Category Archives: The Round-Up

The Round-Up – ERWFL 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

ERWFL Premier Division

First Round-Up of the New Year beginning the league reviews with the latest action from the ERWFL all three divisions shaping up nicely before the festive break. A strong ERWFL Premier Division. Harlow Town Ladies six points clear of the rest at the top at the end of 2019, looking to push on and win the title. Some strong challengers below as all 12 sides were in action at the weekend.

Harlow Town Ladies hosting 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who have a game in hand. The visitors taking the lead in the game going 1-0 up early in the match. An eventful first half Harlow came back to level, scoring twice more to hold a 3-2 lead at the half-time interval. Harlow pulling further in front in the 2nd period went on to win the match 5-2 at extend their lead at the top of the table to 9 points with 10 left to play. Five different goal scorers for Harlow, Fran Gamble scoring her 7th of the season, a 5th goal of the season for both Abbey Dell and Georgia Box whilst Amy Nash and Hannah Porter were all on target with a 4th goal of the season each. Leah Cudone scoring her 15th of the campaign for Peterborough North Star with Stephanie Gale also celebrating her first goal for the club.

Georgia Box amongst the goal scorers for Harlow Town Ladies on Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)

Remains very tight below Harlow, Luton Town Ladies climbing back up to 3rd in the table after a late goal secured all three points away to Wroxham Women on Sunday. A highly competitive match both sides testing the goalkeeper early on. Tight in midfield both sides battling to find the opening goal proving hard to break down. 0-0 at half-time Luton have the tightest defence in the league conceding just 11 goals so far this season and worked hard in defence to keep another clean sheet clearing the ball off the line late on bodies in to block. The visitors finding the winning goal in the 83rd minute Rebecca Kane joining top scorer Jess McKay on 11 goals for the season as she struck a shot across the keeper. Luton also hitting the post in the closing minutes.

Royston Town Women up there too in the cluster of sides in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division going into their 1st game of 2020 on 20 points alongside Wroxham and Luton were making the trip across to Essex on Sunday to face Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who had enjoyed a solid start to life playing at this level for the first time. An even start to the match Bowers & Pitsea gaining some momentum putting pressure on the Royston defence chances created, Royston goalkeeper Ellie Pickard with two superb saves to keep it at 0-0 midway through the 2nd half the visitors going on to score the opening goal in the 34th minute Rebecca Vass with the through ball to send Emma Salter in on goal to make it 1-0.

Royston leading at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea starting well in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores in the 53rd minute Yasmin Cowley with chances in the first half up highest to head Kiera Adcock’s cross into the bottom corner. two minutes later Bowers & Pitsea were in the lead Ebony Moore at the back post making it 2-1. Royston regrouping getting it back to 2-2 in the 65th minute Danielle Carty scoring from distance. 2-2 with 18 minutes left Courtney Fraser skipping a challenge on the wing sending the ball inside for Sophie Dowman to turn and score to put Bowers & Pitsea back into the lead. The 3 points secured in the final 15 minutes, Fraser and Dowman involved in the build up to see Moore score her 2nd of the game to win it 4-2. All very tight in the middle of the table now as Bowers & Pitsea 9th join Wymondham Town Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies on 18 points, two points behind a trio on 20, including Royston and Wroxham.

Joining Wroxham and Royston on 20 points in 6th place in the table are Bedford Ladies as they won at home against St Ives Town Ladies at the weekend. St Ives promoted as Division One Champions last season in their debut season in the ERWFL finding it tough playing at this level collecting 7 points from their opening 9 matches working hard a steep learning curve held Bedford to a goalless opening half the hosts finding the break through goal in the 2nd period going on to score a further 3 to win the match 4-0.

Tight in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division 5 points between 2nd and 6th a trio of sides queuing up below on 18 now. Bowers & Pitsea as already mentioned the other two met at the weekend with Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. A host of injuries both long and short term for Wymondham to deal with this season are in a decent position coming into the New Year. Colney Heath themselves enjoying good form during the first half of the season both will fancy there chances of pushing into the top half towards the end of the season. Wymondham opening the scoring in the 36th minute Chelsea Clarke setting up top scorer Hannah Waters to fire home her 16th of the season. Olivia Mari equalising for Colney Heath on the stroke of half-time pouncing on the rebound as a well struck free-kick hit the crossbar.

1-1 going into the 2nd half Wymondham retaking the lead early on Waters on target with her 2nd of the match scoring from an impossible angle. Wymondham pressing the attack Katie Knights setting up Laura Nicholls her shot hitting the bar coming back down into play Waters on the follow up blocked, Knights pouncing to put Wymondham 3-1 ahead. Laura Nicholls top scorer for Wymondham last season back amongst the goals after a spell out with injury Jennifer Grey playing her in to score her 9th of the season with 15 minutes left to play. Nicholls 10th of the season coming inside the final five minutes a great individual effort to make it 5-1. Colney Heath’s top scorer Samiara Khan pulling it back to 5-2 with 2 minutes left on the clock Wymondham beginning 2020 with a win.

2020 saw the 2nd battle of the season between the basement sides AFC Dunstable Women and Haringey Borough Women a tough 1st half of the season just 3 points between them both without a win on the board. A transitional period for both, AFC Dunstable a new look side rebuild over the summer after almost folding. Both battling week in week out as they look to improve. The points shared in a 1-1 draw when they met at Haringey earlier in the season. Hannah Ring with her 3rd goal of the season putting Dunstable into the lead on Sunday. A great strike from Rosie Missen for Haringey seeing the visitors come back to level the scores and the points shared for the 2nd time.

ERWFL Division One North

A superb first half of the season for Cambridge City Ladies Development as the newly promoted side made their ERWFL debut in Division One North winning 5 of their opening 7 matches with just one loss. That result a 1-0 defeat away to AFC Sudbury Ladies. A vital first win of the season too for Sudbury relegated the season before and rebuilding with a new look young side. Pressure applied by King’s Lynn Town Ladies moving into 2nd a point behind to end 2019, Cambridge City played host to AFC Sudbury at the start of 2020. The visitors taking the lead in the 16th minute held onto their advantage late into the 2nd half. Cambridge City doing everything but score the first time they met at last finding a reply with 20 minutes to go Megan Stow tapping home at the far post to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later the hosts were in front Ellie Cullum poking home a Bella Simmons through ball. A quickfire double in the final 5 minutes securing the 3 points Yasmin Crow and then Stow with her 2nd of the game seeing it end 4-1.

