Beginning this weeks Round-Up’s with the Women’s FA Cup, into the 2nd Round and there were plenty of upsets across the country with several Premier Division sides going out to lower league opposition on Sunday. 8 ties played this weekend involving clubs from the Southern Premier and South East Division One.
A trip west for Southern Premier Division leaders Watford Ladies in the 2nd Round of the Women’s FA Cup taking on fellow league side Keynsham Town Ladies. A difficult first half for Watford coming close but not finding a goal the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time. Watford starting the 2nd half strong both Katie O’Leary and Helen Ward shooting over the bar. The deadlock finally broken in the 63rd minute, Emma Beckett’s ball into the box met by O’Leary flicking it off the back of her head to find the top corner. 2 minutes later and the visitors were 2-0 in front O’Leary with the assist this time to tee up Andrea Carid on the penalty spot to fire home. Alysha Stojko-Down returning from injury getting on the scoresheet in the 90th minute rounding a defender to shoot and score from 20 yards out sealing a 3-0 win.
The first of this weekend cup shocks seeing Crawley Wasps Ladies 2nd in the Southern Premier Division knocked out away to South East Division One side Actonians Ladies. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca with a great strike that gave the keeper no chance making it 1-0 to Actonians in the 17th minute. Crawley with a chance to level the scores late in the first half awarded a 45th minute penalty captain Naomi Cole with the finish to bring it back to 1-1. Cole taking over in goal for Crawley after Frankie Gibbs was forced off through injury. Actonians retaking the lead 2 minutes into the 2nd half, Barreca from the penalty spot scoring her 13th of the season to put the hosts 2-1 up. Chances for both sides following saves from both keepers Actonians pressurising Crawley well getting a vital 3rd goal in the 82nd minute Meila D’Santos striking an amazing goal to put them 3-1 ahead and send Actonians into the 3rd Round.
Actonians Ladies after their cup success against Crawley Wasps (photo credit Actonians Ladies)
Actonians opponents in the 3rd Round will be fellow South East Division One side Billericay Town Ladies after the Essex side 2nd in the table alos knocked out Southern Premier Division opposition in the 2nd Round on Sunday. The game played at Aveley FC, Billericay were taking on Gillingham Ladies. Therese Addison putting Billericay in front with a superbly struck ball from 25 yards out chipping the keeper. Gillingham fighting back to level the scores past the half hours, Alice Bussey played in on goal right getting a shot away on the angle to equalise. The winning goal coming in the 2nd period Billericay with a corner on the left fired into a crowded six yard box, captain Lindsey Morgan bundling it in to see the tie won 2-1.
South East Division One leaders Ipswich Town Ladies also knocking out higher league opponents in the Women’s FA Cup albeit less of a shock as they travelled South to take on Southern Premier Division side Chichester City Ladies bottom of the table. Ipswich in fine form scoring plenty of goals taking an early lead defender Lindsey Cooper heading in from a corner in the 9th minute. Further chances coming the lead double midway through the 1st half Ipswich awarded a penalty after Abbie Lafayette was brought down inside the box, Paige Peake stepping up to make it 2-0. Ipswich dominant in the first half going further ahead as striker Natasha Thomas catches the Chichester defence in possession and takes on a shot from 30 yards out, looping in for her 15th of the season. 15 goals for the season too for captain Amanda Crump after she was played in to score Ipswich’s 4th in the final minute of the half. A quieter 2nd period, Sophie Peskett played in on the right to make it 5-0 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Thomas with her 2nd of the match rounding the keeper in the 90th minute to see the tie won 6-0.
An own goal the difference between the sides at the break in the all Southern Premier Division 2nd Round tie between Hounslow Women and Cardiff City Ladies. The welsh side travelling to the capital with the advantage. A different story 2nd half as Cardiff got to grips with their opponents Cori Williams in particular putting the visitors 2-0 ahead in the 54th minute going on to score a quickfire double to complete her hat-trick a 4th goal for Williams with 20 minutes left putting Cardiff 5-0 up. Josie Longhurst getting on the scoresheet with 10 minutes left on the clock to score her first goal for the club.
Three more Women’s FA Cup ties going the distance and beyond into extra-time and penalties. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies coming through to advance in cup competitions on penalties twice this season both in the FAWNL Cup were involved in their 3rd of the season in their 2nd Round match this weekend away to South West Division One side Southampton Women FC. The pair ending the 90 minutes in a goalless stalemate the game heading into the extra half-hour. Milton Keynes finding the break through in the 1st period of extra-time Dominika Netschova putting the visitors into the lead. Southampton with a last gasp equaliser at the end of the match, Lauren Cheshire finding the back of the net to send the tie into penalties. Wasn’t to be third time lucky for Milton Keynes, Southampton goalkeeper Rose Kite saving two penalties helping her side to clinch a 3-2 shootout win and advance into the 3rd Round.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies were away in the Women’s FA Cup playing fellow Southern Premier Division side Oxford United Women in the 2nd Round on Sunday. Goals from Helen Bleazard and top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing the visitors leading 2-0 at the break. Oxford coming back well in the 2nd half Georgia Timms pulling it back to 2-1 with 18 minutes left, Gemma Sims equalising 6 minutes later to send the tie into extra-time. Oxford going on to take the lead in the 1st period, Sims with her 2nd of the game making it 3-2. Plymouth responding Bleazard with her 2nd of the game levelling the scores at 3-3 early in the 2nd half of extra-time. Kayley Lane firing in a late winner in the final minute of extra-time to see Plymouth advance.
For the 2nd successive weekend Yeovil Town Women were hosting South West Division One leaders Southampton FC Women. A close game last week going all the way into extra-time Southampton knocking Yeovil out of the FAWNL Cup. Meeting again this weekend in the Women’s FA Cup the game was no less close and had to be decided from the penalty spot. A goalless first half between the sides Southampton taking the lead in the 63rd minute Alisha Ware scoring to give the visitors the advantage. Yeovil pushing for an equaliser Annie Heatherson getting free to strike from outside the box a brilliant strike to beat the keeper right before the final whistle 1-1 the game going into extra-time. No further goals scored Southampton striking the post, the game to be settled on penalties. Southampton coming out on top yet again dispatching all five of their penalties to take the shootout 5-4.
The draw for the 3rd Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup seeing 9 ties made the winners setting up a potential tie with a FAWSL or Championship club as the top two tiers enter the competition in the 4th Round. The 3rd Round to be played in the New Year Sunday 5th January split into a Northern and Southern section the details of the latter below:-
Ipswich Town Women v Portsmouth FC Women or Leyton Orient WFC
Watford ladies v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Cardiff City Ladies v Southampton FC Women
Southampton Women’s FC v West Bromich Albion Women or Lincoln City Women
The Women’s FA Cup reaches the 1st Round Proper, 12 ties drawn with the remaining regional and FAWNL Division One sides vying for a place in the next round where the FAWNL Northern & Southern Premier Division side enter the competition. 5 of those ties featuring sides playing in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East, reduced to 3 in the finish with the games between Woodlands FC Ladies & Billericay Town Ladies and Cheltenham Town Ladies & Leyton Orient WFC falling foul to the weather, both games scheduled to take place this coming Sunday.
Onto the ties played, a trip to the West Midlands for ERWFL Premier Division side, Luton Town Ladies as they looked to continue thier fine run in the competition away to FAWNL Midlands Division One side, Wolverhampton Wanderers Women. A tough test for Luton amongst the title challengers in a competitive league, Wolves leading the Midlands Division One table by five points losing just once this season back in early September. Shannie Jennings firing Wolves into an early lead scoring in the 7th minute with a strike from outside the box. Wolves strong pressing for a 2nd goal doubling their lead on 22 minutes Lowri Walker making it 2-0. Rebecca Ferris keeping Wolves from adding a 3rd goal before half-time the FAWNL side 2-0 up at the break. Luton coming out fighting at the start of the 2nd half looking for an early reply it was Wolves however who would go on to take a 3-0 on the hour Lyndsey Glover with the goal. Into the final 20 minutes Wolves taking a 4-0 lead Sophie Bamford firing home. Luton pulling a goal back quickly Jess McKay heading in after Zara Carroll’s free-kick strikes the crossbar. 4-1 the final score Wolves advancing Luton’s fine run coming to an end in this season Women’s FA Cup.
Two all FAWNL South East Division One ties in the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup, Ipswich Town Women leading the table at home taking on Essex side AFC Basildon Women. The hosts with early chances taking the lead in the 16th minute a free-kick outside the area put away beautifully by Paige Peake. Half an hour gone and Ipswich doubled their lead Sophie Peskett in to steal the ball at the back and race on through into the area to score. Natasha Thomas making it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time meeting a cross inside the six yard box. Further chances to extend the lead for the Suffolk side in the 2nd period a 4th goal eventually coming with 7 minutes left a corner put in from the right a knock on controlled by Abbie Lafayette beyond the far post and struck low into the back of the net. Zoe Cossey rifling home from the edge of the box with 2 minutes left to see Ipswich advance to the 2nd Round Proper with a 5-0 victory.
Sophie Peskett in on goal to make it 2-0 to Ipswich (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Actonians Ladies hosting AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the 1st Round Proper. A full blooded match between the pair, Actonians Ladies the only side to beat Wimbledon so far this season beating the 3rd placed side 2-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca putting Actonians into the lead inside the opening 20 minutes with her 9th goal of the season. Wimbledon with a quick reply to equalise winning a corner on the left the inswinging ball missed by the keeper bundled in by defender Hannah Billingham at the far post. The visitors pressing the referee needing to have a word on occasion, Actonians retaking the lead with 5 minutes left in the 1st half Jessica Byrne through seeing her initial effort blocked by the keeper taking the ball around her to score her first goal of the season. Actonians leading 2-1 at half-time. The 2nd half no less competitive Wimbledon battling looking for a reply, Actonians defending robustly keeping them at bay keeping their lead at celebrating victory at the final whistle reaching the 2nd Round Proper.
The draw for the 2nd Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup drawn live on Talksport radio the ties to be played Sunday 1st December with the winners receiving £1000 those ties involving sides from the Southern Premier & South East Division One listed below:-
Hounslow Women v Cardiff City Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies v Watford Ladies
Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women Portsmouth FC Women v Cheltenham Town Ladies or Leyton Orient WFC
Southampton Women’s FC v Milton Keynes Dons Women
Oxford United Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Chichester City Ladies v Ipswich Town Women
Woodlands FC Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies v Gillingham Ladies
A place in the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday with 24 ties taking place across the country. 8 of those ties involving clubs playing in the East. Plenty of action to cover and goals scored.
It was to one of these ties Women’s Football east headed to at the weekend an all FAWNL South East Division One clash to watch Cambridge City Ladies at home playing AFC Basildon Women. The Essex side travelling in good form with 3 successive victories under their belts. A fast start to the match Basildon on the offensive however it was Cambridge who would open the scoring inside the opening 3 minutes, a fluid move from back to front carving their opponents open Charlotte Gillies receiving the ball wide right playing it central to pitch out the run of Laura Mills opening up her body top of the area to place the ball wide of the advancing keeper. Basildon responding well pushing players forwards putting the Cambridge defence under huge pressure forcing errors straight back on level terms the ball played straight to Poppy Binding 20 yards out right side smashed in make it 1-1. Basildon racing into a 3-1 lead within 10 minutes being played, Holly Turner crossing across the face of goal for Binding to tap in her 2nd at the far post then Turner herself running at goal under challenge inside the box firing in a goal.
Holly Turner with the goal to put Basildon 3-1 up
A frantic start to the match there was no let up in the action Basildon playing well piling players forwards the Cambridge defence busy. Chances created Cambridge doing well to get it back to 3-2 Charlotte Gillies on the right winning the ball racing with it into the Basildon box shooting at the near post the ball slipping through the keepers fingers into the back of the net. Basildon restoring their 2 goal lead before half-time, Binding with a composed finish completing her hat-trick as the ball was delivered across the face of goal.
A first half hat-trick for Basildon’s Poppy Binding.
Cambridge starting the 2nd half well receiving a further blow as Basildon went 5-2 ahead early in the 2nd half, Kelly Wealthall heading in from close range off a corner. Another corner seeing Basildon get into a 6-2 lead, Turner up high to head the ball smashing down off the crossbar Wealthall there to turn it back in for her 2nd of the match. A third goal conceded from a set-piece as Gemma Abela lifted a well taken free-kick up over the keeper and under the bar to make it 7-2. Cambridge getting a goal back late on substitute Karly Tolentino played in by Mills to fire a shot from the left in across the keeper. Basildon safely through to the 1st Round Proper.
