Match Report – Needham Market Women v Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

Sunday 6th February

ERWFL Division One North

  A trip down to Suffolk this Sunday to watch a game from ERWFL Division One North with leaders Needham Market Women taking on league newcomers Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses.

  7 sides competing in ERWFL Division One North this season. Is a very young league in terms of the sides competing in it with Newmarket the old hands only joining the ERWFL in 2018. 3 newcomers too this season in Biggleswade United Ladies, Whittlesey Athletic Ladies and Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses. 

 Needham Market Women joining the ERWFL in 2019, were a fast emerging force within women’s football in Suffolk that has seen Ipswich Town Women dominate for several years now. The game in Suffolk needing to grow, Needham Market very much embracing their women’s side within the clubs set-up. 2 county cup final appearances already they will be hoping to make it a 3rd having reached the semi-finals once again this time Ipswich not entering a side. Hold a strong lead at the top of the ERWFL Division One North table losing just one of their 8 matches played so far. In fact should results go their way today they could even clinch the title. The best defensive record in the league it’s their goals scored that has set them apart with Needham Market having 4 out of the 5 top goal scorers . Lina Nagib with 23 goals from 15 played, Molly Hall 18 from 10, Ellie Rossiter has 15 from 13 played with Lois Balfour netting 14 times so far from 15 played. Looking strong for the title and with it promotion to the Premier Division.

  Below Needham Market it is a highly competitive tussle for 2nd spot in the table, with just 5 points separating the sides place 2nd down to 6th. Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses right in the middle of the battle. The Bedfordshire side the newest of the lot formed just the season before this, assembling a strong squad with plenty of experience at this level and above. Joined BHWGFL Division One. Covid disrupting that season but opportunities for progression as the ERWFL opened it’s application pool wider to attract new sides. Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses moving into the regional set-up. A good start beating fellow newcomers Biggleswade 3-2 went on to lose there next 3 in league and cup before bouncing back with a 2-0 home win against Needham Market. Since then results have been up and down 4 wins and 5 defeats so far to sit 4th 2 points off 2nd spot. Also through to he semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup where they will face fellow league side Biggleswade both looking to reach their first final.

  Bloomfields the venue for today’s game home of all Needham market’s sides. The ground has grown along with the women’s setup since I first started following them. The 3G pitch with a large viewing area and small stand on one side beyond that the changing rooms and cafe above serving hot food and drinks. A balcony all round the top tier allowing for an eagles eye view of the pitch i was tempted to stay up there watch the game safe from the inclement weather, but I prefer being on the side lines and decided to take my chances. The weather already putting pay to the planned game I had several good alternatives and this an opportunity to see two sides I’ve yet so far been unable too. Heavy rain overnight, pretty gloomy with the threat of more rain a windy too the 3g pitch providing little protection from the elements.

Needham Market Women

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Danielle Clarke, Nicole Pannifer, Niamh Thomas, Ele Catchpole, Jodie Sharpe, Nicole Henderson (C), Abbie Fisher, Mia Etheridge, Lina Nagib & Molly Hall. Subs – Eloise Ward, Lois Balfour Jo Brawn & Jessica Marriot.

Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses starting XI – Charlotte Cooper, Freya Opperman, Toni Mitchell, Georgia Hall, Charlotte Bedford (C), Cerys Edwards, Kim Mulgrew, Laura Taylor, Laura Simpson, Elena Lancaster & Giselle Randall. Subs – Rebecca Vass, Georgia Edwards, Jess Greaves & Jess Katsinas. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Needham Market to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing red shirts with black shorts and red socks. Wootton Blue Cross lined up opposite wearing blue shirts fading in shade to the waist, blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence is put out to the right Nicole Pannifer on for Ellie Rossiter attacking up the flanks she has support from Mia Etheridge the pair exchanging passes before Wootton Blue Cross full back, Freya Opperman puts in the tackle on Rossiter to put the ball out for a throw in.

Rossiter recieving the ball off the throw in shifts round her marker getting into the box striking a shot on the angle rising but caught comfortably by Wootton Blue Cross keeper, Charlotte Cooper. Needham Market making a positive start coming on with the ball Ethridge central laying it on for Lina Nagib in the left channel, cuts it back across the top of the area aiming to pick out Etheridge who has continued her run, she is closed down by Wootton Blue Cross captain, Charlotte Bedford the ball knocked back to Needham Market’s captain Nicola Henderson in midfield, Cerys Edwards challenging her to regain possession for the visitors.

Needham Market’s Lina Nagib

   Needham Market with a crossfield ball to find Nagib left knocked down for Molly Hall 25 yards out goes to shoot her effort charged down. The hosts are moving the ball quickly getting players forwards the wind is strong blowing across the pitch Needham Market running into it 1st half. Giselle Randall leading the attack for Wootton Blue Cross sees the ball into her feet twists playing it out to Laura Simpson free on the left, spots the run for Elena Lancaster over on the right attempts to put the diagonal ball over the top however the wind catches it taking it out of play before Lancaster can chase it down. 

Wootton Blue Cross attacker, Giselle Randall

   Henderson fouled on halfway a free-kick for Needham Market, with Pannifer moving forwards right side, out to Rossiter inside to Abbie Fisher opens up her body looking to thread it in behind for Rossiter, the flag going up against her. Wootton Blue Cross with a change out of nothing as the ball is cleared from the back the wind catching it sending it on bouncing awkwardly for the Needham Market defence, don’t deal with it as Randall steals through into the box left of goal onto it striking the ball goalwards, Danielle Clarke coming to narrow the angle diving to her right full stretch to save turning the ball wide for a corner kick.

  Wootton Blue Cross come right Kim Mulgrew on to Lancaster 25 plus yards out on the angle takes on the shot, wind assisted the ball racing across the area wide of the far post. The wind not helping Wootton Blue Cross in attack at all any through ball having too much on it seeing a good attack go to waste. Fisher plays the ball through for Nagib breaking clear of the defence left side, Cooper comes out to close her down hesitates for a split second as she leaves her area Nagib striking the ball against her spins up high into the air dropping behind Cooper wide of goal Nagib willing it to fall, but by the time it does the visitors have regrouped in defence closing her down.

Needham Market defender, Niamh Thomas

  Wootton Blue Cross come right Lancaster inside for Randall sees the ball cross her body 25 yards out turning into the shot the ball looping up but dropping straight into Clarkes arms. Rossiter frustrated as she is flagged offside with the hosts mounting a quick counter offensive. Rossiter posing Wootton Blue Cross a problem on the right of attack as she drives forwards with the ball laying it inside for Hall who spins it back into Rossiter’s path as she arrives into the box shooting puts the ball straight into the keeper.

Needham Market captain, Nicola Henderson

   Henderson with a powerful run through the middle, keeping hold of the ball pushed on into Hall’s feet the striker releasing it to the right as Rossiter gets in behind, just a split second too early the flag raised once again. Rossiter is linking up well with Pannifer on the right team mates at Ipswich previously Cooper though up to the edge of her area quickly to snatch up the ball before Rossiter can take advantage. Etheridge is pulled down attacking on the right a free-kick 25 yards out, Fisher over it sends in a cross towards the far post attacked, Hall up to meet it a glancing header the attempt wide.

Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses, Laura Simpson

   Wootton Blue Cross break the ball fed on through the middle for Randall escaping into the left channel, Clarke reading it quickly out of her box to clear. The visitors keep possession spreading play to the right a shot from distance narrowly wide of the near post. A spell of pressure for Wootton Blue Cross, Randall out to Lancaster right her cross into the are headed clear by Ele Catchpole. Hall getting hold of the ball out left into the corner puts in a cross along the six yard box dropping to Rossiter far post her shot blocked by Hall. Needham Market win a free-kick wide left inside the Wootton Blue Cross half after Jodie Sharp is upended. The delivery into the box cleared comes straight to Henderson central 20 yards out her driven shot charged down by Lancaster. 

  GOAL!  Needham Market build well through the middle numbers on the ball into Pannifer right threads it through to Rossiter in behind taking the ball into the box for the top corner wrapping her foot around the ball connects well with a rising shot power behind it Cooper with the slightest to touches can’t keep it out 1-0. Needham Market opening the scoring midway through the 1st half.

Ellie Rossiter fires Needham Market into the lead

  Needham Market up on the right a throw won into Etheridge has support from Pannifer the cross lofted into the area headed away by Bedford. Opperman in to tackle Rossiter to prevent the cross as Niamh Thomas plays a long ball to her from the back. Lancaster moving to the left as Simpson looks to release her Henderson comes sliding in with a strong tackle to win the ball. 

  GOAL! Wootton Blue Cross with a quick reply to pull the scores level once more. Pressure on the Needham Market defence Randall in control of the ball central 25 out plays it to Lancaster right she lays it into the area Randall after it left of goal, Clarke down bravely at her feet the ball blocked scramble away, out to the right side Needham Market don’t clear possession with Taylor right of the D takes on the shot a low strike angled back across the keeper to roll into the bottom corner 1-1. 

Laura Taylor scoring the equaliser for Wootton Blue Cross

  Randall is making a nuisance of herself in attack for Wootton Blue Cross back to tackle Henderson the ball rolled back to Edwards she looks to play it forwards, the swirling wind however as it has before giving the attacks too much to do to chase it down. Rain falling too falling back to the cover under the balcony to keep the notepad dry. Nagid striding forwards with the ball left side checks inside top corner of the area letting loose a shot driven it straight at and safely held by Cooper. 

 Wootton Blue Cross doing their best to get to grip with the conditions putting some pressure on the Needham market defence coming right the ball crossed into the penalty spot Randall after it saved at the feet of the keeper before being scrambled away for a corner. A change for the visitors with Rebecca Vass coming on to join the attack with Edwards coming off. Etheridge getting into the box for Needham Market winning a corner off the keeper. Played in central headed on by the defence out to the left. Wootton Blue Cross break down the right Vass travelling with the ball her cross goes long out of play beyond the far post.

   Is a good contest between Opperman and Rossiter as Needham market attack on the right Pannifer sending Rossiter on before the full back lunges in with the tackle. Needham Market send the ball up to Etheridge right side of the area cushions down a header to put the ball into Nagib central she in turn lays it out to Sharp looking to go clear on the left, Simpson tacking back well to challenge and get possession back for the visitors. Conditions are really poor the swirling wind and rain showers making it bitterly cold. 

Rebecca Vass

  Vass on the ball for Wootton Blue Cross spins it out to Simpson on her right takes on the shot early looking to strike a looping shot up over the keeper. Not enough on it falls early straight into Clarke’s arms. A chance for Rossiter up top for Needham Market as she is put clear though the middle by Fisher, one on one with the advancing keeper waits for Cooper to commit taking the ball around her to the left, looking to drill the ball into an open goal, Opperman has recovered superbly however having gone with her putting a foot in to take the ball away from her.

Freya Opperman back to defend denying Rossiter

  The clock ticking down in the 1st half, Wootton Blue Cross mount an attack piling players forwards the ball fed through the centre out to Randall peeling away left top of the area on the angle attempts to use the outside of her boot to put the ball inside for Lancaster, Henderson back there to defend the ball back with Randall her shot charged down by Thomas. The half-time whistle blowing as Rossiter is flagged offside one final time.

   Half-time Needham Market Women 1-1 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

  All square at the break the sides drawing 1-1. Played in difficult conditions. Needham market starting brightly on the attack getting players forwards taking the game to Wootton Blue Cross. Creating chances pressuring the ball high and looking to break in behind the offside trap sprung on a few occasions. Ellie Rossiter putting the hosts in front midway through the half. Wootton Blue Cross responding well pressing the ball in the final 3rd and pulling level quickly. Took a while to get used to the condition the wind at there backs making it run on t attack making timing passes extremely hard. All in all an even contest with conditions unlikely to improve.

  No changes as far as I can tell for either side at the break, Needham Market opting to stay out on the field during half time the sun trying to break through the clouds but plenty of grey still around as Wootton Blue Cross kick off the 2nd half kicking into the wind. Needham market immediately press the ball getting onto the Wootton Blue Cross defence to hustle the ball in the final 3rd prevent their opponents breaking out in attack. 

  GOAL! Needham Market’s pressing starting to the 2nd half brings an early rewards as the hosts attack Fisher 20 out right of the D with a ball knocked on into the box isn’t cleared properly Hall latching onto it right of the D striking the low shot along the ground across the keeper to find the bottom corner 2-1.

Molly Hall putting Needham Market back into the lead

GOAL! A perfect start to the 2nd half is make even batter as Needham Market quickly add a 3rd goal. Nagib regaining possession in the middle on to Etheridge  she plays a good diagonal pass out to Sharp on the move on the left wing using the wind to her advantage making an already speedy player look even quicker using its momentum to take the ball to the by line lays it back up to Hall waiting for it top corner to lift in a cross along the D to fall to Henderson far side she brings it down striking a fantastic shot up over the keeper into the goal beyond 3-1. 

Nicola Henderson making it a quickfire double for Needham Market

  A great start to the 2nd half for Needham Market 2 quickfire goals to go 2 goals in front. Wootton Blue Cross come right side Lancaster tripped as she brings the ball on a free-kick 22 yards out right of the D, Vass over it goes for goal her effort high over the bar. Sharp caught out by the offside flag left side as Hall attempts to flick a crossfield pass onto her in attack. Fisher central winning the ball forwards to Rossiter right looks to go on Opperman forcing her to stay wide sliding in to put the ball out for a throw.

  The weather’s changeable to say the least getting very dark a rainbow isn’t always a good sign you know a storm is on the way. Opperman allowed to get up the pitch left side a high cross into the area, Randall waiting for it to drop, Henderson back to deal with it for Needham Market. Opperman over a free-kick for Wootton Blue Cross to the left of the D 25 yards out struck low finds its way through to goal Clarke though right behind it. 

  Taylor comes right for Wootton Blue Cross her cross cut out by Henderson, Taylor has another go the ball back with her this time deflected behind for a corner kick. The ball defended at the near post comes back to Mulgrew another cross played into the six yard box Needham Market scrambling it away. Mitchell gets up on the right with the ball for Wootton Blue Cross her cross squared into the area over Randall on the penalty spot falls to Taylor beyond turns the ball goalwards, Clarke right behind it to save. 

Elena Lancaster

  Sharp on the move with the ball on the left all the way for Needham Market turning into the box, Hall comes back to put in a strong but fair tackle. Simpson and Vass combine out on the right for Wootton Blue Cross the ball crossed into the area Taylor the target, Thomas dealing with it for Needham Market to clear. The wind has gotten stronger is bitter out there. Cooper out to the top corner off her area to block Rossiter’s stab on as she is played on by Pannifer.

Needham market’s Nicole Pannifer

  Changes for Needham Market, off come Nagib, Thomas and Hall off on come Jo Brawn, Eloise Ward and Lois Balfour. The hosts with a corner kick on the right taken short before the cross is cut out deflected behind for a 2nd corner this time Wootton Blue Cross win it and break quickly Clarke needing to come hurtling out of her area to clear the ball. A change for Wootton Blue Cross with Jess Greaves coming on for Taylor. 

Charlotte Cooper tipping the ball away

 Henderson with a shot off the crossbar for Needham market as the cross comes into her left of goal from the right. The weather horrible Needham market with a corner on the left the ball hanging up in the wind dropping dangerously far post Cooper fouled as she attempts to claim it. Appeals for a penalty (mainly from the crowd) as Brawn is down in the box after a coming together with Cooper nothing doing. Winds strong now anything not anchored down shifting. Needham Market come left Sharp lifting the ball over the top looking for Balfour the wind though taking it away from her.

