Category Archives: Women’s FA Cup

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v AFC Basildon Women

Sunday 27th October

Women’s FA Cup

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.

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 13/10/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th October

Women’s FA Cup

  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.

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 13th October

Women’s FA Cup

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.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Tigi Robson, Lauren Cullum, Eliza McDonald, Izzy Collins, Angelina Nixon, Reeanna Cook, Millie Daviss (C), Keunna Dill, Aimee Durrant & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Rosie George, Josie Jarvis, Jodie Drake & Megan Todd.

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. 

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 06/10/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 6th October

Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying

 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

Enfield Town Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Actonians Ladies v Fulham Women

Queens Park Rangers Women v Leyton Orient WFC

 

 

 

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 6th October

Women’s FA Cup

  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 Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 22/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 22nd September

Women’s FA Cup 1st Round Qualifying

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.

  Stevenage FC Women v Peterborough United Ladies

Newmarket Town Women v Luton Town Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies v Wroxham Women

Norwich City Women v Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge City Ladies v St Albans Ladies

Ipswich Town Women v Royston Town Women

Kent Football United v Actonians Ladies

Dartford Women v Billericay Town Ladies

Ashford Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Enfield Town Ladies v Islington Borough Ladies

Maidenhead United Ladies v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

AFC Basildon Women v Phoenix Sports Ladies

Abingdon United Ladies v Leyton Orient WFC

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 01/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup

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:-

Luton Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Wroxham Women v Wymondham Town Ladies

Watford Ladies Development v Newmarket Town Women

Histon Ladies v St Albans Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies v Royston Town Women

AFC Dunstable Women v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Millwall Lionesses v Worthing Ladies

all ties to be played Sun 22nd September.

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 2nd Rd Qualifying

The Round-Up

Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying

   33 clubs across the East entered the Women’s FA Cup at the 2nd Round Qualifying stage this weekend as they started on The Road to Wembley, a distance dream it maybe but nevertheless everyone entered with that the ultimate prize come Saturday May 13th. 80 ties in total in the 2nd Round Qualifying. Prize money increased this year too the winning side this weekend earning £450. A possible tie with an FAWPL Division One side in the next round too. The competition regionalised in the early rounds to try and limit the travelling sides have to do. 19 games featured sides covered by Women’s Football East the fortunes of all covered below.

   It all started Saturday night the 2nd Round Qualifying ties starting with Bishops Stortford Ladies making their debut in the Women’s FA Cup hosting Bungay Town Ladies. A special occasion for the Beds & Herts Division One side getting to play the fixture at the men’s ProKit (UK) Stadium. Bungay Town Ladies competing in Norfolk Women’s Division One were entering the Women’s FA Cup for the 3rd time looking to progress to the next round for the 1st time. This match was covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog the match report can be found further down the feed on the website or by clicking on the link below. 

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies 17/09/16

  Bungay Town Ladies held the advantage at half-time leading 1-0 Rebecca Carver with the goal slotting the ball into the bottom corner from outside the box. A competitive 1st half, Bungay Town Ladies came out the stronger 2nd half striker Lacey Andrews causing the Bishops Stortford defence some problems eventually breaking into the box and scoring to make it 2-0. A late goal from Kathryn Stanley on 82 minutes sending the ball over goalkeeper Ruth Smart to pull it back to 2-1 looked to set up a tense finish however Bungay were to get down the other end and score, Andrews winning the ball in the corner linked up with Emily leach before the ball came back to her to lift over the keeper and in to make it 3-1 the final score.

  Two more sides from Beds & Herts Division One faced each other in 2nd Round Qualifying on Sunday with Houghton Athletic Ladies entering for the 1st time at home to Sherrardswood Ladies. Emma Hawkes gave Houghton the lead in the tie. Laure Marris pulled it all square for Sherrardswood with 15 minutes left on the clock. A late long range strike from Ciara Craig 2 minutes from time won the game for Houghton sending them through to the next round.

   Park Ladies were making their Women’s FA Cup debut and will hardly want a reminder on The Round-Up as to how they fared the side newly promoted to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership hosting Northampton Town Ladies promoted to the EMWFL Division One South this season. The higher league opponents proving too strong for Park Ladies racking up a 14-0 scoreline to advance in the competition.

  Promoted with Northampton Town Ladies to the EMWFL Division One South were Peterborough United Ladies. They were making their debut in the Women’s FA Cup at home to another side entering for the 1st time, Cambridge City Ladies, newly promoted to the ERWFL Division One. A close result Cambridge City Ladies progress through to the next round Grace Stanley scoring the only goal of the tie.

   Staying with the EMWFL Division One South, Riverside Ladies were also in action in 2nd Round Qualifying taking on Woodford United Ladies. A far more convincing result for Riverside as they overcame their lower league opponents 9-0 to go into the hat for the next round draw.

  Histon Ladies formerly Great Shelford Ladies were on the road in 2nd Round Qualifying taking on EMWFL Division One South side Moulton Ladies. Sophie Hopkin netting a brace in the tie. Abigail Davies, Katie Saunders and Sophie Ugur also scoring goals for Histon as they ran out 5-2 winners to advance.

