The Round-Up – FAWPL 26/02/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 26th February

FAWPL Southern Division

The battle for top spot in the FAWPL Southern Division continues to be hotly contested with just a point separating the top 4 sides cup matches for previous leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies have seen them overhauled at the top by Cardiff City Ladies, now this weekend with the Welsh side also not involved in a league fixture the Southern Division has another side taking over top spot with Charlton Athletic Women going a point clear at the top after a big away win against bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies at the weekend.

The visitors went in front inside the opening 5 minutes QPR captain Elly Maggs putting through her own net. 1-0 the lead for much of the 1st half Gemma Shepherd made it 2-0 in the 37th minute as she continues her goal scoring exploits after recovering from a hip operation earlier this season, will be hard pressed to catch up with top scorer Kit Graham as she scored in the final 2 minutes of the 1st half to see Charlton Athletic lead 3-0 at half-time. Both strikers scored again in the 2nd half, Graham netting her 2nd early on. Goalkeeper, Alex Baker saved a penalty before Shepherd hit her 2nd goal of the game with 20 minutes left. Graham going on to complete her hat-trick in the last 5 minutes to take her tally to the season to 30 goals. A 6-0 win for Charlton Athletic to send them top of the league.

Also moving up a place in the Southern Division table are Coventry United Ladies pushing Tottenham Hotspur Ladies down to 4th place, go 3rd both on 31 points along with Cardiff City Ladies in 2nd. Were at home at Pack Meadow on Sunday playing Lewes Ladies. Goalless at the break Coventry United broke the deadlock early in the 2nd half with Nikki Miles putting the ball into the back of the net to give the home side the lead, added a 2nd goal 7 minutes later, Jade Brook scoring a 3rd goal for Coventry just 3 minutes later to put them in control of the game with half and hour left to play. Lewes pulled a goal back late into the match Leeta Rutherford the scorer as they lost 3-1. Have games in hand on Charlton as do Cardiff and Tottenham, games between the top 4 will be crucial in determining the title winners in the coming weeks.

Equally tight at the bottom of the FAWPL Southern Division with a point separating the bottom 3 going into the weekend with QPR Ladies losing heavily the other 2 sides down there met in a 6 pointer with 2nd bottom West Ham United Ladies travelling to play Swindon Town Ladies. The home side starting the better taking the lead midway through the 1st half with Michelle Rich scoring. Chyna Collings doubling their lead just 4 minutes later. West Ham United pulled a goal back with 7 minutes of the 1st half left Molly Peters on target to reduce the deficit. The 2nd half was a tense affair with West Ham United pushing to find an equalising goal Swindon holding out until the final 2 minutes of the game, Whitney Locke levelling the scores for the visitors to see the points shared.

FAWPL South East Division One

Is equally tight at the top of the FAWPL South East Division One but this Sunday saw the 2 sides leading the table pull away from the rest. Leaders Milton Keynes Dons Ladies extended their winning league run to 5 matches to remain 4 points clear at the top with a home win against Enfield Town Ladies at Newport Pagnell FC , Hannah Barrett with her 14th goal of the season scoring the only goal of the match.

Gillingham FC Ladies in 2nd keep up their unbeaten record in the league having climbed up into 2nd have games in hand on the leaders as they recorded their 7th straight league win on Sunday at home to Denham United Ladies goalless after the 1st 45 minutes Gillingham took the lead 4 minutes into the 2nd half with Jenny Newman putting them ahead, Charlotte Gurr adding a 2nd goal to make it 2-0 us 2 minutes later and see them collect another 3 points.

3rd placed Cambridge United WFC were playing their 1st league match of 2017 this weekend after being involved in various cup matches the run having seen them lose the lead in the FAWPL South East Division One table, keen to get back to winning ways were hosting 4th placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A tight 1st half with neither side getting a goal it was AFC Wimbledon who took the lead early in the 2nd half winger Katie Stanley’s cross flying into the back of the net to put them 1 up, the lead didn’t last long with Cambridge United hitting back straight away striker Nicole Perschky putting Laura Mills cross from the right in at the near post. The game finishing 1-1 the points shared.

6th placed Luton Town Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on bottom side Norwich City Ladies at the Stockwood Park Athletics Stadium. Lucy Webster with a superb individual goal giving Luton Town the lead on the 13th minute. Striker Jo Rutherford doubling the lead for the home side 2 minutes later. Holding the 2-0 advantage for much of the match Luton Town eventually put the result beyond doubt with 15 minutes left Rutherford with her 2nd of the game scoring the goal. Norwich pulled a goal back with less than 10 minutes left, Kyla Love netting the goal.

Another 6 pointer at the bottom of the FAWPL South East Division One as Lowestoft Town Ladies and Stevenage Ladies met for the 2nd time in a fortnight, both side involved in the relegation battle it was Lowestoft Town Ladies who won the vital 3 points at Stevenage back on the 12th February, captain Hannah Waters with the only goal of the game. After the game manager Gary Bailey stepped down from the role with assistant Reece Buck taking charge of the 1st team. This time at Crown Meadow the game was again decided by a single goal the 3 points going Stevenage Ladies way this time courtesy of a winning strike from their captain, Donna McGuigan. Stevenage’s 3rd win of the season in the league moves them 3 points clear of Lowestoft.

Capital Women’s Cup

Involved in the FA Women’s Cup last weekend making history with a victory over FAWSL 2 opposition, Tottenham Hotspur were looking to continue their unbeaten record this season by reaching the final of the Capital Women’s Cup in what would be a repeat of last seasons final with Charlton Athletic Women winning through last weekend. Looking to stop them were Crystal Palace Ladies and they came very close taking them all the way to penalties and a dramatic shoot-out. At home Crystal Palace took the lead in the semi-final Ellie Bailes putting them 1-0 up on 16 minutes held the lead going into the half-time break. Tottenham getting themselves back on level terms 16 minutes into the 2nd half Renee Hector on hand inside the box to turn Eartha Ponds free kick home after it came back off the bar. 1-1 after 90 minutes the game went straight to penalties. 3-3 after the regulation 5 penalties each both keepers making a save the shoot-out headed to sudden death both sides scoring the 1st Megan Lynch saving for Tottenham, Chantelle Yardley did the same for Crystal Palace straight after then stepped up to score for Crystal Palace at 5-5 Lynch saved another penalty for Tottenham and it was captain Jenna Schillaci (pictured) who sent Tottenham through to the final as they won the shoot-out 6-5.

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

A new league covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday with a top of the table clash from the Essex Women’s Premier Division with runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies looking for a 15 straight win in the league at home to 2nd placed Lawford Ladies.

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

A first for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog today taking in a new league for the 1st time and a long overdue trip to watch a game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. The venue The Harlow Arena to watch runaway league leaders take on 2nd placed Lawford Ladies.

Harlow Town Ladies haven’t dropped a single league point since they joined the Essex Women’s County league last season having previously been the Bury Rangers Girls U17s, winning the Division One title last season going on to complete a Quadruple, with wins in the Essex Trophy, Tiptree & District Charity Cup and Essex Women’s League Cup finals. Are going as equally strong in the Premier Division following promotion with a 100% winning record to date 14 games won are 14 points clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies. In addition to the 1st team Harlow Town Ladies started a new Reserves and an U18s side this season having a good number signed to the club to play for all 3 sides is a little stretched at the moment with a dozen out injured.

Lawford Ladies near Manningtree in North Essex are into their 5th season, started this season with a new manager Marc Lawson coming in. Had a very strong start to the season winning their opening 8 games eventually over took by Harlow as postponements as well a cup games halting their momentum in the league. Have played Harlow once already this season knocking the holders out of the league cup with a 3-0 home win. Have games in hand as they look to be the 1st side in the Premier Division to beat Harlow in the league this season.