Pretty nasty out there

  A double change for Wootton Blue Cross with Lancaster and Simpson off for Jess Katsinas and Georgia Edwards. Really terrible out there now wind and rain, hail too, rubber from the pitch is blowing up onto my notepad. Difficult to play, Sharp off for Needham Market on comes Jessica Marriot. Pannifer on the left combining with brawn the pass back infield to Pannifer left of the D 20 out her shot blocked by Mulgrew. Getting very dark out there the clock ticking down.

  GOAL! Needham Market regain possession central Etheridge on for Fisher 20 yards out right of the D, strikes the ball goalwards pace behind it Cooper can’t reach it as it flies over her and into the back of the net 4-1.

Abbie Fisher adds a 4th for Needham Market

  Needham Market have been strong in the 2nd half the ball won in midfield Henderson out to Rossiter drives on Opperman once again sliding in to take the ball away for a throw. Pressing on late in the game Fisher opening her body to release Balfour on the right puts a cross in along the area out to Brawn left side looks to hit it on the run first time slices it wide. 

  The final whistle blows, Thomas who’s taken over flag duties from Balfour in the 2nd half has had enough and makes a hasty retreat to a warm and more importantly dry changing room as Needham Market celebrate a win that leaves them on the cusp of winning the Division One North title.

Full time Needham Market Women 4-1 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

 Honours even after the 1st half it was a devastating start to the 2nd half that saw Needham Market take control of the game scoring two quickfire goals to lead 3-1 at the start of the half. Were in control as condition grew worse, extremely difficult to play in towards the end. Wootton Blue Cross battling well in the 1st half despite a positive start from the hosts the wind seeing through ball runs on making it difficult responded well to falling a goal behind. Were undone at the start of the 2nd half and struggled to get back into it from there. By my reckoning Needham Market need one win from there final 3 games to ensure the title. That could be in a fortnights time at home to Haverhill Rovers, next weekend a stern test against Premier Division side Luton Town Ladies away.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, it’s another tricky one but of course a few performances of note to mention first. For Wootton Blue Cross, Freya Opperman had her hands full with Rossiter for much of the game preventing a number of crosses ad denying her a goal scoring opportunity. Giselle Randall with a handful for the Needham Market defence at the back battling to win the ball and fashion chances for herself and her teammates. Elena Lancaster getting into some good positions throughout the game. For Needham Market, Ellie Rossiter was a constant threat on the right a good contest with Opperman getting into a number of good goal scoring positions opening the scoring. Mia Etheridge showing good intent going forwards taking the ball to Wootton Blue Cross and looking to set up others. Today’s award though goes to Needham market’s captain Nicola Henderson a strong performance in midfield winning the ball, and both tracking back to help the defence and get forwards to support the attack a superb strike to make it 3-1.

  A rearranged fixture but a great opportunity to see two more sides in action. Appreciate the help with the team details at short notice. An entertaining game (expect little else from the ERWFL these days) albeit I could have done without the weather, was bitter out there.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Thetford Town Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies

Sunday 30th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 County league action featured on Women’s Football East this weekend with a top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division One, as 2nd placed Thetford Town Ladies host 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies.

  A point between the sides going into the game with both having played 7 to date in Division One. Thetford Town Ladies making a fantastic start to life in Division One especially as they could very well have been on Division Two his season had the original plan for the county league in Norfolk gone with 3 divisions instead. As it was with teams withdrawing late in the planning the format was adjusted to accommodate 2 divisions with Thetford joining Stalham Town Ladies, North Walsham Angels and Beccles Town Ladies in Division One. 

  Of the four that moved up Thetford have by far had the best start, the squad gaining valuable experience since joining the league a few players with experience at regional level with Bury Town Ladies added to the squad at the start of the season. An unbeaten start to date recording 6 wins and a draw, reaching both the quarter finals of the County and League Cup. Losing out to County Cup favourites Wymondham Town Ladies a fortnight ago were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Bungay Town Ladies in last Sunday’s League Cup quarter final. Rebecca White is Thetford’s top goal scorer so far with 12 goals with Melissa Boulton and Shannon Richardson joint 2nd with 7 goals each from 7 played with Hannah Rogers scoring 6 from 6. Darrell Allen recently joining Thetford Town Ladies to help run the social media and promotion of the club brings valuable knowledge within the woman’s game and is keen to promote both mens and women’s football within Norfolk. 

  Fakenham Town Ladies too making a fantastic start to the season in Norfolk Division One, were rampant in their opening game running out 22-0 winners away to Thorpe St Andrew Women. Another 24-0 result logged in the League Cup too against Red Rose from Division Two. Are through to the semi-finals of the League Cup after they beat Long Stratton Women on penalties after the sides finished 3-3 in regular play. Sit 3rd after 7 played winning 6 with a single defeat. Sophie Lubbock top scoring so far with 18 goals from 9 appearances with Shelley Woods on 14 from 8 and Chantelle Ketteringham on 12 goals from 9 played.

 Thetford Town FC the venue for today’s league encounter, one of the closest grounds to my home, on Mundford Road in Thetford. The grass pitch sloping offers plenty of width. Fenced on all sides leading onto more sports pitches and the leisure centre beyond. A covered stand offering seating for spectators on one side with a modern bar and spacious clubhouse beside. A bright dry day. The sun with a little heat in it falling behind the stand, noticeably cooler in the shade. Today’s game part of a Thetford/Fakenham double this weekend with the men’s sides meeting in their respective league yesterday. A single goal the difference then going the way of Fakenham.

Thetford Town Ladies

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Lydia Ward, Chloe Webb, Ellie-Mae Davies, Sausha Levy-Twomey (C), Katie Hardie, Courtney Musgrove, Dayna Howard, Melissa Boulton, Abbie Corbyn, Chloe Bentick & Rebecca White. Subs – Amy Coaker, Mia Bambury, Hannah Rogers, Amy Skipp & Charlotte Howard.

Fakenham Town Ladies

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Tilly Betts, Gina Pooley, Chantelle Ketteringham, Jemma Riches, Amie Hutchinson, Sian Sands (C), Vicky Lubbock, Megan Spurrell, Sophie Lubbock, Shelley Woods & Olivia Baker. Subs – Holly Davies.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A minutes silence observed before kick-off in in respect to Fakenham’s Lewis Sturman and the passing of his mother. 

The players from both sides observing a minutes silence

Thetford short on numbers in last weeks quarter final loss name 5 on he bench for today’s top of the table league clash. Fakenham travelling with just the one named substitute available. 

 It’s the hosts Thetford to get the game underway kicking-off first half, wearing blue shirts with a white band across the top of the chest, navy shorts and socks with Fakenham lined up opposite wearing amber shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. The ball played out to their left Thetford are quick to close it down in the middle the ball going out of play. Is scrappy in the opening exchanges the ball pinging between feet over on the far side of the pitch neither side making any headway.

Thetford’s Rebecca White with Fakenham’s Gina Pooley

  Fakenham’s, Olivia Baker dropping deeper to get hold of the ball has Sophie Lubbock to her left the pair exchanging passes before Baker threads a diagonal ball to send Sophie Lubbock in behind on the left into the box takes on the early strike pulling the shot wide of the near post. Play is exclusively on the sunny side of the pitch in the opening minutes the ball not sticking with anyone Fakenham captain Sian Sands in with a strong tackle to win possession up to Baker, she in turn tackled by Thetford captain, Sausha Levy-Twomey at the back. 

  Baker moving to the right running onto the ball played on by Shelley Woods, wraps her foot around the ball her cross dragged back along the top of the area out beyond the D, gathered by Sophie Lubbock who turns into the box striking an angled ball rising towards the near post, Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward, plucking the ball down and claiming it on the bounce.

GOAL! The deadlock is broken inside the opening 5 minutes, Fakenham with a couple of half chances are hit on the counter as Thetford play the ball long out to the right for attacker Rebecca White to run onto, checking back inside around her marker fires an inviting ball across the six yard box, Chantelle Ketteringham stretching for it for Fakenham deflects it out beyond the far post straight into the feet of Abbie Corbyn racing into the box from the left, hits it first time low back across the keeper and into the bottom corner 1-0.

Abbie Corbyn opening the scoring for Thetford

Players from both sides rushing in to close the ball own in the middle, Sands playing a good diagonal ball out to the right for Megan Spurrell, is quickly closed down by Thetford’s Ellie-Mae Davies. Fakenham push players up as they are awarded a free-kick on halfway Amie Hutchinson over the ball, Thetford clearing the ball for a throw high on the left, Fakenham keep bodies up the pitch pressure as Hutchinson turning off the throw sends a diagonal ball in to the top of the area, cleared by Thetford’s Courtney Musgrove. Fakenham regain possession Hutchinson central punching her way through the middle takes on the shot from inside the D, a low effort bobbling up off the pitch, Ward behind it all the way down to gather into her body.

A lively contest the sides evenly matched, Melissa Boulton bringing the ball on down the right up to White she attempts the flick on looking to send Chloe Bentick clear through the middle, too much on it however allowing Fakenham’s goalkeeper, Tilly Betts to claim. Woods wriggling away on the right wing drives on before sending a dangerous cross in towards the near post, Ward needing to get her gloves on the ball punch clear or, Sophie Lubbock closing in is heading into an open goal. 

Thetford’s Melissa Boulton

  Musgrove playing the pass forwards into Bentick she turns sending the ball out to White on the right, controls checking back inside to turn towards the box opening up her body to unleash a left for strike angled in the ball deflected off a Fakenham leg runs wide for the 1st corner of the game. The set-piece coming to nothing. Thetford are proving difficult to break down at the back, both full back making vital interceptions. Boulton coming on down the right linking up well with White before Hutchinson comes across sliding in to take the ball from the Thetford attacker.

Chloe Bentick moving inside with the ball for Thetford

Thetford press the ball in the final 3rd winning a corner on the right, driven low into the crowded six yard box is scrambled clear falling to Thetford’s Katie Hardie outside the D. Gets her foot over the ball to lash a shot back in taking a wicked deflection sending it up to smash off the bar and out for another corner on the left. Betts coming through a crowd to get her gloves on the ball half clears helped on Fakenham break through Vicky Lubbock, Dayna Howard quickly across to nullify the threat taking the ball out for a throw in. 

Thetford’s Katie Hardie clearing the ball

 

  Thetford taking full advantage of the width with White and Corbyn both gaining ground left and right. Corbyn playing a low cross into the box cleared out straight to Musgrove 20 yards out her shot driven back in blocked spinning out to the left Corbyn trying to take advantage, Ketteringham across her well to defend see the ball out for a goal kick. 

Fakenham’s Sophie Lubbock

Sophie Lubbock receiving the ball off her twin sister Vicky in the middle, takes the ball all the way up the left flank driving on forcing Boulton to concede the corner. Put in near side Vicky Lubbock coming for it turns the ball deflected behind for another corner. This delivery longer to the far post area, Baker getting it out of her feet smashing a shot goalwards blocked comes back to Baker for another bite fired in low is blocked on the line this time and launched clear. 

Thetford make a change with Mia Bambury coming on for Chloe Webb at the back.  Jemma Riches moving across from centre back to deal with the threat of White on the right as Boulton scoops the ball over the top for her to chase down. Off the resulting throw Boulton crosses the ball into Bentick outside the D, can’t dig the shot out before being closed down, retains possession shifting it back across the area for Boulton, aiming to curl a shot into the top corner, doesn’t get it further enough away from the keeper, Betts with a comfortable catch.

Thetford make a triple substitution bringing off, Musgrove, White and Bentick for new signing Amy Coaker, Charlotte Howard and Hannah Rogers. Boulton carrying a knock is brought down as she attacks coming inside from the right 25 yards out. Rogers over the free-kick goes for goal getting the ball over the wall well on target but dropping short safely into Betts’ gloves. 

  Boulton taking the ball on the right, Gina Pooley staying on her forcing her out wide, checks back managing to get a cross into the box but the Fakenham defence has regrouped, with Sands clearing from the top of the area. Boulton having been struggling with a knock needs to come off receive treatment. White back on with five minutes left to play in the first half. Coaker coming across to the right side immediately wins a corner kick.

Thetford’s Hannah Rogers tackling Fakenham captain Sian Sands

  Fakenham awarded a free-kick on halfway to the right played in towards the top of the area right side knocked down by Woods comes across to Sophie Lubbock left of the D her first time strike angling away from goal. Fakenham attacking late in the first half Spurrell into Baker she looks to combine with Sophie Lubbock left, Bambury intercepting the pass for Thetford. 

Half-time Thetford Town Ladies 1-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

  A pretty even 1st half between the sides. Few clear cut chances created, both sides applying pressure well in the final third at times. Thetford with the early lead Abbie Corbyn firing the hosts in front after 5 minutes. Have worked hard as a unit at the back to limit Fakenham’s chances. The final ball from Fakenham letting them down at times often too easily intercepted. Thetford have countered well, White and Corbyn using the flanks well. The woodwork struck and Fakenham seeing an effort blocked on the line is a close game. One goal you think is not going to be enough for Thetford all the play for 2nd half.

One change for Thetford at the break with Bentick back on in place of White. Holly Davies is on the field too for Fakenham at the back with Baker the player off. Fakenham with the kick-off in the 2nd period a carbon copy of the first the ball played out to the left immediately out for a throw. Spurrell comes on with the ball right side sent infield for Sands advancing through the middle takes on the early shot from all of 30 yards out the ball running safely through to the keeper.

Holly Davies in to defend close on Bentick as she looks to gain ground on the left with the ball at her feet. Corbyn gathering the ball off the throw in twists and turns her way free moving central turning towards goal before firing a shot from 25 out off target. Corbyn then back to help Ellie-Mae Davies at the back as Sophie Lubbock picks up the ball on the right powers her way forwards.

Rogers on the attack for Thetford moving left with the ball to the by line twists back to fire in a cross near side, attacked by Howard the ball smashing her in the face painfully as it cannons against her off a defender. Needs looking at and is brought off with White returning to the action. Play resumes the ball spread cross field to Ketteringham on the right advancing with the ball pace is closing in on the area, over runs the ball slightly allowing Ward to step out come drop onto the ball.

Fakenham midfielder Vicky Lubbock

Vicky Lubbock through the middle picking up the ball drives on through the middle moving left to right, sliding onto the ball to shot under challenge the ball fired wide from 25 yards out. Spurrell on the right squares it inside for Sophie Lubbock up top ploughs forwards into the area wide sends a cross long through the six yard box into Ketteringham beyond the far post, can’t dig the ball out from under her feet before Hardie closes her down. The visitors have upped the tempo pressing forwards taking the attack to Thetford the hosts finding themselves under pressure.

Thetford’s Hannah Rogers with Fakenham defender Jemma Riches

Fakenham risk getting hit on the counter, as Thetford do just that White with the ball up to Coaker on the right goes forwards, Ketteringham coming all the way back to put in the tackle win the ball back. Holly Davies with a crucial interception on the left to deny Bentick as Corbyn’s clever footwork looks to put her through on goal. Davies though is hurt in the move and going down needs to come off. Baker returning to the action Spurrell dropping into the defence.

Thetford goalkeeper Lydia Ward punching the ball away

 

Woods powers her way forwards wide on the left for Fakenham playing an early diagonal ball into the area only Sophie Lubbock in there beyond the far post managing to reach the ball on the by line attempts to turn it back across goal, plays the ball into the side netting. Ellie-Mae Davies comes off for Thetford with Boulton back on with a little under half an hour to play. Howard moving into the left back position. Howard clearing the ball as Vicky Lubbock picking up the ball in the middle drives forwards left to right. A corner won on the right for Fakenham.

The set-piece played into the near post defended by Levy-Twomey a 2nd corner awarded. Ward coming into the crowded at her near post to punch the ball down Fakenham getting a 3rd corner on the left. An inswinging delivery from Ketteringham the ball striking the near post rebounding back into play half cleared Riches hitting it back into the top of the area Hutchinson turning into the shot striking the ball over the bar.