   Two sides from the Essex Women’s Premier Division were also making their Women’s FA Cup debuts in 2nd Round Qualifying. Chelmsford City Ladies face a tough away match against high flying Haringey Borough Women leading with Bedford Ladies at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division two league higher. Proved too strong for Chelmsford City. Anais Reynolds scoring a hat-trick, their were braces too for Anele Komani, Julia Carruthers & Klesha Darroux. Roxanne Eshun, Naomi Graham and Shanice Nourrice all scoring a goal each too in a 12-0 victory.

  Harlow Town Ladies promoted as Essex Division One Champions to the Premier Division were facing another ERWFL Premier Division side, Billericay Town Ladies entering the cup for the 1st time. Away from home Billericay Town Ladies took the lead on 17 minutes. Fran Gamble pulling it back to 1-1 on the half hour mark. Billericay Town retaking the lead just before half-time. Extended the lead to 3-1 on 63 minutes. Tia Dye got it back to 3-2 for Harlow Town Ladies with 15 minutes left, Billericay Town Ladies holding onto the lead at the end to progress to the next round. 

  The Supporting Women’s Football Blog covered a 2nd Women’s FA Cup tie on Sunday, eventually travelling down to the Ridgeons Stadium in Newmarket to take a look at their new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. Newmarket Town Ladies new home the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side welcomed a tough opponent with Wymondham Town Ladies newly promoted to ERWFL Division One having enjoyed an extended run in the competition last season keen for further progress this time around. had Newmarket on the back foot right from kick off. Gemma Sanders giving the visitors an early lead the goal was soon followed up by another with Laura Wiseman played through on goal. Sanders netted her 2nd of the game to put Wymondham 3-0 up at half-time.

nw-sanders

Gemma Sanders in action for Wymondham Town Ladies

 Changes at the break saw Newmarket rally early in the 2nd half, Nadine Basson pulling a goal back. Wymondham hit back with 2 quick goals Kayleigh Holloway and Bethany Fretwell scoring to make it 5-1. A well worked goal from Newmarket got it back to 5-2. Again Wymondham broke and scored Alice Collins with the goal. Wiseman adding her 2nd and Wymondham’s in the 90th minute to seal a 7-2 win. The match report can be found on the website or by clicking on the link below.

Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies 18/09/16

Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies were making their Women’s FA Cup debut on Sunday at home to local rivals Brentwood Town Ladies playing in the league ERWFL Premier Division above. Katy Judd scored to give Little Thurrock Dynamos the lead and it looked to be enough only for Brentwood Town Ladies to find the equaliser late into the 2nd half to force the tie into extra-time. Brentwood Town Ladies going on to score again in the extra 30 minutes and advance 2-1 to the next round draw.

  ERWFL Premier Division leaders Bedford Ladies suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat away to Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies to go out of the competition Cyeanna Eaton with Bedford Ladies goal. Writtle Ladies also from the ERWFL Premier Division were also knocked out of the Women’s FA Cup the 1st time entrants losing 3-0 at home to Leyton Orient WFC. 

  Better news for the other ERWFL Premier Division sides in the Women’s FA Cup. Acle United Ladies reaching the 3rd Round Qualifying draw beating Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side Netherton United Ladies at home 2-0. Anna Larkins and Kate Pasque with the goals. 

 Royston Town Ladies were away to Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday a tricky tie in 2nd Round Qualifying the ERWFL Division One side finding good form recently. Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Grace Leslie and Samantha Tinsley all scored for Royston Town Ladies, Molly Slade getting a goal for Colney Heath Ladies who were knocked out losing 3-1.

 AFC Dunstable Ladies were at home on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup taking on Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Sandy Ladies. 3 Dunstable players claimed a brace in the match, Samaria Khan, Paige Kavangh and Amber Pearson. Danielle Carty and Lori Wilson-Phillips grabbed a goal each too Dunstable winning 8-0.

  AFC Sudbury Ladies made the short trip to the Boxted Sports Ground to play fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Colchester Town Ladies. Sudbury taking an early lead, Sasha Diston heading home from a corner inside 5 minutes. Stacey Teager doubling the lead 10 minutes later. Another corner routine late in the 1st half saw Sudbury take a 3-0 lead into the dressing room at half-time Charlene Roach the scorer. Lost Sophie Jeffery to a head injury in the 1st half however. A nasty looking swollen bruise above her eye to show for her efforts after the game. No more goals followed in the 2nd half Sudbury progressing to the next round had something extra to celebrate, Sophie Pink returning to action after a long injury lay off.

  Brandon Town Ladies, Peterborough Northern Star Ladies and Hertford Town Ladies all advanced without kicking a ball their opponents withdrawing from the competition. The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying was made this Monday and has thrown up some tasty looking ties those featuring clubs of interest listed below.