East Midlands Regional Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies had knocked out higher league opposition in the previous round of the Women’s FA Cup winning away to FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women. Their reward in 3rd Round Qualifying a home draw against another FAWNL side, Midlands Division One team, The New Saints Ladies. Peterborough starting the match well on the attack opening the scoring inside the opening 15 minutes striker Keir Perkins with the close range finish to make it 1-0. The New Saints coming back to level the scores Laura Pennington scoring from a corner. 1-1 at the break. Peterborough continuing to create chances the game entering the final 20 minutes the visitors taking the lead, Kimberly Bebbington with the coll finish to make it 2-1. Peterborough coming back to level the scores themselves the game into the final 10 minutes Donna McGuigan firing home. The New Saints getting on the attack finding the winning goal with 5 minutes left to play Bebbington on target to score her 2nd of the game to see the tie won 3-2.
Actonians Ladies were at home in 3rd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup the FAWNL South East Division One side hosting, Fulham FC Foundation Ladies. The visitors playing in the London & South East Regional Premier Division taking the lead Lauren Peck putting Fulham in front from a free-kick. Actonians coming back to level the scores with 22 minutes left, last seasons top scorer, Alessandra Barreca scoring her 4th goal of the season. Barreca scoring again with 15 minutes left to play to put Actonians into the lead completing a hat-trick inside the final 10 minutes to put her side into the draw for the 1st Round Proper.
Leyton Orient WFC from the FAWNL South East Division One were also taking on London & South East Regional Premier Division opposition in 3rd Round Qualifying making the trip to play Queens Park Rangers. The lower league hosts making a 100% winning start to their league season taking the lead in the 6th minute, Amelia Cutler with the goal to put them 1-0 up. Leyton Orient getting back on level terms with Ellie Stenning getting the goal to make it 1-1 midway through the first half. All square at the break the winning goal coming just past the hour going the way of the visitors, Otesha Charles prolific in front of goal at the start of the season scoring her 14th goal of the campaign to see Leyton Orient advance in the Women’s FA Cup.
Lower league opposition two for FAWNL South East Division One leaders, Billericay Town Ladies a local derby too away to Harlow Town Ladies, making a strong start to the ERWFL Premier Division. Harlow in great form with goals in their side, taking the lead Becky Shephard racing in from the left in on goal shooting the ball gloves away by the keeper, Beth Chambers racing in on the follow up there first to send the ball over the line. Billericay coming back to level before half time attacking right the ball crossed in near post Zoe Rushen sliding on to score from close range. 1-1, Harlow doing well, Billericay finding the all important winning goal from a corner the delivery long to the far post, defender Laken Ducher-Clark bundling the ball over the line to score her first goal of the season and sent Billericay into the 1st Round Proper.
At least on Regional league side were guaranteed a place in the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup with Bowers & Pitsea Ladies of the ERWFL Premier Division already making history in the competition hosting fellow league side, Luton Town Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea holding Luton to a goalless draw at the break the visitors breaking the deadlock 2nd half. Jess McKay finding the top corner from a Zara Carroll free-kick. Luton yet to concede in the competition making sure of a clean sheet at the other end going on to double their lead McKay with a superb finish scoring her 2nd of the match. Rebecca Wilson-Kane adding a 3rd goal for Luton to see them advance in the competition.
The final two 3rd Round Qualifying ties in the Women’s FA Cup all FAWNL South East Division One affairs. Another East Anglian derby, saw Ipswich Town Women in good form riding high at the top of the league hosting Norwich City Women. Another high attendance a fantastic crowd of over 650 their to watch the game. Ipswich dominant right from the off taking the lead inside 3 minutes Anna Grey firing a shot into the top corner to score her first senior goal for the club. The lead doubled inside the opening 15 minutes, Grey with the assist crossing for Natasha Thomas to score her 5th goal of the season. Thomas making it 3-0 to Ipswich 10 minutes later. Ipswich creating further chances awarded a penalty in the 38th minute, Paige Peak hitting the post able to bury the rebound to see the hosts lead 4-0 at half-time. Aimee Durrant pulling a goal back for Norwich early in the 2nd half. Ipswich comfortable soon getting back into a 4 goal lead Sophie Peskett on the follow up at the back post latching onto the spilt ball to score. Maddie Biggs wrapping up a 6-1 win for Ipswich in the final minute of the game.
Enfield Town Ladies were hosting fellow league side AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday a strong start to the season for both Wimbledon unbeaten in the league taking the lead midway through the first half Sophie Manzi on target for her 4th goal of the campaign. Enfield coming back to level 10 minutes later with new signing Beth Lumsden scoring her 8th goal since joining at the start of the season. All square at the break I was keeping up with things on twitter as best I could and it looked like the game was going to head into extra-time only for Wimbledon to come up with a late winner Manzi striking for her 2nd of the game to win it 2-1 for Wimbledon in the dying seconds.
The draw for the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup made live on Talksport this Monday the ties to be played Sunday 10th November listed below:-
Crewe Alexandra Women v Barnsley Women
Northwich Vixens v Liverpool Feds Women or Brighouse Town Women
Norton & Stockton Ancients v Durham Cestria or Chester Le Street
The New Saints Ladies v Chorley Women
Leicester United Women or Leek Town Ladies v Lincoln City Women
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Luton Town Ladies
Woodlands Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Ipswich Town Women v AFC Basildon Women
Cheltenham Town Ladies or Exeter City Women v Leyton Orient WFC
Actonians Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Chesham United Ladies v Southampton FC Women
Southampton Women’s FC or AFC Bournemouth Ladies v Portishead Town
A trip to Ely City FC this Sunday to watch another match from the Women’s FA Cup the competition reaching 3rd Round Qualifying 24 ties taking place across the country with the winning sides advancing to the 1st Round Proper. Today’s game an all FAWNL South East Division One clash with Cambridge City Ladies hosting AFC Basildon Women.
Heavy rainfall once again on the Saturday leading up to the game, hit a number of fixtures more on the other side of the country, the East fairing better, a bright start to Sunday the game on. The Dencom Stadium home of Ely City FC the new home for Cambridge City Ladies this season as they reach their highest level since reestablishing a women’s side. Playing in the FAWNL South East Division One have enjoyed a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid moving up from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and through the ERWFL in just 4 seasons. Collecting numerous other silverware along the way most recently winning the Hunts FA 125 year Premier Cup beating St Ives Town Ladies in midweek. Have a total of 3 women’s sides this season with their Development side promoted the the ERWFL this season off the back of a trophy laden season and a new ‘A’ side competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership.
History made last season too as Cambridge City reached the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup for the 1st time in their history. Promoted to the FAWNL this season has been a tough start to life at this level just 5 points on the board to date from 7 played entered the Women’s FA Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying a home time against giant killers St Albans Ladies the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side knocking ERWFL side Histon Ladies out in the previous round gave Cambridge City a scare going 2-0, the hosts fighting back to pull level the game all square at 3-3 after 90 minutes Cambridge getting over the line in injury time.
A new chapter of sorts in the history of Basildon, now AFC Basildon Women the Essex club like Cambridge City enjoyed a rapid rise through the woman’s football pyramid and collected a fair amount of silverware themselves as C&K Basildon Ladies, that ear coming to an end two seasons ago. Uncertain times for a while the club coming close to folding have forged a new beginning. Losing most of the 1st team the clubs Development side was more or less thrown in at the deep end to try and compete in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division a tough campaign finishing bottom the young squad learning alot about itself have grown.
A new beginning in FAWNL South East Division One a strong social media presence, Basildon have recruited well bringing in the likes of Poppy Binding from Harlow Town Ladies and Kelly Wealthall who has experience with West Ham United Women amongst others is a very young squad still learning it’s game most still teenagers. Comfortable in mid-table results a mixed bag early on showing great form so far this month winning 3 on the bounce in league & cup in October. A 4-0 away win against Cambridge City in the league back in September.
The heavy rain the day before threatening the game, a dry start to Sunday sun getting onto the pitch the game on. The pitch with a good covering of grass, very wet sticky underfoot. A large playing surface overlooked by a high seated stand above the changing rooms. The bar beside open along wit the kitchen serving hot drinks. New new cinema and restaurant park leading into the stadium that is one of a number of sporting venues close by. A warm day in the end the sun having a bit of heat in it could actually take the coat off… won’t be saying that for much longer. The clocks going back the night before it would be setting during the game a factor in the 2nd half especially.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Ceri Flye, Amy Reed, Robyn Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Beatrice Fitzsimons, Laura Mills & Carla Penny. Subs – Lauren Tomlinson & Karly Tolentino.
AFC Basildon Women starting XI – Charlotte Bolland, Sophie Rhodes (C) Alex Bailess, Grace Gillard, Mollie Debell, Gemma Abela, Poppy Binding, Cerys Adams, Courtney Clarke, Kelly Wealthall & Hollie Turner. Subs – Sophie Spencer-Webb, Maddie Thomas, Amy Jacobs & Sarah Wilson.
Cambridge without strikers Megan Tonks and Shannon Shaw, in to the side comes Carla Penny who has enjoyed a great start to the season with the Development side netting 10 goals in 7 appearances. Basildon to get the cup tie underway, wearing an all light blue kit. Cambridge wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Basildon lively from the off the ball long from the back up to Kelly Wealthall moving left tackled the ball out for a throw taken quickly the cross lifted up into the area, goalkeeper Dominika Szary catching comfortably for Cambridge.
Basildon getting players forwards with purpose a driven pass up the left with Courtney Clarke making a good run a well timed tackle from full back Ceri Flye. The visitors press the ball high, Hollie Turner almost away Szary out to the edge of her area to clear.
GOAL! A bright start from Basildon they are hit on the counter Cambridge working the ball forwards in an excellent move to take the lead. The ball cleared from the back into Carla Penny back inside her half on the right helps in on down the wing for Charlotte Gillies racing past her she plays it early central for Laura Mills running clear central bearing down on the area, opens up her body to put her shot past goalkeeper Charlie Bolland coming out to close her down to place the ball into the goal beyond 1-0. 3 minutes played.
Laura Mills with the opening goal for Cambridge City Ladies
Basildon are straight on the attack after the Cambridge defence pressed giving the ball away on right intercepted by Turner she flashes a ball across the face of goal, Wealthall racing in far post can’t quite get there.
GOAL! Doesn’t take long for Basildon to get back on level terms, players swarming forwards have Cambridge pushed back inside their area, the midfielders up supporting the attacking three, the ball is cleared straight to Poppy Binding 20 yards out right side of the D a clinical finish the ball driven hard and low to nestle in the back of the net 1-1 Basildon equalising within 2 minutes.
Poppy Binding puts Basildon level straight away
Basildon come on in attack Clarke a threat on the left side of attack looking to get in behind. The Cambridge defence making hard work of clearing the ball a rebound put straight into Turner she races free left side looks to play in Wealthall, Cambridge captain Becca Fay managing to get her foot of the ball first get it back to the keeper the clearance miscued, Basildon close down, Cambridge scramble it away. Basildon attack right side a low cross into the six yard box Fay managing to cut out Szary down to smother the ball.
GOAL! The game turned completely around in the space of 4 minutes Basildon coming from behind to take the lead the visitors pushing forwards numbers on the left the Cambridge defence drawn out a low cross driven in on the angle, the ball turned in at close range by Binding for her 2nd of the game at the far post 1-2.
GOAL! All action at the start of the first half no sooner have Basildon taken the lead then they score another the ball won in the middle of the park put forwards into the box right side with Turner making the run into her path under challenge from Fay six yards out gets a shot away going to ground sending it past Szary to score. 1-3. Less than 10 minutes played.
Holly Turner with the goal to put Basildon 3-1 up
Cambridge shell shocked look to get forwards play broken up in the middle by Cerys Adams Basildon quickly turn the attack around, Clarke, Turner and Wealthall all on the move, Wealthall central sees the ball fired into her, Fay getting back on hr tackling well before she can get a shot away. Binding linking with Adams plays a cross in for Wealthall positioned central inside the area, drags her shot wide of goal. Fluid play from Basildon passing quickly at the start of the game.
Courtney Clarke receiving the ball for Basildon
Mills tries a long one over the top for Penny, almost succeeds through behind the defence a good starting position from Bolland sees her out to wrap her gloves around the ball first. Gillies latches onto a ball on the right takes it on towards the area shooting on the angle looking to put it across the keeper, Bolland down well to make the save. Cambridge getting a little joy on the right with Gillies pace winning a throw the ball lifting into the area a firm header clear by Basildon defender Mollie Debell. Penny moving out to the left given the ball closes in on the area firing a cross in cut out and cleared by Grace Gillard. Cambridge recovering a little getting forwards Penny again unleashing a shot from 25 yards out safely held by Bolland.