A strong run of 5 straight wins seeing King’s Lynn Town Ladies recover from losing their opening two games to finish up 2nd in the Division One North table a point behind the leaders Cambridge City at the end of 2019. That form continued into the New Year as they extended their winning run away to bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. A tough introduction to the ERWFL for Gorleston finding themselves adrift at the bottom of the Division One North table without a point on the board with 5 games played. Started 2020 with a positive performance that will give them plenty of encouragement going forwards though as they were unlucky not to take anything away from the match at the weekend going down to a 2-1 defeat. Beth Turner getting off the mark for Gorleston levelling the scores in the first half after Katie Ward had put King’s Lynn in front. Emma Corbyn on target for the fourth match in a row scoring the winning goal for the visitors in the 2nd period her 7th of the season.

A local derby too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend too as Suffolk sides Needham Market Women and East Bergholt United Ladies locked horns for the 2nd time time this season. Both promoted to the ERWFL for the first time this season were neck and neck in the race for the Suffolk Women’s Division title last season. East Bergholt United edging it to complete a 2nd successive league and cup double, began life at a higher level well leading early on 2nd for much of 2019 edged into 3rd by King’s Lynn, a 1-0 home win against Needham Market earlier in the season. Needham Market playing in just their 2nd season since forming taking time to find their feet at this level a great result against their local rivals at the weekend. Lois Balfour amongst the goals for both their new Reserves sides and now the first team opening the scoring early making it 1-0 with just 5 minutes played. Amber Sparkes sending Needham Market into a 2-0 midway through the 2nd half. Sparkes adding a 2nd just 4 minutes later chipping the keeper from 30 yards. Balfour adding her 2nd of the game 2 minutes later. Megan Partridge pulling a goal back for East Bergholt before Balfour completed her hat-trick on the stroke of half-time to send Needham Market into the dressing room 5-1 up at the break. A quieter 2nd half Needham Market creating further chances striking the woodwork Balfour on target for her fourth of the game midway through the 2nd half to see the match won 6-1.

Lois Balfour sending the ball into the back of the net for Needham market Women (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)

ERWFL Division One South

Two matches played in ERWFL Division One South at the start of 2020. Millwall Lionesses ending 2019 top of the table after joining the league in the summer after the upheaval at the club. Rebuilding and regrouping a positive outlook and a hungry squad. Began the year away to Lawford Ladies who they had beaten heavily twice this season at home in league and cup. A tough end to 2019 for Lawford a much more positive start to 2020. A bright start from Millwall out of the blocks quickly Lawford though hit them against the run of play to open the scoring captain Daisy Canny pouncing on a goalkeeping error to make it 1-0. Millwall pushed on creating chances Molly Hawkins dancing through to make it 1-1 in the 20th minute. The host continued to dominate first half but it was Lawford who retook the lead on 40 minutes Canny with her 2nd of the game alert to capitalise on a mistake outside the 18 yard box. Lawford 2-1 up at half-time. Shannan Drewe amongst the goals for Millwall towards the back end of the year pulling the visitors level midway through the 2nd half latching onto a ball over the top to score. 5 minutes later Millwall were leading Samantha Middleton newly introduced to the action volleying home from a corner to make it 3-2 with 20 minutes left. Cansu Mentesh firing home from close range off a corner in the final minute. Millwall winning 4-2 to stay 3 points in front at the top of the table.

Shannan Drewe amongst the goalscorers for Millwall Lionesses at the start of 2020 (photo credit Millwall Lionesses)

Leigh Ramblers Ladies keeping the pressure on Millwall in 2nd beaten 4-1 by Millwall at the end of 2019 the Essex side newly promoted to the ERWFL bounced back with an away win against Wodson Park Ladies to begin 2020. Abbi Brown and Rhiana Castle both scoring their first goals of the season to secure the 3 points for Leigh Ramblers as they ran out 2-1 winners over Wodson Park who put in a much improved performance to begin the new year as they look to get themselves away from the bottom of the table. Olivia Worsfold scoring her 2nd goal of the season for the hosts.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

One more Round-Up for 2019 then I will be enjoying the festive period along with the rest of you. Not that I don’t enjoy writing these because I do fascinating reporting on the league and cup action across the East of England each weekend. The Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and Championship both expanded this season offering plenty of action and drama the Premiership title race in particular wide open going into the New Year the Championship may well be closer than it looks come the end of the season.

The weather unfortunately playing it’s part once again with just 6 games surviving. Two from the Premiership. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves going top on goal difference last weekend joining Leverington Sports Ladies and Haverhill Rovers Ladies on 15 points off the back of 3 straight wins. A 3-0 win at home to ICA Sports Ladies then the pair meeting in the reverse fixture this weekend. A different story this time around as ICA Sports Ladies put themselves firmly back in the title race. Leading Peterborough 2-0 at half-time a strong 2nd half saw them add a further 5 without reply to win 7-0 and in doing so close the gap to the leading trio to a point. Eleanor Scotland making just her 2nd appearance for ICA Sports scoring her first goals for the side netting a hat-trick. Carmen Herridge scoring a brace along with a goal each for Lorna Hart making her first appearance of the season and a first too for Aimee Exposito.