Women’s FA Cup 3rd Round Qualifying Draw

Norwich City Ladies v Riverside Ladies

Lowestoft Town Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Actonians Ladies

Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

Northampton Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Denham United Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

Cambridge United WFC v Wymondham Town Ladies

AFC Sudbury Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Kettering Town WFC v Brandon Town Ladies

Bungay Town Ladies v Acle United Ladies

AFC Dunstable Ladies v Meridian Ladies

Houghton Athletic Ladies v Brentwood Town Ladies

Haringey Borough Women v Chichester City Ladies

Newbury LFC v Hertford Town Ladies

Billericay Town Ladies v Basingstoke Town Ladies

Worthing Town LFC v Stevenage Ladies

Bexhill United Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Royston Town Ladies v Regents Park Rangers Ladies

Gillingham FC Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies

Ties scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October 

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

The 2nd game from the Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday comes from the Ridgeons Stadium in Newmarket where Newmarket Town Ladies now play their home games on a brand new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. Were taking on higher league opponents with Norfolk Division One Champions Wymondham Town Ladies looking to progress in the competition enjoy a run like they had last season.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

 
 The Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying action continues on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this weekend with a trip down the A11 to the Ridgeons Stadium to watch Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Is a match up between two ambitious women’s football clubs looking to grow and progress up the football pyramid, both with large playing squads starting up reserve sides this season.

  This is Newmarket Town Ladies 1st competitive match at their new home the Ridgeons Stadium on Cricket Field Road in Newmarket, home of the men’s side and a stark contrast to the Dullingham Polo Fields where they played previously. The ground has undergone alot of development since the last time I was there, have in place a state of the art cork based 3G pitch. 

  Newmarket Town ladies compete in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and are looking to push on up the table this season, with their League Cup winning U18s side stepping up to the senior squad this season, plus a few new signings the 1st team is complemented by a new reserve side competing in the Championship South. Started the league season last weekend, Nadine Basson scoring the goal in a 1-0 win away to Netherton United Ladies. A good test for a young squad today playing higher league opposition. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies had a great run in the Women’s FA Cup last season winning through to 4th Round Qualifying beating FAWPL Division One side Cambridge United WFC along the way. Eventually losing to another FAWPL Division One side, Bedford Ladies. Followed their FA Cup adventure on the Blog last season. Wymondham Town Ladies went on to win the Norfolk Women’s Division One title and as Champions of Norfolk have been promoted to the new look ERWFL Division One where they have started well laying 2nd in the table after 4 games played going into the weekend. A league above Newmarket, Wymondham have nearly a month more competitive football under their belts.

  May have been a little premature calling summer over last evening in the cold and drizzle at Bishops Stortford for today was a lovely warm sunny afternoon. Boasting a new state of the art 3G pitch the rest of the ground is coming along nicely to, room for spectators around the whole pitch, has a good sized seated stand beside the clubhouse, with a bar and hot refreshments available. 

The new cork based state of the art 3G pitch at the Ridgeons Stadium

  Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Olivia Orme, Beth Woodfield (C), Kristin Hummel, Abbi Griffin, Jess Linger, Antonia Smith, Joeli Kirby, Abbie Marshall & Nadine Basson.
  subs – Sian Tatum, Molly Agnew, Natalia Evangelou, Dominika Szary & Jodie Woodfield.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Kelly Ayers, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs – Summer Moore, Hannah Johnson, Lily Ray & Ella Swift.

  It’s Newmarket to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway wearing yellow shirts with blue shoulders and trim, blue shorts with yellow trim and yellow socks with blue and white hoops. Wymondham lined up opposite wearing red shirts, black shorts and red and black hooped socks. The visitors win possession of the ball early played into Kayleigh Holloway down the left wing crosses the ball in curling it towards the near post with Laura Wiseman making the run to get on the end of it gets a touch but not enough to take it past Newmarket goalkeeper, Eloise Hope who claims well covering the angle.

Kristen Hummel tackles, Gemma Sanders for the ball

  On the right inside the Newmarket half Gemma Sanders closes Joeli Kirby down to win the ball and run in behind shooting from 20 yards out sends the ball wide of goal. Newmarket make progress up the right Wymondham’s Brooke Cheal-Ferris closing Antonia Smith down to give the opposition a throw in the ball is played into Olivia Orme who holds the ball up outside the area before laying back into the path of Kristen Hummel central running onto the ball shoots, blasted into the area is blocked by Kelly Ayers for Wymondham.

 Sanders coming forwards again down the wing is tripped a free kick on the right inside the Newmarket half players go forwards as Amber Cantwell stands over the ball, plays it long towards the far post, looks like it might evade everyone then Bethany Fretwell gets a stooping head on the ball, at Hope quickly a yard away does well to get a glove on the ball push it around the post to concede the corner kick. 

  GOAL! The corner delivery from Holloway on the left isn’t dealt with, dropping into the centre of the six yard box lands at Sanders feet, fall backwards she stabs the ball in over the line, scrambling to her feet to run away in celebration 0-1 an early lead for the visitors 7 minutes played.

Gemma Sanders pictured scores the opening goal for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Newmarket carry the ball into the Wymondham half, Kirby left in field to Abbi Griffin sends it out right to Smith the crossfield pass up to Nadine Basson in attack doesn’t get a good connection with the ball as she shoots from the top of the area, the ball runs harmlessly through to Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan. 

  Wiseman gets hold of the ball inside the Newmarket half dribbles it on looking wriggle her way through the Newmarket defence, the tackle comes in the ball out for a throw left, played into the advancing Cheal-Ferris she whips an early ball into the box, Newmarket captain, Beth Woodfield kicks it clear out of the area is picked up by Cantwell 25 yards out takes on the shot the ball flying straight into Hope the goalkeeper gloves the ball safely to the floor. Wiseman moves to the right supporting Sanders in attack the pair working the ball on Sanders receiving it from Wiseman cuts the ball back along the top of the Newmarket box Alice Collins shoots as the ball arrives at her feet inside the D drives the ball wide.