The venue for today’s game The Harlow Arena, have visited the stadium before for an FAWSL match a coupe of seasons back between Millwall Lionesses and Watford Ladies. Is a new built stadium featuring a top notch 3G pitch that sees plenty of action throughout the week. Has multi teams playing on it regularly including Harlow Town Ladies 3 sides. A good sized artificial surface a large seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms bar and clubhouse with hot and cold refreshments available. A dry day if overcast overhead, a chilly breeze that was swirling about the stadium, no where near as strong as Doris was in the week.

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Kerry Davies, Maisie Ryan, Megan Sende, Fran Gamble, Christie Seakins, Taylor O’Leary, Francesca Tye (C), Nicole Learner, Danielle Hills, Tayla Handscombe & Dempsey Favell.
subs – Tia Dye, Lucy Sende, Karys Paton & Rhiann Patmore.

Lawford Ladies starting XI – Louise Murphy, Jo Ribet, Sofia Serghiou, Hayley Chapman (C), Ella Boyden, Lauren Richardson, Sasha McDonald, Sheena Foley, Jade Heath, Jasmine Cox & Daisy Canny.
subs – Michelle Foley, Codie Laurie, Susie Jackson & Gemma Issacs.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway, kitted out in red and white hooped shirts with red sleeves, blue shirts and red socks with Lawford lined up opposite wearing sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The early play is squeezed both sides pressing the ball in the middle Harlow captain, Francesca Tye getting the ball out to Tayla Handscomb breaking into space on the right wing her early diagonal ball intended for striker Dempsey Favell making a run into the box is intercepted and cleared by Lawford’s captain Hayley Chapman playing at centre back.

Working the ball out to the left wing Harlow get the ball into Danielle Hill, Megan Sende gets forwards to support exchanging passes Lawford prevent the cross coming in, the clearance comes to Lauren Richardson the ball played on Lawford counter attack the ball fired into Jasmine Cox moving left to right across the D has the ball at her feet slips as she shoots the ball running harmlessly wide across the Harlow goal.

Dempsey Favell opens the opening
goal for Harlow Town Ladies

GOAL! 4 minutes played and the opening goal is scored, Harlow launching a counter attack from a Lawford free-kick played up towards the area from the halfway line headed back out of the area by the Harlow defence the ball falls to midfielder Taylor O’Leary, she bursts forwards with the ball at her feet, up top Favell is already on the move O’Leary picking her out with a defence splitting pass, through on goal, Lawford goalkeeper Louise Murphy comes rushing out of her area to close Favell down, she releases the ball early lobbing it over the goalkeeper, into the area beyond and bounces into the goal beyond 1-0.

Two committed sides out there some crunching 50/50 balls no one afforded much time on the ball, Lawford win a free-kick on halfway the ball played up to the top of the area is won by Sasha McDonald who heads the ball on into the box, Cox goes after it as goalkeeper Kerry Davies rushing out to claim slides in the pair collide the ball deflected behind goal, play is brought back for a free-kick for Harlow the flag up against Cox.

Tye bringing the ball on through the middle of the park for Harlow has Maisie Ryan breaking forwards from right back plays the ball out to her playing the cross into the box early the ball goes long, bouncing in the area is picked up by Hill on the left side inside the box, shoots putting the ball wide of goal. Ryan with another chance to bring the ball on down the right side plays it into Favell outside the area, seeing the ball into her body holds it up well before passing it into the area for Tye making a forwards run on her right closing in on goal looks to square the ball across the six yard box, Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou sliding in produces a great tackle the ball going out for a corner on the right. Glanced off a Lawford head inside the six yard box the ball goes out for a throw-in on the opposite side of the pitch.

Lawford Ladies, Sofia Serghiou

GOAL! Harlow extend their lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Lawford force Harlow to play the ball backwards from the throw, getting it across the pitch to the right the long ball forwards once again picks out Favell outside the box holding it up right of goal puts the ball into the centre isn’t cleared played through into the feet of Nicole Learner left of the D shoots from outside the box the ball past the diving Murphy and into the bottom corner of the net 2-0.

Nicole Learner makes it 2-0 for Harlow Town Ladies

A good start to the match for Harlow and they very nearly extend the lead moments later the ball as Fran Gamble wins the ball at the back play it into O’Leary sees Handscombe on the move on the right wing passes the ball out to her carrying it down the line fires a cross in towards Favell making a near post run controls well inside the six yard box adjusting her feet and getting a shot away as she falls, Murphy has the post covered getting across makes the blocking save the ball rebounding out across goal drops to Learner attempts to volley it goalwards flies back across the six yard box grounded Favell uses her studs to knock it back across goal Chapman boots it clear for Lawford.

Frustrated at conceding 2 early goals Lawford double their efforts to close Harlow down on the ball, McDonald winning the tackle in the middle plays it on for Daisy Canny, the striker charging through the middle towards the Harlow box lifts the ball beyond the defence into the area with Jade Heath looking to get in behind from the right, Davies is off her line quickly out to claim the ball before her goal is threatened. Up the other end a timely challenge from Chapman getting back to tackle Hill breaking down the left channel as the ball is played long to her for Harlow.

Daisy Canny attacking for Lawford Ladies

Ryan breaking forwards on the right for Harlow sweeps her cross deep into the Lawford area across the six yard box, Lawford substitute, Suzie Jackson tracking back has to play the ball behind for the corner with Hill behind her on the left. Both sides are using their substitutes, Foley only just taken off comes back on for Ella Boyden who has taken a knock. Tye bringing the ball forwards for Harlow sends it on up into the area for Favell moving to the left, gets her shot away as Murphy comes sliding in to close her down the ball runs wide of goal a corner is signalled played in from the left Murphy coming through bodies near post punches the ball away falls to Hills inside the box but closed down quickly sends her shot wide of goal. Hills comes off for Harlow, Tia Dye coming on with 30 minutes played.

Tayla Handscombe looking to get away from
Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou

Progressive build up play from Harlow looking to play short passes to get the ball forwards then out to Handscombe and Dye on the wings, in defence Chapman and Serghiou dealing with the final ball for Lawford into the box. Hills receives the ball from the left pushing on looks to shoot from 20 yards out, Serghiou rushing to meet her charges the shot down the ball deflects straight to O’Leary 25 yards out her snap shot loops up over the bar. Lucy Sende comes on for Handscombe for the last 5 minutes of the 1st half.

Lawford get the ball forwards late in the 1st half Richardson playing it into Canny outside the Harlow area left of the D with Cox in close support between the pair they keep hold of the ball rolled into Cox she shifts it into a central position room to curl in a shot is rising but straight at Davies central in her goal plucks the ball down cleanly into her gloves. A rapid counter from Harlow the ball played on by O’Leary sees Favell in behind left of goal driving on into the box doesn’t get much power behind her shot the ball rolling along the ground is easily saved by Murphy coming to close down the angle.

Lawford attack the ball with Richardson is played out to Canny moving into space on the left side, Gamble goes with her, Canny getting to the ball 1st, cleverly shifts it inside to evade the defenders challenge heading towards the box lifts the ball up into the top of the area Heath coming in with Seakens challenging her, Davies rushing from goal they all meet 12 yards out the ball squirming free rolling towards the six yard box Canny is after in but before she can get there Gamble throws herself at the ball clearing it for a corner kick.

Lawford Ladies, Daisy Canny

GOAL! From the resulting corner Lawford pull a goal back is a good delivery inswinging towards the near post area inside a yard from goal Canny is there the ball chest height Harlow struggle to clear it ends up diverted into the back of their net Canny pumping her arms in celebration, looked more an own goal and after match this was confirmed 2-1.

Into injury time in the 1st half Harlow have a free-kick 30 yards out wide left of the Lawford area, Tye over the ball fires in low skipping off the surface in towards O’Leary positioned on the six yard line looks to turn and shoot as the ball crosses her path, Chapman closing her down defends well getting the ball away for a corner on the left. Defending the corner Lawford fail the get the ball away a hand ball spotted by the referee outside the box same side but closer in this time Richardson yellow carded as her protests go in vain. Tye takes on the shot this time the ball sails over the bar.

Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 2-1 Lawford Ladies

Having had the better of the 1st half Harlow Town Ladies take a narrow 2-1 lead into the changing rooms at half-time having taken a early 2 goal lead and frustrating their opponents Lawford capitalised late on to pull a goal back get themselves firmly back into the match. A competitve contest intriguing to watch clear to see why both sides are where they are in the league.

Has gotten alot colder as the chilly breeze picks up strength swirling about the stadium as the two sides come out for the 2nd half Lawford getting things back underway. Karys Patmore is on in place of Ryan at right back for Harlow at the start of the 2nd half as they gain possession and look to make progress on the left side the ball into Lucy Sende wins a throw in. From the throw in Sende receives the ball rolls it across the face of the box where the 1st time shot is smashed in swerving wide of goal. Tye gets hold of the ball in the middle and drives forwards for Harlow, tries to thread the pass in behind the Lawford defence with Sende coming in from the left, Murphy sliding in saves at her feet, the ball is loose for a moment the goalkeeper adjusting quickly on the ground to pull it into her body with Favell closing it down.

Winning the ball in the middle captain Francesca Tye looks to attack for Harlow Town Ladies

The strength of the wind is apparent as it causes a free-kick played in from the right for Harlow to stand up in the wind headed away by McDonald they look to counter attack, Richardson on the ball but fouls Sende as she attempts to get past her giving away a free-kick 40 yards out, Tye over the ball aims to drop it into the area in front of the six yard box, Murphy confidently catches with runners from Harlow closing in. The home side make full use of their substitutes regularly changing personal Learner and Rhian Patmore given a rest with Megan Sende and Hills returning to the action. A few challenges resulting in free-kicks the referee adding to Lawford’s frustration with both Canny and Richardson yellow carded.

Lawford Ladies, Jade Heath

Harlow are giving away free-kicks too Lawford awarded on on the top of the circle inside their opponents half the ball is played long to Heath out on the right her touch taking the ball inside towards the top of the box, Seakens can get to it 1st clear for Harlow. Serghiou is yellow carded for Lawford as she fouls Favell just outside the area as she receives the ball from O’Leary breaking through the middle. Is O’Leary with Tye over the ball right of the D, O’Leary’s as Tye runs at the ball hits it hard, Lawford’s Ribet charging towards the shot blocks taking a painful blow on the side of her head for her troubles the ball cleared for a throw in on the right. The ball helped on into O’Leary outside the box right corner drills a shot is flashing wide across the face of goal.

Lawford’s McDonald closes Hills down inside the area as the ball is swung into the area from the right, getting the ball away. Harlow are quick to press the ball in the middle of the park regain possession send it long out to Favell on the right looking to turn inside get into the area McDonald is their again getting her body across the attacker and playing the ball into Murphy the keeper kicking the ball clear. A strong start to the 2nd half by Harlow, Lawford unable to get any meaningful possession in the final 3rd.

GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half and Harlow’s pressure counts as they extend their lead. Have a corner on the right after Tye’s run into the box sees her tackled strongly by Serghiou. Gamble up from the back heads the ball on at the near post into the middle of the six yard box, drops to Favell her shot is blocked at close range the rebound coming back to O’Leary 12 yards out, Serghiou lunges in to try and win the ball, takes the player aswell the referee pointing to the penalty spot. O’Leary to pick herself up and take the spot kick, sends the keeper the wrong way as she coolly rolls the ball into the opposite corner of the net 3-1.

Taylor O’Leary makes it 3-1 to Harlow from the penalty spot

Lawford get the ball forwards from the restart Richardson passing the ball up towards the area with Heath coming in from the right, Davies coming out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at the attackers feet. Cox is fouled inside the centre circle giving Lawford a fee-kick, Ribet playing the ball up towards the top of the area Richardson up to head the ball on towards goal is cleared coming back to Richardson who meets the ball on the volley her strike blocked inside the six yard box. Tye turns and runs at the Lawford back line sliding Favell in behind, clear to attack the box beyond Murphy comes racing out of her area to win the ball send it back up the pitch. Favell comes off for Harlow as Handscombe returns to the action.

GOAL! Harlow extend their lead with less than 15 minutes of the 2nd half left to play. Players getting forwards as the ball is carried through the middle by O’Leary, her pass picking out Tye outside the box left side of the D, seeing the ball into her body moves inside finding half a yard to shoot sends the ball arrowing in towards goal rising flies over the keeper and into the back of the net 4-1.

Harlow Town Ladies captain, Francesca Tye

A quiet spell follows as both sides compete to stop the other having the ball attacks broken down before they can begin. Hills sees a goal chalked off for offside as she beats the keeper to the ball inside the box having gotten onto the end of a through ball from Learner. Cox then charges down a shot from Learner herself as she looks to take aim from 30 yards out. Codie Laurie comes on late in the game going up top with Chapman coming off at the back as they look to alter formation go 3 at the back. Harlow attack the ball rolled into O’Leary 25 yards out in front of the Lawford box has Dye to her right plays the ball into her feet carries it into the area doesn’t shoot 1st time, Serghiou threatens to take the ball from her getting it around the defender shoots the ball coming in centrally easily held by Murphy.

Lawford Ladies, Lauren Richardson with Harlow’s Lucy Sende

Defending a Lawford free-kick Harlow attempt to break from their area, Richardson closing the ball down on the left side wins it back rolls in inside to Canny back to goal holding the ball up looks to roll it into Heath, Seakens can reach it 1st and plays it out from the back for Harlow. Into injury time Dye gets hold of the ball taking it on through the middle, Serghiou across times her tackle well.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Lawford Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies extend their winning run in the league to 15 games, are in a commanding position at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division and well on their way to claiming their 2nd league title in as many seasons. A frustrating result for Lawford conceding early were on the back foot for much of the match despite some good build up play were never allowed much time on the ball in the final 3rd. Pulling it back to 2-1 late in the 1st half gave them an opportunity, Harlow coming out the stronger in the 2nd half played some good short passing football looking to use the whole pitch rotating their substitutes to full effect. A great advert for women’s football in Essex.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A few names in contention for the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today. I’ve picked midfielder Taylor O’Leary, proactive all game winning the ball for Harlow and looking to turn and attack herself or bring others into play, won and scored the penalty. A good range of passing too.

Harlow Town Ladies, Taylor O’Leary

Enjoyed my 1st taste of Premier Division football in Essex, my thanks to Harlow for their hospitality and both sides for their help with the teams today.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 19/02/17

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 19th February

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

Would it be an all Stevenage Ladies final in this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final? With the 1st team already through to their 3rd successive final it was the Reserves side’s turn to try and join them drawn away to Royston Town Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division a league above Stevenage Ladies Reserves in ERWFL Division One. It was the visitors who took the lead in the match, Royston Town coming back to equalise and then go on to score the winning goal to reach their 1st County Cup final in 3 seasons. Samantha Tinsley in great form in front of goal this season scoring both the goals to see Royston Town into the final

The Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup isn’t too far away the date for your diaries Sunday 12th March a 3pm KO between Stevenage Ladies & Royston Town Ladies at the County Ground in Letchworth.

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

County Cup semi-final day on Sunday in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup too and it’s going to be a repeat of last season’s final with both Cup Holders, Luton Town Ladies and runners-up Offley & Stopsley Women winning to reach the final.

Although it took a 90th minute equaliser and a penalty shootout for the County Cup Holders to progress. Luton Town Ladies were at home hosting Bedford Ladies, Nicola Henman gave Luton Town the lead in the 1st half scoring in the 34th minute. Bedford pulled it back to 1-1 7 minutes into the 2nd half, Charlene Moreton with the goal. The visitors going on to take the lead as the match closed in on the 70th minute Olivia-Rose Cunningham scoring. The lead lasting just 5 minutes before Rachel Carter headed home from a corner to make it 2-2 into the last 10 minutes and again Bedford edged themselves int a 3-2 lead Moreton with her 2nd of the game. Couldn’t see out the result Luton Town finding a reply in the 90th minute, Erica Byron firing the ball into the back of the net to see the game end 3-3 and go straight to penalties, Luton Town winning the shootout 4-3 to reach the final.