A great start to the season for Leverington Sports Ladies following promotion to the Premiership (as Wisbech Town Ladies) in a 3 way lead at the top of the table a point won at the weekend seeing them end the year top of the pile in Cambridgeshire. Looking to bounce back from last weekend loss at home to Cambridge University Women were hosting Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The pair ending up sharing 10 goals, Fulbourn involved in several high scoring encounters this season. The visitors enjoying a fantastic start to the match racing into a 3-0 lead. Leverington taking a while to settle coming back into the match Vicky Lines making her debut for the club pulling it back to 3-1 set up by Sophie Swinden. Chloe Stanborough adding a 2nd as Leverington slowly build momentum Fulbourn though hitting a 4th goal in late in the first half to see them leading 4-2 at the break. Leverington captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a brilliant goal on the volley to get it back to 3-4. Fulbourn always a threat going forwards Marie Stubbings through to score her 3rd of the game and 18th overall to put Fulbourn 5-3 up the game heading into the final quarter hour. Stanborough driving a shot home to pull it back to 5-4. 9 goals cored so far and Sophie Swinden didn’t have any of them, Leverington’s top scorer not going to be left out firing in her 18th goal of the season to level it up at 5-5, Lines very nearly winning it for Leverington her shot smashing off the crossbar late on the sides sharing the points Lisa Grimes with her first of the season and Ebony Rule the other goal scorers for Fulbourn.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Four matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend and Cambridge Rangers Women end a fantastic 2019 top of the 14 strong league with a 100% record winning 10 in a row. Were at home to Cambourne United Women this Sunday. A strong first half seeing them leading 5-0 went onto add a further 2 in the 2nd half whilst keeping a clean sheet up the other end. Another brace for Daniella Lewis 15 goals now for the clubs top scorer. The other five goals shared amongst the squad with Stephanie Rowan and Erica Balskute scoring their 7th goals of the campaign, Claire Kyndt her 5th and first goals of the season for Ruth Telfer and Lisa Wears. Cambridge Rangers 7 points clear at the top.

Also ending the year with a 100% winning record are Pinchbeck United Ladies albeit from just the 6 played, alot of football to be played in the New Year. Pinchbeck continuing their 100% winning start at the expense of another as they travelled to played Cardea Ladies who themselves have played just 5 so far this season. Another high scoring encounter the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. Cardea having the better of the 2nd half leading the game 4-2 Pinchbeck fought back in the 2nd half to score 3 times to nick the win 5-4. Libby Friel making just her 2nd appearance for Pinchbeck scoring on her debut netting a hat-trick this time around. Courtney Walker with a brace taking over as top scorer with 9. Pinchbeck up to 3rd on 18 points

A strong end to 2019 for Newmarket Town Women Development sees them climb up into 5th spot in the Championship table unbeaten now in 5 games with 4 won they were hosting Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday. Striker Sarah O’Rourke scoring 4 goals in the match Newmarket building on a good 3-0 half-time lead to win the game 8-0. There were braces too for Brooke Wickens and Leah Harper.

A positive end to 2019 too for Park Ladies as they make it back to back wins to move up to 7th in the Championship table coming into this Sunday’s match off an 8-0 win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies were at home taking on Deeping United Ladies. Late pressure paying off for Park as they clinched a 2-1 victory. Onto 14 points in mid-table well placed to kick on in the New Year.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

Another quarter final tie played in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup this Sunday and a huge test for young side Herts Vipers top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three as they played host to FAWNL South east Division One side Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. Herts Vipers though full of confidence a 100% winning start to the league. A competitive tussle Herts Vipers fighting all the way taking their higher league opponents all the way to extra-time. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute awarded a free-kick 35 yards out Tamsyn Sibanda lifting it in over the keeper. Nicole Jancey firing in the goals for Herts Vipers getting them back on level terms just past the half hour with her 34th goal of the season. Stevenage coming straight back to retake the lead Amy Josland firing home her first of the season to give Stevenage a 2-1 lead at the break. Further opportunities for Stevenage to extend their lead 2nd half Herts Vipers though coming back to level the scores with 15 minutes left to play Jancey with her 2nd of the game completed a hat-tick a minute later to put Herts Vipers 3-2 ahead. Stevenage fighting back to level it up at 3-3 with 6 minutes left to play Josland setting up Katie Knell to send the tie into extra-time. A mix-up at the back for Herts Vipers seeing an own goal scored, Stevenage advancing to the last four of the Challenge Cup. Watford Ladies Development also through awarded the win against Sherrardswood Ladies. Colney Heath Ladies already through just one semi-final spot to be decided between Garston Ladies 1st team and holders Watford Ladies U23s.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A limited programme to end the year across the 3 divisions in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League. Two matches in Division One on Sunday and 2019 ends on a positive note for Hitchin Belles as they secured their first point in the league on Sunday away to Houghton Athletic Ladies. Amy Jack’s 60th minute goal seeing them draw 1-1 with Houghton Athletic whose goal was scored by Bethany Phillips.

Northwood Ladies climb up a place to 3rd in the Division One table to within a point of 2nd placed St Albans Ladies as they recorded a 5th straight league win at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles at the weekend. Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick for Northwood, their was also a brace each for Emma Marshall and top scorer Emma Steele who now has 12 for the season along with a goal for Danielle Tyler her first of the season. Northwood winning the match 8-1. Tayla Murray with the goal for Letchworth.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

It was an intense battle at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three last season between, AFC Dunstable Women Blues, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and Langford Ladies last season all four going up to Division Two, the battle at the top is no less furious this time around with all 4 firmly in contention just 3 points between them. Three of the four in action this weekend in the two matches played in the league.

AFC Dunstable Women Blues defending a 100% winning start travelling to play Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses who themselves have lost just the once this season. Nicola Hollick with her 20th goal of the season firing Dunstable into the lead inside 7 minutes. Woburn & Wavendon back level before the opening quarter hour Giselle Randell with her 10th of the season making it 1-1. Charlie Bedford with her first goal of the season putting Woburn & Wavendon in front just 3 minutes later. Laura Taylor adding a 3rd for the hosts late in the first half to see them 3-1 up at the break. Dunstable pulling it back to 3-2 in the 63rd minute with Courtney McNamara getting her name on the scoresheet. Pushing for an equaliser Woburn & Wavendon get up the other end to score a 4th goal with 10 minutes left. Randall securing a 5-2 victory for Woburn & Wavendon with 2 minutes left. Join Dunstable on 15 points 3rd and 4th in the table.

18 points for 2nd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies again losing just the once this season a matching record for Langford Ladies who take over the lead on goal difference with a double figure home win against bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Two players celebrating hat-tricks for Langford, top scorer Amber Clark who now has 12 for the season and the first of the season for Chloe Scott who scored 21 herself last season. 10-0 the final score their was also a brace each for Rebecca Reeve and Leah Holmes.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies a high scoring match between the sides a good first half from Flitwick saw them leading 3-1 at the break thanks to goals from Sammy Beharry and Anna Bright plus a first of the campaign for Casey Tutt. Bedwell Rangers picking up their game in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores adding a further two goals to win 5-3 to end the year back up to 5th spot in the table.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Suffolk Women’s Division

Needham Market Women Reserves return to the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division as they extend their 100% winning start to the season to 10 matches going back above Brettvale Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Needham market were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Isabel Chapman scoring her first of the season to see Needham Market leading 1-0 at half-time. Further chances coming 2nd half Sasha Diston hitting the post before Jemma Wessels doubled the advantage with her first goal of the season with 20 minutes left to play, Wessels on the scoresheet again with 10 minutes to go to ensure the 100% winning record continued.