Laura Wiseman makes it 0-2 to
Wymondham Town Ladies

  GOAL! Wymondham are causing Newmarket all sorts of problems early on moving the ball well the home side struggling to get any meaningful possession inside their opponents half, the ball is won back by Cantwell ion halfway is a quality pass over the top for Wiseman to chase down, winning the race against the Newmarket defence inside the area to hit a left foot strike across the six yard box and into the bottom corner of the net 0-2. The lead doubled inside the opening 15 minutes.

  Moments later Cantwell comes on with the ball again not closed down pulls the trigger in a central position 20 yards out, Hope makes the save punching the ball over her crossbar. From the resulting corner on the left, Fretwell gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box from Holloway’s delivery pushes the ball wide of the far post. Wymondham keep coming on with the ball Newmarket pushed deep in their own half can’t mount a counter attack.

 GOAL! The clock passes the 20 minute mark and the visitors extend their lead winning a corner on the right, Cheal-Ferris to take the initial ball is dealt with well by Beth Woodfield headed out of the box the ball is retrieved by Fretwell played back out to Cheal-Ferris as players try to get out of the area the ball is lifted in towards the far post, might be dropping in as Hope tries to get across to deal, Sanders rushing in nods the ball over the line to make sure, doesn’t get up quite so quickly to celebrate this time as she got as much of the post as she did the ball 0-3. 

  Cantwell brings the ball on over halfway tries to thread the pass through for Wiseman in the middle again, Hummel makes a vital interception at the back to win the ball for Newmarket outside her area. Hope produces another fantastic save to deny Cheal-Ferris as the defender bringing the ball on shoots from the left angling the ball in near post heading for the top corner Hope tips it over her crossbar. More good defending from Newmarket, Orme this time up against Sanders as the ball is sent into the area from Holloway on the left gets in front of Sanders to shield the ball and clear, possession regained by Wymondham’s captain Rachel Cossey she shoots from distance but straight down Hope’s throat.

Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey wins the battle for the header with Newmarket’s, Abbie Marshall

  A rare attack 1st half for Newmarket, Griffin plays the ball up to Basson central holding off her marker releases Smith in the wing attempts the through ball into the box with Abbie Marshall making to run, Ayers inside the box gets there 1st for Wymondham to clear. Ayers forwards to take a throw on the right puts the ball into Wiseman moving to the byline, turning hooks the ball high into the air, a dangerous bounce at the far post Collins ready to turn it in, Hummel gets her boot under it 1st to launch away from danger.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Antonia Smith

  Wymondham having time at the back on the ball work it forwards well players moving into space to receive, Ayers plays the pass inside to Cossey sends the ball on for Wiseman on the shoulder of the Newmarket defence a race for the ball into the area again this time the left foot strike is screwed wide across the face of goal. Wymondham attack down the left side the ball is lifted high in towards the top of the box inside the D, Sanders tries to get to the dropping ball under challenge makes contact more of a deflection than a shot nevertheless the ball loops back up towards goal, Hope on her goal line keeps her eye on it, drops onto the top of the crossbar bounces twice before rolling back onto the roof of the net.

  The ball is won back by Wymondham in midfield played up into the box with Wiseman on the move left, wants the ball to drop over her shoulder then strike it, Hope comes to close the attacker down, does enough to put Wiseman of as she scoops the ball up over the goal beyond. From a corner kick played in by Cheal-Ferris on the right, Fretwell with another stooping header gets under the ball pushes it up over the bar inside the six yard box. Sanders catches Hope accidentally late in the 1st half inside the box as she tries to get in around Woodfield shielding the ball, Hope calls comes sliding in just as Sanders throws a leg around the defender catches the goalkeeper on the ground right of goal, a painful collision but the Newmarket goalkeeper is okay.
   

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-3 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A dominant 1st half display from Wymondham sees them in control of the tie leading 3-0 keeping better possession of the ball and using the width well, have Newmarket penned back in their own half with Basson isolated on halfway unable to get involved in the game at all to influence things up top. A lot to do at half-time if they are to find any response in the 2nd half.
  A double switch for Newmarket at the start of the 2nd half the wide players Kirby and Smith off with Molly Agnew and Natalia Evangelou coming on. Positional changes too, Evangelou going to right back see’s Yasmin Woodfield move inside to centre back, Hummel into midfield with Griffin wide right, Agnew wide left. Evangelou is called into action straight away as Wymondham kick off the 2nd half play the ball to Holloway on the left wing driving forwards, the substitute tackling to put the ball out for a throw in. 
Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin
  Straight away Agnew makes an impact on the left for Newmarket driving down the wing cutting inside to evade a tackle curls a cross into the box along the six yard line no one there to turn it goalwards. Wymondham press up the left Cantwell out to Holloway up the wing cuts the ball back to Collins at the top if the area the ball is deflected through to the far post area, Sanders chasing in sees the ball saved by Hope at close range.
 GOAL! 3 minutes into the 2nd half and Newmarket pull a goal back. Jess Linger gets the ball into Hummel takes on the shot 25 yards out puts it straight into O’Callaghan’s gloves the keeper kicks the ball out of her area up field, Hummel’s wins the challenge for the ball, sends a great ball through the middle for Basson where she’s most effective in the opponents box, the defence turned Basson gets to the ball 1st sliding onto it to propel it on past the diving keeper into the back of the net 1-3.
 