ERWFL Division One side, Offley & Stopsley Women were drawn away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side, Sharnbrook WFC in the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup. Gemma Franklin putting the lower placed league side 1-0 up in the 10th minute of the game. Giselle Randell equalised for Offley & Stopsley on the half hour to see the sides go into the changing rooms level at 1-1 at half-time. Offley & Stopsley took the lead early in the 2nd half, Katerina Hamplova scoring to make it 2-1, Kelly Randall added another goal for the visitors 15 minutes into the 2nd half with Giselle Randall getting her 2nd goal of the game with 15 minutes left to see Offley & Stopsley into the County Cup final with a 4-1 win.

The Final for the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup between Luton Town Ladies & Offley & Stopsley Women is scheduled to be played Weds 19th April with a 7:30pm KO

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One leaders, Sandy Ladies were seeing the sides below them narrow the gap after they had suffered 2 successive league defeats, were looking to get back to winning ways thus Sunday with a tough away trip to in form Bishops Stortford Ladies who had moved into 2nd place 3 points behind them in the table. A hat-trick fr Kirstie Gavin along with a goal for captain Katie Seldon saw Sandy get back to winning ways taking all 3 points with a 4-2 win. Brogan McHale scoring for Bishops Stortford plus an own goal.

All very tight at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One and 3rd placed St Albans Ladies took full of Bishops Stortford Ladies defeat having lost to them just last Sunday to win big at home this Sunday against 4th placed Sherrardswood Ladies. The visitors took an early lead Laura Cousins on 6 minutes, however that was as good as it got for Sherrardswood. Ellie Lovelock scoring the equaliser midway through the 1st half. Sophie Monahan made it 2-1 before half-time. In the 2nd half St Albans went goal crazy, Kayla Johnson grabbing a goal 3 minutes after the restart. Monahan with her 2nd of the game plus an own goal put the home side 4-1 up. Johnson netting a 2nd goal in the 68th minute. Katherine Hutton joined the goalscorers on 77 minutes. Megan Samuel, Suzanne Read and Monahan completing her hat-trick all scoring in the final 10 minutes. Hutton had time for one more goal in injury to to seal an 11-1 win and climb back into 2nd in the table.

Garston Ladies also took advantage of Bishops Stortford’s loss to move above them in the table into 3rd spot. Were playing away on Sunday against 2nd bottom side Hitchin Town Ladies Jane Hales, Bobbi Rhodes, Lucy Zecchin and Kelly Kirwan all finding the back of the net plus an own goal sealing the 3 points with a 5-0 win.

8 league games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One without a single point on the board bottom side Letchworth Garden City Eagles caused something of an upset 2 weekends ago beating the league leaders Sandy Ladies at home 3-0 to record their 1st win of the season, now like a bus two come along at once as they win at home for the 2nd successive league game to move level on points with Hitchin Town Ladies. Taking on Houghton Athletic Ladies Tayla Murray’s brace was enough to win the 3 points with a 2-1 result, Holly Thomson scoring for Houghton Athletic.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Remains as tight at the top as ever in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two with the top 5 still separated by just 2 points. An ever changing picture the league has a new leader this week with Watton Ladies going top after inflicting a heavy defeat on previous leaders Hitchin Belles. Having gone top of the table themselves a depleted squad suffered defeat last weekend at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets, were short on numbers again as they travelled to play Watton Ladies. The home side taking full advantage to lead 6-0 at half-time going on to get the 3 points with a 8-1 win, Francesca Smithers scoring 4 goals to move onto 25 for the season. Chloe Jones with 17 goals to her name so far this season also grabbing a goal with Beth Willing, Gemma Penny and Kirsty Richardson on the scoresheet. Emma Wells with the consolation goal for Hitchin Belles. Watton go top level on points with Hitchin Belles however Watton have 3 games in hand.

Panshanger Ladies move back up into 3rd spot a point behind the leading pair with an away win against bottom side Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Ellie Burke giving the visitors the lead in the 1st half Chemise Huitson added another goal in the 2nd half to secure a 2-0 win but not before both sides had a player red carded late on.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two matches in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend. 2nd placed Evergreen Eagles winning away from home to close the gap on leaders Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues to 3 points. Were taking on Wheathamsted Ladies who scored twice in the game captain Sophia Pidgeon with both the goals. Samantha Takis netting twice for Evergreen, an own goal the decider the 3-2 win for Evergreen giving them the 3 points.

3rd placed Potter Bar United Ladies also won away from home at the weekend a single goal from Janiece Allen seeing the 3 points won at Shefford Town & Campton Ladies.

Finally and sadly it appears the leagues in the East have lost another side this season with Hatfield Town Ladies in Beds & Herts Division Three showing in the table with 0’s all the way. The 18th side to disappear from the regions leagues this season very concerning and I’m getting tired of reporting it. Hope everyone at Hatfield stays involved in the game in some format.

The Round-Up – Essex 19/02/17

The Round-Up

Essex – Sunday 19th February

Essex Women’s County Cup

County Cup semi-final weekend in Essex, was a repeat of last season’s cup final in the 1st semi-final with County Cup Holders, C&K Basildon Ladies away to Writtle Ladies. The FAWPL Southern Division side playing 2 leagues above Writtle proving too strong an opponent on the day winning comfortably 8-0 to reach the Final. Angela Addison netting a hat-trick. Sara Sinclair also on target with a brace. The other goals scored by Stacey Little, Amy Nash and captain Zoe Rushen.

Their opponents in the Essex Women’s County Cup Final will be Billericay Town Ladies after they came from behind at home to beat Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. The ERWFL Division One side going in front in the 18th minute, Eloise Ives with the goal. The lead didn’t last long however with Billericay Town equalising just 3 minutes later. 1-1 at half-time Billericay Town went on to take the lead going ahead on 62 minutes. The victory only secured late into the game with a goal 2 minute from time plus a 4th in stoppage time. Captain Lindsey Morgan scoring a brace with Paris Smith and Rosi Webb getting a goal each.

The Essex Women’s County Cup Final between Billericay Town Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies is scheduled to be played Thursday 13th April at AFC Hornchurch with a 7:30pm KO.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

3 matches played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday with runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies making it 14 straight wins in the league this season to move onto 42 points away to Wickford Town Ladies in 8th place won the game 8-0 making it 82 league goals for the season with just 3 conceded.

Runwell Sports Ladies in 4th place in the Premier Division table missed out on a chance to go level on points with 2nd and 3rd placed Lawford Ladies and Chelmsford City Ladies after they were beaten at home by Collier Row Tigers. Chelsea Stephens scoring for Runwell Sports, Collier Row Tigers in 7th took all 3 points with a 3-1 win.

6th placed Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies also missed out on a chance to move up the table as they suffered a shock home defeat to bottom side Hutton Ladies Reserves who recorded their 1st league victory of the season after 14 attempts the 3 points taking them off the bottom, with Walden Ladies dropping to the foot of the table. Both Jo Smeaton and Demi Cassey scored a goal for Beacon Hill Rovers, however Hutton Ladies Reserves responded with 4 goals at the other end to take the 3 points.