Action from Needham Market Women Reserves v Brantham Athletic Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)

Hot on the heels of the leading pair are Bury Town Ladies, just 3 points back losing just one of their opening 10 matches of the season to date. Were at home this Sunday in the league hosting, the team starting the day in 3rd spot Alresford Colne Rangers. Norma Locker firing Bury into an early lead, Alresford coming straight back to level the scores with Abigail Chambers scoring her first goal of the season. Bury are scoring plenty of goals this season with scorers spread amongst the squad, Mia Banbury putting Bury 2-1 up with her 9th of the season Hayley Turner then scoring to put the hosts 3-1 ahead. Alresford pulling a goal back from the penalty spot with Jasmine Turner firing home to see the visitors trailing 3-2 at the break. A strong 2nd half from Bury seeing them score a further 4 goals to win the game 7-2. Locker and Turner both scoring again with Stacey Roper adding her name to the scoresheet plus an own goal, Bury climbing above Alresford into 3rd spot.

Another side looking to threaten the leaders are Holland Ladies climbing up another place move into fifth like Bury losing just the one league game so far this season. Were hosting Woodbridge Town Ladies who occupied fifth spot at the start of the day, in good form themselves coming into the match. A good spread of goalscorers amongst their squad, Holland found the back of the net for six goals on Sunday to beat Woodbridge 6-1. Becky McDougall top scoring in the game completing a hat-trick to take her into double figures for the season. Top scorer Jasmine Cox once again amongst the goals, one enough to take her onto 20 for the season. Lauren Bourne also into double figures with a goal has 10 for the campaign with Michelle Hodgson also celebrating a goal. 6 points between the top 6 sides now.

Just as competitive below, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies continue to enjoy a strong season, hold onto 7th spot with their 6th victory of the season at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Hannah Goldsmith firing Brightlingsea into a 4th minute lead. Chantry Grasshoppers coming back to level in the 20th minute. Brightlingsea responding straight away to retake the lead Paige Knight on target with her 12th of the season, Lucy Tilbury with her 13th of the season soon adding a 3rd goal for the hosts Goldsmith with her 2nd of the game seeing Brightlingsea race into a 4-1 lead with just half an hour played, Goldsmith completing a first half hat-trick late on her 19th goal of the season seeing Brightlingsea 5-1 up at the break. A less eventful 2nd half, Chantry Grasshoppers pulling a goal back midway through the 2nd period Brightlingsea securing the win. Bernice Corney and Sam Elliot scoring the goals for Chantry Grasshoppers.

Henley Athletic Ladies came into Sundays home match against AFC Kesgrave Ladies off the back of 5 straight defeats in the league that run coming to an end at last as they clinched their first win since the end of October. Emma Long scoring a hat-trick to move onto 8 for the season and a brace from Megan Tucker sealing victory. 5-0 the final score.

Has been a very difficult start to the season for University of Suffolk Women tough all round since joining the league last season, often not having the numbers available on match days suffering so eye watering defeats. Despite that have remained in good spirits and recieved plenty of plaudits from their fellow league clubs. 11 straight losses, University of Suffolk Women tasted victory for the first time this season as they collected their first 3 points at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies at the weekend. University of Suffolk capitalising on a slow start by their opponents to get themselves into a 2 goal lead Sarah Nash scoring her first goals for the club. Ramsey & Mistley pushing them hard to find a reply, University of Suffolk held them off going on to score a 3rd goal to win 3-0, Nash going to to wrap up a hat-trick.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A busy Sunday of fixtures to end the year in the Norfolk Women’s County League’s, just the one fixture called off, Tavern Ladies home match against Sprowston Athletic Ladies in Division One. 4 matches were played in Division One however at the weekend and a big win for Thorpe United Ladies sees them stay six points clear at the top of the table with their 100% winning start now extended to 9 matches. Were taking on Long Stratton Women at home, scoring plenty of goals none more so than captain Rebekah Lake smashing home a double hat-trick to take her onto 26 goals for the season, a strong 2nd half in particular seeing Thorpe finish 10-2 winners, also on the scoresheet, midfielders Laura Hedtke and Alice Ladbrooke with their 6th and 5th goals respectfully, Millie Cursons and Aneliese Smith with her first goal of the season. Ellie Sostman with her first of the season and captain Samantha Walker scoring for Long Stratton who finish 2019 on 10 points 8th in Division One following promotion last season.

A double hat-trick for Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake at the weekend

Thorpe with the only unbeaten record in Division One now after Sprowston Ladies ended Tavern Ladies 100% winning start last time out to move into 2nd spot in the league. Travelled down to Thetford on Sunday to play another promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts finding some form playing at a higher level in recent weeks. Sprowston though like Thorpe have a goalscorer piling them in this season, Victoria Leyer going toe to toe with Rebekah Lake scoring 4 at the weekend to give her 27 goals so far this campaign. Abby Hutchin also scoring a goal at the weekend to see Sprowston wrap up a 5-0 win.

27 goals so far this season for Sprowston’s Victoria Leyer

Keeping pace with Sprowston in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies matching their tally of 21 points 3rd on goal difference have lost just the once this season that to Thorpe, were at home this Sunday taking on another of the promoted sides Fakenham Town Ladies who they beat heavily 10-0 on the opening day of the season back in September. Fakenham finding their feet in the league since then fighting their way up to 5th spot in the league. An improvement upon the first game of the season despite their keeper travelling and being unable to play due to an issue with her glasses. Fakenham nevertheless battling managing to restric Bungay to 3 goals this time around. Lauren Purling scoring a brace her first goals of the season for Bungay and Selina Rowland with her 11th of the season securing the 3 points.