Thetford’s Corbyn getting a throw high on the left, Rogers and Boulton combine a one two Rogers putting Boulton in behind left, Betts rushing out to beat her to the ball clearing it for a throw in in the corner. Played into Boulton left corner of the box shifts to her right opening up her body to curl a shot in on the angle, Betts sees it all the way makes a comfortable catch. Ketteringham taking the ball on down the left for Fakenham striking the shot early from distance angling across the keeper, Ward down well to make the save getting something on the ball to turn it past her far post for a corner.

Ward getting her gloves on the ball to punch clear to the top of the area her defence scrambling it away. Corbyn showing more good footwork on the ball squirming free in the middle driving on towards the area, Riches standing firm to put in the challenge inside the D stopping her progress. Corbyn is proving a handful in the middle for Fakenham, slides the ball through to Boulton outside the D, turns into Hutchinson the centre back halting her attack the ball loose gathered by Corbyn left of the D 20 out sees her strike hit Boulton.

Baker on the right off a throw turns has Woods and Vicky Lubbock driving on though the middle attempts to lay the ball in behind the defence, too close to Ward however as the keeper gets it ahead of her attacking players. Bentick comes off for Thetford replaced by Musgrove with 15 minutes left to play.

Fakenham’s Megan Spurrell

Corbyn combining well with Boulton on the left the latter looking to get behind Spurrell, the full back recovering well to get back at her nip in to retake the ball. Fakenham make a change with Davies recovered back on for Baker. Fakenham with a free kick on the left angled in towards the near post skips up in front of Ward the keeper, not collecting, Musgrove there ahead of Sophie Lubbock to hook the ball clear. Fakenham applying pressure late on Thetford starting to look nervous at the back as they defend their single goal lead. Levy-Twomey across to tackle Sophie Lubbock put the ball out for a throw in as she looks to get in behind on the right.

Hannah Rogers looking for the through ball for Thetford

The throw into Vicky Lubbock chests down and hits a shot in towards the near post from the top corner of the area Ward down at her near post to save. Woods comes on with the ball left side drives a cross through the box looking for Sophie Lubbock right side, Levy-Twomey hooking the ball behind for a corner. The delivery fired in towards the near post attacked players diving in, the ball sent narrowly over the cross bar. Fakenham turning the screw late on have a free-kick wide left some 25 yards out. Angled in towards the near post Ward sees it all the way.

Musgrove across to the left to prevent Ketteringham delivering a cross into the box. The game moving into the final minute of regular play Thetford make a late change bringing off Levy-Twomey for Ellie-Mae Davies.

GOAL! Fakenham capitalise as they are awarded a free-kick on the right the ball played up towards the top of the area push players forwards looking to get hold of the ball, half cleared Vicky Lubbock gets it threading a ball through the ball line into Woods breaking in behind to the left of goal and strokes a shot low across the keeper into the back of the net to score a late equaliser 1-1.

Shelley Woods with the 89th minute equaliser for Fakenham

Into stoppage time a sucker punch for Thetford at the death they go on the attack straight from the restart the ball out to Corbyn on the left takes it on in behind whipping a cross in along the six yard box picking out White at the far post two yards out looks to send her header over the keeper and in, too close to Betts however the keeper getting her arms up to block pull the ball down to safety.

Thetford’s Abbie Corbyn looking to get around Fakenham’s Megan Spurrell

GOAL! A chance to retake the lead at one end Fakenham press the ball played on through the middle clipped on over the top into the box sees Woods breaking clear once more left off goal and from the angle hits a fantastic strike up over the keeper to nestle in the back of the net and steal the 3 points at the death 1-2.

Shelley Woods with her 2nd of the game winning it at the death for Fakenham

There’s practically no time left for left for Thetford to mount a serious attack as referee Paul Gibson blows for full time.

Full time Thetford Town Ladies 1-2 Fakenham Town Ladies

  Fakenham stealing the 3 points at the death with a last minute equaliser and winning goal in stoppage time to end Thetford’s unbeaten start to the season and climb above them into 2nd spot in the Division One table. Thetford good value for their lead at the break Abbie Corbyn’s 5th minute goal the difference. Limiting Fakenham’s chances. One goal however was never likely to be enough and with both sides making changes both in personal and tactically throughout the 2nd half you felt the hosts were going to need a 2nd goal. Fakenham applying pressure Thetford getting nervous towards the end, but just as it was starting to look like one of those days for Fakenham where a goal wouldn’t come Shelley Woods found the net with an 89th minute equaliser. Thetford with a good chance to retake the lead in stoppage time however it was Fakenham and Woods with her 2nd of the game that would have the final say. A draw may well have been the fairer result but that’s football.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Not an easy one at all both sides playing their part in an entertaining contest. Several performances of note firstly for Thetford. Dayna  Howard covering a lot of ground in both midfield and defence to win the ball back on numerous occasions. Melissa Boulton solid in defence and bringing the ball forwards bringing other into play throughout. Don’t normally single a player of the match out for both sides but on this occasion I will was impressed by Abbie Corbyn today showed great footwork and close ball control getting round players and setting up numerous attacks scoring the opener. For Fakenham, Jemma Riches played well in defence solid throughout tough to break down tackled well. Vicky Lubbock in the centre of the park was busy winning several tackles driving forwards and regaining possession. Today’s award though goes to Shelley Woods her goals winning the game for Fakenham, provided the thrust for many of Fakenham’s attacking moves.

Another great advert for women’s football in Norfolk between two sides that have improved immensely. An enjoyable afternoon at Thetford my thanks to both clubs for there help today and to Darrell Allen for his assistance.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Queens Park Rangers WFC

Sunday 23rd January

FAWNL South East Division One

A quiet start to 2022, needed a break after what was a tested end to 2021, the mental health not great a pause most definitely needed, ready to go again and plenty of exciting football to look forwards to in what hopefully will be a relatively normal 2022. A trip to St Neots today to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One between two sides looking to push for a top 4 finish in the league as Cambridge United WFC take on Queens Park Rangers Women.

  Darren Marjoram coming in from St Ives Town Ladies to manage along side head coach Ben Yeomans has seen Cambridge United WFC make an excellent start to the season holding their on in the top 4 for much of the first half of the season although 1 collected from there last 3 league matches in 2022 plus no league action since December 12th has seen them slip down to 7th. In the only competitve match played so far in 2022 Cambridge were convincing winners against Eaton Socon Ladies as they secured their place in the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup final where they will play St Ives Town Ladies. Have been busy in the transfer market looking to add to an already competitive squad with defender Rachel Kosky joining from Enfield Town Ladies, striker Nicole Emmings returning to Cambridge after 4 seasons with Stevenage FC Women along with Amber Cantwell re-joining after a spell with Wroxham Women.

Saw QPR Women in my last game of 2021 away to Norwich City Women. Back hen the club was midtable closer to the sides in the bottom 4 but with games in hand didn’t look likely to get dragged into a battle at the bottom. Were comfortable for the large part in a 2-1 win, ending the year with defeat to the leaders Hashtag United Women. Have made an excellent start to 2022 as they embarked on a run of 3 games in 8 days winning 0-1 away to London Seaward last Sunday then making it back to back wins with a good result at home to 3rd placed Actonians 2-1 the winning score with goals from Katie Akerman and top scorer Melanie Hall who has 12 for the season. That result putting them firmly in the mix for a top 4 finish as they move ahead of Cambridge on goal difference.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus stadium the venue for todays fixture the area leading up to the stadium seeing an ever growing housing development on that side of the town offering a good catchment area for growing fanbases of the mens and women’s side, Cambridge United WFC that side getting good support from St Neots and Cambridge United FC themselves, were due to play QPR at the Abbey Stadium earlier in the season had the FA Cup not gotten in the way. Hopefully a game at the Abbey Stadium is soon on the horizon. The pitch in good condition, sawdust applied to a few patches. Is wide play can be spread with both sides liking to spread play out to their flanks. A dry day if very overcast.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Kira Markwell, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett. Grace Waygood, Gisela Otten, Laura Baker (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Amy Howlett, Laura Mitchell, Nicole Emmings & Ruth Fox. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Lauren Rouse, Amy Houghton & Faith Hewitt.

Queens Park Rangers Women

 Queens Park Rangers WFC starting XI – Katie McLean, Georgie Lewin, Danielle Maloney, Lauren Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Joanna Blodgett, Laura Hennessey, Katie Akerman, Ellie Searle, Melanie Hall & Demi Edwards. Subs – Lucie White, Brogan Moore, Sue Kumaning, Ailish Carolan & Emilia Parsons.

Nicole Emmings the only one of the three new arrivals available to today starting up top alongside top scorer Ruth Fox who has 12 for the season. It’s the visitors to get the game underway  wearing blue and white hooped shirts, blue shorts and socks. Red numbers on the back will be hard to read again but having seen them quite recently the players are fresh in my mind. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence Cambridge move in quickly to close the ball down Fox on captain Vicky Grieve forced into a hasty clearance, scrappy in the middle before Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down goes in hard with a strong tackle to put the ball out. It’s had enough and is replaced. 

Alysha Stojko-Down in to win the ball for Cambridge

  QPR shift the ball across the middle Katie Akerman into Joanna Blodgett put long to Melanie Hall looking to peel in behind in the left channel, Gisela Otten reading the pass for Cambridge the centre back intercepts. The visitors regain possession spreading play to the right the cross in half cut out by Carrie Bennett runs into the D scrambled out, a midfielder running onto the ball the shot in low, Cambridge goalkeeper, Kira Markwell crouching to gather is behind the ball. 

 QPR’s Laura Hennessey winning the ball in the middle clips a pass on for Hall moving left, Otten across with her sliding in to make the tackle, on her feet quickly looks for options picks out Emmings with a fine diagonal pass out to the left. Emmings taking the ball up the wing moves inside before delivering a cross in near post, goalkeeper  Katie McLean down low to claim it. An even start to the game with both sides closing down the ball. QPR are awarded a free-kick left side the ball put out to George Lewin moving into space on the right down the line squares a ball into the top of the box looking for Demi Edwards, Amy Howlett back defending for Cambridge gets there first. 

  A throw on the left sees the ball put on for Ellie Searle looks to take it in behind, Anna Re with her the fullback slides in to tackle the ball off Searle runs out for a goalkick. Cambridge are matching QPR in the middle, the final ball into their attackers more often than not intercepted by QPR’s centrebacks, Grieve and Lauran Jordinson. Akerman plays it forwards into Edwards feet controls and spins the pass into Hal right of the D a fluid move Hall on the turn plays it out to Searle running into the box from the left, the shot struck wide, Searle frustrated having not got the connection right.

QPR over commit going forwards the strikers getting little joy central for Cambridge drifting out into the channels Fox is put clear on the left running with the ball is allowed to go all the way into the box looks to cut a cross along the six yard box, McLean diving forwards scooping the ball into her gloves. Lewin on the right getting into Cambridge’s half firing a fierce ball into Edwards right of the D, Grace Waygood on her quickly defending for Cambridge the ball cleared up to Fox in space on the left takes on the strike early outside the box across the goalkeeper, McLean down gets a touch to deflect the ball wide of her far post for a corner. The ball in defended at the near post before Cambridge are flagged offside trying to keep the attack alive.

Cambridge striker, Ruth Fox

  Edwards has been busy up top working to get the better of Cambridge’s centrebacks a good contest so far between her and Otten. Bennett lifting the ball on for Emmings this time in the clear on the left the attacker driving forwards squares a cross into the top of the area, Grieve intercepting for QPR. A flare up between Edwards and Otten sees the referee having a word with both. Is competitive even in the middle the centre backs for both sides proving a solid unit to break down. A throw high on the right for QPR the cross fired in near side, Edwards there to turn the ball goalwards, Waygood blocking at close range. 

  Emmings off a throw on the left shifts infield surges towards the box the cross in to the near post Laura Mitchell after it but commits a foul trying to claim the ball. An audacious attempt on goal from Hall for QPR forcing Markwell to save tipping the ball over the top for a corner kick. The move starting on the right with Edwards and Akerman combining  playing a 1 2 to get the ball down the wing the cross swung into the box long to the far post looks to be over Hall but she rises a foot behind her to connect with the ball, loops up towards goal dropping Markwell making a superb save needed tips the ball over the bar.

QPR’s Katie Akerman

GOAL! For all the clever play leading up to the corner it is a simple move that brings about the opening goal of the game, the ball put in at a good height near side players up from the back, Grieve drifts in unopposed to rise and head the ball looping it up and over the keeper to make it 0-1. 

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve with the header to put the visitors into the lead.

The deadlock broken in the 20th minute. Cambridge look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball out to Mitchell right, look to go on, Danielle Maloney lunging in to tackle the ball out for a throw. QPR are quick to turn play around as Cambridge push players on Searle has pace to burn on the left is a good outlet taking the ball on turns inside flashing a cross through the six yard box. Maloney in to intercept as Cambridge captain Laura Baker takes the ball on through the middle the pass into Howlett looking to put Michell in behind, Maloney has to get there and does. 

  Cambridge with a free-kick wide right players up Baker over it, plays a ball into the neat post, headed clear falling to Howlett position 20 yards out right of the D, drills a low shot in through bodies is cleared off the line comes back to Baker on the right. Sent back in is bouncing in front of McLean leaning back at full stretch the goalkeeper does well to tip the ball over the bar for a corner. The set piece coming to nothing QPR hit Cambridge on the counter.

 GOAL! Searle’s pace on the left causing problems once again attacking the ball past the defence taken to the by line Cambridge stretched at the back, the cross sent in past the keeper across the face of goal, Edwards there on the goal line ahead of Bennett to take the ball over the line. Cambridge appeal for offside, the goal however stands 0-2. The visitors doubling there advantage as the game approaches the half hour. 

Demi Edwards putting QPR into a 2 goal lead

Cambridge feel aggrieved that a few decisions having gone against the leading up to the 2nd goal have an uphill task now to get themselves back into the game. The frustration grows as Howlett plays in Mitchell right side of the D then she feeds it through to Fox in behind inside the box, the flag raised against her. The hosts push looking for a quick reply Mitchell moving to the left picking up the ball top of the D goes to the by line, prevented from turning back to cross sends it up the line for Bennett to deliver the ball lofted in near post Grieve gets her head to it to clear only as far a Fox who drives back into the area doing well to force a corner.

Ruth Fox looking to get into a shooting position for Cambridge

   The hosts pressing the attack QPR hold well at the back breaking with intent the ball played through the middle lifted up to Edwards, both centrebacks close on her a mistake could cost them dear. Otten though makes no mistake composed as Edwards lunges in front of her. Mitchell starting to drift in from the right giving Cambridge an extra body around the box. Edwards left has Hennessey looking to go past her Re sliding in tackles, the shot struck in on the angle blazed over the bar. Searle with that shot has the ball at her feet powers down the wing whipping a low cross in near side Hall attempting another clever backheel looking to flick it on to Edwards behind her, Otten in to stab it away from danger. 

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down

Decisions are not going Cambridge’s way, play is disrupted because of it. Stojko-Down winning a good number of tackles in the middle plays Emmings in on the left up the wing a good cross in but no one gambling at the near post as has been the case on a few occasions allowing Jordinson to head it away untroubled.  The game moving into stoppage time at the start of the 1st half, Blodgett nudging the ball into Hall 30 yards out spinning off her marker to strike a shot, the ball brushing the roof of the net on its way over. 

QPR’s Laura Hennessey

 Hennessey with a good if painful tackle to deny Emmings getting away again on the left, play spread across the pitch out to Searle surging on down the wing the shot fired in Markwell down low behind it all the way.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Queens Park Rangers WFC

  A 2 goal lead for QPR at the break. Taking the lead in the 20th minutes and going on to double the advantage 10 minutes later. Have looked solid at the back with Cambridge finding more joy out wide without delivering the final ball. Has overall been a fairly even contest between the sides closing down the ball. Both sets of centre backs proving impossible to get through so far. QPR taking the lead from a set-piece, chances created whilst Cambridge have bee getting the ball up to their attacks they have for the most part been forced away from goal to  look to cause damage. Decisions certainly frustrating Cambridge who have to hit the ground running at the start of the 2nd half if they are going to find a way back into the game. QPR though are a difficult side to break down.