Carla Penny looking to get away from Basildon’s Grace Gillard
Basildon remain a threat getting players forwards at will the front three pressing the Cambridge back line. Clarke central almost plays in Wealthall, then Turner, Robyn Phillips and Flye defending on both occasions for Cambridge the rebound coming to Clarke for a 3rd time she has a go for goal herself sending her 20 yard effort over the bar. Cambridge come left Beatrice Fitzsimons on for Penny played inside for Sofia Castiglione to strike from distance, Gillard blocking for Basildon.
GOAL! Less than 20 minutes played and another goal goes in as Cambridge pull a goal back, good work on the right from Gillies to win the ball managing to stay on her feet runs on into the box the angle closing as she bears down on the near post gets a shot away, Bolland looks to have it covered gloves down to take the ball… to her horror though it slips through her fingers and behind her into the back of the net 2-3.
Cambridge City Ladies, Charlotte Gillies
Binding wriggling free on the right with the ball in behind whips a high cross into the six yard box dropped by Szary as she rises near post, no one there on the follow up the keeper able to grab it. Clarke strong to win the ball on the left wing gets in behind coming inside into the cross looking up to cross, Phillips sliding in well to get her foot on the ball take it away from the attacker. Strength to shown by Turner as she brings the ball down off a throw in on the left top of the area turns inside before sending a cross/shot wide across the face of goal.
Cambridge’s Robyn Phillips sliding in to stop Basildon’s Courtney Clarke
Gillard at the back winning it for Basildon showing a great range of passes to put the ball up for the attacks twice getting Clarke away to take the ball on left side. A dangerous ball crossed in for Turner and Wealthall, Cambridge defence not making things easy for themselves as their clearances can only find a blue shirt. The pitch slick not easy to play on heavy with moisture. Turner getting the wrong side of Fay as Adams puts the ball on through the middle shoots from the top of the area beating the advancing Szary her effort running wide.
GOAL! Almost half an hour played at a furious pace and Basildon restore their 2 goal lead. Binding completing her hat-trick. Turner setting her up strong again shoulder to shoulder with Phillips left side into the box as she is fed the ball from midfield closing in on the byline puts a cross in along the face of goal, Binding at the far post a yard out, shows a cool head composure as players close her down to make sure the ball crosses the line 2-4.
Flye defends for Cambridge as she is outnumbered on the left by Wealthall and Turner the latter managing to get a cross in as Wealthall is dispossessed her cross cleared by Fay. Cambridge build from the back a good crossfield pass picking out Gillies clear on the right chasing on towards the area Mills available for the cross on the penalty spot the ball behind her lays it back towards Hannah Bodily to shot closed down the ball squared to her right for Castiglione to hit on the half volley sends her strike over.
Cambridge’s Sofia Castiglione
Basildon win a corner on the left a dangerous ball put into the six yard box a glancing header takes it wide out to the opposite side a throw won on the right Basildon keep players forwards. Between them top of the area Binding and Adams send the ball on central Alex Bailess latching onto it 30 yards out smashes a shot wide of goal. Conditions slippy, Fay with a good recovering tackle central as Wealthall almost spins in behind her. Phillips with a pass back for the keeper to clear as Turner looks to out muscle her inside the box. Cambridge get the ball forwards Bodily into Penny up top seeing the ball into her body spins to put Gillies away on the right her cross unfortunate to land on the roof of the net.
Turner blasts a shot wide from 25 yards out. Gemma Abela attempts to play Wealthall in through the middle, Phillips with a leg out making a vital interception for Cambridge. The hosts build through the middle Mills combining with Gillies to put the ball on for Penny central, Bolland quick to the edge of her box to slide in claim the ball. Castiglione bringing the ball on for Cambridge late in the first half releases Gillies on the right shooting from the angle is straight into the keeper midriff.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-4 AFC Basildon Women
An all action first half comes to an end, glad too so I can have a rest my own fault I suppose for writing everything down but it also conveys the temp of the match a fast paced start 4 goals inside the opening 10 minutes. Basildon making a great start Cambridge though carving them open to take the lead. Straight back to level the Essex side racing into a 3-1 lead. The action never let up. Cambridge on he rack defensively Basildon putting them under pressure closing the ball down high up the pitch clearances rushed keeping the hosts on the back foot for long spells. Came back well to get it back to 3-2 Basildon creating opportunities restoring a 2 goal lead before half-time. A huge as to keep that pace up for the whole game. Cambridge you feel need the next goal if they are to get back into the game.
Basildon make a change at half-time Clarke looks to have taken a knock a threat on the left for the visitors 1st half is replaced by Amy Jacobs making her first appearance for the 1st team fresh from scoring a hat-trick for the Development side in their 3-1 win over Billericay Town Ladies Reserves in the County Cup last weekend. The sun sitting lower in the sky facing the goal Cambridge are defending 2nd half. Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway.
The hosts winning an early corner put into the box from the right the ball headed clear back out to the taker a second cross put in central in front of goal, Mills close on Bolland the keeper holding confidently under pressure. Debell bringing the ball on from the back for Basildon plays it to the right for Binding allowed to go on with the ball crossed in the clearance falling straight to Adams racing in central 25 yards out doesn’t catch it cleanly no power as it runs wide.
Hannah Bodily playing the ball forwards for Cambridge
Gillies remains a good outlet for the ball on the right as Cambridge look to get forwards another superb crossfield pass seeing her race away shoots on the diagonal, Bolland drifting across to cover her near post getting her gloves up to palm the ball down into the ground and claim on the bounce. Szary up the other end called into action down low back on her line to save as Abela gets a shot away from the top of the area right off a throw in. Good work from Turner inside the area on the left close on goal puts across goal deflected behind wide at the far post for a corner kick.
GOAL! Basildon extend their lead early in the 2nd half 52 minutes on the clock the corner played into a crowded six yard box, Wealthall central with the stooping header driving the ball in from close range 2-5.
Kelly Wealthall battling with Cambridge’s Laura Mills to win the ball.
A blow for Cambridge they get on the attack looking for an immediate response Fitzsimons clever to get away on the left reaching the top of the area plays the ball long across the box with Gillies on the gallop right side looks to strike the ball on the bounce, skips up off the pitch coming into her as she puts her foot through it sending it up over the bar. Jacobs carrying the ball on left side slips Turner in to attack the area, frustrated complains she is held as Szary comes to smother the ball. Cambridge get a corner as they attack right side the ball cleared dropping towards Castiglione 25 yards out central takes on the first time strike, swerving through the air moves away wide of goal.
Beatrice Fitzsimons playing the ball for Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridge make a double change bringing off Penny and Phillips for Karly Tolentino and Lauren Tomlinson. Basildon make a change too bringing off Debell for Maddie Thomas. Castiglione plays the ball on for Fitzsimons getting away on the left her cross in close to the byline won by Gillard coming across to defend the near post. Th game more open in the 2nd period the tempo slowing a heavy pitch sapping energy. Basildon win a corner left side Cambridge clear Gillies taking it on right side up to Tolentino she crosses early, Bolland taking it high at her near post.
Cerys Adams on the ball for Basildon
Abela threads a pass through the middle looking to put Turner away as she spins in behind, Fay reading in lunging to intercept the ball. Hands across foreheads everywhere to see against the setting sun a clash of heads seeing a pause in play. Both players up and okay Basildon get on the offensive Turner strong on the left shooting towards goal with the outside of her boot, Szary claiming well at her near post despite Wealthall closing her down. Basildon look a threat from set-pieces having already scored from one corner come close again as a ball from the right is played long to the far post a free header fired over.
GOAL! Just as I write that Basildon get a 6th goal from another corner, won on the left a fantastic ball in Basildon packing the box, Turner rising highest to head the ball from inside the six yard box her effort smashing against the bar falling straight to Wealthall to send across the line and score her 2nd of the match 2-6.
The game entering the final 15 minutes Basildon leading comfortably. Cambridge get forwards Gillies running down the right winning a corner. Wealthall back to defend clearing at the near post. Tomlinson defending well up the other end for Cambridge as Turner looks to peel away into the right channel, prevents her getting a shot away top of the area. The substitutes combine through the middle for Basildon Thomas bringing the ball on central on for Jacobs shoulder to shoulder with Tomlinson forced right manages to get a shot away across the keeper Szary moving to cover the angle adjusting fantastically to throw herself the other way and get a hand in the path of the ball to save.
Cambridge get up the pitch a corner won on the right taken short up the line to Flye, lays it infield for Fay to blast towards goal 20 yards out, on target blocked at the near post by Turner. Basildon make a third change , Binding coming off on comes Sophie Spencer-Webb. The game entering the final 10 minutes. Tomlinson strong to win the ball left side gets forwards in attack sends a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Bolland coming for it able to grab before Tolentino can latch onto it.
GOAL! Turner surging forwards with the ball a marauding run is brought down around 25 yards from goal right side, referee Stacey Fullicks awarding the free kick. Abela over it the sun at her back low in the sky. A brilliant strike sending the ball up to dip under the crossbar 2-7.
Gemma Abela scoring from a fantastic free kick to make it 7 for Basildon.
Mills picks the ball up 30 yards from goal left of the area head down drives forwards looking for a way through the Basildon defence Bailess closing her down to win it back for the visitors.
Basildon’s Alex Bailess
GOAL! Mills tenacity on the ball sees Cambridge get a goal late in the game carrying on forwards from midfield left side fires it through for Tolentino peeling away on the wing in behind shoots early on the angle to put the ball past the keeper and score 3-7.
Bodily fouled in the middle the advantage played as Tolentino gets hold of it on the left brought down outside the area Cambridge have the free kick. Castiglione over the ball fired in low Basildon clear falls straight to Flye shoots from distance central lacking pace off target Bolland able to move across her goal to claim. Cambridge press late on Tolentino right swinging in a cross close to the near post Bolland spills it, Rhodes close by heading it behind to concede a corner one last chance for Cambridge to pull a goal back Castiglione shoots over.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies 3-7 AFC Basildon Women
Basildon advance to the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup beating Cambridge 7-3. Overall a convincing win a strong performance particularly in attack getting forwards quickly and with intent putting the Cambridge back line under pressure forcing errors. Coming back from an early set back going a goal down, to lead 3-1 with just 10 minutes played. Cambridge on the back foot responding well to get it back to 3-2 Basildon restoring their 2 goal lead in a fast paced 1st half. The 2nd somewhat slower but on top with an early goal scored 3 from set-pieces to lead 7-2. Cambridge pulling a goal back late on can have little complaints not at it defensively today. Despite that some fantastically well worked goals clinical when given the chance. Basildon full of confidence putting in a strong performance.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Cambridge Charlotte Gillies with a good game wide right a threat getting forwards offering runs the whole match. A good all round team performance from Basildon today, Poppy Binding scoring a hat-trick. Strong going forwards with pace and purpose the front three in particular. Courtney Clarke a threat on the left first half. Kelly Wealthall in attack edging it for me Holly Turner strong with the ball at her feet good movement on and off the ball.
Plenty of action to cover plenty to type up and that tends to be set by the tempo of the game itself. An enjoyable game to watch a fast paced first half settle down a little in the 2nd some great goals scored. My thanks to both sides for the team details always appreciated. The draw for the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup to be make live on Talksport radio at around 6:15pm this Monday.
Three ties played in the region this Sunday after being postponed last weekend due to the heavy rain. Conditions not much better this Sunday but the rain held off in the morning meaning all three got the go ahead. Good news it was to one of these Women’s Football East headed a trip to Plantation Park to watch the all FAWNL South East Division One clash between Norwich City Women and Cambridge United WFC. A good contest the sides fairly even the result could have gone either way.
Norwich starting well and capitalising with an early goal the ball won back high up the picked fired into Keunna Dill central 25 yards out taking it out of her feet to make room to shoot lifted the ball up past the keeper to score. Cambridge coming back into it Amy Howlett breaking clear to chase into the box committing the keeper seeing her shot come back off the post. Moments later Cambridge were level striker Kelley Blanchflower away on the left a powerful run taking her into the box evading a challenge before smashing the ball home. The goalkeepers for both sides thwarting more scoring opportunities Norwich retaking the lead right on the stroke of half-time a free-kick won outside Cambridge’s box on the left fired in captain Millie Daviss getting her head on it to turn the ball wide of the keeper to make it 2-1.