A tough start to the season for Freethorpe Ladies promoted up to Division One never going to be easy no points on the board after 8 played spirits have kept high, their final match of 2019 at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves whom they played on the opening day of the season Wymondham winning 2-0 then. Claire Garner captaining Freethorpe scoring a brace her first goals of the season. Samantha Shaw also saving from the penalty spot, were edged out by the odd goal to lose 3-2. A brace for captain Rebecca Carver and a goal for Alexandra Denes seeing Wymondham end a poor run their last win coming back in October climb up to 7th in the Division One table.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Stalham Town Ladies running away with the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two end 2019 9 points clear of the rest of the pack. Losing just the one so far from 9 played 7 wins and a draw their latest 3 points coming at home to Hockering Ladies on Sunday. Sarah-Jayne O’Connor scoring a hat-trick at the weekend to double her tally for the season for Stalham with top scorer Amber Mayhew striking home a brace to give her 14 for the season. Stalham winning the game 5-1.

A positive result for Mulbarton away to North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday could have seen them end the year in 2nd spot in Division Two. Mixed fortunes so far though for a club born in the summer and rapidly growing. North Walsham reentering a side into women’s football in Norfolk this season, young finding their feet 2 wins so far this season, picked up their 3rd to end the year on a high as they narrowly beat Mulbarton 2-1 to climb up onto 9 points joining a cluster of sides well placed to kick on in the New Year. Keira Brown and Rhiannon Holt with her 7th goal of the season helping North Walsham to the win. Amy Coaker scoring her 5th goal of the season for Mulbarton.

Also joining the cluster of sides in the middle of the table on 9 points are Horsford Women made it back to back wins in fact after victory over North Walsham last weekend, 2-1 then a much bigger scoreline this time around at home to Red Rose Ladies. Leading 2-1 at half-time Horsford went on to dominate the 2nd half to win the match 9-1. Natalie Roope top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. A brace each for Ella Wright and Sophie Nabarro, the latter’s first goals for Horsford. A first goal too for Nicola Fordham and one from Amanda Vincent.

Everyone of the mark at last in Division Two as Bulldogs Ladies celebrate their first win of the season and a convincing one too away to newcomers Waveney Ladies on Sunday. Has been a tough season and a half for the club so far with some heavy defeats along the way. A different story this weekend. Leading Waveney 2-0 at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals without reply 2nd half to win 5-0. Hannah Etcitty making just her third appearance for Bulldogs scoring a hat-trick her first goals for the club. Rachel Hardy with a brace too has 7 so far this season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

ERWFL Premier Division

The final weekend of fixtures for 2019 in the ERWFL this weekend, the weather unfortunately playing it’s part with 4 of the 6 fixtures scheduled in the Premier Division falling by the way side. A healthy lead at the top for Harlow Town Ladies would ensure they go into the festive period top of the pile no mater what. A close battle behind the Essex side with the top half tightly congested. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies climbing into 2nd last weekend were aiming to close the gap to Harlow as they took on Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at the weekend. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Jessica Driscoll put through on goal from the left to score. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores in the 21st minute Sade Waters with the through ball for Yasmin Cowley to round the keeper and make it 1-1. The sides drawing at the interval. Bowers & Pitsea having opportunities in front of goal denied by Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Peterborough retaking the lead with 20 minutes left Chanade Henderson with the goal to make it 2-1. Top scorer Leah Cudone on target for her 14th strike of the season five minutes later to see Peterborough win the game 3-1 and open up a 5 point gap in the sides below.

Jessica Driscoll looking to take on the Bowers & Pitsea defence (photo credit James Cox Photos)

Wroxham Women made the long journey down to North London on Sunday to play bottom side Haringey Borough Women in the Premier Division a win would put them back up into 3rd spot, as it was they left it late to salvage a point, the sides goalless at the break despite Wroxham having numerous opportunities to score whilst goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook prevented Haringey from finding the opener. The hosts breaking the deadlock in the 2nd period came very close to getting their first win of the season the game a minute into stoppage time Kirstie Kindred struck to find the back of the net to score her 5th goal of the season and see Wroxham take home a point. Move into 4th level with 3rd placed Royston and 5th placed Luton on 20 points.

ERWFL Division One North

One match affected by the weather in ERWFL Division One North this weekend, top of the table Cambridge City Ladies Development home match against Needham Market Women off. An opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap one again. East Bergholt United Ladies 2nd in the table drawing 0-0 at home to Newmarket Town Women last weekend made the trip to Norfolk this Sunday to play in form King’s Lynn Town Ladies, moving up the table fast into 3rd winning their last 4 league matches in a row a run that began away to East Bergholt back in October. A close 2-1 result then, nothing close about it this time around a King’s Lynn’s winning streak moved to 5 matches, scoring 6 without reply, 3 players all celebrating a brace, captain and top scorer Becky Russell into double figures for the season, 8 goals now for Tiffany Forshaw with Emma Corbyn on 6. The result takes King’s Lynn 2nd in the table now just a point behind Cambridge City.

A big home win at the weekend too for Newmarket Town Ladies, soon to be under new management. Craig Boneham coming in during the summer stepping down from the role. Newmarket moving swiftly to appoint Kevin Parsons taking over as first team manager. Looking on this weekend with Eddie Cuthbert looking after the team as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. A brace from top scorer Annabel Cuthbert and a long range strike from Katie Webb seeing Newmarket lead 3-0 at half-time. Cuthbert completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half her first of the afternoon would go on to score 3 more goals to give her 22 for the season, Sarah O’Rourke with her first goal for the first team also as Newmarket ran out 8-0 winners. Up to 4th in the table despite an indifferent start to the season. Congratulations too t Newmarket midfielder and dead ball specialist, Jess Linger as at just 20-years-old she made her 100th appearance for the club at the weekend.

A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women's striker Annabel Cuthbert

A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women striker Annabel Cuthbert (photo credit Gary Reed)

Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One North it was a clash between two sides showing recent good form in the league Histon Ladies travelling to play AFC Sudbury Ladies, the Suffolk side coming into the game off back to back victories, Histon winning their last 3 league matches. The sides contesting a goalless draw after 90 minutes to share the points. Histon in 5th on 11 points now with Sudbury a place and point behind both well positioned to push on in the New Year.