  A change for QPR previously unoticed, Brogan Moore on for Joanna Blodgett as Cambridge get the 2nd half underway, looking to get Fox on the move on the right, Searle is back to help Maloney the pair running Fox off the ball. Cambridge getting on the  front foot right from the off at the start of the 2nd half pressing the ball in QPR’s half, Baker the Stojko-Down winning it back, Mitchell just missing out on an opportunity to get in behind on the right. Cambridge preparing to make a change early on, a break in play with a QPR player down, sees play paused Cambridge looking to keep moving stay warm. It’s Lewin down has picked up a knock and QPR are forced into an early change 2nd half bringing on Emilia Parsons in her place. Cambridge make their change too bringing with Waygood struggling, on comes Amy Houghton to join Otten at the back.

Howlett with a first time effort from 20 yards out right side of the D as the ball rebounds to her from inside the box curled wide of the post. QPR  break quickly the ball fed through the middle out to Edwards moving right into the box getting a shot away under challenge isn’t far wide. The game opening up with Cambridge taking more risks up to Baker clipping a pass to Mitchell on the right takes the ball on sending a rising ball into the box headed clear by Grieve. Baker with a good challenge winning the ball high on the left Bennett taking it on in behind to cut back from the by line Mitchell top of the box inside left leaning back into her shot sending it over the bar. 

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

  Cambridge are pushing hard for a goal a corner on the right the ball in central McLean in amongst bodies to punch clear. Fox taking the ball on right winning a corner. The delivery in central met by Otten her header driven down wide of the near post. Cambridge make a 2nd change, Emmings coming off. Abi Davies on takes up an attacking position on the right with Mitchell moving left. Stojko-Down turning in the middle moving left forwards for Fox in the left channel gets a move on with the ball letting fly on the angle the ball sent in low towards the near post McLean down low to save. 

Cambridge full back Anna Re

Searle continues to be a menace on the right has certainly kept Re busy, shifting inside goes early with her cross angled to towards the top of the D, Houghton getting up well to clear it. The game played at a good pace, Mitchell drifting into the box recieves the ball right of goal as Davies travels with it on the right, turning looks to have space to shoot, turns inside though before checking back to take a swing, a QPR leg up to deflect it wide for a corner. Played in near post defended the ball back with the taker lifted back in Otten stooping into the header, turned goalwards, the ball cleared off the line, Cambridge appeal for a handball nothing given.

Gisela Otten defending for Cambridge

  QPR make a change Akerman coming off for Sue Kumaning. Cambridge pressing hard for a reply, QPR defending well like they did against Norwich and remain dangerous on the counter their attackers always ready. Davies attacking on the right for Cambridge sees two crossing attempts blocked by both Maloney and Searle. A throw on the right the cross dropped into the box bouncing, again Cambridge appeal strongly for a penalty a handball seen but again no is the call. Markwell needing to stay alert the other end too as QPR break Maloney has Searle travelling forwards on the left wraps her foot around the ball flighted in near side Markwell snatching it down well with Edwards closing her down. 

Fox into the left channel keeps the ball close to her feet QPR can’t risk lunging in the shot fired in low in the angle a combination of keeper post keeping it out. Stojko-Down left corner of the area forwards to take the shot on rising over the bar. Cambridge continuing to knock on the door with 24 minutes of the 2nd half played.

GOAL!  For all their attacking play however Cambridge find themselves falling further behind as Edwards with a great finish extends the lead. The visitors bombing up the right the cross squared into Edwards back to goal right of the D, control it well before turn to lift a rising shot past the keeper into the top corner 0-3.

Before the restart QPR make a keeper change, McLean coming off for Lucie White.

 GOAL! A further hammer blow for Cambridge as no sooner have they conceded a 3rd goal it become 4. QPR on the attack have Cambridge stretched with Searle raiding down the left in behind her marker to the by line to cut a ball back across the six yard box a shot struck first time bodies flying into to block, deflects out to the right. Cambridge with bodies still on the ground as Hall on the angle fires a vicious ball back in taking a wicked deflecting that takes back towards the near post away from Markwell and over the line 0-4.

Cambridge with two successive hammer blows receive a 3rd as Baker unhappy as a decision goes against her complains and is shown a yellow card and sin binned for dissent. Cambridge without their captain down to 10 for 10 minutes. Fox looks to battle her way forwards on the right is fouled for her trouble Cambridge seeing a decision go their way. Stojko-Down on it sent into the area White coming into the crowd to punch. Edwards game is run as she comes off for Ailish Carolan.  Davies looking to get in behind Maloney on the right lays a cross in to the six yard box cut out by Grieve going behind for a corner. 

 Cambridge have to push players up wanting a goal. The delivery into the middle, appeals straight away and a the 3rd attempt Cambridge win a penalty! An opportunity to pull a goal back with the clock running down. Now I have to confess to not noticing who was taking it, but that spares them as the ball is hit low to the right, White going the right way diving left to make the save keep it out keep QPR clean sheet intact. 

Lucie White saving from the penalty

With a player advantage QPR are keeping the ball giving themselves a respite as much as allowing Cambridge in initiative.  Faith Hewitt coming on for the hosts Cambridge bringing off Stojko-Down.  Baker rearing to get back on Cambridge back up to 11 with a few minutes plus stoppage time left. QPR happy to force Cambridge’s attacks wide with the ball knowing options in the box remain limited. Davies playing the ball into Howlett 25 yards out lines up a strike her attempt over. 4 minutes of stoppage time left.

  Hall on the right taking on the shot from all of 30 yards out for QPR driven over the bar. Cambridge with one last attack Davies and Hewitt combining outside the D, Howlett skipping between them to get into the box Hewitt putting the pass into her right of goal, Jordinson across to lung in and take the ball away from her feet. 

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-4 Queens Park Rangers WFC

  QPR make it 3 wins from 3 in 8 days to move move 3 points clear of Cambridge in 5th spot in the South East Division One table. The game starting off fairly even between the sides before QPR took the lead midway though the 1st half with their captain Vicky Grieve heading home unmarked from a corner. Cambridge frustrated with decisions seemingly going against them through out with an up hill task 2nd half. Gave it a good go applying plenty of pressure. QPR absorbed it well however always looking dangerous on the counter. Cambridge momentum building Edwards with her 2nd of the game taking it away from the hosts with Hall’s strike moments later making it 4. Further frustration with their captain sin binned. A glimmer of hope from the penalty spot was saved. All in all an afternoon of frustration for Cambridge build up play excellent just lacking that final ball. QPR looked good for their win scoring at crucial times. Move the ball about the pitch well always looking to stretch the opposition.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match not an easy decision but that reflects a good team performance more than anything else. A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge, Anna Re was kept busy at the back by Searle but nevertheless put in a good number of challenges. Gisela Otten had a good contest with Edwards especially first half winning some crucial tackles. Ruth Fox up top isn’t easy to get off the ball when she has it at her feet, QPR forcing her wider than she would have liked but created some good opportunities for herself. For QPR, Vicky Grieve and Lauren Jordinson were both solid in defence. Ellie Searle a constant threat with her pace down the right setting up several chances. Is close between and today’s award winner, Demi Edwards really took the game to the Cambridge centre back moving about the back line to receive the ball, scoring twice the 2nd a fine goal.

  Good to be back, needed the break recharged, mentally which was what was needed. An entertaining game my takes to Cambridge and Gary Reed for providing me with the team details today, much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sunday 9th January

ERWFL Premier Division

 Excited to start a new year on Women’s Football East. 2022 promises to be a huge year for women’s football with England hosting the UEFA Women’s European Championships. The game will receive coverage like never before and England themselves have a real opportunity to win the competition themselves.

 Plenty of exciting football action to come before that though and my year begins with a Norfolk derby, a top of the table clash no less in the ERWFL Premier Division with league leaders, Wymondham Town Ladies hosting 3rd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

Wymondham Town Ladies in a very strong position at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division going into the new year. 6 points clear of 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies, the most likely side capable of catching them barring a major collapse now for the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL. Not that manager Alex Guy will let his side take their eye off the ball. Have led for most of the campaign winning 10 of their 13 games played so far, with the only blip back to back defeats at the end of September against Royston and King’s Lynn. Have scored to most goals in the league and have the best defensive record with it. A prolific attack with Hannah Waters leading goal scorer so far with 13 goals from 16 played, Francesca Catchpole and Laura Nicholls both with 10 goals apiece behind Waters from 16 and 13 appearances respectfully.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies reaching their highest ever league position in the women’s football pyramid to close out 2021. Up to 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division in what is there debut season at this level. Joe Simpson stepping down as manager leaving a strong squad and great set-up within the club for his successor. Alex Cook the new manager looking to take the side forwards a great platform to build on in what is a competitive league. King’s Lynn quickly finding their feet at this level a 4-0 victory at home to today’s opponents Wymondham being one of the highlights. Amy Magnus and captain Tiffany Forshaw top scorers so far this season with 6 goals each.

Ketts park the venue for todays game. With heavy rainfall the day before I thought it a safe bet to go for a 3G option and with it being a top of the table clash plus derby match too it was an easy choice. A van serving hot and cold drinks leading into the ground. The caged pitch offering standing room for spectators along one side opposite the dugouts. A little bit of heat from the rapidly descending sun that falling below one goal could pose a few viewing problems for defenders.

Wymondham Town Ladies

 Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Mary Croft, Aimee Stretch, Rachel Cossey (C), Rebecca Russell, Natasha Youngs, Laura Nicholls, Francesca Catchpole & Hannah Waters. Subs – Hayley Kindred, Katie Knights, Kyla Love & Jenifer Codman.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Ellie Prentice, Chloe Burch, Shanice Burch, Fran Peeling, Amy Cropley, Samantha Davis, Alexa Hunter, Jodie Hopkins, Tiffany Forshaw (C), Ella Gavaghan & Amy Magnus. Subs – Amy Bell.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

  Rachel Cossey captaining, Wymondham today, good to see her starting a game after spending more than two seasons out through injury. New signing Kyla Love joining from Wroxham amongst the 4 substitutes. King’s Lynn’s naming just the one substitute goalkeeper, Amy Bell. It’s the hosts Wymondham to kick off the match wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. King’s Lynn in a new away strip, black and white vertical striped shirts with white shorts and socks. With gold numbers on the back (not my favourite combo of shirt and colour number to read it has to be said, hard to read when you’re trying to follow the numbers).

  King’s Lynn press Wymondham on the ball right from the start forcing them to go back to their goalkeeper Chloe Pearce, cleared out to the left the ball out for a throw. The visitors continue t press the ball on the right striker Ela Gavaghan put through behind by Amy Cropley however the flag raised against her for offside. Wymondham come through the middle of the park the ball lifted forwards, Shanice stepping out of the back three for King’s Lynn to clear the ball long upfield out into the right channel for Gavaghan to chase, Wymondham defender, Mary Croft getting across her to shield for Pearce as the keeper comes sliding in to claim the ball.

Wymondham defender, Mary Croft

   King’s Lynn pressing the ball high trying to unsettle Wymondham at the back early on Alexa Hunter in to win the ball, Aimee Stretch nicking it ahead of Amy Magnus up top, on for Rachel Cossey, Wymondham’s captain driving forwards on the ball, playing it long for Hannah Waters escaping into space behind on the right, Shanice Burch recovering well to get back on her sliding in to take the ball away from the attacker before she can check inside to line up a shot on goal.

   Wymondham not finding their rhythm in the opening minutes rushed on the ball as King’s Lynn work hard to close it down. Rebecca Russell evading a tackle central finding space to run into with the ball laying it up the left for Chelsea Clarke bombing on, her cross/shot angling wide beyond the far post. Gavaghan nipping at the Wymondham defence, looks to be in behind momentarily the ball running behind for a goal kick. Fouls being given away.

  Waters linking up with fellow attacker Francesca Catchpole up top for Wymondham, Leah Newcombe’s run from the right spotted the full back picked out goes on up the wing before turning a cross ack in across the top of the area just beyond Laura Nicholls positioned left of the D. Jodie Hopkins on the ball in the centre for King’s Lynn has plenty of space ahead of her goes on unopposed lifting it on for Magnus right of the D 20 out, can’t bring it down under control before being closed down by Wymondham’s Stretch, the ball loose beyond the pair comes to Gavaghan she plays it across the box to the right looking to pick out her captain, Tiffany Forshaw. Wymondham get back on her en masse the ball scrambled away comes back to Hopkins some 30 yards out strikes it first time but well off target.

King’s Lynn captain, Tiffany Forshaw

   Cossey brought down in the middle left side a free-kick to Wymondham taken early put out to Newcombe free on the right her early cross lifted into the mix cleared top of the area Forshaw bringing it away King’s Lynn with a swift counter attack Forshaw clipping a diagonal ball forwards for Magnus on the right takes the ball into the box shooting on the angle the ball driven in with pace, Pearce across well placed to bat the ball away at her near post. 

Wymondham’s Francesca Catchpole

  Both sides giving fouls away Catchpole catching Hopkins as she attempts to launch a counter attack for King’s Lynn. The free-kick coming to nothing as Wymondham launch a quick counter of their own through Newcombe on the right the pass inside looking for Catchpole 20 yards out back to goal, Shanice Burch close on her defending for King’s Lynn. Pearce is down taking a blow after a coming together with Magnus after clearing the ball. A moment of concern however Pearce is back up on her feet and able to continue. 

Jodie Hopkins with the ball for King’s Lynn

  Wymondham with a great passage of play as Natasha Youngs is picked out by Russell moving up the right wing cuts the ball inside for Waters good close control plays it back to Cossey in midfield square to Russell fired forwards into Clarke coming side from the left lines up a shot 20 yards out left of the D low along the ground, Ellie Prentice in goal for King’s Lynn quickly across her goal mouth to claim the ball. 

Wymondham captain, Rachel Cossey

  Youngs getting in behind on the right again for Wymondham is brought down by Fran Peeling the hosts awarded a free-kick. Russell over the set-piece the angle against the shot plays the ball in to be attacked at the far post no one gets there the ball running out of play.

Laura Nicholls with the back heel for Rebecca Russell to take the ball on

 Nicholls back heeling the ball into Russell’s path on the left the midfielder coming forwards, plays the pass out to Clarke on the left, the cross flung into the box across the top of the six yard line, Prentice calls for it, has to get there with both Waters and Youngs closing in… and does.

  Hunter catches Newcombe bringing her down on the right presenting the hosts with another free-kick wide of the box. Russell over it plays the ball in across the penalty spot Waters lunging for it can’t quite reach it, Cossey diving in beyond her at the far post turning her header goalwards, Prentice down smartly to save on her line turning the ball over the line for a corner. The resulting corner taken short, Wymondham looking to work the ball inside, Chloe Burch comes sliding in with a strong tackle giving away another free-kick an ending up in the book with a yellow card. Russell across to take it and inswinging ball flung across the face of gaol evading everyone out far side. 

King’s Lynn’s Samantha Davis

  Samantha Davis taking the ball down the left looking for Gavaghan between them a corner is won. The delivery fired long beyond the far post Wymondham clearing into midfield the ball retrieved by King’s Lynn rolled on for Magnus right side the ball struck on the angle rising narrowly over the crossbar.