Norwich City Women captain, Millie Daviss scoring late in the first half to put the club 2-1 up
Norwich with the narrow lead going into the 2nd half Cambridge continuing to press Blanchflower ready to break at any opportunity Emma Jenkins releasing her on the left another strong run on the ball striking from the edge of the box to level the scores for the 2nd time in the game. Heading into the final 10 minutes the result looking wide open the ball found its way through to Aimee Durrant 25 yards out right of goal she struck it well lifting her shot up and over the keeper to put Norwich 3-2 ahead. A case then of keeping Cambridge off the ball late on the hosts going on to win and reach 3rd Round Qualifying where they will be away to East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women.
Ipswich themselves were at home taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women.Manager Joe Sheehan introducing several of the clubs talented U21 squad into the first team this season, it was one of their senior players celebrating a huge milestone this Sunday however with captain Amanda Crump making her 200th appearance for the club. A fantastic achievement, a player that is often influential in the heart of midfield for the club. Congratulations.
200 club appearances for Ipswich Town Women’s Amanda Crump (photo credit Ross Media UK))
Crump involved in the build-up to the first goal cutting the ball back to striker Maddie Biggs to smash home midway through the first half. The hosts quickly going 2-0 up with Eloise King firing into the top corner a minute later. King striking the crossbar too along with Crump seeing a shot rattle the woodwork Ipswich 2-0 up at half-time. Biggs with her 2nd of the game extending Ipswich’s lead on the hour firing home from inside the box. A flurry of goals coming in the final 20 minutes as Ipswich went on to secure a comfortable result. Crump getting on the scoresheet in the 70th minute making it 4-0. Lindsey Cooper making it 5 a few minutes later heading in Paige Peake’s cross. Into the final 6 minutes King getting her 2nd of the game latching onto the ball spilled in the area following an Amy-Leigh Abrehart free-kick. A minute later Crump adding her 2nd of the game shooting into the bottom corner to see the game won 7-0.
One more tie to bring you again with plenty of action to cover as Beds & Herts Women’s Division One club St Albans Ladies travelled to Ely City FC on Sunday to play FAWNL South East Division One side Cambridge City Ladies. Three leagues between the sides St Albans coming close to causing a huge upset the visitors going into the changing rooms leading 2-0 at half-time. Kayla Johnson firing St Albans into a 21st minute lead. Eleanor Lovelock making it 2 with a goal close to half-time.
Cambridge City coming out strong at the start of the 2nd half pulling a goal back within 3 minutes of the restart striker Megan Tonks hitting a looping volley past the keeper in the 48th minute. St Albans battling did well to hold on to their lead creating opportunities too a shot against the crossbar, the game heading into the final 7 minutes Holly Rossington putting St Albans into a 3-1 lead. Beatrice Fitzsimons on target with a reply for Cambridge straight away to set up a tense finish. Into the final minute Cambridge winning a penalty. St Albans going down to 10 with Lacey Kavanagh-Blake receiving a 2nd yellow for kicking the ball away. Tonks to take has to score to force the game into extra-time. The ball struck home to make it 3-3. Into extra-time a player advantage now for Cambridge, Karly Tolentino seeing an effort come back off the post, the hosts taking the lead for the first time in the match to clinch a hard fought victory with Fitzsimons on target for her 2nd of the game to see the club through to 3rd Round Qualifying and a home tie against fellow South East Division One side AFC Basildon Women.
Another slice of Women’s FA Cup action this Sunday a trip to Plantation Park for the 2nd Round Qualifying game between Norwich City Women & Cambridge United WFC.
An all FAWNL South East Division One clash the clubs from that level entering the competition at this stage the game postponed from last weekend, where absolutely nothing survived in Norfolk last Sunday the county well and truly underwater. An East Anglian derby this afternoon and could potential be the same again in 3rd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup with today’s winners away to either Ipswich Town Women or Royston Town Women whose game also fell foul to the weather last weekend.
The 2nd time Norwich and Cambridge have met in the space 4 days having meet in the league at Plantation Park on Wednesday evening, Vicky Lines with Australian side Capalaba FC most recently scoring her 1st goals for Cambridge putting them into the lead twice Norwich coming back to level twice to earn a share of the points with Natasha Snelling and Aimee Durrant scoring. Both sides keen to get points on the board in the bottom half of what is going to be a very competitive South East Division One.
Changes for both sides over the summer. Norwich changing their name from Ladies to Women a new manager in place Greg Dimsey now head coach. Have lost a few established players particularly in defence have plenty of young talent coming fighting for 1st team places.
Cambridge moving to a new home over the summer now base at St Neots Town FC both squads for training and games a new start have themselves lost a few experienced players a small squad again with youth coming through to battle it out for a place in the first team.
Plantation Park the venue for today’s match. Wet over night the ground came suffer from water logging so it was a case of hedging my bets to see if the game would beat the weather especially with games at either ed of Norfolk called off, but the rain wasn’t heavy and the pitch held up well. Would be soft underfoot and slick plenty of grass cover is a large pitch. The bar open serving hot and cold drinks, a covered stand offering some protection from the weather light rain at kick-off.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Jemma Moore, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Albany Hodgson, Faith Hewitt, Charlotte Crisp, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Vicky Lines & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Gemma Croucher, Grace Camfield, Katie White & Chloe Armstrong.
Both sides missing players most notably striker Chelsea Garrett for Norwich and midfielder Amber Cantwell for Cambridge amongst others. Norwich wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts to kick-off the first half. Cambridge in their change strip white shirts with blue design on front blue shorts and white socks. Cambridge quick to close the ball down no head way for Norwich at the start forced to play it all the way back to defence look to go long down the right Aimee Durrant with the run, Carrie Bennett putting the ball out for the throw defending for Cambridge.
Norwich come right again getting forwards the diagonal ball fired in with pace central met by Keunna Dill her tough taking it to the right looking to strike the shot Albany Hodgson there first to clear for Cambridge at the back. Cambridge counter the ball up to Emma Jenkins on the right up the wing into the corner Lauren Cullum staying with her for Norwich tackling to concede the first corner of the game. Players forwards for the back Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming to the ball flicking it on with her feet towards the far post the clearance put high before being headed behind for a 2nd corner. Fired in low towards the near post with Vicky Lines making a clever run shoots close range blocked. Norwich clear a rapid counter away on the right side Durrant crossing early the ball into the area gathered safely by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin.
GOAL! A goal inside the opening 5 minutes, Norwich taking the lead Cambridge bringing the ball out from the back Norwich quick to press bringing the error the ball won in the final third fired across the top of the area into Dill left of the D her tough taking it inside central 25 out latches onto the shot struck well sends the ball up over the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.
Norwich bright at the start of the game pressing centrally getting the ball forwards quickly a free-kick won on half way the delivery into the area defended the head sending the ball high to drop in behind, Durrant lively onto it but the angle against her the cross is put behind. Dill gets away on the left, Jemma Moore recovering well diving in with the challenge taking the ball away for the throw. Pamplin with an excellent save to deny Durrant as she attacks right taking on the shot early driven in across goal rising Pamplin throwing up and arm to push the ball behind for the corner kick. The delivery comes in central knocked down towards goal blocked, Burt then launching it clear.
Cambridge United WFC’s Jemma Moore.
Dill lively in attack for Norwich a good ball forwards into her from captain Millie Daviss, Dill getting in front of her marker central to swing her foot into the shot from 30 yards out in a central position, spinning as she strikes it Pamplin can watch it safely wide of her goal. Reeanna Cook and Daviss combine in attack for Norwich getting forwards Durrant the outlet wide right her ball in headed clear by Hodgson for Cambridge.
Eyes on the ball, Cambridge United WFC midfielder Charlotte Crisp
Norwich energetic at the start, Cambridge having soaked up the pressure well break the pass forwards seeing Amy Howlett away over halfway on the left races on towards the box coming inside one on one with the keeper commits Hope Armstrong into the dive attempting to block the ball as she travels right knocks it past her shoots trying to cut the ball back into the empty net the ball striking the base of the post.
GOAL! The post saving Norwich a moment ago, Cambridge getaway on the left in attack this time and score. Striker Kelley Blanchflower gathering the ball int her feet and driving up the left wing a powerful run on the ball taking it into the box to the byline getting away from a last ditch challenge to come back inside smashes her shot low across the goal to equalise 1-1.
Cambridge’s turn to exert some pressure in attack, Moore getting forwards on the overlap to support Jenkins. Lines across to help forces Norwich to give away the throw high up the pitch Moore has a long throw in her arsenal. The ball almost finds it’s way through across the six yard box Norwich struggle to clear eventually put out of the box gathered by Moore to loop a cross in from the right an inviting ball dropping far post Lines arriving late can’t quite get onto the end of it.
Cambridge’s Vicky Lines looking to find away through the Norwich defence
Norwich look to attack building on the left Dill laying it on for Cook, Cullum racing on to stay with her the pair combining before Cook sends in a waist high cross towards the top of the area, Snelling stooping to head the ball goalwards can’t get enough power on the ball to trouble Pamplin. Ebbing and flowing is an even contest plenty of energy no one allowed time on the ball and the wet surface making the ball tricky to control at times. Cook surging on through the middle looking to get hold of the ball, Burt out of defence making a strong tackle to deny her.
Izzy Collins clearing the ball for Norwich.
A good understanding forming between Lines and Blanchflower in attack for Cambridge are playing off one another well Cambridge inviting Norwich on at times drawing their defence forwards are quick to exploit Lines putting Blanchflower away to carry the ball on into the area right side closing it on the six yard box hits it hard rising straight at the keeper nevertheless Armstrong does well to get her gloves up to make the save and take the sting out of the shot able to grab it before Blanchflower can capitalise on the rebound.
Keunna Dill controlling the ball well on the touchline for Norwich City Women
A fantastic piece of skill form Dill out wide to bring the ball down on her chest and keep in as it is fired long up to her, plays it inside to Snelling before spinning in behind Moore, Snelling looking to pick her out with the return ball. Moore does well to get back on the Norwich attack to slide in and win the ball back. The light rain that has been falling has stopped the sky looking mildly brighter. Faith Hewitt central plays it on well for Blanchflower beating the offside trap to run at the box, Eliza McDonald with her making the challenge top of the box the ball cleared by Armstrong. Is competitive in the middle Angelina Nixon an ex-Cambridge player lunging in to win the ball against Crisp playing it forwards for Snelling, Burt close in win the tackle for Cambridge.
Cambridge United WFC captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt
Durrant on the right wing as Norwich push forwards, Cambridge dropping deep into their box the cross long gathered by Dill plays it central to Snelling, closely marked can’t turn to shoot holds up well though laying it back towards the top of the area for Nixon slight hesitation before shooting gives Hewitt the chance to dive in and charge the ball down. Howlett and Jenkins have switched flanks in attack for Cambridge, Howlett right now up with Lines forcing Norwich to concede a throw deep in their territory, Moore to put long into the six yard box bounces on through with no one getting a meaningful touch before being cleared far side.
Time running out in the 1st half Norwich on the attack. From a throw in left Dill plays it into the advancing Nixon left of the box her pass in central for Snelling 20 yards out a tame effort on goal, gathered cleanly by Pamplin. Dill brought down attacking left 30 yards out, Snelling on the set-piece long to the far post headed clear back out to the left Dill bringing it down fouled again another free-kick given.
GOAL! Norwich retake the lead in the closing moment of the first half Durrant on the free-kick fizzed in with pace a good height Daviss six yards out getting her head on the ball to power her header down wide of Pamplin to score 2-1.
Millie Daviss making it 2-1 to Norwich late in the first half
Half-time Norwich City Women 2-1 Cambridge United WFC
Norwich retaking the lead at the death in what was a very entertaining and fast paced half. The rain easing up and eventually stopping. The hosts vocally cheered on well by their mascots Haddenham Rovers Colts U12s treated to fantastic contest so far. The sides fairly even overall play fast little time on the ball. Cambridge soaking up more pressure at times but counter attacking well. Norwich lively throughout looking to get forwards at every opportunity taking an early lead. Cambridge coming back well the post struck before equalising disappointed to concede late in the first half.
Cambridge attack
Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway extra-time and penalties if needed. Blanchflower putting the ball on for Lines moving right, Cullum staying on her to get the ball away for the throw for Norwich. Norwich bring the ball on through the middle Daviss with Nixon onto Durrant away right a good cross into the box central Snelling moving towards the ball Burt on her shoulder squeezes a cut backed shot under the defender and she challenges, Pamplin central through reacts well to get down make the save.