  Sanders running up the right wing with the ball sends the cross along the top of the area looking for Holloway coming inside from the left, Hope coming out to intercept the ball takes it away from the winger, the ball races in quickly to Wiseman inside the D can’t get it under her control before both Woodfield’s close her down.
  GOAL! Newmarket’s joy at pulling a goal back at the start of the 2nd half lasts barely 5 minutes as Wymondham open it back up to 3 goals. Holloway is on the ball allowed to travel along way with it turns inside before firing in a shot from outside the area the ball sailing through the air across the goal to nestle over the line off the far side netting 1-4.
 
Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway
  GOAL! 3 minutes later Wymondham go further ahead, are awarded a free-kick on the right halfway inside the Newmarket half. Cantwell on the ball plays a great delivery up towards the near post, Fretwell has had a few chances to bag a goal, gets one to her name as she connects with the ball sliding it under Hope as she dives in vain to stop it crossing the line. 1-5.
 
Bethany Fretwell with the goal to make it 5 for Wymondham Town Ladies
 Two changes for Wymondham both on the right side bringing of both Ayers and Sanders, Lily Ray and Ella Swift. Wiseman strong as she receives the ball inside the D spins away to her left before reversing the shot across the face of goal just wide at the far post. Ray moving with the ball up the right sends a shot flashing over the bar from the angle. 
 Up the other end Newmarket are pushing on more, Agnew left and Griffin right running at the Wymondham defence with Hummel up the pitch to, passes the ball into the right channel, Basson gets after the ball tries to take it on around Fretwell  the centre back gets back well to time her tackle and regain possession. Wymondham make their 3rd change Cantwell comes off, with Summer Moore coming on into the centre of midfield. 
Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbie Marshall
  Agnew ball at her feet drives forwards an inside run from the left fires the ball into Marshall inside the D, Newcombe squeezes the ball taking it away from the attacker, Basson to the left latches onto the loose ball outside the area her 1st time strike swerves away from the goal wide. Hummel plays the ball long into the box for Basson to give chase, pressures the defence enough to win Newmarket their 1st corner of the game. Swung into the six yard box from the right the ball drops into the six yard box, Hummel lunging for it doesn’t make any meaningful contact Wymondham see it cleared up field. Newmarket bring on Sian Tatum for Hummel with around 15 minutes left to play.
  Basson has picked up a knock from the corner is struggling a bit as the ball is won back by her defence played long up to her, 20 yards out Newcombe comes in to close her down, manages to get the ball in towards goal lacks any pace O’Callaghan scoops it up into her gloves. Marshall makes a good run with the ball in the middle for Newmarket has Tatum moving into the box to her right tries to play her in Fretwell closes her down puts the ball out for a throw on the right. 
Nadine Basson with Wymondham’s Ella Swift
 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes of the tie, Newmarket with the throw on the right push players on is played up to Tatum top corner of the area not a clean take but helps the ball on towards the top of the area inside the D, Marshall latches onto the ball shoots the ball blocked from 2 yards comes straight back to her takes it on into the area turns to her right Tatum is there instead she back heel the ball straight into Basson behind needing no invitation Basson shoots sends the ball into the bottom corner past the diving O’Callaghan 2-5.
 
 GOAL! No sooner were Newmarket celebrating a well worked goal then they are hit on the counter attack up the other end Wymondham from the restart getting the ball up field is fired in from the wing taking a deflection runs on to Collins outside the area opens up her body and turns the ball in towards goal into the top corner 2-6.
 
  Into the last 5 minutes both sides a still looking for a goal, Wiseman still has the legs to carry the ball up the right wing before unleashing a shot sending the ball behind for a goal kick near post. Cossey and Moore in the middle combine to win the ball back a spot of head tennis before pushing it on for Wiseman central, strength on the ball to push her way through the middle before shooting sending the ball over the bar. 
 GOAL! The 90 minutes are virtually up the game stretched late on Newmarket having lost possession in their opponents half, Holloway plays the pass up to Wiseman takes the ball down into the box left of goal pulls the trigger sending the shot across the six yard box and in to make it 2-7.
 
   One last attack for Newmarket in injury time, Griffin with the energy to bring the ball on down the right wing  swings the ball into the area with Tatum inside running near post, Newcombe gets across her path and brings the ball out of the area. The final whistle blows and Wymondham advance to the next round of the Women’s FA Cup.
Full-time Newmarket Town Ladies 2-7 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A strong performance from the visitors played well dominating possession early and having the lead to show for it. Newmarket rallied early 2nd half the changes having an impact, took their 2 goals well. Just didn’t keep it at 3-1 long enough in the 2nd half Wymondham hammering home their advantage with 2 more quick goals. Scoring 7 goals have a feeling not too many will want to be drawn against them in the next round. 
  Good to see both sides in action, thanks to both clubs for their help today, had great entertainment in my 1st 2 Women’s FA Cup games this season looking forwards to the next round. The draw if it follows form should be on Monday.

