goal.

At the other end of the Suffolk Women’s Division it was a vital 2nd win of the season for Leiston St Margarets Ladies as they look to pull away from the bottom of the table. Just 2 points won since winning back on the opening day a welcome win to start 2020 as they hosted fellow strugglers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies at the weekend. Thalia Cloke on target to score a brace their were goals to for Leanne Morphew and Grace Pemberton in a 5-0 win.