ERWFL Division One South

Millwall Lionesses end 2019 top of the pile in ERWFL Division One South moving ahead of Hutton Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Millwall were at home taking on Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Unbeaten in the league Millwall level on points with Leigh Ramblers heading into the game the visitors showing good from with 3 straight wins in league and cup themselves. Hannah Cheeseman opening the scoring for Millwall in the 10th minute, putting away Shannan Drewe’s left wing cross. Few chances in the first half Leigh Ramblers with a strong finish Millwall holding onto their 1-0 advantage. Drewe amongst the goals in recent games for Millwall firing in a worldie early in the 2nd half to put the hosts 2-0 up. A strong start to the 2nd half Millwall adding a 3rd on the hour with Cheeseman putting away her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later Leigh Ramblers given a penalty pulling it back to 3-1. Drewe put in behind the defence to fire in across the goal to put Millwall 4-1 up and see them win the game and climb to the top of the table dropping just 2 points so far this season.

At the other end of the ERWFL Division One South table it was a much welcomed first 3 points of the season for Wodson Park Ladies as they travelled to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies at the weekend. The hosts with just the one win themselves Wodson Park losing their opening 6 matches. Leah Dunnage and Sam Garner with their first goals of the season for Hoddesdon. A brace for Christie Seakins her first goals of the season for Wodson Park and a 4th of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay seeing the visitors edge the win 3-2, takes them off the bottom on goal difference.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

One match played in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday with 3rd placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies travelling to play mid-table Oxford United Women. A narrow 5-4 loss to league leaders Watford Ladies last time out Plymouth were looking to get back to winning ways keep up the pressure on the top of the table. Chances for both in the first half, the visitors scoring late in the first half with top scorer Natasha Knapman forcing home her 21st goal of the season. Oxford responding straight away getting back on level terms with Georgia Timms poking the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1. That the scoreline heading into the final 2 minutes Oxford awarded a free-kick right on the edge of the area in a central position, Kayleigh Hines with a superbly struck free-kick lifting the ball over the wall and into the top corner. Oxford winning the game 2-1 late on climb up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table 3 points behind Plymouth who suffer back to back defeats.

FAWNL Cup

Essex side Billericay Town Ladies currently 3rd in FAWNL South East Division One headed to Buckinghamshire on Sunday to play South West Division One side Chesham United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup. Billericay have lost just the once in the league this season Chesham taking the lead in the first half through top scorer Gemma Fraser running onto a through ball to score her 16th goal of the season. A narrow lead at half-time both keeper called into action Billericay pushed for a reply 2nd half, Chesham keeping them at bay to clinch victory and progress to the quarter finals of the competition.

FAWNL Plate

One 2nd Round tie from the FAWNL Plate also played this Sunday postponed from last weekend, Southern Premier Division side, Chichester City Ladies away to South West Division One side, Cheltenham Town Ladies. Switched to a 3G surface to avoid disappointment for the 2nd Sunday running. A quickfire double in the 36th and 37th minute saw Chichester get themselves into a 2-0 lead. A strike from distance finding the bottom corner in first half stoppage time to see the visitors 3-0 up. Progress in the competition assured with a little over 20 minutes left as Chichester added a 4th goal headed in from a corner, bottom of the league Chichester will be hoping for another positive result next Sunday at home to fellow strugglers Hounslow Women.

FAWNL South East Division One

Two matches surviving in FAWNL South East Division One at the weekend. League leaders Ipswich Town Women seeing their game called off it was an opportunity for the only other unbeaten side to close the gap to the top as 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled to play Actonians Ladies. Kick-off later in the day under the lights, Actonians themselves in a good run of form unbeaten in 6 in all competitions coming into the match winning 5 of those matches. Wimbledon with the better of the first half but no goals to show for it as the pair headed into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A bright start to the 2nd half from Wimbledon, it was the hosts however who opened the scoring Jessica Byrne with the goal to make it 1-0. Actonians frustrating Wimbledon as the visitors pushed for a reply couldn’t find it as they suffer their first league defeat of the season. Actonians in 7th move to within a point of 6th placed Basildon, now very tight in the top half of the South East Division One table with just 5 points between 2nd and 7th now.

At the other end of the South East Division One table, Cambridge United WFC were at home to 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. The host side 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board having won just 1 league game so far this season. Leyton Orient with the opposite record with just the one defeat. Cambridge after a lengthy lay off without a game keen to end the year on a high. Their usual pitch at St Neots Town FC waterlogged the game switched to the neighbouring 3G pitch. A fairly even contest Cambridge creating good opportunities, Leyton Orient matching them the game heading into the closing moments of the first half Cambridge broke well Amy Howlett on the right playing the ball central for striker Kelley Blanchflower running to the edge of the box pulling the trigger placing the ball wide of the advancing keeper to give the hosts the advantage.

Two goals for Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower.

Leyton Orient coming out strong at the start of the 2nd half looking to find a reply, Cambridge’s defence standing firm a 2nd goal needed Cambridge found it midway through the 2nd period Blanchflower again the scorer a good run moving into the left channel lifting the ball over the advancing keeper to bounce over the line. The result made more comfortable when Cambridge were awarded an indirect free-kick inside the box after the keeper handled the ball from a back pass, Amber Cantwell setting up Emma Jenkins to smash the ball home. A 3-0 lead Cambridge were determined to keep a clean sheet up the other end and in doing so was their first of the campaign. A massive 3 points takes them up to 9th, 5 sides still in the mix at the bottom of the table a long way to go. The whole report can be found below this post.

Cambridge United WFC celebrating their 3rd goal (photo credit Gary Reed

The Round-Up – Essex 08/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th December

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Five matches played across the 2 divisions in Essex this weekend. Two in the Premier Division, league leaders Collier Row Tigers ending their fixtures in 2019 with a 3 point lead at the top of the table their undefeated run up to 9 matches were away to Southend United Ladies at the weekend. Collier Row opening the scoring Southend came back to level the scores with Elizabeth Clarke on target from a free-kick, Collier Row going on to score three more goal to lead at the break 4-1 despite going down to 10 Lauren Taylor sent off collecting two yellow cards. Ria Toovey getting it back to 4-2 for Southend in the 2nd half, Collier Row managing to score another keeping Southend at bay to win the game 5-2. A brace for Laura Bunton seeing her reach 30 goals for the season. Roseanne Shafier with her 12th of the season also scoring along with Fran Pridie and Emma Harrison.