*Updated* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has been made and it will be a repeat of last seasons tie with Wymondham Town Ladies, travelling to play Cambridge United WFC this time around, both sides have strengthened since that game. The tie is scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.

Match Report – Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

A Women’s FA Cup double on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this weekend 2 ties from 2nd Round Qualifying with the 1st of 80 ties being played on Saturday night. A special occasion for Bishops Stortford Ladies playing at the men’s club, ProKit (UK) Stadium. Their opponents for the tie Bungay Town Ladies. Match report below.

Match Report – Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

 
  Football from the Women’s FA Cup on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, some 80 ties drawn for 2nd Round Qualifying of this season’s competition with a total of 254 clubs being accepted in total to compete. This weekends action get’s started on Saturday an evening kick-off for Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies, the venue for the tie, Bishops Stortford Community FC’s, ProKit (UK) Stadium.

  Bishops Stortford Ladies are new entrants to the Women’s FA Cup this season which sees an increased prize fund for all rounds this year, still a pale drop in the ocean but progress nevertheless £450 for the winning side and of course the ultimate prize is a final at Wembley Stadium. Compete in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One having been promoted rapidly through the 3 divisions since the current set-up was formed 5 years ago. Finished 4th in the league last season. Have a strong youth set-up with teams from U12 through to U18 competing several of their starting line-up tonight having been with the club all the way through the youth sides.

  An exciting opportunity for the ladies side to play at the men’s ProKit (UK) Stadium, Bishops Stortford Community FC compete in the Conference South. The season has barely started in the Beds & Herts Women’s League and Bishops Stortford Ladies didn’t play in the opening round of fixtures tonight’s Women’s FA Cup tie being their 1st competitive game of the season. 

  Bungay Town Ladies are the visitors today this their 3rd year in the Women’s FA Cup after a 2 season absence are looking for advance in the competition for the 1st time. Competing in Norfolk Women’s Division One an established side in the league played their 1st league game of the season last weekend. With strong support form the men’s club that run a number of youth teams for both boys and girls. 

  From a personal point of view running Women’s Football East, I’m always intrigued to see how the various leagues across the region match up and the Women’s FA Cup provides a great opportunity to see sides comes together in competition. The FA Cup whether it’s the men’s or women’s game captures the imagination players and fans alike.

  Bishops Stortford Community FC’s ProKit (UK) Stadium is just off the M11 behind the Birchanger Motorway Services a regular stop off for myself on the way home from London after a women’s football game to write up a match report. The stadium is at the end of an industrial estate on the way into Bishops Stortford itself. A large carpark the stadium boasts great facilities a large bar and clubhouse, refreshment booths for hot food and drink a good sized main stand overlooking the dugouts. a smaller seated stand far side. A quality playing surface nice and flat, plenty of grass cover both sides looking forwards to playing on it. Well summer has come to an end had to happen sometime had a long run the heavy rain on Friday bringing in an autumn feel to the evening cool with a misty drizzle blowing across the pitch as the two sides walked out of the tunnel. 

  Bishops Stortford Ladies starting XI – Sophie Parslow, Sophie Cook, Louise Crocker, Natasha Atkinson, Chloe Haken (C), Megan Kenny, Jess Croney, Yasmin Smith, Samantha Tant, Brogan McHale & Kathryn Stanley.
  subs – Jess Mace, Andreia Messias, Lauren Maynard, Natasha Coppin & Ashley Johnston

  Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Kelly Collins (C), Lois Nethersell-Webb, Charlotte Power, Annie Piper, Ella Hindley, Inna Marx, Rebecca Carver, Lauren Purling, Emily Leach & Lacey Andrews.
  subs – Emily Coe, Sian Carter, Megan Vincent, Nicola Hazel & Jordan Duke.

  Two sides who are used to playing roll on roll of substitutes in their respective county leagues the rules change in the Women’s FA Cup, 5 substitutes can be named on the bench of which only 3 can be used. Bishops Stortford to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway taking kick-off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with Bungay lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks. 

*Team captains Kelly Collins & Chloe Haken with tonight’s officials

    An early ball from midfielder Megan Kenny for Bishops Stortford out to Yasmin Smith attacking down the left wing looks to knock the ball on down the line, Bungay captain, Kelly Collins at right back gets across her to make the tackle put the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball back in their own half Bungay play the ball long up to striker Lacey Andrews on half way spins away to the right same result as Lauren Crocker puts the tackle in conceding the throw, taken quickly Bungay’s Lauren Purling takes the ball down the the wing before whipping a high cross into the Bishops Stortford six yard box, goalkeeper Sophie Parslow palms the ball down cleanly the sets up a quick counter kicking the ball long out of her area helped in in the middle striker Brogan McHale latches onto the ball driving forwards shoots early from outside the box, Bungay goalkeeper, Ruth Smart gathers the shot.

  A spell of possession on the right inside the Bungay half for Bishops Stortford brings them the 1st corner of the match. The ball is lifted high in towards the near post, helped on falls to captain Sophie Haken waiting far post looks to hit the ball back across the goal face, her shot blocked the rebound runs to Crocker top of the area she shoots same result, Bungay block. Samantha Tant receives the ball on the right wing drives towards the top of the area before spinning wide again to avoid a tackle down the line wins a corner. A strong punch from Smart this time coming through bodies at the near post to clear for Bungay.