GOAL! 27 minutes played and the deadlock is broken. Wymondham’s Newcombe winning the ball back centrally quick to play it forwards for Waters peeling away into space behind on the right, getting the ball under control turning into the box evading a challenge the ball ahead of her moving across the top of the six yard box the attacker after it. A mistimed challenge now and the likely result is a penalty, as it is Waters knows exactly where she wants to put the ball turning onto it with her left foot to stab in low past the keeper to make it 1-0.

Hannah Waters with Wymondham’s first goal of 2022

Wymondham matching King’s Lynn’s pressing game now is competitive in the middle, both sides giving fouls away little being given away. Peeling intercepting a pass from Cossey in the middle intended for Youngs on the right. Catchpole with an ambitious effort on gaol from all of 35 yards out clipped wide of the right post. Hunter with a strong but far tackle on Cossey, Hopkins is dragged back as she looks to capitalise, Russell goes into the book. 

Alexa Hunter

 King’s Lynn forwards on the right winning a corner, taken short into Magnus inside the box swivels into the shot low on the angle blocked by Clarke defending the near post. Davis with the ball left side for King’s Lynn attacking the cross in near side Forshaw helping it on for Magnus right of the D closed down but gets her shot away. Pearce back on her line right behind it saves. Peeling left inside for Hopkins allowed to travel opens up her body to send the pass wide of Stretch for Gavaghan peeling off her shoulder right of goal moved a fraction too early the flag up against her.

Leah Newcombe coming forwards for Wymondham

 Youngs right up for Waters taking the ball up the wing, Shanice Burch collecting another 3G burn as she slides in to deny her a shooting opportunity. Wymondham building momentum through the middle Cossey into Waters back to goal 30 out turns quickly to thread the pass through for Nicholls in behind taking the ball into the box looks to place her shot around the advancing Prentice, throws her head back in frustration as her effort runs narrowly wide of the right post.

  GOAL! One opportunity gone another soon follows as Wymondham double their lead with a little over five minutes left in the first half. Russell with the ball on the left playing it on support from Clarke and Nicholls the ball wide of area back with Russell on the angle curls in a shot over the keeper and into the net beyond 2-0.

Rebecca Russell doubles Wymondham’s lead

  Wymondham looking strong pile forwards to win a corner on the right, Russell with a inswinging delivery to the far post Nicholls attacking it her header cleared by the King’s Lynn defence. 

  GOAL! King’s Lynn finding themselves on the back foot towards the end of the first half have have the ball on the left Peeling on for Davis takes it on has support with Forshaw the pair combining before the cross is fired long on the angle into the box Gavaghan there at the far post to attack it getting her head on the ball to power it past Pearce and score 2-1.

Ella Gavaghan pulling a goal back for King’s Lynn

  A quick reply from King’s Lynn after falling 2 goals behind getting one back straight away. Wymondham have been guilty of letting Hopkins pick the ball up in the middle and travel with it unopposed taking it on once again takes on the shot from all of 30 yards out connecting with the ball well, a powerful strike swerving through the air, much to Hopkin’s disappointment this taking it away from goal but not by much. 

  The half drawing to a close Youngs attacking with the ball on the right for Wymondham whips a cross in near side for Waters doesn’t get a firm enough touch with Shanice Burch close on her, the ball won by Hunter is won back by Nicholls inside the area put back to Catchpole inside the D her strike blasted over the bar.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

  An enthralling 1st half comes to a close with Wymondham holding a narrow 2-1 lead over King’s Lynn. The visitors starting brightly closing Wymondham down high up the pitch creating opportunities. Both sides giving fouls away. Wymondham growing into the match getting players forwards on the flanks. Waters firing them into the lead midway through the first half, looked strong after that finding a 2nd goal. King’s Lynn quickly getting a goal back to set up an intriguing 2nd half.

  Wymondham ringing the changes at the start of the 2nd half using all four of their substitutes with Hayley Kindred, Katie Knights, Kyla Love and Jenifer Codman all on for Youngs, Catchpole, Russell and Cossey. King’s Lynn to get the 2nd half underway a large dark cloud now obscuring the sun the heat it gave gone the hat deployed. Wymondham getting the ball back quickly turning play around out to Kindred out on the right her early cross into the area cleared by Shanice Burch.

King’s Lynn defender Fran Peeling

  Wymondham essentially changing their midfield, Love taking the ball on the advantage played as Codman is fouled moving out to the left her cross squared along the top of the area coming to Knights right of the d her shot angled in low held by Prentice back on her line. Hunter collecting a yellow card for King’s Lynn. The competitve contest continues the ball rarely still for long Hopkins brought down in the middle. The set piece flicked up towards Gavaghan who attempts to head it on in behind read by, Croft the defender clearing for Wymondham. 

  Pearce with a superb save to deny King’s Lynn an equalising goal. Hopkins on the ball in the middle travelling lifting it in behind for Gavaghan into the box on the right striking the shot on the angle the ball rising Pearce back on her line reacting well getting her arm up to glove the ball away. 

Wymondham goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce

  Chances at both ends as Wymondham work the ball quickly through the middle into Love right of the D her shot isn’t far over the bar. Hunter getting hold of the ball central for King’s Lynn her pass on for Gavaghan on the right intercepted well by Clarke. Forshaw controlling the ball well on the left playing in inside for Gavaghan in the box looking to get in between Stretch and Croft, the ball bouncing down between the pair out to the right, Gavaghan going for it a Pearce slides in to claim the ball at her feet. 

  GOAL! 10 minutes into the 2nd half chances for both sides, it’s Wymondham who go on to extend their lead. Attacking on the left Newcombe the pitch into the ox for Knights helped on to Love right side takes the ball past the advancing keeper and beats the defenders trying to get back on her to put the ball over the line to score 3-1.

Kyla Love extending Wymondham’s lead

Clarke blasts a shot back in blocked by Chloe Burch from 20 yards out as the ball is cleared back to her following an attack on the right from Kindred. Nicholls down in the box a pause in play a chance for both groups of players to regroup Nicholls back on her feet. Prentice out quickly to the top pf her area to slide in and claim the ball as Clarke’s clearance looks opens up an opportunity for Waters in attack. 

  Magnus deeper in midfield winning the ball on for Forshaw 25 yards out turns and strikes a shot goalwards a dipping effort dropping short however straight into Pearce’s gloves. Nicholls drifting right with a deft flick on looking to drop the ball in behind for Waters to chase, too much to do however as Prentice comes out to the top of the area to get hold of the ball. Love making some strong runs from midfield moving left on for Waters her cross into the box looking for Nicholls doesn’t get it under control out for a goal kick.

  Fresh legs in the middle, Wymondham are seeing more of the ball have willing runners left and right in Love and Kindred. Clarke left on for Nicholls in behind through the middle, Prentice just about getting there first. 

Wymondham’s Laura Nicholls

  GOAL! Wymondham extend their lead midway through the 2nd half the ball with Knights in the middle her pass on for Kindred to take on down the right flank angles her cross low into the box on a plate for Waters running onto the ball takes in past an attempted challenge before drilling a low strike into the bottom corner. 4-1.

  King’s Lynn look for a quick response with Hunter forwards on the ball her effort charged down by Croft outside the box. The hosts look to break the ball cleared up to Kindred on the right goes to cross early with Waters once again the target this time though Waters is thwarted by the offside flag. Getting gloomy out there the floodlights beginning to take full effect. Wymondham with more of the ball King’s Lynn tiring dropping deeper, Nicholls turning down the line on the right smashing a shot into the side netting from the angle. Her last action of the match as she comes off with Catchpole back on up front.

Hayley Kindred attacking for Wymondham

   Kindred’s turn to strike a shot over the bar as she attacks down the right for Wymondham. Catchpole off a throw on the right taking on an effort at goal from 30 yards out sent over the bar. Knights coming back to defend tackling Forshaw as King’s Lynn’s captain takes the ball on through the middle looking to carves her way through the defence. Burch with a last ditch tackle central sliding on to deny Waters as Codman puts her though central.

Jenifer Codman and Chloe Burch challenge for the ball

   Wymondham on top pushing players on Codman winning the ball central her pass picking out Clarke on the left squares her cross inside for Waters outside the area looks to help it across the top of the D to Love right side, hits it goalwards first time bac across goal running wide of the far post. Another change for Wymondham, Russell back on replacing Clarke. Wymondham pressing numbers on Codman into Kindred inside the D turns into her shot blocked at close range knocked down to Waters in six yard box, defended, a player down. Chloe Burch is shown a yellow card and sinbinned by the referee, more is said however and this turns into a straight red, Burch sent off, King’s Lynn down to 10 with a little over five minutes left to play.

   Cossey back on for Newcombe. Catchpole drifting out to the right her cross into the box headed clear by Shanice Burch. Catchpole with another go from long distance the shot see all the way by Prentice. Prentice with a superb save at her near post moments later as Kindred driving down the right lets fly on the angle. King’s Lynn with little chance to attack get forwards on the left the ball crossed in Russell defends up to Waters on the left checks inside running for the box her shot charged down. Waters off now for Youngs with he clock ticking down.

King’s Lynn’s Ella Gavaghan

  Hunter coming forwards with the ball through the middle lifted onto Gavaghan in attack moving right strikes the ball early angling in high on goal Pearce back on her line untroubled plucking the ball down safely. 

Wymondham’s Rachel Cossey with King’s Lynn’s Jodie Hopkins

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 4-1 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

  A strong 2nd half performance from Wymondham to see them extend their lead at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with a 4-1 win over King’s Lynn. A whole sale change to their midfield proving advantageous with their opponents having the bare 11 outfield today. Fresh legs the substitutes all making their mark with Kyla Love extending their lead before Waters added her 2nd and Wymondham’s 4th goal. King’s Lynn getting off to a strong start putting the hosts under pressure closing down the ball, unsettling Wymondham they eventually found their form to take the lead midway through the first half looking good as they made it 2 nil. King’s Lynn with a quick reply to ensure it remained all to play for at the break numbers telling in the finish as King’s Lynn tired in the 2nd half. For both sides the attention turns to the County Cup with both in quarter final action. Wymondham travelling to Norfolk Division One side Thetford Town Ladies next Sunday with King’s Lynn away to Norfolk Division Two leaders Caister Ladies.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. No surprise it’s as tough a pick at the start of 2022 as it was for much of 2021. Plenty of good performances to mention first. For King’s Lynn, Jodie Hopkins was strong in the middle of the park through out getting up and down the pitch making so useful attacking runs. At the back Shanice Burch was strong in the middle off defence with a number of crucial tackles. For Wymondham there were a few contenders a strong team performance, Rachel Cossey strong in midfield getting about the pitch making challenge in the first half. Kyla Love equally as strong in the 2nd half making some good runs on and off the ball getting a goal. Hannah Waters in attack getting into some good positions scoring twice. Mary Croft and Leah Newcombe great at the back. The 1st Player of the Match award of the new Year though goes to Chelsea Clarke making some good tackles at the back getting up and down the left flank and putting some dangerous balls into the box.

  A great game to get 2022 underway (shame I won’t get another one for a fortnight) many more to come no doubt plenty of action to look forwards too! My thanks to both sides for the team details much appreciated looking forwards to the next one.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Queens Park Rangers Women

Sunday 12th December

FAWNL South East Division One

 A trip up to The Nest CSF this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One with Norwich City Women taking on newly promoted Queens Park Rangers Women.

The league taking shape as the end of the year approaches with a cluster of sides from 7th down to 10th all on 10 points and involved in the battle to stay in the league with up to 4 sides facing relegation this season. Today’s opponents amongst those.

Norwich City Women recent FA Cup matches seeing them slip a place in the South East Division One table with Essex side Harlow Town Ladies moving past them into 10th with back to back wins. Having lost their opening 3 league games Norwich looked to have turned a corner with a purple patch in September seeing them collect 7 points from 3 games, since then however have lost 4 in a row in the league. The squad featuring a good mixture of experience and youth will be looking to end the year on a high with a positive result to carry them into the New Year.

Has been a long while since I watched Queens park Rangers Women, and this is a different side all together. The club effectively rebuilding following the controversial decision that saw the established Southern Premier Division join with Hounslow to become Hounslow Women, that club retaining their league status. Many of the players from that side not going to Hounslow at he start of the 2019/20. The club rebuilding with their development side playing in the London & South East Regional League. Queens Park Rangers retaining a loyal fan base successful in the COVID hit season’s that followed were promoted back to FAWNL South East Division One at the start of this campaign. The clubs league form hard to predict with the club having played just one league match since 17th November whilst they were playing in 3 cup competitions. Starting positively with back to back wins followed by back to back defeats have drawn lost and won one since to have 10 points from 7 games played. 7th in the table have up to 3 games in had on their rivals below. Melanie Hall top scorer with 10 goals from 14 appearances so far.

The Nest CSF the venue for today’s game, the new home of Norwich City Women. The newly build state of the art sporting facility boasting a modern artificial pitch along side the clubhouse and changing facilities. A large function room supported by cafe area to one side several grass pitches beyond situated to the north of the city. After a chilly, wet week Sunday bringing milder weather, if still overcast and dull. The floodlights on early as the teams walked out onto he pitch. 

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Jess Harper, Anna Larkins, Chardonnay Johnston, Ellie Bishop, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Freya Symonds, Kathryn Stanley, Megan Todd & Freya Fuller. Subs – Natasha Snelling, Rosie George, Leilah Gooding, Abi Tate & Summer Ward.

Queens Park Rangers Women

 Queens Park Rangers Women starting XI – Mya Francis-Pownall, Georgie Lewin, Laura Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Ellen Wardlaw, Ellie Searle, Erin Pope, Laura Hennessey, Brogan Moore, Melanie Hall & Emilia Parsons. Subs – Joanna Blodgett, Ailish Carolan, Esme Davies & Alice Curr.

It’s the visitors, QPR kicking off the 1st half wearing blue and white hooped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green colours. The ball played back to the centre backs Norwich press the ball forcing QPR to go back to goalkeeper Mya Francis-Pownall who kicks it long out to the left looking for Ellie Searle on the move attempts to bring it down under control as Jess Harper comes across to get into her to clear the ball for a throw in. 

Freya Fuller attacking for Norwich

  The ball regained in the middle Laura Hennessey into Melanie Hall in attack back to goal spins the ball forwards to the left with Searle bombing on, swings her cross into the area near side cut out and cleared by Jodie Drake tracking back for Norwich. The hosts look to mount a counter attack through Freya Symonds in the middle moving right playing it on for Freya Fuller into the right channel, QPR captain, Vicky Grieve getting across to lunge in with the tackle stop the threat.

  Norwich keep the pressure on in QPR’s final 3rd a throw deep on the right, the ball won played up to Fuller top corner of the box a shot struck on the angle, pace races wide across the six yard box. Ellen Wardlaw takes the ball up the left firing a diagonal all inside to striker Emilia Parsons outside the D, Ellie Bishop getting her foot to the ball first for Norwich goes away to the left wide put back inside into Brogan Moore positioned outside the box left of the D to have a shot struck with the outside of her boot racing low towards goal, Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams moving across her line is down to claim smoothly.

  Fuller on the move with the ball in attack for Norwich right side heading for the box, Grieve getting across to defend blocking once then twice as Fuller attempts to shoot a 2nd time this time the ball deflected back towards Francis-Pownall to collect safely. A bright start from Norwich.

  GOAL! That is undone in the 5th minute as QPR push forward in numbers to open the lead. Wardlaw out on the right firing a diagonal ball inside for Parsons, Bishop once again intercepting well taking the ball away to her right, Moore in to close her down regaining possession left of the D 20 plus yards out strikes the ball hard angling a low strike across the keeper to nestle in the bottom corner 0-1.