Angelina Nixon on the ball for Norwich City Women
Cambridge feed the ball forwards into Blanchflower, determined on the ball getting forwards, Cullum halting her progress the striker sends it across the top of the box with Jenkins racing forwards central her attempt charged down the deflection spinning away to the far post gathering by Lines to hit goalwards, Armstrong across at her post diving getting both gloves securely around the ball.
Norwich goalkeeper, Hope Armstrong.
Nixon breaking up a Cambridge attack sends the ball on for the advancing Cook, Crisp across lunging in to tackle the ball won back the game competitive in the middle. Hodgson with a vital interception at the back for Cambridge as Dill aims to send Snelling in behind as she peels away right. Norwich with a ball forwards fortunate as it finds its way through to Durrant top of the area her tough forwards looks to prod it back across the keeper, Pamplin down making a fantastic save with her legs to deny her.
GOAL! Cambridge come back to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match. The ball played out from the ball into Jenkins central he helps it’s on its way to Blanchflower pulling away to the left in space she drives on intent on finding her way into the box shoots on the angle pace on the ball races past Armstrong into the goal beyond to score her 5th goal of the season 2-2.
Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower
Norwich look for an immediate reply Dill with a burst of pace on the left side travelling to the byline a good ball cut back towards the top of the area, no one making the run however allowing Cambridge to build a move forwards. Norwich making the first change of the match McDonald the player coming off, Kathryn Stanley coming on. A move that sees her go left and Dill drop into central defence. A flowing one two between Nixon and Snelling as the midfielder breaks forwards to the top of the area sees Snelling put a shot wide from inside the area.
Norwich City Women captain, Millie Daviss
The game remains open neither side on top both looking like they can score. Daviss with a superb pass forwards to pick out Durrant on the right down the wing a cross flashed in missed by Snelling near post, Pamplin plucking it down central needed with Stanley racing in far side. A 2nd change for Norwich with Cullum coming off, on in her place Rosie George. Norwich pushing up a throw on the right finds Nixon on the byline turns well to play it back to Durrant six yards out shoots, Burt throwing herself into the challenge blocking the ball away for a corner kick.
Emma Jenkins playing the ball for Cambridge with Norwich’s Aimee Durant closing in
Cambridge make their first change of the game, Gemma Croucher coming on for Lines in attack. Stanley with a 25 yard shot as Nixon brings the ball on from midfield is tackled. The shot straight at Pamplin. Crisp passing the ball on for Blanchflower pulling away left gets behind Robson, the full back recovering well to lunge in to make the block as the striker shoots from the edge of the box. Norwich with a 3rd change, Snelling the player off on comes Josie Jarvis with the game entering the final 10 minutes.
GOAL! Norwich have been competitive in the middle all game Daviss supported by Cook and Nixon the ball pressed and won put forwards into the path of Durrant right side of goal 25 plus yards out, strikes it well taken early up and down over the keeper to nestle in the goal beyond and give the hosts the lead late in the game 3-2.
Aimee Durrant playing the ball on scoring the winning goal for Norwich City Women
Cambridge get on the offensive straight from the restart the ball with Hewitt central on for Jenkins right does well to hold it up in the corner a lack of support doing well to get throw, Blanchflower back to Moore who crosses high into the area Jarvis able to bring it away for Norwich. Cambridge make a change Katie White on for Howlett. Norwich getting forwards looking to keep the ball in the corner Durrant managing to force a corner. A good delivery into the box attacked by George near side can only put her header wide across goal.
Norwich frustrating Cambridge late on determined to keep them off the ball Daviss with a looping shot as she gets free right 20 yards out dropping down at a comfortable height in front of Pamplin to claim. Grace Camfield coming on in the closing moments for Cambridge in place of Jenkins. Norwich with renewed energy the winning post in touching distance snapping in to win the ball Stanley shooting over from 30 yards out. Durrant back to help in defence in the closing seconds as Cambridge try to force a path through on the right. The final whistle blows and it’s Norwich who advance in the Women’s FA Cup.
Full time Norwich City Women 3-2 Cambridge United WFC
An away tie against East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women in 3rd Round Qualifying as they comfortably progressed against Royston this afternoon. The tie to be played Sunday 27th October. A late winner this afternoon and to be fair to both sides it could well have gone either way entering the final 15 minutes I felt that whoever scored next would go on to win the game you couldn’t have called it. Highly entertaining, competitive without any over the top challenges.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders once again. Kelley Blanchflower superb leading the attack for Cambridge strong and determined on the ball clinical in her finishing. For Norwich Aimee Durrant was excellent making fantastic runs to receive the ball always providing and outlet a well taken strike to win the game. Keunna Dill lively from the off a great strike to give Norwich the early lead offering a threat on the left. Midfield competitve all round a great contest to watch and coming out on top today’s award goes to Norwich captain Millie Daviss battle well breaking up play making it difficult for Cambridge to play through the middle.
An entertaining game, always frustrated afterwards because I want more! The weather not dampening things too much. My thanks to both teams for the team details as always appreciated.
2nd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup this weekend, 48 ties in total scheduled on Sunday with the FAWNL Division One sides entering the competition. 13 of those ties involving sides covered by Women’s Football East. The weather playing it’s part putting pay to 3 ties with the matches between Norwich City Women & Cambridge United WFC, Ipswich Town Women & Royston Town Women along with Cambridge City Ladies v St Albans Ladies called off with waterlogged pitches. That left 10 ties and it was to one of these I travelled on Sunday the rain all but gone as I arrived at the Harlow Arena to watch Harlow Town Ladies v Wroxham Women.
The pair currently one and two in the ERWFL Premier Division promised to be a cracking tie and proved to be the case with a late winner deciding it in extra-time. Harlow starting brightly Becky Shephard firing in a rocket to make it 1-0 early on. The hosts dominant during the first half Wroxham taking a while to get going soaking up pressure got themselves back on level terms late in the half striker Grace Birchall running onto a long ball forwards to run in behind race into the box and smash her shot into the bottom corner.
Grace Birchall finishes into the bottom corner for Wroxham to level the scores
All square at the break Harlow beginning the 2nd half as they started the first on the front foot. Chloe Bassett with a strike from outside the area creeping inside the post to see the hosts retake the lead. Wroxham made changes to personnel and position paying off as they started to come back into it more competitive the game opening up chances created Emily Leach on the keeper coming away with the ball to score into an empty net to make it 2-2. Neither side able to find the break through 3rd goal in regular play the game heading to extra-time.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
In the extra period of play it was advantage Wroxham going ahead for the first time in the match Birchall brought down just outside the area a free-kick inside the D blasted goalwards a deflection taking it wide of the the keeper giving no chance a save. Harlow fired up particularly captain Kaydee King to get back on level terms a free-kick similar to Wroxham’s seeing goalkeeper Amy Bell produce a tremendous save Harlow though scoring from the resulting corner. Sent long past the far post King getting her head on the ball sending it in despite a goalmouth scramble. 3-3 after the 1st period of extra-time Harlow finishing the game strong getting players in and around the Wroxham box taking strikes on from distance Fran Gamble shooting from 20 yards out left side of the box firing the ball in late on to send Harlow into the next round.
Another all ERWFL clash in 2nd Round Qualifying saw Division One North side Newmarket Town Women at home to Luton Town Ladies from the league above. The Premier Division side amongst the front runners in the table. Zara Carroll the star of the show first half scoring a hat-trick for Luton getting the ball rolling heading in from a Jess McKay corner. Her 2nd goal coming from a free-kick the ball smashed into the top corner. Carroll completing her hat-trick scoring from another McKay corner. Luton safely through in the finish scoring a 4th goal with Funmi Babalola on target following good work from Dionne Manning.
A couple of upsets in the amongst the results too. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies showing good form since promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division this season were drawn away to FAWNL South West Division One side Maidenhead United Women. The Essex side getting an early lead 1-0 inside 10 minutes Ebony Moore with the run down the wing crossing in the ball turned into the back of the net for an own goal. More than matching their higher league opponents goalkeeper Violet Hickman with a crucial double save to keep it at 1-0. Bowers & Pitsea with a good chance to double the lead early 2nd half remained 1-0 as Maidenhead came on strong, the lead doubled midway through the half Sophie Dowman’s strike deflected to loop over the keeper and in. A nervy close to the game the hosts pulling it back to 2-1 off a free-kick that struck the crossbar the rebound back in off the keeper Bowers & Pitsea holding on to win and extend their historic FA Cup run.
A cup upset to for East Midlands Regional Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies knocking out FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women. A sluggish start from Peterborough with Stevenage having the better of the opening period growing into it however the visitors when ahead on the half hour Keir Perkins cross met by Donna McGuigan an ex-Stevenage player to make it 1-0. That the advantage at the break. Peterborough creating opportunities in the 2nd half, Stevenage goalkeeper Te’a Oldroyd with some fine saves the hosts creating chances themselves striking the bar equalised in the 65th minutes Cara Breckenridge scoring after Peterborough failed to clear a corner. Both sides looking for the winner it came 10 minutes from tine Perkins crossing in again this time met by Megan Parrett to smash the ball into the roof of the net to win it 2-1 and send Peterborough into the next round.
Megan Parrett with Stevenage’s Gemma Biggadike getting the winner for Peterborough United Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Elsewhere it was relatively straight forwards for the FAWNL South East Division One sides with 5 beating lower league opposition. One all South East Division One tie saw Kent Football United hosting Actonians Ladies. Due to meet in the league the week before the weather putting pay to the fixture. A tough start to life at the higher level for Kent Football United without a point on the board after 4 played the FA Cup a distraction. Started brightly enough Actonians coming into it getting the lead midway through the first period with Carla Williams striking to make it 1-0 her first of the season. A 2nd goal coming 5 minutes later with midfielder Melia D-Santos also scoring her first of the season. A 2-0 lead for the visitors at half-time a mountain to climb for Kent Football United on the hour as Megan Burrows received her marching orders sent off. Actonians 3-0 up soon after Lafa Ucha scoring from a corner. Kent Football United kept going and were rewarded with a goal late in the game Amy Russ firing in a shot with 10 minutes left. Actonians progressing into the next round 3-1 winners.
The FA Cup throwing up names you’re not always familiar with apparently their are two Ashford sides one in Middlesex the other in Kent. AFC Wimbledon Ladies were away to the one in Kent this weekend Ashford Ladies. Wimbledon 4th in South East Division One getting the upper hand on their lower league opponents taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Georgia Heasman crossing for Liz O’Callaghan to score her first goal of the season. Quickly became 2-0 with defender Hannah Billingham scoring from a corner again her first of the season. Wimbledon creating chances going further in front on the half hour Sophie Manzi with a low strike to make it 3-0. Heasman another to open her account for the season seeing Wimbledon leading 4-0 at half-time. Katie Stanley and youngster Charlotte Flood introduced at half-time both going on to score Flood her first goals for the side netting a brace with Stanley making it 7-0 to see Wimbledon safely into the next round.
Enfield Town Ladies were hosting lower league opposition Islington Borough Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. The FAWNL South East Division One side going in front with the half hour fast approaching defender Claire Ford scoring to make it 1-0 with her first of the campaign. Striker Katherine Long doubling the advantage with 5 minutes left in the first period. The lead made more comfortable midway through the 2nd half with Danielle Smith opening her Enfield account for the season. Long scoring a 2nd and her fifth of the season late in the game to see Enfield comfortably progress.
A tough test for Phoenix Sports Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup as they travelled to Canvey Island FC to play AFC Basildon Women. The game was off at one point but soon back on and good for Basildon as the Essex side won comfortably to reach the next round going through 8-2 winners. Kelly Wealthall in good form in front of goal since joining the club scoring a hat-trick to give her 9 for the season. Cerys Adams scoring a brace her first goals for the side. First goals of the season too for Sarah Wilson and Grace Gillard along with a goal for Holly Turner.
Leyton Orient WFC joint 3rd leaders in the FAWNL South East Division One away to Abingdon United WFC in the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday. Flu hitting the squad Leyton Orient with a small squad of 12 making a slow start Abingdon taking the lead with Molly Lygo firing in a long range strike. Egle Trezzi with the equalising goal midway through the first half from a corner. Leyton Orient growing stronger as the game progressed taking the lead with 7 minutes left in the first half Sophie Le Marchand curling in a shot. A 3rd scored in the final minute of the half, Otesha Charles continuing her good form in front of goal to make it 3-1 at half-time. Charles with her 8th goal of the season 10 minutes into the 2nd half seeing Leyton Orient into the next round 4-1.