   Bishops Stortford doing well early on, have a free kick on half way, Smith over the ball sends it up towards the Bungay box, Inna Marx heads the ball away for Bungay, Smith with another opportunity to swing the ball into the area comes in high, McHale tries to bring it under control, before she can is closed down by the visitors defence. Breaking up the left side Rebecca Carver sends the ball on down the wig for Andrews strong running to get into the area with the ball slips on the slick surface as she goes to shoot.

  The game is starting to even out a little more, Bungay finding room for their midfielders, Marx and Ella Hindley to get on the ball spread the play with Andrews moving all the way across the back line, Marx sending her away on the left, Natasha Atkinson gets back to pressure her run, Purling coming across to the near post to support the corner is conceded. Bungay have two opportunities to play the ball into the area from the corner the 1st cleared for a 2nd corner, this one drops amongst the bodies congregating near post the ball is turned wide of the post, a goal kick is awarded.

 GOAL! The visitors take the lead on the 20th minute. Purling running with the ball down the right wing plays the ball into Andrews inside the box right of goal brings the ball down, quickly closed down to way to turn and release a shot instead plays the ball across the area with Carver free just outside the area, hits a low strike with pace towards goal zipping along the wet surface, Parslow sees it late her dive in vain as the ball rolls in at the near post 0-1.

*Rebecca Carver with the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies



  Corner for Bishops Stortford soon after the restart the ball is played up towards the face of the box too high for Crocker, Atkinson beyond her can’t control, but manages to help it on for Haken stretching for the ball sends a high ball wide across the face of goal. End to end no sooner has Purling reaching the byline on the right for Bungay put her cross behind goal then then the home side break, Kathryn Stanley getting hold of the ball and passing it out to the left with Smith looking to get in behind, Bungay’s Charlotte Power getting across to play the ball out for the throw. 

  Power in the middle at centre back is on hand twice in quick succession as Stanley coming a little deeper to receive the ball tries to put McHale in through the middle, Power intercepting on both occasions. It’s Power’s centre back partner, Annie Piper who gets across to deal with Stanley then as she picks up the ball from Jess Croney and turning drives into the box on the left. Bungay pushing towards the Bishops Stortford box lose the ball Atkinson clearing it along way up field, Smith after it gets away down the left into the box hits the ball hard across the six yard box, her cross/shot going wide McHale racing in far post unable to turn it home. McHale with a shot from 25 yards out in a central position the ball played through the middle from a goal kick, turns and unleashes the shot the ball screws away from goal. 

*Bungay Town Ladies, Charlotte Power

  Marx over a free kick wide on the right for Bungay plays it up towards the box headed clear, Hindley wins it back passes to Purling on the right sends her cross high into the area far post Andrews hooks it back into the middle, Emily leach back to goal looks to bring the ball down, Sophie Cook closes her down, tackling to send the ball clear of the box. Croney plays the ball up to Stanley putting her clear on the left, charging towards the box checks her run coming inside to shoot, looks to curl the ball into the top corner, not enough height on the ball is taken cleanly by Smart.

  Both sides using the full width of the pitch enjoying to slick surface the ball moving from one end to the other, McHale has been back helping her defence, breaks forwards now a burst of pace seeing her get ahead of the Bungay defence lets fly from outside the box the ball runs wide of goal. Bungay get up the other end see a goal chalked off for offside, Lois Nethersell-Webb playing it on up the left for Carver the ball whipped in across the six yard box is turned in won’t count. 

  Marx is over another Bungay free kick inside the Bishops Stortford half plays the ball in from the right, cleared from the area, Hindley rolls it back to Marx tries again plays the ball towards the far post area, Leach is their headers the ball but can’t direct it on target. Bishops Stortford attack down the right as the 1st half draws to a close , McHale and Tant link up the latter tries to play Stanley through into the box, Power cuts out the pass her clearance going to Cook, sends a diagonal ball into the area with Smith looking to get in behind everyone, Smart is able to claim it before she can reach it.

Half-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

  A narrow advantage to Bungay at the break, has been a fast paced 1st half both sides working the ball up the wings using the whole pitch with neither overly testing the opponents goal. A lot of energy has been put in the 1st 45 minutes. One goal in it still all to play for 2nd half. No chances at the start of the 2nd half Bungay to kick-off.
 Early opportunity for Andrews to have a strike on goal, the ball played into her in a central position from the right, given time to turn hits the strike from 30 yards out runs wide across the area. Parslow reacts sharply inside her box with Bungay pressing on the right Purling lifts the ball up into the area, Andrews after it the keeper drops to smother the ball right side of her. Bungay win a corner on the right, goes long to Andrews drives the ball in towards goal is cleared back out to Marx puts the ball back in to the near post comes to Leach catches her a little flat footed prods the ball wide.

*Lacey Andrews attacking for Bungay Town Ladies

   Bungay applying alot of pressure at the start of the 2nd half are camped in the Bishops Stortford half on the right have a throw the ball with Marx passes to Andrews outside the area to the right of goal, unleashes a shot blasts the ball wide. Purling takes the ball down the right, cutting it back inside, Andrews that side inside the box misses her kick the ball runs on through to Carver left of the D outside the box this time her shot fizzed in low is the wrong side of the post. 