Essex Women’s League Cup

One out standing tie left to be played in the Essex Women’s League Cup this Sunday with Lawford Ladies travelling to play fellow Premier Division side Walden Ladies. Lawford booking their place in the quarter-finals due to be played on the 5th of March with a 4-1 win. The 4 quarter final ties are listed below:

Hatfield Peveral Ladies v Chigwell Ladies

Lawford Ladies v Wickford Town Ladies

Collier Row Tigers v Harlow Town Ladies Reserves

Frontiers Ladies v Corringham Cosmos

Essex Women’s Division One

There were also 3 matches played in Essex Women’s Division One at the weekend and with the top 2 not in league action it was a chance for 3rd placed Hatfield Peveral Ladies to close the gap at the top were away to bottom side Waltham Forest Ladies who had conceded 29 goals in their last 2 league games. A close scoreline in the end Hatfield Peveral scoring twice in the 1st half, Megan Warner with both goals on 30 and 35 minutes. Karla Joseph scoring a 3rd, just enough to take all 3 points with Waltham Forest scoring twice at the other end their closest defeat of the season so far.

6th placed Harlow Town Ladies were hosting the side immediately above them on Sunday, Collier Row Athletic, the visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half. Harlow Town came back to equalise in the 2nd half then go on to win the game 2-1 Lauren Yeates with both the goals the win taking Harlow Town above Collier Row Athletic into 5th place in the Division One table.

A Kayla-Marie Everett hat-trick plus goals for Emma Sharpe, Emily Kendle and Megan Bliss saw Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves win at home 6-2 against Benfleet Villa Ladies on Sunday to keep them in touch with the sides in the middle of the table.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 19/02/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 19th February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

The title race in Norfolk Women’s Division One is heating up as one side in a hot streak of form in 2017 brought to an end the league leaders 100% winning record on Sunday. Bungay Town Ladies are unbeaten themselves in 2017 winning all of their games so far to see them move up to 3rd spot in the table after winning 3-0 away to Brandon Town Ladies last Sunday. The weather too was alot warmer this Sunday as they hosted leaders Thorpe United Ladies who had won all of their previous 9 league matches, played just the one league and cup match in 2017 so far frustrated by a lack of games. Bungay Town held a 2-1 lead at half-time captain, Rebekah Lake scoring for Thorpe United. Bungay Town going on to add two further goals 2nd half with Laura Holden scoring a brace along with goals for Lauren Purling and Nicki Hazell to take the 3 points with a 4-1 to see Thorpe United lose for the 1st time this season.

Despite the win Bungay Town Ladies drop a place in the table to 4th as North Walsham Angels Ladies got the 3 points away to bottom side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies with enough goals scored to edge past Bungay Town on goal difference. Two goals each for Luci and Hope Middleton for North Walsham, Rosie Filby also finding the back of the net as well as goalkeeper Cyan Rose scoring from a well taken penalty to win the game 6-0. Both North Walsham and Bungay Town are on 21 points, 6 back from leaders Thorpe United both having played one game more.

The side capitalising most from Bungay Town Ladies victory over the Division One leaders is 2nd placed Kings Lynn Town Ladies, in a strong vein of form themselves their only defeat back on the opening day of the season against Thorpe United are now just 2 points behind with both having played 10 games after winning at home to Aylsham FC Ladies on Sunday. Natalie Bunton opening the scoring for Kings Lynn. Josie Turner made it 2-0 with captain Shelley Woods on target to give the home side a 3-0 lead. Emma Gillespie pulled a goal back for Aylsham FC Ladies before half-time. Woods added a 2nd goal to her tally in the 2nd half with Lithuanian International Oksana Imanalijeva scoring from the penalty spot after she was brought down inside the box to seal a 5-1 win.

A full list of fixtures in Division One this weekend with all 8 sides in action in the last game to bring you Brandon Town Ladies recovered from last weekends defeat with a 3-0 win away to Fakenham Town Ladies. Tiffany Forshaw, Shannon Odebrecht and Chloe Slater scoring the goals at Clipbush Park.

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

Was an all Norfolk Women’s Division Two clash in the last outstanding quarter final of this season, Ladies League Cup competition. League leaders Gorleston FC Ladies hosting Stalham Town Ladies who had knocked them out of the County Cup earlier in the season. Gorleston booked their spot in the semi-finals of the competition this time around winning 2-0 courtesy of goals from Kayleigh Byrne and Beth Turner. Gorleston will now be away to Thorpe United Ladies in the semi-finals with Brandon Town Ladies hosting Bungay Town Ladies in the other semi both scheduled to be played Sunday 12th March.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

All very tight at the top in Norfolk Women’s Division Three with the top 4 sides separated by just a point now after 4th placed Toftwood United Ladies got the 3 points at home against the league leaders, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Goals from Jolene Ayrton and Thea Wilson seeing Toftwood edge the win 2-1 with Sally Hammerton scoring the goal for Wymondham Town who remain on 19 points the same as 2nd placed East Coast Ladies, Toftwood United joining Dereham rivals Tavern Ladies in 3rd on 18 points have played more games than those above them, but with all 3 capable of taking points off each other it’s going to be an interesting end to the season.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 19/02/17

The Round-Up

Cambridgeshire – Sunday 19th February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

The Cambridgeshire Women’s County Cup was at the quarter-finals stage this weekend with 3 of the 4 ties scheduled to be played. Histon Ladies progressed without kicking a ball after the ERWFL Premier Division side was awarded a home win over Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side Bar Hill Ladies.

In the 2 quarter-finals that were played on Sunday their were huge away wins for ERWFL Division One leaders, Cambridge City Ladies and FAWPL South East Division One side, and holders Cambridge United WFC against lower league opposition. Cambridge City were taking on Park Ladies from the Cambridge Women’s Premiership a league between the sides having contrasting season’s Cambridge City top of ERWFL Division One with just the one defeat, Park Ladies bottom of the table having seen their only league win chalked off due to the withdrawal of the side that had previously been below them. Both Carla Penny and Bella Simmons were on target for Cambridge City scoring 4 goals each with Emily Reed also grabbing a goal in the tie to seal a 9-0 win to see them into the semi-finals.

An even bigger scoreline in the other quarter-final where Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South side, Milton Ladies faced a big test taking on Cambridge United WFC the highest league placed side in Cambridgeshire playing 4 leagues above them in FAWPL South East Division One. Danielle Puddefoot set the ball rolling for Cambridge United WFC opening the scoring on 7 minutes, just past the quarter hour mark Evie Gallop doubled the lead. Becky Taylor with a goal on 22 minutes to see Cambridge lead 3-0. Ashleigh Deacon also got in on the goal action grabbing her 1st goal of the game 2 minutes later, then it was all about Gallop as scoring twice in 5 minutes to get a 1st half hat-trick, wasn’t doe there however adding another 2 goals in the 39th and 41st minute to get herself 5 for the match. The goals kept coming late in the 1st half Laura Mills getting her 1st goal of the game, Deacon her 2nd in the final minute to see Cambridge hold a commanding 10-0 lead at half-time.

The goals didn’t slow up in the 2nd half, Nicole Perschky getting 2 to her name within the opening 5 minutes with Taylor getting her 2nd of the tie in between. Mills scored her 2nd on 54 minutes. Deacon went on to complete her hat-trick. Puddefoot getting another in the 73rd minute. Time in the last 5 minutes of the match for both Mills and Perschky to bring up their hat-tricks the final score 19-0.

St Ives Town Ladies and ICA Sports Ladies will contest the other quarter-final in an all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership tie.

The semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup have been draw and are as follows;

Histon Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge City Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies or ICA Sports Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Two games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. It was 4th versus 3rd as St Ives Tow Ladies hosted Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Having beaten them Cambridge United on the opening day of the season it was the springboard to a good start to life in the Premiership for St Ives Town and they earned another good result against their opponents with the sides drawing 1-1 to share the points Amy Seymour-Shove scoring for St Ives Town. Ebony Rule with the goal for Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

Despite the point St Ives Town drop a place to 5th in the table after being overhauled by Netherton United Ladies who edged a tight contest at home against Cambridge University Women on Sunday. Playing out a goalless 1st half the winning goal came late in the game with Yasmin Green striking the ball into the back of the net with 12 minutes left. It sees Netherton United go from what looked to have been an indifferent season in the league to suddenly find themselves right amongst the title contenders now on 12 points they are 6 behind leaders Newmarket Town Ladies with 2 games in hand. You can read Netherton United Ladies report from Sunday’s match by clicking on the link below.