Billericay Town Ladies Development move above Southend United into 4th place in the Essex Women’s Premier Division table with their 5th win of the season at home to 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies. The host hitting the woodwork early on taking the lead in the 10th minute Rebecca Gallagher stroking home her 10th goal of the season in the 10th minute. Lindsey Morgan striking from distance to make it 2-0. Billericay with a 2 goal advantage at the break Gallagher hitting the crossbar early in the 2nd half, Joanne Burgoyne with a well struck free-kick from outside the box making it 3-0 on the hour. The woodwork struck for a 3rd time Billericay collecting 10 points from their last 4 Premier Division matches.

Essex Women’s Division One

A commanding lead now at the top of Essex Women’s Division One for Corringham Cosmos Women now 9 points after they pulled further away from the rest winning their 8th match of the season away from home on Sunday having dropped just 2 points so far this season. Were taking on 4th placed Chigwell Ladies who came into the game themselves in a rich vein of form winning 4 in a row. A brace from top scorer Michelle Sumpter putting Corringham Cosmos into a 2-0 lead at the break. Went on to score her hat-trick on the hour to make it 17 for the season. Rebecca Corcoran and Rachel Fleming scoring a goal each to see the game won 5-0.

Hutton Ladies Reserves were at home taking on 3rd placed Runwell Sports Ladies at the weekend in Division One the visitors with the opportunity to go 2nd with a positive result. Hutton though could call upon the services if striker Vicky Kinsman with the first team not in action and her hot form in front of goal continued as she scored a hat-trick with another goal scored by Danielle Hindley enough to edge the game 4-3 to Hutton, Aaryanna Simonelli with a brace and a goal for Ashley Debnam the scorers for Runwell Sports.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development move up to 4th in Division One ahead of Chigwell on goal difference as they won at home this Sunday in the league against Tigers Ladies. Leading 1-0 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea were pushed all the way to the final whistle by Tigers Ladies both scoring 2 goals in the 2nd half Bowers & Pitsea edging it 3-2. Francesca Browne, Ellie Jones and Katie Lee with her first goal for the club on target for Bowers & Pitsea. Alexandra Collins with a brace in the final 10 minutes for Tigers who find themselves 2nd bottom in the table but it is very tight with just 6 points between them and 2nd placed Aveley Ladies.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 08/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th December

Suffolk Women’s Division

Brettvale Ladies leading the way in the Suffolk Women’s Division collecting maximum points from their open 10 matches. That run came to an end on Sunday as they suffered defeat in the league for the first time this season. Were hosting another in form team new side Holland Ladies who themselves with games in hand had only lost the one game this season and that back on the opening day to the other team with a 100% record in the league Needham Market Women Reserves. Brettvale scoring twice in the match with a goal for Lucy Brown and a 124th of the season for top scorer Abbie Fisher. Jasmine Cox always amongst the goals wherever she has played top scoring for Holland Ladies so far this season on target for a hat-trick at the weekend to put her on 19 for the season with Charlotte Warren netting her 11th of the season to secure a 4-2 win for the visitors stay 6th the gap to the top now 9 points Holland though have 3 games in hand on the leaders.

That result sees Needham Market Women Reserves in 2nd close the gap to Brettvale to 3 points with 2 games in hand, their 100% winning start continuing away from home on Sunday starting the day 3rd against 2nd placed Alresford Colne Rangers. Again a 4-2 win for the visitors. Vicky Hall and Jasmine Warner with the goals for Alresford. A brace for Katie Moore taking her onto 15 for the season, a goal for Hannah Cobbold her 14th of the campaign and one from the penalty spot for Abbie Wilkinson her 10th securing Needham Market’s 9th straight league win.

Incredibly tight between the top 6 in the Suffolk Women’s Division, Bury Town Ladies in fourth spot closing to within a point of 3rd placed Alresford. Away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies the game played in windy conditions Bury weren’t at their best the sides contesting a goalless first half, Abigail Eley scoring for a spirited Kesgrave, Bury managing two goals in the 2nd period to win the 3 points.

Woodbridge Town Ladies the other side amongst the top 6 keeping pace with Bury Town on 24 points in 5th winning their 8th game of the season and 6th in a trot at home to University of Suffolk Women. Another high scoring game Woodbridge ending with a double figure win, 5 goals for top scorer Jenna Liverpool now rapidly closing in on 30 goals for the season. 5 goals too for new signing Lucy Eagle. A brace for Keira Hines moves her to 15 for the season. Stacey Hadley and a first of the season for Josie Haward in a 14-0 result.

Competitive in mid-table too in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Brightlingsea Regent Ladies in 7th spot beating Henley Athletic Ladies for the 2nd time in a fortnight, a 1-0 win when they met on the 24th November. A 5-2 loss following for Brightlingsea away to Bury Town bounced back well this weekend with a god 2nd half performance to capitalise on leading 1-0 at half-time scoring 5 more in the 2nd half to win the game 6-1. Paige Knight with the first half goal adding another on the hour to claim a brace moving her to 11 for the season. Hannah Goldsmith with a 2nd half hat-trick remains top scorer with 16 for the season. Lucy Tilbury also into double figure for Brightlingsea scoring her 11th of the campaign at the weekend. Enya Moore scoring for Henley Athletic who have now suffered 5 straight league defeats.

Brantham Athletic Ladies up to 8th on the Suffolk Women’s Division as they returned to winning ways at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies this Sunday despite trailing 1-0 at half-time. Sarah Cooper with the goal for Leiston St Margarets. Danielle Harvey with her 12th of the season getting Brantham back on level terms midway through the 2nd half. Lucy Dunnett firing the hosts into the lead with 15 minutes left went on to score another 5 minutes later to make it 3-1. Merlin Watson with her 6th strike of the season sealing a 4-1 victory in the 84th minute.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Lucy Dunnett

A mini league forming at the bottom of the Suffolk Women’s Division, Leiston St Margarets dragged into the mix as Ramsey & Mistley Ladies and Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies battle for points below meeting for the 2nd successive weekend it was another close game between the pair struggling at the wrong end of the table. 2-1 to Ramsey & Mistley at Chantry Grasshoppers a week ago to see them win their first game in the league. A single goal scored by Bernice Corney enough this time around to see Chantry Grasshoppers record their 2nd win of the season and climb up to 11th above Leiston St Margarets in the process.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 08/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th December