Brogan Moore opens the scoring for QPR

  Momentum switches suddenly in QPR’s favour the visitors moving the ball quickly across the pitch opening Norwich up in the middle, Hall after a cleared ball on the right racing to the by-line before turning in a cross into the six yard box, Chardonnay Johnston clearing for Norwich. QPR pressing the ball in the middle Laura Hennessey strong up to Moore releases Searle on the left, Harper preventing her putting a cross. Norwich’s Symonds plays the ball central onto captain Millie Daviss, looks to set up Fuller in attack sending the ball on into her path, her touch not quite there the ball running away from her inside the box as QPR defenders get back on her en masse to clear. 

  Wardlaw perplexed as she is adjudged to have given a foul away on the left side some 30 yards out, Larkins with Drake over the ball, Drake moving away central free as Larkins plays the ball into her, running in to strike the moving ball it flies high and wide of the top corner. Larkins with the ball on the left looks for options central attempts to flight a ball into the attackers to the right of the box, a QPR head with a glancing header on the ball taking it out for a corner. The delivery goes long across he six yard box Todd drifting in free can’t quite get there. 

Laura Hennessey bringing the ball under control for QPR

QPR get straight up the other end Hall into the box right side her cross headed behind for a corner. This delivery also long to the far post Pope up to head the ball put straight into the keepers gloves. Symonds drifting forwards to the right supporting Fuller, with good control turning 25 yards out to strike the ball on the angle, on target but straight into Francis-Pownall’s gloves with her near post covered. 

 QPR are looking sharp in attack moving the ball quickly in possession from back to front pulling Norwich’s midfield out of shape in the process allowing players space to exploit on both flanks with Searle and Wardlaw looking to get forwards whenever they can. Hennessey winning the ball putting in a number of good tackles. Wardlaw though is called into action in defence as the back line hesitates looking to caught Kathryn Stanley offside, the flag stays down however, Stanley in behind, Wardlaw covering the distance quickly to intercept Stanley at the top of the area to nullify the threat. 

Freya Fuller holding off, QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw

 Hall picking the ball up 35 yards out left channel driving forwards, Drake getting back to lunge in with the tackle before the ball is cleared away for a corner kick. Another far post delivery its Wardlaw up this time free to plant her header wide beyond the post. Williams out quickly to the top of the area to claim the ball for Norwich as Parsons looks to roll it on for Searle on the left. Bishop in to put in the block inside the box for Norwich as Searle powers into the area from the left.

QPR’s Melanie Hall

  GOAL! Midway through the half and QPR go on to double there lead. The visitors winning a corner on the right players lining up outside the area far post to run in to attack the ball, the delivery though goes through everyone. Is retrieved wide on the left players still up the cross fired into the six yard box Erin Pope at the near post seeing it down and turning into the shot put across the keeper, Williams getting down almost has it the ball squirming through under her body to cross the line 0-2.

QPR’s Erin Pope scorer of the visitors 2nd goal

  Norwich look to get players forwards as Larkins brings it on from the left her diagonal ball towards the top of the area headed down and clear by Grieve, Daviss quickest to react onto the loose ball hits it first time 25 yards out her effort swerving wide of the right post. QPR get the ball on quickly central with Hennessey out to Hall into the area right of goal, getting it down to hit in a low shot under Williams as she dives across in front of her the ball coming back off the base of the post into the six yard box left of goal, Bishop does enough to put Parsons off as she goes to hit the ball towards goal, taking all the pace off it as it trickles trough for William, rapidly back on her feet to claim.

Norwich’s Anna Larkins

  QPR looking strong pulling Norwich apart in the middle using there wide players well Searle across to Wardlaw on the right a corner won. Players come forwards lining up at the far post, the delivery finding it’s mark Parsons with the shot racing in low, evading Williams, Harper behind her covering the post clearing the ball off the line. The ball out to the right gathered by Hennessey lifts the ball in towards goal crashes onto the top of the crossbar and out of play.

  The visitors enjoying a good spell of play, communicating well, shifting ball quickly and crisply into feet pulling Norwich out of position causing the hosts some consternation. QPR’s centre back’s covering each other well whenever Norwich threaten an attack Symonds looking to lift the ball into Fuller right channel, Grieve across on the cover to defend with Lewin holding the attacker up. Fuller battling on with the ball to the right lifting a cross long into the area for Todd far side, collecting the ball checks back inside, thinks about shooting but he option is quickly closed down before her cross into the middle is cleared by Lewin. 

  5 minutes left to play in the first half. QPR finishing it strong. Hennessey with the ball pushes forwards into Parsons, Johnston close in defending for Norwich. Hennessey bossing the middle of the park taking it on once again out to Searle on the left drives forwards her cross into Parsons, with Hennessey beyond her, Drake getting between the pair to make a vital interception for Norwich. Wardlaw out on the right up he pitch for QPR top of the area las it inside for the advancing Moore, her clipped shot turned in on the angle going wide. 

Norwich defender, Ellie Bishop

   Norwich’s attackers looking to combine up top as Fuller brings the ball under control out on the left lifting it central for Stanley 25 yards out, flicks it forwards for Todd who is quickly crowded off the ball inside the D by QPR’s defence. Larkins and Wardlow enjoying a good contest on the right as the QPR player looks to get around Larkins to put in a cross into the box Larkins sliding in to block turning the ball behind for a corner. A long delivery to the far post a feature of the first half, QPR well drilled the ball met with a firm header powered wide.

QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw looking to take on Norwich full back Anna Larkins

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

  Despite a bright start from Norwich it was QPR who took the early lead and from that grew into the game with some good passing and movement throughout to pull their opponents out of shape. Doubling their lead midway through the 2nd half have also hit the woodwork and seen the ball cleared off the line. Norwich with a few chances inside the box, nothing clear cut, not giving themselves time on the ball QPR tight at the back giving little away. Frustration building need to change something in the 2nd half if they are to get back into the game.

  The two sides out with no changes made at the start of the 2nd half. Norwich to get the half underway. Fuller deeper in a midfield position with Symonds up supporting Stanley and Todd in attack. Drake on the ball playing it out to Stanley on the move left side takes the ball on towards the area before running into traffic and being crowded off the ball. Norwich looking to be positive from the off pressing the ball high looking to get at QPR’s defence. Are caught out as Searle escapes with the ball at her feet on the left powering her way forwards, Johnston moves out to meet her sliding into the tackle strong to take the ball, Harper clearing it forwards. 

Norwich centre back, Chardonnay Johnston

   QPR’s wide players combine well as Wardlaw gets free on the right sending a crossfield pass into Moore central 20 yards out who helps it out to the left for Searle, lays the ball forwards early into the box near post with Parsons making the run, diving in in front of Williams as she comes across to cover the angle doesn’t get a touch nor put the keeper of as Williams crouching down sees it up into her gloves. 

QPR defender, Lauren Jordinson

   Todd is adjudged to have blocked Searle’s run as the QPR wide player drives inside form the left, a card for Todd as she protests, the visitors with a set-piece in a dangerous position left of the D. Hall over it curls a low strike in on target past the wall Williams central in goal behind it right behind the strike. Norwich getting forwards on the right win a throw, Symonds controlling in spinning to put it on for Stanley running into the area Grieve back on her to tackle in low the ball deflected away for a corner. An inswinging delivery to the far post Francis-Pownall getting a firm glove on it to punch it away to the left. 

QPR’s Ellie Searle

  Fuller giving Norwich a little more steel in the middle the ball won, Drake enjoying a little space to exploit moving right clipping a diagonal ball on for Todd coming into the box from the left, her first touch a little heavy seeing the ball run away from her nevertheless goes after it sliding in on the keeper as Francis-Pownall gets down to save bravely, block the ball. Drake able to get forwards more too support the attack is well placed top of the area as a Larkins cross comes in from the left chests it down well looking to set up Todd, no shot on the ball comes back to Daviss who strikes a tame effort wide. 

Jodie Drake battling for possession for Norwich

  Drake gets all the way to the by-line before flashing a ball across the face of goal, no one running in to attack it. A bright start to the half from Norwich, QPR respond with a double change bringing off Parsons and Hennessey replaced by Alice Curr in attack and Joanna Blodgett. Not long after Norwich make a change of there own bringing of Fuller for Leilah Gooding. Symonds controlling the ball on the right off a throw on for Todd into the box Francis-Pownall across to close her down the ball blocked away for a throw.

  Larkins away with the ball left for Norwich puts a cross in for Drake near side, Jordinson in to win the header clearing for QPR. The visitors come through the middle Pope into Hall back to goal 20 yards out holds and sends out to Searle advancing on the left her cross in cut out by Johnston the ball out on the right a cross/shot blocked comes out to Moore 20 yards out smashes a shot back into the box her effort blocked before being cleared.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds

  Symonds on the right running onto a long ball forwards, getting a shot away on the angle the ball swerving in straight into the keepers gloves at the near post. Harper able to come on with the ball left side for Norwich plays it up the line for Symonds, Lewin getting across to put in the challenge for QPR. Much more even in the 2nd half, Norwich pressing the ball quicker the midfield hotly contested. Norwich winning a free-kick up high outside the box on the right. Before it is taken however the hosts make a change with 16 minutes left to play, Stanley coming off for Natasha Snelling.

  GOAL! Harper over the ball goes for goal a looping effort that has Francis-Pownall back pedalling struggling to reach it, possibly getting her fingertips to the ball as the ball comes back down off the cross bar into the box left of goal a shot lashed in, Norwich appeal immediately for handball! The referee pointing to the spot, a penalty awarded! Snelling with the ball in her hand hasn’t touched the ball yet, 4 goals so far this season will this be her 5th? Makes no mistake with a well placed penalty struck to the right of the diving keeper to score 1-2.

Natasha Snelling with her 1st touch scoring the penalty for Norwich

  Game on with 15 minutes left to play Norwich looking better 2nd half pulling a goal back. Continue to press the ball high Symonds and Todd getting help from Snelling. QPR defending strongly though, Searle and Wardlaw remain their outlets on the flanks ready to break as the floodlight begin to take full effect. Lewin out to Searle left on for Curr into the box from the angle, Bishop into her making the blocking tackle. Pope on through the middle passes on for Hall lifts it on for Curr into the left channel but the flag is up against her.

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve

   Harper right side on for Todd up top turns off her marker into the area, Grieve getting back on her Todd going down, appeals but nothing given. The clock ticking down, Norwich pressing QPR getting bodies back determined to hold on. The visitors always ready to spring the counter as Norwich commit players forwards Searle the outlet on the left driving on with the ball carrying in infield sends it on into Curr she does superbly with a clever backheel flick that sends it on for Searle to touch on into the area one on one with the keeper, Williams sets herself Searle closing on looking to play it wide of her, too close though as Williams reacts sharply getting down to her left to lay claim to the ball. 

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

 Changes for both sides with Rosie George on in attack for Todd. Pope comes off for QPR replaced by Esme Davies who moves up top with Curr, Hall dropping back into the middle. Norwich with bodies forwards as a freekick is put in from the left, Drake getting it down hesitates before releasing her shot seeing the attempt charged down. Pressing the ball outside the box Snelling gets it out to George moving clear inside the area wide right her cross flashed back in towards goal, caught well by Francis-Pownall with Symonds closing in. Wardlaw coming off in the latter stages for QPR to be replaced by Ailish Carolan. 

 Snelling able to travel with the ball through the middle getting a shot away from 25 yards out on the right drilled wide of the target. Snelling seeing the ball into her feet outside the box sends in out to George to the right, inside the box, Grieve getting back into her to tackle cleanly for QPR. Harper on the right with a ball into the area near side George going after it as the keeper comes to claim the pair colliding go down, George coming off the worst play paused as she recieves treatment but is okay to continue.

  Into the final minutes, Davies in space out wide left for QPR brings down a long diagonal pass shifting it between her feet before sending a looping ball into the box, Hall closing in getting her boot up to bring the ball down looking to direct it wide of the keeper from 10 yards out, Williams down sharply to her left laying claim to the ball. An advantage played as Bishop winning the ball at the back is fouled as she attempts to bring the ball forwards running onto Drake 30 yards out connects with her shot well swerving through the air isn’t far wide. 

  Sadly that is the last action of the game as she comes off injured moments later, appearing to twist her ankle as it rolls over the ball. On in her place Abi Tate. The clock running down QPR defending strongly not committing too many forwards Moore on the right with a early ball on for Davies the flag raised against her. Hall doing he sensible thing as she brings the ball down on the left off Searle the pair running the ball into the corner. Moments later the final whistle blows the points going to the visitors.

Full time Norwich City Women 1-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

  QPR with the win the damage done in the 1st half an early strike from Brogan Moore followed up with a goal from Erin Pope midway through the half with further chances created. A strong defensive performance throughout the game proving hard to break down. Prepared to sit in the 2nd half invite Norwich onto them ready to attack on the counter. Norwich despite a bright start quickly on the back foot in the first half pulled out of shape in the middle by QPR needed to make changes 2nd half. A good response with a much improved 2nd half performance, Freya Fuller dropping into midfield as Norwich pressed the ball higher, creating more opportunities, substitute Natasha Snelling with a clinical penalty to set up a tense final quarter hour, just couldn’t find that 2nd goal, ending the year with defeat. QPR pulling away from the sides below remain 7th have one more game left at home to leaders Hashtag United Women next Sunday.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As is often the case not an easy decision to make. A few performances of note to mention first. Freya Fuller played well both in attack in the first half and dropping into midfield in the 2nd half, that in turn allowed Jodie Drake more opportunities to get on influence the game linked up with the attackers well. QPR were solid through the team keeping a disciplined formation, Vicky Grieve with a number of vital challenges at the back. Laura Hennessey bossing the midfield in the 1st half. The award today though goes to Ellie Searle was a strong performance out on the left getting forwards always an outlet strong with her running getting in crosses and linking well with the attackers.

Been a hectic few days glad to have ended the weekend with a much needed football game. An entertaining encounter, a good contest my thanks to Norwich for providing me with those all important team details.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Stourbridge FC Ladies

Sunday 28th November

Women’s FA Cup

 A trip to Ely City FC’s Demcom Stadium this Sunday for a match from the 2nd Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup. A contest between two sides looking to create history in the competition to as Cambridge City Ladies take on Stourbridge FC Ladies.

   28 ties taking place this weekend with the potential of facing a Championship club in the 3rd Round an incentive for the winners as the 12 clubs from the games 2nd tier enter this season’s competition.

 Both of today’s opponents looking to create history of their own in the competition. Cambridge City Ladies own history relatively short but on its rise to FAWNL South East Division One have created some memorable moments in the Women’s FA Cup including last minute winners and knocking out higher league opponents, was there for some of those moments too! Cambridge City FC close to completing their new stadium in Sawston the women’s senior team now into their 3rd season in the FAWNL. The COVID pandemic not seeing as much football played as liked in previous seasons, have made a good start to the season this time around laying in midtable.

 Entering this season’s competition in 3rd Round Qualifying, Cambridge City Ladies were drawn away to ERWFL Premier Division side St Ives Town Women. Goals from Grace Stanley, Bronwyn Mulheron and Ellie Cullum along with a brace for Erin Davies securing a comfortable 2-0 win to reach the 1st Round Proper. A trip to the capital as the draw pitted Cambridge City against fellow South East Division One side London Seaward. Grace Stanley on target for a brace inside the opening 15 minutes putting Cambridge City in a strong position as they held on to the advantage to book their place in the 2nd Round. Grace Stanley amongst the goals following her return to the club after university, weighing in with 16 goals so far in all competitions. This the furthest Cambridge City have gone in the competition can they go one better today.

  Their opponents coming to the Demcom Stadium today full of confidence having been the giantkillers of the previous round as Stourbridge FC Ladies made history reaching the 2nd Round Proper for the first time with a memorable away win against FAWNL Northern Premier Division leaders Derby County Women. Courteney Murphy’s 40 yard lob in stoppage time seeing Stourbridge clinch a 2-3 win. Playing in the 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid Stourbridge FC Ladies currently sit top of the West Midlands Regional Football League Premier Division, winning 6 of the 7 games played so far, ahead of Sutton Coldfield Women on goal difference. Promotion to the FAWNL the prize for all the title winners in the 5th tier.