Netherton United Ladies 1-0 Cambridge University Women

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North on Sunday and it saw 7th placed Wisbech Town Ladies move up a place into 6th after they recorded a good result at home to 5th placed Ketton Ladies. Both Shushannah Feast and Sophie Gutteridge scoring a hat-trick in the game with Polly Norman also on target with a goal in a 7-2 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Two games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South at the weekend, league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development still undefeated with a whooping 10 point lead at the top of the table after an away win on Sunday against Isleham United Ladies. Shona Kelly with a goal for the home side. Cambridge City scoring twice to win the game 2-1, Anna Wilson and Erin Fox netting their goals.

Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves move back above Milton Ladies into 2nd spot in the Championship South with a home win against Cambridge Rangers on Sunday. Dominika Szary scoring a brace with Hollie Turner and Kristen Hummel both getting themselves a goal each in a 4-0 win.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 19/02/17

The Round-Up

Suffolk Women’s County Cup – Sunday 19th February

This weekend in Suffolk it was all about the Suffolk Women’s County Cup the competition at the semi-finals stage. The two ties played at neutral venues. Cup Holders Ipswich Town Ladies were playing ERWFL Division One side, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies at Whitton United. Two leagues between the sides Ipswich Town Ladies playing in the FAWPL South East Division One had had a comfortable win against Ipswich Wanderers Ladies in a pre-season friendly, however it was a different proposition in the cup a place in the final at stage Ipswich Wanderers tough to break down clearing the ball off the goal-line as Ipswich Town created chances in the 1st half eventually broke the deadlock in the 37th Hollie Clement’s corner going straight in to see them lead 1-0 at the break. Ipswich Town came out strong 2nd half Natasha Thomas always lively having a number of chances to extend the lead, Ipswich Wanderers kept it till one nil ha the odd chance to draw level before Ipswich Town found a 2nd goal Roxanne Small scoring to see Ipswich Town get the result and make it into the final once again.

Their opponents in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final will be fellow FAWPL South East Division One side, Lowestoft Town Ladies after they beat Bacton United Ladies to book their spot in the final. The game played at Woodbridge Town FC, Bacton United Ladies were the only side playing their football in the Suffolk Women’s Division to make it this far in the competition, faced a big test taking on a side playing their football 3 leagues higher. Lowestoft Town scored twice in the 1st half with captain Hannah Waters opening the scoring, Charnelle Riggall making it 2-0. Waters scored again in the 2nd half with Broghan Scully also netting for Lowestoft Town to win the match 4-0.

Congratulations to Ipswich Town Ladies & Lowestoft Town Ladies on reaching the final

The date and time for the final to be announced.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 19/02/17

The Round-Up

ERWFL – Sunday 19th February

A limited fixture list in the ERWFL this weekend with several sides involved in their various County Cup competitions now into there latter stages and those sides will be mentioned in the county league Round-Ups to follow.

ERWFL Premier Division

Just the one game played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday with league leaders Haringey Borough Women making the long journey up to Norfolk to play Acle United Ladies. A point clear at the top Haringey Borough went into the game undefeated in the league since November 2016. Remain a point clear at the top as they were beaten by Acle United a single goal enough to win all 3 points for the 8th placed side coming midway through the 1st half the goal scored by Lauren Bullard who has re-signed with the club after being with Lowestoft Town Ladies. Moves Acle United to within a point of a congested mid-table with games in hand on all the sides immediately above them. Acle United also welcomed another new signing Rita Alves on Sunday joining from Portuguese side, Sport Clube Odemirense.

ERWFL Division One

Two games played in ERWFL Division One on Sunday with 3rd placed Wymondham Town Ladies recording a big away win against bottom club Hoddesdon Town Ladies to move to withing a point of the leading pair of Cambridge City Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies. Hoddesdon Town Ladies held Wymondham Town at bay for much of the 1st half, Wymondham Town grabbing the lead on the 40th minute, Bethany Fretwell making it 1-0. The visitors were awarded a penalty in the 45th minute, Amber Cantwell scoring from the spot with Fretwell scoring her 2nd of the game moments later to see Wymondham Town leading 3-0 at half-time. Laura Wiseman got her 1st goal of the match 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Laura Nicholls on target to make it 5-0 on 60 minutes, Wiseman with her 2nd of the game 5 minutes later, Gemma Sanders with a goal with 20 minutes left to play. Wiseman going on to score her hat-trick. Cantwell making it 9-0 with her 2nd of the game in the 80th minute,Kayleigh Holloway bringing up the double figure win a minute later. 10-0 the final score.

Just the one goal scored in the other match in ERWFL Division One at the weekend but the 3 points were enough to lift Silver End United Ladies above Offley & Stopsley Women into 4th place in the table playing at home against Hertford Town Ladies, captain Rebecca Hollocks with the goal for the Essex side her 12th of the season.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 19/02/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL/FA Women’s Cup – Sunday 19th February

FA Women’s Cup

The FA Women’s Cup reached the 4th Round Proper this weekend 250+ entrants whittled down to just 12 for 6 ties to see who would be going on to play in the 5th Round where the 10 sides from FAWSL 1 enter the competition. Of those 6 ties, 2 featured sides from the FAWPL Southern Division both with a home tie on Sunday taking on FAWSL 2 opposition.

Was a Midlands derby match at Pack Meadow with Coventry United Ladies, 3rd in the Southern Division taking on Aston Villa Ladies who had dispatched FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC 7-1 in the 3rd Round. Coventry United had beaten FAWPL 2 side Oxford United Ladies in the 3rd Round to set up today’s tie. A single goal settling the match in the end coming 15 minutes into the 1st half with ex-Coventry player and current Aston Villa Ladies captain volleying the ball into the back of the net from the edge of the box.

In the other FA Women’s Cup 4th Round tie featuring a side from the FAWPL Southern Division league leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competition so far this season were hosting new promoted FAWSL 2 side Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. A tough test for the home side Tottenham started positively Nikita Whinnett placing a shot wide in the opening 10 minutes a fast tempo to the game two well organised defences saw an intriguing 1st half end goalless. Tottenham started the 2nd half as strongly as the 1st Whinnett seeing a shot fired across the Brighton goal come back out off the post to be met by Bianca Baptiste (pictured) who sent her shot back in cannoning off the crossbar. On 57 minutes the break through goal came, Whinnett playing the ball into Wendy Martin inside the box, turning her shot was blocked the clearance going wide to Baptiste on the left sent the ball back in towards goal up over the goalkeeper and in to give Tottenham the lead. Held on to win the game and make history knocking out FAWSL 2 opposition for the 1st time in the FA Women’s Cup. The game was covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday and the whole match report can be found below this post or by clicking on the link below.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup was made this Monday and will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies away to FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies in a North London derby match. The ties for the 5th Round are scheduled for Sun 19th March and the full draw is listed below.

Arsenal Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

Birmingham City Ladies v West Bromich Albion Ladies

Chelsea Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Bristol City Women v Millwall Lionesses

Manchester City Women v Reading FC Women

Liverpool Ladies v Everton Ladies

Notts County Ladies v Yeovil Town Ladies

FAWPL Southern Division

With Tottenham Hotspur Ladies & Coventry United Ladies involved in the FA Women’s Cup and 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women playing in the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup, 4th placed Cardiff City Ladies took full advantage to win and go back to the top of the table on goal recovering from last weekends set back that saw them lose their unbeaten record in the league defeated 2-0 by Charlton Athletic Women. Cardiff City were at home playing Swindon Town Ladies. Cori Williams scoring a hat-trick in the game to take her into double figures for the season, already their were Kerry Bartlett and Chloe Chivers who both netted a brace in the match. Abbie Britton completing the 8-0 winning scoreline with a goal.