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

One tie played this weekend in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup quarter finals, ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies hosting Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side St Albans Ladies in the last 8 of the competition. Both sides in good form so far this season St Albans having had a run in the FA Women’s Cup earlier in the season. The lower league sides starting well top scorer Eleanor Lovelock firing St Albans into the lead inside 3 minutes. Sophie Hull adding a 2nd goal just past the quarter hour. A debatable penalty giving Colney heath a chance to pull a goal back their top scorer Samaira Khan finishing from the spot. St Albans continued to play well create chances had Colney Heath under pressure Lovelock scoring her 2nd of the match and 21st overall to put the visitors into a 3-1 lead. A big 2nd half needed from Colney Heath started well Charlene Moreton latching onto a poor goalkick to pull it back to 3-2 in the 47th minute. 10 minutes later and Colney Heath were level at 3-3 Moreton scoring again. The turn around complete midway through the 2nd half Moreton combining with Rianne Townsend-Brown to complete her hat-trick. St Albans not out of it by any means opportunities to score kept coming Amy Butler saving in goal for Colney Heath, Moreton turning in a cross to score her fourth of the match to make it 5-3 with 15 minutes left. Colney Heath through to the semi-finals of the competition.

4 goals for Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were threatening to runaway with it at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One the defending champions 6 points clear at the top of the table winning all of their 8 matches played so far. That run coming to an end at the weekend as they suffered their first defeat of the season away to Northwood Ladies. Northwood’s own form in recent weeks improving came into the match on the back of 3 straight league wins. A 1-0 win for Hemel Hempstead in the reverse fixture back in September. This weekend the game another close affair. Ella Mercer and Charlene Turturici-Clarke scoring for Hemel Hempstead, a brace from top scorer Emma Steele giving her 10 for the season plus a first of the season for Joanne Horwood seeing Northwood edge it 3-2 move up to 4th in the Division One table.

Also moving a pace up the Division One table at the weekend are Garston Ladies 1st up to 5th joining Northwood on 14 points. Were away to bottom side Hitchin Belles on Sunday. Sian Fisher on target to score her 5th goal of the season, a goal from Cassandra Chase and a first of the season for Jade Roberts securing the points with a 3-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two also this Sunday with big away wins for two of the top three to put all three level on 21 points. Herts Vipers back to the top of the pile on goal difference closing in on 70 scored so far this season as they extended their 100% winning start to 7 matches away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Kesley Millen named as the clubs new vice-captain starting the scoring with the first goal of the match in the 8th minute. Two quick fire goal from Rachel Wall and top scorer Nicole Jancey had Herts Vipers 3-0 up just 3 minutes later. The visitors with a purple patch in front of goal hammering home their advantage, Rebecca Scott adding a 4th goal in the 18th minute, Wall firing in a double a minute later to complete her hat-trick. Millen repeating the feat soon after 2 goals in the 22nd and 25th minutes to have a first half hat-trick of her own. 8 goals scored with barely half an hour played the game settled down some what. Bedwell working hard trying to play the right way Herts Vipers adding a 9th just before the break Tazmin Symonds Bishop scoring. The 2nd half seeing just the one goal added by Herts Vipers with 20 minutes left Millen netting her 4th of the game. The final score 10-1, Bedwell Rangers goal scored by Georgia Miller.

A big away win for Biggleswade United Ladies too at the weekend in Division Three taking them up to 2nd in the table in between Herts Vipers and Harvesters Ladies. Were taking on Stotfold Juniors Ladies. Robyn Gibbons putting Biggleswade into the lead in the 17th minute. Kayleigh Saunders putting Biggleswade 2-0 up 10 minutes later. Zoe Molloy adding a 3rd goal as the visitors finished the first period strongly top scorer Leeanne Davison getting her 18th goal of the season with Tashai Simms scoring on the stroke of half-time to see Biggleswade 5-0 up. More goal coming 2nd half Saunders scoring her 2nd of the game and 14th overall 5 minutes after the restart. Molloy and Simms both adding another goal with Annabelle Gee scoring her first Biggleswade goal on the 80th minute to see the match won 9-0.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

This weekend also saw the beginning of The Chris Renshaw Cup, three tie played on Sunday in the 1st Round of the competition. Evergreen Ladies and Sherrardswood Ladies were meeting for the 3rd successive match. The previous two encounters full of drama and goals, a 7-4 extra-time win in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for Sherrardswood in November the points shared in a 3-3 draw in Division Two now meeting for a 3rd time in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Plenty of goals in this one two although a very contrasting scoreline. Sherrardswood starting well Laura Cousins with the opening goal inside 10 minutes. Manjinder Atwal then rattling in an 11 minute hat-trick, Abby Cardell also on the scoresheet to see Sherrardswood 5-0 with just 22 minutes gone. Cousins scoring her 2nd of the game late in the first half to see the visitors 6-0 at half-time. Sherrardswood continuing in the same vain in the 2nd half Francesca Novelli scoring a brace to put them 8-0 before an hours play. Leane Pickett with her first of the season pulling one back for Evergreen as good as it would get Cousins going onto complete her hat-trick. The game entering the final 10 minutes Lola Steiner making just her 2nd appearance for Sherrardswood scored her first goal for the club the final score 11-1 with Atwal adding her 4th of the match in the final 5 minutes.

Harvester Ladies going into the weekend top of Beds & Herts Division Three were at home to Division One side Letchworth Garden City Eagles in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. A high scoring encounter that saw the pair share 9 goals. Natasha Reynolds, Kim Franklin and Samantha Coughlan with their first goals of the season for Letchworth plus one for Katie Smith seeing them put for past their opponents, Harvesters though through to the next round of the competition scoring one more to win it 5-4.

A good result in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup for Division Three side Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves as they beat Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses doing well this season in Division Two. Despite a good start to the game from Woburn & Wavendon, it was Hitchin who opened the scoring Ellen Beary making her first start for the club putting a looping shot into the top corner in the 9th minute. Chances followed for both sides Hitchin holding onto their 1-0 advantage at half-time. Top scorer April Spang latching onto a scuffed goalkick on the hour sending the ball home to put Hitchin 2-0 ahead. The lead made more secure in the final 20 minutes Spang with her 15th of the season putting Hitchin 3 goals up. A late penalty for Woburn & Wavendon saw Giselle Randall pull a goal back Hitchin though safely through to the next round winning 3-1. Also through to the next round of The Chris Renshaw Cup are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies awarded the home win against Kempston Rovers Ladies.