  Carver receiving the ball from Nethersell-Webb carries it down the left before squaring across the top of the area looking to pick out Andrews, the Bishops Stortford defence cut it out the clearance rolls straight into Leach 25 yards out central shifts the ball then shoots the ball going a foot over the crossbar. A chance to relief the pressure for Bishops Stortford as they have a free kick on half-way, Croney to put the ball up towards the area, Piper heads clear, the ball is sent on up to Andrews through the middle goes on her own lets fly from 25 yards out the shot racing wide past the right post.
  Andrews is proving a real handful for the Bishops Stortford defence to deal with moving all over the place to receive the ball, tries to take the ball on down the left, Atkinson gets across tackles well to regain the ball then is fouled by Andrews as she goes to clear it. Hesitation at the back presents a chance for McHale as she robs Marx of the ball attempting a shot pass to Nethersell-Webb getting in behind the defense into the box right flashes her shot wide across the six yard box. 
  Picking up the ball in the middle, Stanley with a clever twist, looks to have gotten away from Power at the back charging towards the box through the middle, Smart comes to close her down, Power recovers well to lunge in and push the ball way from the striker with her right boot playing it behind for corner. From the right 2 corners are put behind by Bungay at the near post the 3rd one going long runs to McHale top of the area, the ball is taken off her toe just as she goes to hit the shot.
  Tant gives Stanley the ball on the left inside the Bungay half, the Bishops Stortford attacker taking on the Bungay defence drives inside in towards the D runs it on to McHale as she is closed down, under challenge McHale squeezes a shot away the ball is blocked the rebound back with McHale, lifts the ball up across the area towards Tant at the far post six yards out headers the ball over the bar. Bishops Stortford make their 1st change Ashley Johnston coming on for Cook.
  GOAL! Bungay hit Bishops Stortford on the counter attack the ball played long towards Andrews moving into the box from the right, Parslow comes rushing out towards the attacker, Andrews goes wide then sends her shot in low across the advancing keeper and into the back of the net 0-2.
 
Lacey Andrews
 
 
  Andrews with another opportunity to attack a forwards pass as Marx and Carver link up the ball up the left Andrews closed down as she reaches the top of the area gets a shot away with the outside of her boot gets the shot on target, Parslow palms it down and gathers in the centre of her goal. Marx tackles to win the ball in the middle stabs it forwards into Leach holds it up well central to goal, turns and squeezes a shot away, Parslow throws herself to her left, the ball runs narrowly wide. 
  Crocker gets forwards from the back for Bishops Stortford plays the ball long into the box left side with Tant making the run hits her on the back, dropping down into the area, Tant goes after it inside, her shot charged down as Nethersell-Webb comes across quickly to block. Natasha Coppin comes on for Bishops Stortford replacing Kenny. The substitute given the ball wide left in attack whips a cross in towards the near post, Stanley can’t bring it down under control before Piper tackles to win possession back for Bungay. Not long after piper indicates she needs to be subbed, Bungay send on Sian Carter. 
Kathryn Stanley

 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes and Bishops Stortford set up a tense finish to this Women’s FA Cup tie as they pull a goal back. Croney with the ball in the middle passes to Stanley ahead of her has the legs to beat Nethersell-Webb racing towards the edge of the area shots sending the ball up and over the keeper into the back of the net 1-2.


  The goal has lifted Bishops Stortford they press on the left, force Bungay back the visitors pull everyone back to defend their advantage with less than 5 minutes left.

 GOAL! The visitors relieve the pressure get the ball out into the centre then send it long into the left for Andrews to chase, Haken goes with her tries to marshal the ball out for the goal kick, Andrews gets round her getting her toe on the ball back up the line fires the ball in towards the top of the area, Leach is there picks up the ball strong as she drives into the area, 3 defenders ahead of her blasts a shot in deflects to the left rolling favourably for Andrews coming inside, opens up her body to curl the ball in towards goal looping over the keeper and in 1-3.

 Not much time left in the game Bishops Stortford press forwards win a corner on the right, played long to Crocker outside the box can’t keep her long range shot down. Andrews after a hat-trick spins and hits a shot central 20 yards out, Crocker blocks it at the back the ball spinning away for the corner. Played in high at the near post Leach rises her glancing header sends the ball on, Johnston gets her head on it behind plays the ball to her goalkeeper. No more time left the referee blows the final whistle and Bungay Town Ladies celebrate the win.
Full-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 1-3 Bungay Town Ladies

  An entertaining Women’s FA Cup tie watched by a decent sized crowd of around 150. Saw a fast paced game both sides enjoying the playing surface. An even 1st half Bungay edging it came out the stronger 2nd half stretching Bishops Stortford, Andrews up top moving all across the back line hard to mark a constant outlet for Bungay. The home side pulling it back to 2-1 late on setting up a tense finish before Bungay restored their 2 goal cushion, the magic of the cup. 
  My thanks to everyone at Bishops Stortford Football Club for their help today hopefully the ladies will get to play more games there in the future. Thanks to Graham Purling to for helping me with Bungay’s squad details. Best of luck Bungay Town Ladies in the next round.

*additional photo’s courtesy of Ashleigh from Bungay Town Ladies.

*Update* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has now been made and Bungay Town Ladies will be at home to Acle United Ladies. The game scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.