In the other match played in the Southern Division at the weekend Lewes Ladies travelled to Uxbridge FC to play bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. The side fought out a goalless 1st half. Lewes going on to score 7 minutes into the 2nd half with Danielle Lane on target to make it 1-0. Kellie Larkin coming of the bench scoring her 1st goal for the 1st team this season with 14 minutes left to play putting the ball into the back of the net from a free-kick to seal the 3 points with a 2-0 win move up into 6th spot above C&K Basildon Ladies and Portsmouth FC Ladies all 3 on 14 points.

FAWPL South East Division One

One game played in South East Division One on Sunday and 4th placed Gillingham FC Ladies took full advantage of their rivals all being involved in County Cup action as they continued their unbeaten run with a big away win in Norfolk against bottom side Norwich City Ladies. Charlotte Gurr in a hot streak in front of goal since rejoining the club bagged herself 5 more goals at Plantation Park on Sunday, Jade Keogh, Gillingham’s captain netting a brace with a goal a piece for Jenny Newman and Rosie Kmita who was with Cambridge United WFC up until last week. The win moves Gillingham into 2nd level on points with Cambridge United WFC who drop to 3rd are now 4 points behind leaders Milton Keynes Dons Ladies with 3 games in hand.

Capital Women’s Cup

Defending Cup Holders, Charlton Athletic Women reached the final of the Capital Women’s Cup again with an emphatic home win against Actonians Ladies in the semi-final this weekend. Charley Clifford giving Charlton the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Avilla Bergin soon doubling their advantage. Actonians pulled to back to 2-1 with half an hour played. Two goal on two minutes from Kit Graham and Gemma Shepherd saw Charlton leading 4-1 at half-time. Charlton went on to consolidate their lead in the 2nd half, Shepherd completing her hat-trick had 4 goals to her name with 60 minutes on the clock. Bergin netting her 2nd of the game saw Charlton through to the final with an 8-1 victory where they will play either Tottenham Hotspur Ladies or Crystal Palace Ladies.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

This Sunday’s football action on the SWF Blog came from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup with 12 sides left in the competition vying for 6 spots in the 5th Round when the 10 FAWSL 1 sides enter the cup. The venue today Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competitions so far this season take on their biggest test yet FAWSL 2 opposition with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the visitors.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup the entrants whittled down to just 12 sideLondonontest 6 ties to be joined by the sides from FAWSL 1 that will enter the competition in the 5th Round, today it’s a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on the newest side to join the FAWSL, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

Have been trying to get down to see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play twice so far in 2017 but the weather has put pay to that both times around, they are enjoying a fabulous season so far are undefeated in all competitions with just the one draw in the league to date. Into the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup and FAWPL Cup where they are defending the trophy. Have also reached the Boux Avenue Final for the 3rd consecutive season. A tough challenge today against FAWSL opposition in the cup as Tottenham look to be one of the few remaining FAWPL sides to make it into the 5th Round Proper.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies entered this season’s FA Women’s Cup in the 1st Round Proper of the competition were drawn at home to Leyton Orient WFC a single goal scored by Wendy Martin taking the FAWPL Southern Division leaders through to the 2nd Round Proper where they were drawn at home playing FAWPL South East Division One side, Gillingham FC Ladies a much more comfortable result winning 3-0 to set up a long away trip to play FAWPL Northern Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The sides level at 1-1 going into 2nd half injury time Bianca Baptiste scored for Tottenham in the 93rd minute to seal a 2-1 victory and a home draw in the 4th Round against Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC did last season what Tottenham are hope to achieve this time around, win the FAWPL Southern Division title. Went on to beat Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off game back in May last year. Making their bow in the FAWSL 2 Spring Series last Saturday earning a 1-1 draw away to London Bees. Played their 1st competitive match of the season in the previous round of the FA Women’s Cup before that the FAWSL 2 sides entering the competition in the 3rd Round Proper were drawn away to FAWPL South East Division One side, AFC Wimbledon Ladies won the game 4-1 to advance to the next round.

Cheshunt FC the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, the pitch a good size showing a little wear has seen alot of football this season, was nevertheless firm and dry underfoot. The weather has been poor at the start of 2017 plenty of matches called off but no danger of that this Sunday a fairly mild day for February dark clouds overhead a hint of a light shower but nothing else as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Leah Rawle, Lucia Leon, Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Riana Soobadoo, Bianca Baptiste, Nikita Whinnett & Wendy Martin.
subs – Megan Lynch, Kelley Blanchflower, Maya Vio & Eartha Pond.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicki Ashton-Jones, Charlotte Young, Kirsty Barton, Laura Rafferty, Lucy Somes, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
subs – Leah Samain, Hollie Olding, Bronwen Thomas & Ellie Dorey

It’s Brighton to get today’s FA Women’s Cup tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing orange shirts, white shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, navy shorts and socks. Right from the 1st Brighton touch Tottenham move in quickly to press the ball winning possession the ball is played forwards up to Wendy Martin in attack inside the box is played back to Nikita Whinnett who joined the club from Charlton Athletic Women in the summer, outside the area is closed down go Jenna Legg as she looks to turn in behind the ball lost is picked up by Leah Rawle getting forwards from the back for Tottenham drives with the ball at her feet down the left wing squaring a high cross into the Brighton six yard box is comfortably claimed by goalkeeper, Emma Byrne.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Wendy Martin

Brighton get hold of the ball as it is played into the feet of Kate Natkiel helps it on out to the right wing with Alessia Russo getting forwards cutting back inside as she reaches the top of the Tottenham box cuts across her shot as she sends the ball goalwards causing it it swerve away from goal landing in the side netting. The game has started at a rapid tempo no one afforded much time on the ball, winning it at the back Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci plays it long through the middle with Whinnett making a central run getting clear of the Brighton centre-backs, Byrne is well placed at the top of the area to gather before the striker can capitalise.

Lucia Leon is forwards on the right for Tottenham as the home side builds an attack has support from Sophie McLean they exchange passes 25 yards out before Leon threaded a diagonal ball into the box looking for Martin near post, looks to see the ball across her body intending to take a shot, Whinnett slips her marker making a move for the ball leaning into the shot reaches it before Martin sends her effort curling wide of the post.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Nikita Whinnett

Tottenham playing 3 at the back are playing a high line, looks risky if the opposition can get in behind however they drop back very quickly went their opponents regain the ball and with Josie Green playing just in front of the back 3 the defenders either side of Schillaci, Renee Hector and Rawle can move across to deal with their respective wide players. In attack Whinnett and Bianca Baptiste on the right side are providing the width but the Brighton defence is well organised and the final ball from both sides is being won by a defender in the early exchanges.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies
captain Jenna Schillaci

Leon get’s hold of the ball inside the Brighton half for Tottenham rolls it on for Baptiste down the right wing taking the ball down to the byline into the area her attempted cross is charged down by Vicki Ashton-Jones as she goes to ground the ball rebounding back to Baptiste tries again playing the ball in towards the near post is scooped up on the bounce by Byrne. A quick counter attack the ball played into midfield Laura Rafferty plays it to Lucy Somes on the left side playing it on for Amy Taylor the striker with Hector on her shoulder heads for the box left of goal is past the onrushing keeper but play is brought back as Taylor fouled hector in the process.

Russo closes down Schillaci taking the ball from the defender as she tries to bring it out from the back running in behind takes on the shot from outside the box, her low drive stopped by goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne diving to her left. Green carries the ball forwards for Tottenham passing it onto Riana Soobadoo ahead of her sends the ball out towards Baptiste on the right a burst of pace before playing a pacey cross in towards martin moving towards the near post, can’t get a touch as the ball runs across her races across the face of goal and out of play for a goal-kick at the far post.