  A strong start to the season no doubt playing a part in their Women’s FA Cup run. Beginning in the 2nd Qualifying Round at home to Kidderminster Harriers LFC. Winning comfortably 6-1 to progress to 3rd Round Qualifying with a trip to Solihull Sporting Ladies were strong once again as they piled on the goals to win the game 9-1. Derby County Women no doubt the heavy favourites when the draw for the 1st Round Proper was made and an early goal for Derby saw them in front inside 2 minutes. Stourbridge responded well coming back with goals from Millie Rogers and Alex Nicklin seeing the visitors leading 2-1 at the break. Derby have assembled a strong squad and got themselves back on level terms with 16 minutes to play through Precious Hamilton. The game heading into stoppage time when Murphy’s lob saw Stourbridge create history as they knocked out a side two leagues above and reached the 2nd Round Proper for the first time. Their giant killing certainly getting plenty of media attention the job now though will be keeping everyone’s feet on the ground more history to be made… maybe.

Ely City Fc’s Demcom Stadium the venue for today’s game. Cambridge City encouraging supporters from the men’s club to come enjoy a ladies game a good crowd building, with Stourbridge laying on a coach for supporters too. Storm Arwen blowing through over the weekend, breaking wet and windy conditions across the country, several games called off as a result the pitch open to the wind holding out well no problems with an early inspection to confirm. A good size offering plenty of width. The main stand above the changing rooms with the clubhouse and kitchen serving hot drinks and food to one side. A bitterly cold day, time to get the hat out.

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Ceri Flye, Lauren Tomlinson, Jess Evans, Bronwyn Mulheron, Hannah Bodily, Ellie Cullum, Amy Reed, Charlotte Gillies, Erin Davies & Grace Stanley.  Subs – Becca Fay, Zynia Delglyn, Phillipa Witherspoon & Freya Symonds. 

Stourbridge FC Ladies

 Stourbridge FC Ladies starting XI – Amie Preston, Meg Hadley, Keren Allen, Sophie Heaselgrave, Macey Turvey, Lili-Beth Brown (C), Alex Nicklin, Hannah Fishwick, Esme Moran, Cheryl Edwards & Millie Rogers. Subs – Louisa Butcher, Ruby Meeson, Courteney Murphy, Niamh Murphy, Ellie McGoven, Jess Bate & Gee Thacker.

Captain’s Lili-Beth Brown and Sarah Hudson with today’s match officials

It is the hosts Cambridge to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and black and white hooped socks with Stourbridge lined up opposite wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. The sun is low in the sky but unlikely to cause any problems for the players as the ball put up to the attackers, Megan Turvey heading the ball clear in defence for Stourbridge the pass long out to Esme Moran on the left side, Ceri Flye into her quickly to tackle and send the ball out for a throw in for Cambridge.

Macey Turvey heading the ball clear for Stourbridge

 The visitors straight at Cambridge pressing them for the ball out for a  series of throws on the left, Esme Moran looking to drive on for Stourbridge is challenged by Cambridge midfielder, Ellie Cullum. Stourbridge hustle Cambridge down the flank Millie Rogers winning a throw deep in the corner leading to the 1st corner of the game. Fired in low at the near post defended deflected away to the right. A diagonal pass back to the left finding Charlotte Gillies on the move taking the ball over halfway lays it into the right channel for Erin Davies to chase in attack, Sophie Heaselgrave at the back for Stourbridge getting there first to clear the danger for the visitors.

   A frantic start to the tie the ball closed down in the middle of the park, competitive, Stourbridge captain Lili-Beth Brown taking it forwards tackled by Jess Evans outside the area, Stourbridge a quick to win it back out to Cheryl Edwards on the right wing her cross flung into the area headed away at he far post by Flye. Moran fouled on the left presenting Stourbridge with a free-kick inside the Cambridge half the ball curled into the area, bouncing safely through to Cambridge goalkeeper and captain, Sarah Hudson. 

Cambridge City defender, Jess Evans

  A high tempo pressing game from Stourbridge in to close the ball down and immediately spring forwards in attack. Alex Nicklin getting on the ball powering forwards lifting it to Edwards right side, Lauren Tomlinson in ahead of her to carry the ball up the line for Cambridge sends it on for Davies moving into space on the wing, Keren Allen going with her as she runs for the ball, out for a throw in, Davies is down and looks to be in trouble. Looks to be her hamstring can’t continue Cambridge forced into an early substitution, is replaced up top by Phillipa Witherspoon.

Stourbridge midfielder, Alex Nicklin

 Play resumes with a throw to Cambridge on the left (as you’ve read before Tomlinson has an exceptional throw on her) the ball long for Witherspoon, her presence forcing Allen into conceding another throw in the corner. The ball put into the area, dealt with by Turvey. Cullum across on the left slides in on Allen as she looks to come forwards Cambridge with the throw, Sturbridge win possession back and set off on a counter through the middle out to Moran on the left pushing on towards the box her angle shot covered by Hudson at her near post. 

  Edwards on the right combines well with attacker Millie Rogers the pair winning a free-kick. Wide on the right Allen on the ball as players come forwards. pulls her delivery taking it away from the top of the box to drop near post and be easily taken by Hudson. Edwards in possession on the right as Nicklin makes a run through the middle the ball laid into her path the midfielder takes it on right into the area closing in on the by-line wraps her foot around the ball to send in a cross, Evans back with her sliding in to block take it behind for the corner.

  GOAL! The corner on the right sent in by Rogers into a crowded six yard box Hudson going for it does get there the ball dropping cleared back out to the right, the ball sent in across the face of goal Moran rising in the middle getting her head on the ball, Hudson with an arm up a reactive save might have gotten the merest of touches the ball rebounding back of the crossbar, Moran reacting quickest back to her to rise up and nod the ball past the keeper this time to score 0-1.

Esme Moran with the opening goal for Stourbridge

   Stourbridge open the scoring in the 14th minute any traces of nerves well and truly blown away. A bright start Cambridge on the back foot. Stourbridge straight back at their closing game in the middle Brown the Nicklin the pass out to Edwards free on the right, takes the ball down the line before whipping a ball into the near post area. Hudson able to claim unchallenged. Rogers is busy to top moving across the defence to make herself available taking the ball out to the right Evans going with her defends at the cost of a corner. A good delivery towards the pack gathering at the far post someone connecting with the header drilling the ball back wide across goal.

Stourbridge’s Keren Allen

Cambridge getting frustrated Stourbridge not giving them a moment to settle on the ball, can’t get it up to their attackers. Flye into tackle on the right up to Gillies tries an angled pass into Stanley top of the area, Turvey strong at the back winning the header. Decisions going against Cambridge not helping them build any momentum. Hannah Bodily beating Brown to the ball, Witherspoon fouling her marker as she looks to turn in behind. Gillies plays the ball out to Amy Reed getting forwards on the right Meg Hadley in to challenge as she looks to push the ball past her.

Cambridge’s Hannah Bodily battling with Stourbridge’s Alex Nicklin for the ball

   A trying spell for Cambridge, Stourbridge pressing well, decisions going against them, the visitors backing each other up well one loses it, the ball is quickly recaptured. Edwards drifting free on the right as play is drawn to the left, the ball across to her, Tomlinson stretching managing to cut it out. Witherspoon back to win the ball on halfway out muscling her marker looks to release Stanley up top, goes a little too early, the flag up against her. 

   Hannah Fishwick seeing the ball into her feet central top of the D, turns and unleashes a shot blocked at close range by Mulheron. Cambridge get the ball back on the left Tomlinson looking to run on with it, pace as Rogers goes with her. Turvey comes hurtling out of defence sliding in Tomlinson managing to avoid the challenge as Turvey cleans out Rogers (and the ball) for a throw. 

  Reed finding a little joy on the right for Cambridge taking the ball on takes on the shot angled in from all of 25 yards, Amie Preston in goal for Stourbridge has the near post covered. Edwards on the right for Stourbridge inside for Rogers holds the ball up well inside the box does well to win a corner. Cullum seeing the ball into her feet turns well lifting it up top to the right, Preston comes racing out of her area intending to clear miscues screwing it high into the air, the ball though not falling favourably for Cambridge as Heaselgrave clears. 

Stourbridge striker, Millie Rogers

  Cambridge cannot get a foot hold in the final 3rd Stourbridge fighting for everything, numerous free-kicks given away are leading to more frustration from the hosts. Nicklin into Rogers up to moving right to left across the top of the area twisting and turning looking for an opening. Put back out to midfield another free-kick going against Cambridge to the left, put into the top of the area defended headed behind for a corner on the right.

 GOAL! From the resulting set-piece Stourbridge go on to double their lead the delivery in from Rogers coming in close to goal, dangerous the defender at he near post going up attempting to head it up over the bar can’t get enough on it and instead sees the ball lands in the back of her own net. 0-2.

A little under 10 minutes left to play in the first half and it’s Stourbridge who open up a 2 goal lead. Aren’t letting Cambridge settle at all, Allen taking the ball down the right Bodily coming across to slide in and tackle halting her progress. Nicklin has been strong in the centre of the park through getting hold of the ball making forward runs, combining both as she takes it on to the right of goal surging on shifts inside from 20 yards out before striking a low shot wide of the far post.

Stourbridge goalkeeper, Amie Preston

 Preston not afraid to come running out of her area if necessity requires and sees Reed released on the right by Gillies out of her area getting there first to clear the ball for a throw in. Rogers moving out to the right as Allen plays the ball to her level with the top of the area passes inside to Edwards outside the D sees Nicklin coming on from the middle rolls it into her to strike on target towards the far post but no problem for Hudson across to take the catch. 

  Cambridge get forwards on the right Flye on for Reed deep angles a ball into the area a cross/shot racing across the face of he Stourbridge goal. Cambridge getting more bodies forwards now particularly Tomlinson on the left lays a ball with the outside of her boot into the middle for Cullum inside the D, can’t make anything of it before Turvey and Heaselgrave close her down. Cambridge pressing the ball better themselves now Cullum and Bodily higher up the pitch. Risk getting hit on the counter and that’s exactly what Stourbridge do the ball lifted forwards to Rogers finding space on the right in behind has room to travel, it’s Flye who recovered quickest getting across the box to challenge, Stourbridge forced back working the ball across the pitch to the left a cross hooked into the area headed clear by Evans. 

Cambridge’s Bronwyn Mulheron

  Into the closing stages of the first half Stourbridge break play over on the left the ball finding Rogers to the right of the D 25 yards out drifts inside with the ball looking to line up a strike lets fly, Mulheron jumping central to block the ball taking a wicked deflection of her turning it towards the far post Hudson with an awesome save has little time to react diving low to her right throwing herself full stretch to push the ball away. 

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-2 Stourbridge FC Ladies

  How vital a save in the closing stages of the first half from Hudson with that be for Cambridge who find themselves trailing at home 2-0 in the 2nd Round of the Women’s FA Cup. An excellent first half from Stourbridge however starting the game well high tempo quick to close Cambridge down on the ball not let their opponents settle. Both goals coming from corners have closed the ball down well whilst backing each other up. Alot put into the half will be interesting to see if they can keep it up. For Cambridge alot of work to do if they hope to get back into the tie. The early injury to Davies no doubt affecting their game plan have been frustrated decisions going against them haven’t really got going.

A change for Stourbridge at the start of the 2nd half with Jess Bates coming on at the back replacing Allen. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway defending a 2 goal lead. Both sides in to press the ball straight away, Fishwick tackling Gillies as she tries to get away on the right. Stourbridge come right getting a throw deep in Cambridge territory the resulting cross cut out inside the area by Gillies back to defend. 

Stourbridge continuing with their pressing game Nicklin winning the ball in the left channel seeing Rogers move into the area from the left the ball fed into her she opens her body to shoot, Flye lunging in across her taking a painful blow as she blocks to send the ball behind for a corner. The deliveries from corners a real threat for Stourbridge this one into the congested six yard box headed over but not before the referee blows up for a foul against Cambridge. 

Millie Rogers with Cambridge’s Ceri Flye

  Nicklin wins the ball for Stourbridge playing it across the top of the box for Fishwick on the left her cross swung into the box claimed by Hudson. Reed on the right for Cambridge taking the ball in moving in field, Turvey stepping up to close her down and halt her progress for the visitors. Rogers coming out to the left flank wide taking the ball playing the ball into the box left side as Fishwick closes in, taking a touch as the Cambridge defence come to close her down goes down, the bench immediately appealing for a penalty, not given. 

Phillipa Witherspoon winning the ball for Cambridge

 A visitors making a bright start to the 2nd half looking for a 3rd goal. Plays getting forwards a Nicklin moves on with the ball left channel taking it inside the box her initial effort blocked at close range keeps possession back to goal lays it out to Moran central clipped in from 20 yards out sees her effort come back off the crossbar! 

 Isn’t long after that, that Moran’s game comes to an end chasing after the ball as Cambridge attack on the right pulls up a problem with her left left needs to come off is replaced by Courteney Murphy. Cambridge get the ball back in the middle Cullum to Bodily out to Tomlinson bombing on down the left racing to the by-line flashing a cross into the near post, Preston behind it spills it momentarily before dropping on the loose ball. 

Cambridge City’s Lauren Tomlinson

 Nicklin central spreads play out to the left for Fishwick to drives forwards her ball played in central intercepted by Bodily forwards for Gillies, Brown in to close her down the ball out to Stourbridge’s right. Edwards with a strike, Flye behind it to block with her head a powerfully struck ball, Flye is down seeing stars for a moment. Stourbridge press forwards players up to join the attack as Murphy right lays it back to the wing to be crossed in Rogers top of the area near post swinging at it missing her kick, runs through to Nicklin beyond her her strike blocked, the rebound fired in collected by Hudson. 

   Cambridge matching Stourbridge with their pressing game the match more even now. Nicklin still the driving force in the middle, advancing on the right, held back no clear advantage play brought back for the set-piece. Murphy over it 25 yards out lifted into the mix, deflected over the bar, a corner signalled. The delivery into the six yard box dropping down into the mix scrambled away to the right Edwards sending a snap shot wide. 

  Tomlinson carrying a threat going forwards on the left for Cambridge releasing a diagonal ball early into the area, Preston getting there to catch as Witherspoon closes in. Stourbridge on the right with Edwards succeeds in winning a corner. Evans heading the ball away for Cambridge, Nicklin keeping it alive for the visitors out to Fishwick left side she is fouled. Cambridge making a change before the free-kick can be taken Zynia Delglyn on for Gillies. Murphy to clip the ball into the D, a push on a defender seeing Cambridge given a free-kick of their own.

   Cambridge come on with the ball left the cross fired in along the top of the D reaching Stanley to the right of goal, Hadley in to close her down and block the ball spinning away to Reed free on he right shoots her effort wide of the near post. Alot put in by Stourbridge are beginning to drop back as Cambridge press looking to find a way back into the game. Cullum winning the ball central out to Tomlinson left side taking it on shoots from distance an angled drive wide of the near post. Nicklin 25 yards out right of the D puts the ball across to the left for Fishwick moving down the line her cross is cut out for a corner. Cambridge getting plenty back to defend.

  GOAL! Cambridge getting players forwards well especially Tomlinson on the left has the ball at her feet play opening up as she gets down the line flashing a cross in low at the near post Preston down to meet it doesn’t get hold of it pushed out loose in the six yard box Stanley is quickest to react blasting the ball into the back of the net to pull a goal back for the hosts 1-2.