Billericay Town Ladies sharing the lead in FAWNL South East Division One drawn away to Dartford Women in 2nd Round Qualifying. The Essex side with goalscorers throughout their side proving too strong an opponent for Dartford winning comfortably 8-0 to book their place in the next round. Both Zoe Rushen and Karissa Rodney netting two goals each now on 7 goals each for the season. Jay Blackie with her 5th of the season too getting a goal with first goals of the season for Hannah Smith, Ellie Nicholls and Courtney Lumley.
Women’s FA Cup 3rd Round Qualifying draw
ties to be played Sun 27th October
Peterborough United Ladies v The New Saints Ladies
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies
Harlow Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Cambridge City Ladies or St Albans Ladies v AFC Basildon Women
Ipswich Town Women or Royston Town Women v Norwich City Women or Cambridge United WFC
FA Cup weekend a trip down to Essex this Sunday to watch a game from 2nd Round Qualifying of the competition Harlow Town Ladies setting the early pace in the ERWFL Premier Division hosting another potential title challenger Wroxham Women.
Some 48 ties set to be played this Sunday however with plenty of rain falling across the country overnight several games called of pitches waterlogged. Today’s venue the Harlow Arena with a 3G playing surface meant the match would survive.
An intriguing tie in prospect Harlow Town Ladies starting the season well into their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL Premier Division have risen rapidly through the women’s football pyramid in recent seasons. Plenty of young talent to call upon backed up by a strong Reserves side last season, now just the senior side manager Dean Perrett bringing in several players to strengthen the squad and add experience with the likes of Hannah Porter, Nicole Farmer, Georgia Box and Amy Nash coming in having played higher league placed Essex sides AFC Basildon and Billericay Town in the past. Becky Shephard joining too a potent goal threat wherever she’s played most recently with Cambridge United WFC. Top of the ERWFL Premier Division in what will be a strong league once again. Unbeaten in 5 played with 4 win including a 4-1 away win over today’s cup opponents.
Had hoped to see Wroxham Women in the previous round of the FA Cup but circumstances conspired against me. Wroxham are a new name for a familiar side in the ERWFL Premier Division having previously been Acle United Women enjoying plenty of success under that guise the time was right to move on Wroxham showing an interest in wanting to get involved in the women’s game the partnership boosting the club going forwards having come so close to winning the Premier Division in recent seasons and with it promotion to the FAWNL. Will be amongst the title challengers again having retained most of their squad whilst bringing in Victoria Pleavin from Norwich City Women, Kayleigh Holloway from ERWFL Premier Division rivals Wymondham Town Ladies and Bethany Bygrave a former Tasmanian Football of the Year. Currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table losing one of their opening 5 games as previously highlighted. Reached today’s 2nd Round Qualifying match wit a stunning comeback at home to local rival Wymondham 2-0 down with 9 minutes to go getting back to 2-2 with Amber Rowland slotting in the winner from the penalty spot.
The Harlow Arena today’s venue, heavy rain falling for much of the journey games elsewhere getting called off, more or less stopped past Cambridge, dry by the time I arrived dark clouds still around but the sun trying to poke through. A bar and hot food available under the main seated stand with a covered terraced stand opposite. A 3G playing surface A fairly easy venue to get too with plenty of parking.
Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Josie Burke, Nicole Farmer, Beth Chambers, Hannah Porter, Kaydee King (C), Fran Gamble, Chloe Bassett, Lucy Edmeades, Amy Nash, Becky Shephard & Liv Steele. Subs – Charlie Orwell, Harriet Lethbridge, Abbey Dell, Eve Doyle-Love, Ronnie Harrison & Jodie Sanderson.
Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Victoria Pleavin, Grace Parker, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Kate Pasque, Kayleigh Holloway, Naomi Cooper, Grace Birchall & Emily Leach. Subs – Bethany Bygrave, Kirstie Kindred. Olivia Mungham-Gray & Leanne Symonds.
The teams into huddles before kick-off a cry of ‘AHOY!’ from Wroxham quickly followed by a roar of ‘HARLOW!’ from the hosts it’s Wroxham to get the 1st half underway wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Harlow wearing red shirts with a white front, red shorts and socks. The ball pressed right from the word go Harlow in to close Wroxham little head way made by either side in the opening exchanges play congested in midfield. Wroxham with a throw right side gain ground without getting a cross in the ball played back left to run on for the keeper to gather, Grace Birchall in attack for Wroxham sharp races in forcing goalkeeper Josie Burke into a save down to take at her feet before she can pounce.
Harlow with an opportunity to play a ball into the box players forwards as they win a free-kick 35 yards out as Fran Gamble is fouled bringing the ball on. On the left a good delivery in from Amy Nash flighted in towards the far post Amy Bell in goal for Wroxham with a solid punch of the ball to get it away. A good start to the game from Harlow players all over the park quick to close down and press the Wroxham defence. Nash with a great crossfield pass to find Lucy Edmeades on the right wing takes the ball on to the by-line sending a cross in collected cleanly by Bell at her near post.
GOAL! Harlow’s good start capitalised upon with a goal a great strike from Becky Shephard to give the hosts the lead 6 minutes into the game. Picking up the ball central 35 yards out no one comes to close her down encouraged to shoot shifts the ball before letting fly the ball arrowing in past the keeper to make it 1-0.
Becky Shephard with the opening goal for Harlow Town Ladies
Harlow press play turned around win the first corner of the game on the right delivered near post players up goes through everyone to drop across goal no one to attack far side Wroxham clear. Wroxham not seeing much of the attack early doors gain ground on the left wing the ball played inside for striker Emily Leach has to dig the shot out of her feet 25 yards out on target lacking the power to trouble Burke.
Harlow continue their high tempo pressing game getting players forwards passing quickly Nash putting Shephard away on the left wing into space squares in a cross along the top of the Wroxham area, Chloe Shields clearing for the away side the ball picked up by Gamble central drives in a low shot from 25 yards out, Bell down to push the ball wide. Harlow spreading play well Hannah Porter winning it at the ball has options up field Beth Chambers racing up the left wing from full back a good pass to pick her out lays it forwards for Shephard ahead of her the ball travelling quickly on the 3G surface Shephard despite a lunging dive can’t keep it in play.
Amy Nash (under the flying pony tail) getting hold of the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
Wroxham captain Anna Larkins playing right back reads the danger well across central to nip in front to win the ball from attacker Liv Steele as a great through ball from Gamble almost has her in on goal. Harlow quicker to the ball, Wroxham not getting any momentum frustrated on the back foot. Attacks broken up before they get going Harlow quick to turn play around Edmeades right with an early ball on into the area Nash having made a near post run looking to take the shot in through her stride a defender on her shoulder doesn’t connect with the ball.
Harlow Town Ladies, Liv Steele
Shephard challenging for the ball 25 yards out getting free on the left to chase down the wing fires a cross in central Shields defending again getting to the ball ahead of Steele in front of goal. Wroxham having to work hard to get anything going in attack, Amber Rowland in strong to win it central rolls it forwards into Birchall holding off her marker left side in front of goal spins well to lay the ball on for fellow attacker Emily Leach, Porter in to win the ball back for Harlow.
Harlow Town Ladies, Hannah Porter
Larkins down after a challenge from Steele play goes on with Wroxham in attack Birchall in the final 3rd on her own taking players on doing well to win a throw high on the right. Kayleigh Holloway receiving the ball off the throw dribbles on towards the area her low cross driven in cut out put behind by Chambers for Wroxham’s first corner of the game. The delivery put in high safely caught by Burke unchallenged on her line.
Harlow on the attack players breaking left and right as Gamble wins the tackle to break up Wroxham’s build up possession in the final 3rd Harlow have Wroxham penned in a cross played in cleared straight to Chloe Bassett right side of the area her shot fired in with power 25 yards out blocked the ball on the right whipped into the box deflected behind for the corner. The delivery in high near post Porter up heads it on down central Steele their doesn’t get a clean connection on her shot six yards out. Bassett with another shooting opportunity a few minutes later 25/30 yards out right sees her effort race wide across goal. Harlow with the upper hand quicker to everything.
The hosts winning a free-kick wide right outside the box more or less a corner as Nash comes across to take players forwards captain Kaydee King amongst them gets a glancing header on the ball enough to deflect it back to Bassett waiting far side inside the box lines up to shot through bodies low back across goal narrowly wide of the post. Porter goes for a foray up the pitch no one from Wroxham challenging until she threatens to get in past the back line into the area itself. Bassett seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out plays a great a ball on into the area for Edmeades to attack racing in from the right wing, just too much on it allowing Bell to come and claim.
Gamble fouled top of the circle inside the Wroxham half players go forwards the ball short wide to Chambers left side comes infield preparing to strike a fantastic block… probably not what referee Callum Dorling intended. A drop ball the result these no longer contested. Pleavin with a great intercepting tackle to stop Edmeades getting clear on the right for Harlow. Wroxham need to get something going in attack have soaked up alot of pressure the ball fired up to halfway Birchall doing well to stay on her feet after a tackle takes the ball forwards a strong run into the area draws defenders to her squares the ball to Leach unmarked central hit’s it hard, Burke with the blocking save to keep the ball out at close range the rebound taking the ball out of the area Naomi Cooper gather left to shoot from outside the box sends her shot over the bar.
Wroxham Women’s, Victoria Pleavin
Late into the first half Harlow becoming a little loose with their passing Wroxham applying a little bit of pressure Birchall with Porter on halfway a coming together that sees the defender down injured the advantage with Harlow though play goes on getting bodies up into the final third.
GOAL! The attack broken up Wroxham send the ball long up to Birchall into the space Porter would have been occupying had she not still been down Birchall racing away from King to carry the ball with pace into the box right of goal Farmer almost getting there as she strikes the ball low and fast across the keeper into the bottom corner to level the scores 1-1.
Grace Birchall finishes into the bottom corner for Wroxham to level the scores
Birchall celebrating is then shown a yellow card presumably for a foul on Porter prior the the counter attack. Harlow having been strong all through the first half have an opportunity straight from the restart to retake the lead direct play Shephard receiving the ball central in for Steele one on one win the advancing keeper top of the area looks to shot across Bell, the goalkeeper down saves well with her legs. The last opportunity of the 1st half going to Wroxham, Leach controlling the ball 25 yards out sending her shot wide across goal.
Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 1-1 Wroxham Women
The scores all square at 1-1 at half-time. Harlow starting well and taking an early lead continued to dominate pressing Wroxham all over the pitch quicker to the ball and releasing players early didn’t add to that lead however and Wroxham having few opportunities took one late in the half to equalise, know there’s room for improvement. The scores level remains all to play for 2nd half.
Harlow out of the changing rooms early for the 2nd half no changes for either side the hosts getting the 2nd game underway the game to go to extra-time even penalties if needed has to be decided on the day. Harlow beginning as they started the first half on the front foot pushing deep into Wroxham territory winning a throw on the right.
GOAL! Farmer looking to play the ball on the defence pressured right the ball cleared picked up by Bassett outside the box left of the D strikes her shot well, Bell static central the shot wide of her creeping inside the post 2-1. Harlow retake the lead.
Chloe Bassett with the strike to see Harlow retake the lead
Harlow’s pressing game effective in on Wroxham’s defenders early making playing out from the back difficult the midfield forced deeper as a result. Bassett and Gamble breaking thing’s up effectively as they had for much the first half. Harlow attack overlapping on the left the cross in vicious across the face of goal long as Bell scrambles across her line Steele up on the right side into the box getting to the ball looks to smash her shot back in across goal. Bell with a superb save her momentum taking her one way to get back the other to flash out a glove to deflect the ball away from goal.
Amber Rowland with the ball for Wroxham
A corner conceded on the left taken short by Harlow back to the taker coming higher to cross the delivery spot on King getting her head on the on the ball put straight at Bell for a comfortable save. Harlow on the offensive switch play Shephard running clear beating the keeper left in attack sees her shot come back off the far post. Wroxham respond an early change 2nd half Pleavin off with Kirstie Kindred on to join Leach in attack with Birchall moving left side Cooper dropping into defence.
Is a physical game between two competitive opponents. Larkins, Porter and King needing treatment in the first half, Pasque and Parker for Wroxham getting clattered in the 2nd period. A cruncher of a 50/50 between Cooper and Farmer sees both hurt. Birchall fouled left side top of the circle a chance to relieve the early Harlow pressure players go forwards with Parker over the ball a high ball into the area headed clear Harlow look to counter quickly left, Holloway doing the defending to stop the advance for Wroxham.