Brighton captain, Sophie Perry is allowed to travel with the ball on the left plays it on for Somes ahead of her comes in field before rolling the ball across to Taylor outside the box, her 1st time strike is blocked by Schillaci. End to end Tottenham soon have the ball up the other end over the top with Baptiste giving chase Byrne plays the ball wide attempting to put it out for a throw is retrieved by Martin who plays it back in to Baptiste 25 yards out takes on the strike her shot sailing over the bar. Brighton are getting a little frustrated are pinned back inside their half with Tottenham pressing all over the park can’t get anything to stick higher up the pitch.

Nikita Whinnett holds Brighton captain, Sophie Perry off the ball

Somes is fouled wide on the left with around 10 minutes of the 1st half left, Charlotte Young makes a late run to get up into the area from the back as Perry delivers the ball into the area, is over Young dropping for Hector beyond her clearance is picked up by Natkiel 25 yards out drives the ball low into the area, is blocked too many bodies to go through, running out of play the referee gives a goal-kick. The 1st corner of the game doesn’t come until the 37th minute going to Tottenham, Martin forcing the error from Young the set-piece comes to nothing.

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to get the better of Tottenham’s Jenna Schillaci

Leon steals in to win the ball inside the Brighton half getting it forwards produces a defence splitting pass to thread the ball in towards Martin centrally positioned inside the area, Legg with a superb recovering tackle gets across in the nick of time to take the ball away from Martin’s toes Young clearing the ball from the area. The last 5 minutes of the 1st half is full of promising attacks but both defences working hard to stop the final ball see very little action inside the box. Late on into injury time in the 1st half Natkiel getting the ball out to Russo right earns Brighton a throw-in, played in towards Russo outside the Tottenham area turns in field heading for the box jinks right avoiding Rawle’s lunging challenge then rifles her shot over the crossbar.

Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

An intriguing 1st half an entertaining game so far 2 closely matched sides testing each other out, few chances created in the match despite both sides constantly looking for an opening. Tottenham have edged the chances in front of goal although neither goalkeeper has been tested yet. Beautifully poised the 2nd half could go either way.

No changes for either side although Rafferty has a bandaged knee following a knock picked up in the 1st half for Brighton. Tottenham to get the 2nd half started. Have the early possession McLean playing the ball forwards into Martin with Whinnett close by, outside the area a shot comes in runs wide of goal.

Tottenham have a throw-in high up the pitch on the right the ball is played into Whinnett’s feet turning inside pushes for the box right of goal unleashes a shot flies across Byrne positioned centrally, strikes the far post and rebounds out towards Baptiste racing into the area throws herself at the ball, flies up over Byrne coming down off the crossbar Brighton struggle to get it clear coming back to Baptiste has another go a wild strike flies high over the bar.

Rafferty getting the ball forwards has Somes in space out wide left picks her out with a well timed long pass, Somes looks to control and come inside top of the area thread the ball into Taylor in a central position, Leon has support from Soobadoo as the pair get back to squeeze Somes off the ball before she can deliver the final ball. Brighton push numbers forwards with purpose in the next attack the ball from Barton out to the right lifted into the area Taylor hitting it on the run is blocked at close range the rebound falling favourably for Tottenham to clear.

GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken, Tottenham have a throw up on the the right inside the Brighton half the ball is played into Whinnett who comes inside with the ball 25 yards out across the face of the area rolls the ball into Martin back to goal inside the area turns her shot blocked by Ashton-Jones closely marking her the ball is cleared out to the left going straight to Baptiste, takes on the shot from distance her strike flying over Byrne and under the bar into the back of the net to give Tottenham the lead 1-0.

Tottenham’s Bianca Baptiste with Brighton’s Charlotte Young

McLean is fouled as she holds the ball up wide on the right Tottenham send players forwards into the box as Hector stands over the set-piece the ball is flighted in to the area with Whinnett making a run from the penalty spot to the near post, the delivery too close to Byrne the goalkeeper can get her gloves firmly around the ball 1st. Whinnett on the ball a powerful run on the right lays the pass inside for McLean 25 yards out central sends a high ball into the box, Byrne calls and claims it with Martin in behind her.

Young sends the ball long from the back for Brighton with Somes giving chase into the left corner coming back up the pitch plays it across the top of the area into Barton, shifts it looking for room to play a pass sending it on for Natkiel top of the D puts the ball into the area with Taylor after it, Green is ahead of her looks to shield the ball out of play as it runs wide, gets a shove from Taylor a bit of afters sees Taylor yellow carded. Natkiel gets possession of the ball on the right pushing forwards her cross into the area is headed away by Rawle, dropping towards Barton outside the area, has no time to see the ball down onto the floor goes for the acrobatic sends the ball goalwards too high however whistles over the bar.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC’s, Kirsty Barton

The game is stretched the tempo hasn’t dropped in the slightest, Brighton pressing looking for an equaliser, Tottenham wanting a 2nd goal. Ashton-Jones fouls Whinnett on halfway, Baptiste over the ball floats it up towards the top of the area, Young headers clear, falling to Soobadoo hits it back in along the ground, blocked then cleared. Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards giving Brighton a free-kick 35 yards out, Perry on the ball goes for goal, Wayne can see the ball run wide of goal. Tottenham make their 1st change on 71 minutes bringing on Maya Vio for Soobadoo.

Brighton’s Jenna Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards

Brighton respond with a double change on 76 minutes with Rafferty and Somes the players coming off, Bronwen Thomas and Hollie Olding. Martin and Whinnett try a one two outside the area Ashton-Jones nips in to tackle and win the ball. Russo is playing through the middle now for Brighton supporting Taylor with Natkiel left, Thomas right win a corner, Tottenham defend well threaten to counter attack, Barton wins the ball back. The ball is played out to Thomas attacking down the right fizzes a cross in towards the near post getting down falling onto the ball Wayne spills her initial save but recovers quickly to get up smother the ball with Taylor closing in.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC
captain, Sophie Perry

Perry brings the ball on down the left for Brighton her cross is cut back towards the top of the area controlled well by Thomas just inside the area plays it back to Natkiel lays it out to Legg coming in from the right her ball lifted into the area runs wide at the near post. Perry again up the left for Natkiel who plays it inside to Russo sees Wayne off her line tries the lob from distance but off target bounces wide of goal. Baptiste run of running gets across from the left to the right winning a throw-in for Tottenham the ball is played into McLean plays it into Whinnett central takes on the shot places the ball straight into Byrne who holds onto the ball.

Into the closing minutes Brighton break down the right Russo with the ball at her feet sends in a low drive angling into the bottom corner, Wayne dives full stretch across her goal to get a glove to the ball push it with a vital save to keep Tottenham’s lead intact. Tottenham defend the corner kick. Brighton push everyone forwards late into the game everyone bar their keeper in the Tottenham half, risk the counter but need the goal get hit on the break Whinnett getting in behind on the right holds the ball up well before playing in inside to Martin a good turn before playing it on for Baptiste coming in from the left her goal bound effort blocked by Legg.

Into injury time and the last place Brighton want the ball is with the Tottenham attackers in the corner. The home side do a great job of keeping the ball there to see out the game and win, Bianca Baptiste’s strike enough to see the FAWPL Southern Division side into the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

A really good contest to watch this one, 2 very good sides, a single goal enough to win the game, Tottenham continuing their excellent run of form, can see why they are doing so well and glad I got down to see them at last this season. Brighton created chances but not much inside the box, prevented very little inside their box as well both sides pressing the ball Tottenham just had the extra bit of movement in their legs to get the result on the day.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A good all round team performance from Tottenham today, a well taken goal from Baptiste, however today’s SWF Blog Player of the Match goes to Josie Green in midfield covered plenty of ground in front of the defence stifling Brighton’s attack winning the ball and a range of pass to turn a defensive position into a rapid attack.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Josie Green

My thanks to Tottenham for helping me out with the teams today.

*UPDATE* The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies away from home in a North London derby on the weekend of 18th/19th March.