Grace Birchall looking to get into the box for Wroxham
Larkins with a fantastic ball from the back to release Birchall away on the left the attacker keeping possession well cutting inside allowed to shoot on her stronger foot the ball swerving through the air moving wide across the face of goal wide. The substitutions and movement of players seeing Wroxham start to get a foothold in their opponents final third and for the first time in the game have a period of sustained possession in and around Harlow’s area a ball played on sees Birchall charging down King the ball cannoning up into the air inside the box, King keeping her eyes on it to launch clear.
Harlow make their first change Ronnie Harrison coming on to replace Farmer. The substitute with a great run forwards lays the ball on for Bassett breaking through the centre one on one with the keeper bearing down towards the area Bell commits to the floor diving left as Bassett looks to take the ball around her the goalkeeper, stretching out an arm managing to pluck the ball away from her feet. The danger now cleared players rushing forwards the ball loose gathered on the left Bell up but not set the shot fizzed in Larkins has got back to cover the goal successfully intercepts and clears the threat.
Wroxham Women’s captain, Anna Larkins
The game opening up as Wroxham take more risks in search of a 2nd equalising goal. Porter with an ambitious effort from over halfway dipping late as it come into the box Bell pushes away for the corner. The ball put into the box from the right defended the clearance straight to Gamble strikes a shot back into the crowded area takes a wicked deflection Bell however able to catch the sting taken out of the shot as the Harlow bench goes up collectively with shouts of “handball”… play continues.
Harlow with a 2nd change, Steele coming off on comes Abbey Dell. Dell involved straight away getting forwards with the ball on the left crosses into the box for Shephard unable to turn and get a shot away. Gamble smashing a 25 yard strike over the bar as she latches onto a clearance. Bassett next to line up a strike from distance for Harlow, the attempt straight at Bell. Wroxham counter Birchall moving wide Harrison defending well for Harlow. Chambers getting forward left side for Harlow played on by Bassett central shoots from the angle the ball over the crossbar.
A free-kick for Harlow in a dangerous position central 30 yards out, players forwards King over the ball going for goal a curling effort past the wall hasn’t the high a comfortable take for Bell. Dell nip in to win the ball for Harlow central her low strike put straight at the keeper. Wroxham come forwards right side Holloway carrying the ball on 30 yards out coming in field, Kindred taking the ball to hit a shot from distance runs wide of the left post.
GOAL! Wroxham equalise for the 2nd time in the match the ball played up toward the top of the area, Burke down at the feet of Leach the ball popping up and beyond, Leach staying on her feet to run on and send the ball into the empty net beyond 2-2. A little over 10 minutes left to play.
The game opened right up both sides going for it Wroxham sending it long the bounce leaving the Harlow defence static high up as Birchall latches onto the ball races away down the left coming back inside as Harlow get back to defend their area taking the ball across the top of the area no opening for a shot cuts back looking to put in Kindred the pass behind her, lunging to try and retrieve it brings down King the free-kick given. Wroxham making another change Leanne Symonds coming on in place of Leach.
Harlow advance on the right with Dell putting Edmeades away her cross along the top of the six yard box dealt with by Larkins at the far post with Chambers running in from wide. Larkins called into action again, Bell high in her box as Shephard comes on central closing in on the keeper her shot partially saved as Bell takes some of the power of it as it strikes her legs through them on target Larkins round to cover the goal clears the ball up field. Neither side wanting extra-time looking for a winning goal Shephard fizzing a shot from wide left across the face of goal.
A throw conceded deep in the corner on the right t Harlow, Gamble with Dell winning a corner the ball n deep smashed goalwards blocked. A player down needing treatment, Pasque okay to continue after a pause in play. Harlow rallying late on moments left on the clock a free-kick won on the right Edmeades to put in towards the far post Shields defending to head the ball clear for Wroxham.
Full time Harlow Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women
The game goes to extra-time an additional 30 minutes for either side to find a winning goal. Wroxham coming back well 2nd half after conceding an early goal, the game opening up Bell with some vital saves with Harlow stretching the defence at times.
Extra-time
Wroxham to get the first period of extra-time underway. Harlow getting hold of the ball Shephard away left passes inside for Nash 25 yards out has a shot the ball pushed down by Bell, before diving onto it wit Dell rushing in on the follow up.
A marauding run from Birchall right side taking the ball and players on, comes inside across the top of the area looks to set up Kindred central, Birchall though is hauled over as she releases the ball the referee blows up, close to being a penalty instead a free-kick a foot out inside the D.
GOAL! Birchall over it a packed area in front of her strikes it low and hard the ball taking a wicked deflection that Burke can do little about as it races wide of her into the back of the net 2-3. Wroxham leading for the first time in the match. The goal stands despite Harlow complaints the ball was moving as it was struck the breeze strong blowing across the pitch.
Birchall gathering the ball into her feet on halfway drives on into the area taking defenders with her to the right turning well to leave 3 behind to line up a shot, no powers behind the ball Burke down to gather. Dell with a great turn and hit from 30 yards out Bell behind it but spilt throws herself down to smother it with Chambers racing in.
A free-kick for Harlow in half-way the delivery high into the area dealt with by Parker the ball looping back out of the area spinning as Nash goes to hit it causing it to swerve and drop wide of goal. Harlow make a change with Harriet Lethbridge coming on for Nash. A corner won on the right for Harlow the ball in creeps over everyone near side falling for Porter central volleys over must have taken a nick as another corner is awarded.
Harlow pressing the attack the crossbar struck cleared for a corner. Porter off the field for a change of shirt, having collected a bloody nose earlier in the game. The corner taken another near post delivery attacked put across goal cleared Lethbridge to play back in Bell taking it well with Shephard close in.
Shephard sees her shot outside the box blocked by Pasque, handball indicated a free-kick to Harlow inside the D more or less identical to the one that led to Wroxham’s goal. Shephard to strike it hard and low bodies in the way this time to block the ball rebounding out of the area straight to a Harlow shirt a rising shot coming in on target Bell must be unsighted with so many in the box produces a fantastic save throwing herself back to glove the ball away to the right, a corner for Harlow.
GOAL! The pressure from Harlow pays off players stay up field the delivery this time long across the face of goal beyond the far post King getting her head on the ball to knock it down towards goal a scramble on the line to get the ball away but in vain as the goal is given 3-3. The first half of extra-time finishes with the tie all square once again.
A header from Kaydee King levelling it up for Harlow in extra-time
Harlow to get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. Edmeades played through to attack on the right into the box an opportunity to shoot opts instead to square the ball across goal Larkins stepping up to intercept and clear. Harlow regaining possession a snap shot fired over. Dell winning a corner for Harlow, Parker defending for Wroxham sees it put back to taker Edmeades another opportunity to cross deep King up far past a glancing header wide.
Wroxham making a change Olivia Mungham-Gray coming on for Kindred. Birchall away in the right her cross in deflected by King thankfully straight to Burke in the goal beyond. Cooper fouled by King central a free-kick 25 yards out Birchall to strike her effort gloved down and held by Burke.
GOAL! Time running down in the 2nd period of extra-time Harlow are pushing players on swarming around the Wroxham box the ball at the feet of Gamble 20 yards out to the left of the box fired in to nestle in the back of the net and put the hosts back in front 4-3.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
Wroxham behind late on have to come forwards Harlow though have a late rush of energy to close the ball down and keep momentum with them. Shephard taking the ball into the corner. Holloway breaking late for Wroxham no way through as she tries to pick out Birchall, Harlow solid at the back the final whistle goes and players rush onto the pitch to celebrate.
Harlow through to the next round of the Women’s FA Cup, the draw later this Monday. Deserving of the win overall despite making thing’s harder for themselves doing the job in extra-time. On the front foot early in the game getting the goal should probably have gotten more 1st half credit to Wroxham to come back to equalise late on. An early goal 2nd half for Harlow seeing Wroxham come on more and enjoy a better period of attack getting back on level terms to force extra-time and then take the lead themselves. Harlow keep coming though and King headed in to make it 3-3 the hosts prepared to have a strike from distance all game seeing one beat the keeper late on through Gamble to win the tie.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Grace Birchall in attack and Amy Bell with some superb saves doing well for Wroxham. Harlow showing good movement and energy across the pitch, Amy Nash creating several opportunities strong in central midfield, Chloe Bassett close but edged out by Fran Gamble who had a fantastic game in the middle breaking up play getting forwards well and spreading play scoring the winning goal.
A enjoyable cup tie knew it could well be a close one and was, entertaining and the rain held off. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.
The Women’s FA Cup saw 49 ties played this Sunday in the 1st Round of Qualifying with 7 ties featuring sides covered by Women’s Football East. Plenty of action to bring you, upsets, late winners, penalty shootouts all vying for a place in the next round where the sides from FAWNL Division One enter the competition.
Saw Bungay Town Ladies win 15-0 away to Riverside Ladies in the previous round. The Norfolk Women’s Division One side were hoping for a home draw at least in 1st Round Qualifying having only been at home in 1 of their previous 9 FA Cup games. Alas it wasn’t to be yet again as they were drawn to face tough opposition in ERWFL Premier Division pacesetters Luton Town Ladies. Luton though weren’t taking anything for granted both sides have started the season well in form meeting in the FA Cup. The hosts scoring the opening goal in the 17th minute, Jess McKay setting up Funmi Babalola to send the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0. McKay involved in Luton’s 2nd goal too scored in the 26th minute the corner taker her delivery headed in by Zara Carroll. A 2-0 advantage for Luton at half-time the hosts added a 3rd goal early in the 2nd half Dionne manning getting a shot away to score. McKay influential in the 1st half getting on the scoresheet herself in the 2nd netting a brace on 61 and 75 minutes. Another corner late in the game securing a 6-0 win for Luton another corner taken by McKay, Elle Wade heading home.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side were drawn away to Histon Ladies in the league above the ERWFL Division One North. The game played in difficult conditions at times St Albans more than matching their higher league opponents chances for both the visitors taking the lead on the stroke of half-time Jessica McNamara cutting in from the left and putting a low shot in at the near post 1-0. St Albans beginning the 2nd half well taking a 2-0 lead in the 56th minute, a free-kick won outside the box, Holly Williams sending a high looping ball up and under the bar to score. Histon looking for a reply frustrated Lauren Croucher performing well in goal for the visitors, St Albans going on to take a 3 goal lead with 7 minutes left to play Kayla Johnson the goal scorer. A 4th goal coming in injury time Sophie Hull celebrating the goal. St Albans knocking out higher league opposition to progress.
St Albans Ladies 4-0 winners against Histon Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Newmarket Town Women have done well in the Women’s FA Cup in recent seasons beating Netherton United Ladies in the previous round the ERWFL Division One North side were drawn away to Watford Ladies Development. A potentially tough tie on paper Watford producing some very talented sides over recent years. A hard fought victory for Newmarket in the end taking the lead in the 40th minute with young striker Anabel Cuthbert scoring her 5th goal of the season. Brooke Wickens making it 2-0 to the visitors soon after the restart Newmarket defending their 2-0 lead to progress in the competition.
Had hoped to be at Trafford Park on Sunday to watch the FA Cup tie between Wroxham Women and Wymondham Town Ladies, hugely frustrated that I couldn’t make it events at work conspiring against me. A thrilling finish to the match seeing Wroxham comeback from 2-0 down to win the game 3-2! Wymondham starting the game well the majority of the attack Amy Bell forced to make saves early on for the hosts. Wymondham capitalising on their good start to take the lead on 15 minutes Rebecca Russell firing home the goal. Wymondham continued to create the better opportunities but just the 1 goal to show for it at the break. The visitors going 2-0 up within 5 minutes of the 2nd half starting striker Hannah Waters on target with the goal. Wroxham having taken their time to get going pushing on in search of a goal beginning to pressure their opponents the game entering the final 9 minutes ex-Wymondham winger Kayleigh Holloway crossed the ball in for Grace Birchall to score, two minutes later Wroxham were back on level terms Beth Bygrave latching onto a loose ball from 25 yards out to smash home to make it 2-2. Into the final 5 minutes Wroxham with their tails up pushing forwards Birchall fouled inside the box a penalty awarded, Amber Rowland with the pressure kick dispatched into the top corner to send Wroxham through to the next round.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies made the trip down to Essex to face Harlow Town Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday, the ERWFL Division One North side up against the current ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Harlow in good form at the start of the season their squad strengthened and full of goals. King’s Lynn though proved tough opposition Harlow having to earn the win, Becky Shephard with a great strike from distance shooting in over the keeper to make it 1-0. Tayla Handscombe with a quality driven strike from 25 yards out putting Harlow 2-0 up. Tiffany Forshaw pulling it back to 2-1 for King’s Lynn. The hosts were awarded a penalty which saw Frances Gamble score to secure a 3-1 victory.
Colney Heath Ladies were hosting Royston Town Women for the 2nd successive weekend this Sunday having lost 4-1 to their Hertfordshire rivals in the league then the ERWFL Premier Division sides were going head to head in the FA Cup this time. A great start for Colney Heath taking the lead in the 4th minute Adrienne Milton with the cross for Rianne Townsend-Brown to score. Royston responded well getting back on level terms the visitors going on to score twice more to lead 3-1 at half-time. Royston have begun the season strongly and hammered home their advantage to get themselves into a 5-1 lead. Milton reducing the arrears for Colney Heath but Royston worthy winners to progress 5-2. Rebecca Vass on target for 4 goals with Sammy Tinsley also getting her name on the scoresheet.
One more match to bring you from the Women’s FA Cup another all ERWFL Premier Division affair with AFC Dunstable Women playing at home for the first time this season up against Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A tough start to the season for Dunstable their only victory of the season so far in the FA Cup away to Houghton Athletic Ladies, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies bar one blip making a fantastic start to the season Dunstable came within a minute of winning it in normal time having taken the lead in the 50th minute through Kathryn Light. Danielle Styles played through on goal in the 89th minute scoring for Bowers & Pitsea to send the tie into extra-time. More drama to follow Styles heading in at the back post from a corner to send Bowers & Pitsea into the lead, Ella Claridge onto the end of a long ball forwards slotting the ball under the keeper to level things up for Dunstable and send the tie all the way to penalties. Bowers & Pitsea winning the shootout 3-2 to boo their place in the next round.
The draw for 2nd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup made their are 13 ties involving sides in the East those listed below. To be played Sunday 6th October and I’ve decided already I’ll be making the trip down to Essex to watch Harlow Town Ladies v Wroxham Women.
Once again there are a record number of entries for this season’s Women’s FA Cup the final taking place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 7th May. An extra-preliminary round having already taken place there were 98 ties for this Sunday’s Preliminary Round, 15 of which represented by sides covered by Women’s Football East, plenty of action and goals to bring you from the weekend so let’s get started…
Will begin with the featured match upon the website this weekend a trip to Peterborough to watch Riverside Ladies play Suffolk side Bungay Town Ladies. A good pre-season so far for Bungay winning 5 from 5 including a 2-1 win away to Northamptonshire side, Corby Town Ladies in the extra-preliminary round. In contrast for Riverside this was the first game of the season and one where they had the bare 11 available. Turned out to be the highest winning margin of the round. Bungay starting on the front foot firing a couple of warning shots across the Riverside goal, Shannon Dade on the right breaking to send the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-0. The visitors soon adding a 2nd scoring from a corner the ball dropping into the six yard box Leanne Smith applying the final touch. Midway through the first half Bungay extended their lead on top Selina Rowland charging down the ball in midfield the rebound sending Smith away to attack and score. Smith going on to net a hat-trick, Imogen McGregor getting another soon after to make it 5-0. McGregor with time to pick her options put clear on goal sending in Bungay’s 6th, Riverside capitulating late in the half as Bungay ran away with it scoring 3 more in quick succession Smith adding 2 more to have 5 before half-time herself midfielder Selina Rowland getting a goal too. 9-0 the half-time lead.
Leanne Smith amongst the goals for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st half scoring 5
Little Riverside can do minor positional adjustments, Bungay making 3 changes beginning the 2nd half where they left off the first Rowland netting her 2nd and Bungay’s 10th a great header off a corner from the top of the area placed across goal. Two of the substitutes combining for the 11th goal Samantha Penman right providing the cross in front of goal for Tracey Livingstone to tap home. Despite the scoreline Riverside are better in the 2nd period Gabija Pavlova doing well centrally in midfield. The goals continue though Bungay are in confident mood, Rowland getting her hat-trick. A penalty conceded Nicola Hazell smashing the ball home Livingstone with another then McGregor completing her hat-trick to bring up a 15th goal an emphatic win for Bungay away for the 8th time in their previous 9 FA Cup matches hoping for a home draw in the next round.
Plenty of goal elsewhere too, Harlow Town Ladies had scored 16 in their previous outing in adding to their squad over the summer travelled to AFC Sudbury Ladies in the Preliminary Round. A hat-trick for one of their new signings Becky Shephard last weekend to open her account, 3 goals too open her account for the season for Olivia Steele, both were amongst the goals as Harlow ran out 8-0 winners to book their spot in the next round. Steele scoring a 2nd successive hat-trick, Shephard went one better scoring 4 goals. Lucy Edmeades also getting her name on the scoresheet for her first of the season.
Leading the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start their season Colney Heath Lades were in confident mood as they travelled to play fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. New signing Samaira Khan amongst the goals early doors for Colney Heath scoring early in the Preliminary Round to see the visitors leading on 8 minutes. The advantage doubled midway through the first half as Charlene Moreton sends in a shot of the outside of her boot. Bedford pulling a goal back from a headed cross. Colney Heath responding well chances spurned Bedford winning a penalty a let off as it goes over. A 2-1 lead for Colney Heath at half-time. Sheree Oliver scoring 10 minutes into the 2nd half supplying Colney Heath with a 2 goal cushion their defence little troubled as they progress.
Luton Town Ladies relegated from the FAWNL last season starting life in the ERWFL well with 2 wins from 2 were hosting a young Essex side who produced a shock in the Women’s FA Cup last season beating higher league opponents Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Leigh Ramblers Ladies winning Essex Premier Division last season joining the ERWFL themselves this season much of their squad still 18. Luton a stern test. The hosts taking the lead through Rebecca Ferris after being set up by Jess McKay. McKay herself scoring Luton’s 2nd Zara Carroll with the assist. Dionne Manning amongst the goals for Luton early in the season making it 3-0. Funmi Bababola finding the top corner to make it 4. McKay with her 2nd from a header making it 5-0. A first Luton goal for Leah Tomlin seeing the hosts into a 6 goal lead. Kiki Christofi striking from distance securing a comfortable 7-0 win for Luton.
Wroxham Women were looking forwards to their first Women’s FA Cup game under their new name the Yachtswomen hosting Kettering Women at Trafford Park on Sunday. Thing’s not going to plan at half-time however as Wroxham found themselves trailing 2-1. Despite creating good chances early ion Wroxham found themselves behind on 22 minutes The lead lasted just 6 minutes however as Wroxham got back on level terms Grace Birchall finding the back of the net. Pressure from the visitors though saw them retake the lead soon after through an unfortunate own goal. Wroxham with a much better 2nd half performance though seeing them equalise in the 56th minute Birchall threading the ball through for Emily Leach to score on the angle. Leach on target again six minutes later scoring from a half volley to put Wroxham in front. Beth Bygrave newly signed up to Wroxham getting her first goal for the club making it 4-2 quickly adding a 2nd making it 5-2 from 25 yards. Into the last 10 minutes and another of Wroxham’s new signings , Kayleigh Holloway adding a 6th goal lobbing the keeper saw her effort kiss the crossbar before following the rebound in.
Six goals too for the winning side elsewhere too in the Women’s FA Cup as Essex side Bowers & Pitsea recovered well from their mauling last time out. Travelling to Hertfordshire to play Hitchin Belles newly promoted to Beds & Herts Division One. Ebony Moore latching onto a misplaced pass in the 25th minute firing the visitors into the lead., Two superb strikes from Megan Harley followed in the 34th and 38th minute to see Bowers & Pitsea holding a 3-0 lead at the break. The lead extended 5 minutes into the 2nd half Harley setting up Moore to score her 2nd of the match. Hitchin Belles pulling a goal back in the 55th minute after Bowers & Pitsea fail to clear a corner. 5 minutes left to play Moore looking set to score her hat-trick a defensive miscue seeing an own goal scored instead. Moore though getting another opportunity in the final minute to celebrate scoring a hat-trick Bowers & Pitsea winning 6-1.
Millwall Lionesses a new addition to the ERWFL Division One South this season began their FA Cup adventure away to Whyteleafe Women on Sunday in the Preliminary Round. The visitors making a fantastic start a double from Ellie Lunn seeing them into a 2-0 lead inside 4 minutes. The game settling a little Whyteleafe pulled it back to 2-1 in the 27th minute the ball not cleared from a corner. A counter attack seeing the hosts level the scores with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st period. 2-2 at half-time Whyteleafe turned it completely around going 3-2 ahead inside 2 minutes of the restart. Millwall responded quickly back on level terms with Lunn on target for her hat-trick. Millwall coming back to lead as they were awarded a penalty in the 66th minute Lunn with 3 already stepping up to make it 4. Brooke Hills on target 4 minutes later to put Millwall into a 5-2 lead it was 6-3 moments later as Katie Klosinski fired home.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One Champions, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were away to Watford Ladies Development in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. Despite scoring twice they were knocked out at the first hurdle as Watford’s Development side ran out 4-2 winners.
ERWFL Premier Division side Haringey Borough Women travelled to play Phoenix Sports Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday the lower league side putting in a good performance to win through to the next round of the competition with goals form Mika Keen, Emily Laker, Phoebe Murton, Jemma Witchlow, Hannah Baker and Ayo Shokunbi securing a 6-1 result.
Wymondham Town Ladies have enjoyed the Women’s FA Cup in recent season’s began this campaign with a trip to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The ERWFL Premier Division side playing 2 leagues higher took the lead midway through the 1st half with Mollie O’Callaghan put through to open the scoring. Sarah Payne one of Wymondham’s new recruits opening her account in the 38th minute getting on the end of a Mia Etheridge cross to score. 2-0 up at half-time an early goal followed 2nd half with striker Hannah Waters finding the back of the net. Summer Ward netting Wymondham’s 4th from a free-kick on 68 minutes. Another new recruit opening her account with 7 minutes left on the clock, Freya Symonds seeing her effort cross the line.
AFC Dunstable Women playing in the ERWFL Premier Division made the short trip to played Houghton Athletic Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup. After two heavy defeats to start the season Dunstable were looking for a positive result, their Beds & Herts Women’s Division One opponents holding them at 0-0 late into the game the deadlock broken in the 88th minute and joy for Dunstable as Dionne Umeh sent the ball into the back of the net and send them through to the net round of the competition.
Newmarket Town Women were wary of their opponents as they travelled to Peterborough to face Netherton United Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. All square during the opening half hour Newmarket creating chances it was Netherton who opened the scoring on 33 minutes, the ball initially saved from a corner the hosts quicker to react scoring on the follow up. Newmarket were soon back on level terms scoring from a corner of their own 2 minutes later Jess Linger swinging the ball in Annabel Cuthbert scoring from close range. Newmarket going on to take the lead at the death in the 1st half Jodie Woodfield winning the ball in midfield on for Antonia Smith to play Cuthbert in for her 2nd of the game. Save from goalkeeper Elli-Rae Nicholls ensuring Newmarket held there lead the win not made save until the 90th minute with Lauren Deller making it 3-1.
Annabel Cuthbert on the score sheet twice for Newmarket Town Women (photo credit Gary Reed)
King’s Lynn Town Ladies travelled down to played Haverhill Rovers Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup. Newly promoted to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Haverhill suffering a blow losing their goalkeeper prior to kick-off as they prepared to make their debut in the competition assistant manager Kayleigh Steed doning the gloves produced a number of fine saves as they took on their high league opponents. Goals from Becky Russell, Katie Ward and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse sealing a 3-1 win to see King’s Lynn through to the next round.
Another close contest saw Histon Ladies score a late winner to beat St Ives Town Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. Histon travelling to Westwood Road on Sunday scoring the only goal of the game with 15 minutes left on the clock the ball headed on from a goal kick, Kirsty Geal breaking with it left side sending it on to Sophie Lanham breaking through the centre into the box to strike home the winning goal.
The final game to bring you saw ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women play Division One South opponents Wodson Park Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Hayley Elderd, Emma Slater, Sammy Tinsley and Ellie Wilkinson saw Royston safely past their fellow Hertfordshire opponents in the Preliminary Round winning the game 4-1 with Dempsey Favell scoring the Wodson Park goal.
The draw for the First Qualifying Round taking place this Monday once again saw some intriguing ties pulled out of the bag, 8 games featuring sides in the East, listed below:-