Grace Staley pulls it back to 2-1 for Cambridge City

  A little over 20 minutes left on the clock game on as Cambridge get a goal. Stourbridge go straight on the attack from the restart the ball out to Fishwick on the left her cross in blocked by Flye, the ball finding its way to Murphy top of the box her shot in headed away from a corner kick. Attacked at the near post by Edwards, Cambridge though get to cleared to safety. Delglyn fouled over on the right for Cambridge, Mulheron standing over the set-piece looking at her options as players move forwards. The ball whipped in near side Stanley moving towards it can’t quite get a touch as it bounces through to the keeper.

  The game opening up a contrast from the first half as Stourbridge attack on the left the ball slid on for Rogers left into the box where she is tripped the referee pointing to the spot. Penalty! Murphy placing the ball on the spot. Shoots aiming to place it to the keepers right, not enough height on it as Hudson goes the right way down to make the save and deny Stourbridge a 3rd goal. 

Sarah Hudson saving the penalty for Cambridge

  Both sides putting bodies on the line now in an effort to win the ball, Bodily in hard on Nicklin central to come away with the ball Fishwick blocked as she travels forwards on the left a free-kick awarded. Murphy sending it in headed away by Mulheron. Another change for Cambridge with Bodily the player coming off for Freya Symonds. Murphy goes in the book for a foul on halfway as Cambridge look to press with the clock ticking down. The goal changing things Stourbridge not prepared to commit so many forwards are tiring. Nicklin though with a turn and shot from distance that has Hudson worried for a moment before it lands safely on the roof of the net. 

Zynia Delglyn on the ball for Cambridge City

   Delglyn bringing the ball under control central on for Cullum in the middle looking to chip it over the defence for Stanley to burst onto, Preston though out smartly to the edge of her area to lay claim to the ball. Moments later Preston is off her line again coming out to block Tomlinson as she travels into the box from the left. Mulheron with a long ball forwards up to Stanley inside the D, Heaselgrave there seeing the ball back to her keeper, Cambridge appealing for a back pass not given. 

Stourbridge defender, Sophie Heaselgrave

 Tomlinson with an angled drive over the bar from 30 yards out on the left. Cambridge pushing hard have Stourbridge on the back foot for the first time in the game little tine left though to find an equalising goal and force the tie into extra-time. Stourbridge making a change bringing off Fishwick for Ellie McGoven with 5 minutes plus added to play. A vital interception at the back by Hadley as Cambridge sent a diagonal ball in from the left with Stanley looking to run in behind. Preston at her near post behind a shot fired in by Tomlinson on the left. 

  The host win a free-kick on the right 30 yards out, Stanley coming out to take it, sends it in central attacked well by Turvey getting a good head on it to clear the danger. Totally different game now Stourbridge holding on as Cambridge attack, Stanley with the ball at her feet the attacker moving across the D shoots the effort blocked… a hand ball spotted the free-kick outside the box. In low by Stanley blocked then cleared out to the right for a throw.

 

  The throw bringing a corner kick. Angled in at the near post Heaselgrave defending for Stourbridge. Another corner for Cambridge in deeper this time put over Stourbridge awarded a free-kick however as Flye picks up a yellow card. Stourbridge are looking to get the ball into the corners run down the clock with several minutes stoppage time being played. Rogers doing her best to hold it up. One last effort from Cambridge the ball long up to Witherspoon and Stanley, Heaselgrave has to defend for Stourbridge and does well as the final whistle blows and Stourbridge win to march on to the 3rd Round.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Stourbridge FC Ladies

 A memorable day for Stourbridge as they continue to make history in the Women’s FA Cup beating Cambridge 2-1 to reach the 3rd Round. Started the game well pressing Cambridge for the ball not letting them settle on the ball working hard in the final 3rd. Taking the lead from a set play went on to add another before the break. May have been 3 as possibly game over if not for a brilliant save from Hudson. Cambridge never really getting going first half needed a big 2nd half if they were to find a way back into the tie. It was Stourbridge though who created more chances the crossbar struck and a penalty saved could have seen them in control. Cambridge dug in though battling to match Stourbridge pressing for the ball getting it back to 2-1 with 20 minutes left and from there had Stourbridge on the back foot a valiant effort as they tried to get it level Stourbridge working hard in defence, tiring from their earlier efforts. Dug in though to keep Cambridge out and win the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Moving onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Another tough on to choose a single player a few performances to mention first though. For Cambridge Sarah Hudson’s saves were crucial to keeping Cambridge in the tie. In defence Ceri Flye put her body on the line with so brilliant defending. Lauren Tomlinson on the left giving Cambridge attacking thrust in the 2nd half. For Stourbridge Esme Moran was a threat attacking on the left scoring the opening goal. In attacker Millie Rogers showed great movement holding the ball up well and made herself available throughout. Today’s award though goes to midfielder Alex Nicklin was impressive in the middle of the park, winning the ball leading the pressing game and made some fantastic runs forwards.

Another entertaining match from the Women’s FA Cup. Best of luck to Stourbridge for the upcoming draw for the 3rd round will be as interested as you to see who you get. Always nice to see a club from another part of the country. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Stowupland Falcons Women v Brettvale Ladies

Sunday 21st November

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

 Another venture into Suffolk this Sunday to watch a game from the 2nd Round of the Women’s County Cup and a look at two new sides for the first time as Stowupland Falcons Women play Brettvale Ladies.

 The competition dominated by Suffolk’s leading women’s football side over the past decade with Ipswich Town Women winning the County Cup for the 7th successive season last time around their Development defeating Needham Market Women 6-0. Guaranteed to be a new name on the trophy this season with Ipswich withdrawing a side from the competition. That in itself seeing a huge shift in the County Cup as other established and up and coming sides within the county see there chances of reaching the final greatly enhanced.

 Stowupland Falcons Women an emerging force in female game entering a women’s side for the first time last season. The club aiming to become a leading force for grassroots football in Suffolk running 4 adult sides aswell as a strong youth section that has amongst it’s ranks an U11, U13 & U16 girls side. The original side entering in 2020/21 Stowupland Falcons U18 Girls joining as the SWGFL expanded to feature two divisions. Going straight into the Premier Division were laying 4th with 3 wins from their 7 games played before the COVID pandemic saw a season successive season curtailed. The league once again featuring two divisions sides withdrawing however sees the Premier Division reduced to 7 sides. A tough start for Stowupland losing their opening 3 matches have since rallied to draw, then win their first game of the season 5-3 at home to Brantham Athletic Ladies with new signing Kirsten Hutchings who has a strong goal scoring record within the league netting 4 goals.   

 Brettvale Ladies joining the league in the 2018/19 campaign have already ticked off a County Cup final appearance. Reaching the 2019/20 final where lay like so many others were beaten by Ipswich Town Women’s young development side 7-0. The final delayed due to the COVID pandemic Suffolk FA ensuring the game was played the following season. Brettvale recruiting a strong squad with plenty of playing experience within Suffolk and the regional set up above. COVID no doubt affecting the clubs development as it has for alot of clubs. Have made an excellent start to this season’s campaign winning all 4 of their league matches to lay 2nd in the table a point behind Holland Ladies. Stacey Teager top scorer with 4 goals in 4 league appearances, Laura Tuley with 3 goals from 4. 

Todays venue the Stowupland Sports & Social Club. The pitches beyond the clubhouse and changing rooms. A large area featuring numerous grass pitches with an area turned over to cricket in the summer. Today’s pitch featuring a picturesque scene off a church behind one goal. Rain blowing through dark clouds before kick-off blustery and chilly, not deal as I’d have preferred to be close to the hedge on the far side for some protection but that would have meant looking into the low sun which would pose problems for those playing too. The wind blowing from one goal mouth to the other also a potential factor to weigh up. 

Stowupland Falcons Women

Stowupland Falcons Women starting XI – Abbi Goodenough, Emily Bates, Milly Gant, Abby Durrant, Ebonie Calvert (C), Kim Edwards Evie Bloom Ella Edwards, Amelia Skeggs, Laura Brame & Sarah Harrison. Subs- Kirsten Hutchings & Simona Bieniauskaite. 

Brettvale Ladies

 Brettvale Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Rachel White, Chloe Wilson, Danielle Lynch, Kirby King, Claire Turnbull (C), Coral Young, Sheryl Nokes, Harriet Young, Georgia Lindon & Laura Tuley. Subs – Aimee Berry, Rachel Linsdell, Kristie Turner & Sophie White. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s the visiting side Brettvale to kick-off the first half wearing a navy and sky blue coloured shirts, navy shorts and sky blue socks with Stowupland opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence out to Rachel White on the right sends t up the line for Georgia Lindon to hunt down, full back Milly Gant coming across to challenge put the ball out for a throw in. 

Milly Gant moving in to tackle Brettvale’s Georgia Lindon

   Tentative early exchanges the ball moving quickly players from both sides closing down play spread out to the right Stowupland on the move with Laura Brame taking the ball up the line her cross into the box dealt with by Brettvale defender Danielle Lynch. Brettvale play the ball out from the back White on for Lindon right side squares the ball central for her captain Claire Turnbull 30 yards out before spinning in behind Turnbull threading a superb ball into the area for Lindon to attack, Stowupland’s captain tracking across to tackle Lindon before she can unleash a shot inside the six yard box. Players all concerned about balls coming in from the right with the sun in their faces.

Stowupland’s Kim Edwards

   Laura Tuley from the angle off a throw on the right tries an ambitious effort on goals her attempted shot running wide beyond the far post. Brettvale are looking to release Lindon on the right at every opportunity, has pace the ball lifted into her twists inside pushing towards the area, Gant closing in to put in the challenge the ball out for a throw. The visitors work the ball free from the set-piece to lift a cross into the box, Stowupland keeper Abbi Goodenough getting her gloves on the ball. A good tempo being set the ball never still Turnbull clipping a diagonal ball into Lindon right side, Gant once again defending the hosts breaking out from the ball Amelia Skeggs with a long pass out to the right, defended a throw won in the corner. From it a cross is delivered into the area Kirby King up to head the ball near post, with Stowupland’s Sarah Harrison drifting in behind.

   Brettvale are awarded a free-kick wide on the right, Harriet Young over the ball played in towards the top of the area attacked turned in towards goal low on target but pops up straight into Goodenough’s gloves. Coral Young seeing the ball into her feet central for Brettvale flicking it out to the left channel for Chloe Wilson 20 yards out has a stab at goal the shot sent wide. Gant travelling with the ball left side on for Harrison to attack up the line, White comes sliding in to take the ball away from her for a throw. On the opposite flank Emily Bates comes on support from Skeggs and Evie Bloom the ball crossed into the Brettvale box King with the defensive header to clear. The ball hotly contested in the middle, Kim Edwards tackling Young to regain possession.

 The hosts applying pressure in the final 3rd winning a corner on the right. The delivery short into the box near side flicked into the six yard box, Brettvale struggle to get it away from the moment as Stowupland get players in amongst them, Harriet Young eventually lifting it high upfield. Wilson on the left for Brettvale storms forwards with the ball, Bates getting in shoulder to shoulder easing her off the ball. Brame getting into the right corner with the ball turns inside Sheryl Nokes lunges in to take the ball out for a throw. Stowupland get a cross into the area from it, King needing to get her head on the ball once more near post to deny Harrison an opportunity running in central.

Brettvale defender, Kirby King

  Calvert with a vita interception at the back for Stowupland as Tuley gathering the ball in midfield looks to send Lindon through in behind. Tuley drifting out to the right holding the ball up is  fouled as she looks to spin in behind her marker the visitors awarded a free-kick. 

Harriet Young over the free-kick

 GOAL! Harriet Young over the ball close to the touch-line half way inside the Stowupland half players up from the back lining up to make runs into the box, Young struck well rising up into the air a dangerous ball into the box, the sun at her back could well pose problems for those facing the ball including the goalkeeper, is a fantastic ball in however and dropping Goodenough goes up for it but is beyond her reach and it dips under the bar and lands in the back of the net for Young’s first goal of the season 0-1.

Harriet Young’s free-kick goes in over the keeper.

18 minutes played and the visitors take the lead. Stowupland look to make ground on the left from the restart, the notepad collecting some Suffolk mud as I use it to stop the ball running out of play. Brame on the turn shifts the ball between her feet fouled as she looks to put Harrison away into the box no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. A similar position from where Brettvale scored moments ago. The delivery launched high into the box allowed to drop amongst bodies at the far post, players from both sides scrambling for it, Brettvale come away with it up into Tuley spreads play right for Lindon, doesn’t get far before Gant is back on her to tackle.

 A change for Stowupland, Harrison off for Kirsten Hutchings in attack. Brettvale have increased their urgency in the final 3rd getting runners on from midfield to support the attack, Coral Young into Tuley central, Abby Durrant closing in to challenge top of the D. Ellie Bird coming out quickly to the edge of her area to catch the ball cleanly as Hutchings right channel look to hook it on from an Evie Bloom cross on the wing. Bird’s opposing number Goodenough racing out to the top of her area to clear as Turnbull lays the ball though for the advancing Coral Young. 

  Hutchings coming for the ball right sees it rolled into her path shooting early on the angle a low drive racing wide through the six yard box. Brettvale make a change Wilson coming off on comes Aimee Berry. Stowupland win a set-piece on the right side of the area, Skeggs to take long to the far post headed out to the top of the area not clear, Calvart goes after it seeing her strike blocked the ball angling away for a throw. 

Amelia Skeggs bringing the ball on for Stowupland

 Gant into Ella Edwards central out to Skeggs moving left takes on an ambitious effort from all of 30 yards out the shot racing wide low across the Brettvale area. Brettvale continue to press in numbers forcing the Stowupland defence deep into there box, defend well but getting out is tricky with so many back. White regaining possession into the middle play put out to the left Berry forwards riding a challenge the cross in cleared, play stopped with a Stowupland player down on the far side. 

Brettvale’s Kirby King with Stowupland’s Ella Edwards

 Bloom can’t continue and is carried off the pitch, on comes Simona Bieniauskaite slotting into the left back position. 10 minutes left in the first half. Brettvale press the attack Nokes on the left outside the area allowed to come inside with the ball sees two strikes at goal blocked at close range the 2nd by one of her own players. Ella Edwards up the right for Stowupland crosses into the Brettvale area Harriet Young rising to head clear for the visitors. 

  This being the 451st game I’ve done a report for and the 1st tie this has happened, haven’t seen many players sin binned as it is so to see two go off in quick succession is a first! It all starts with Tuley gathering the ball into her feet on the left moving on Bieniauskaite getting on her shoulder the two battling for the ball go over, the free-kick going in favour of Stowupland, Tuley isn’t happy voices those complaints and is shown a yellow and sent to the side lines. As this is happening the referee clearly hasn’t liked what Coral Young has said and she two is shown a yellow and sent to the sides lines two! Brettvale down to 9 for the next 10 minutes of the game. 

Sinbinned Coral Young and Laura Tuley to sit out the game for 10 minutes

 Brettvale quickly regrouping into two banks of four to see out the half. Stowupland have the player advantage can they make it count. Brame on the right up the line wrapping her foot around the ball is headed clear of the box by Lynch. Brame coming out to the left flicks it on for Hutchings central, turns towards the area, straight into Lynch who holds her off, clearing the ball for a throw on the left. When they can Brettvale are looking to run the ball into the corners eat up time Nokes on the left winning a corner, the visitors naturally don’t commit too many forwards. Durrant with the simple clearance. Brame through the centre for Hutchings inside the D, Bird comes racing out to meet her as King slides into challenge, Hutchings managing to stay on her feet, between defender and goalkeeper though the threat has been averted.

Half-time Stowupland Falcons Women 0-1 Brettvale Ladies

  A narrow lead for Brettvale at the break as they hold on at the end of the half with 9 players. An exciting tie played at a fast tempo the ball rarely still. Few clear cut chances though the final ball more often than no favouring the defence. Both have been solid throughout. A well struck free-kick the difference between the sides. Brettvale getting players forwards well forcing the Stowupland defence deep which has made counter attacking difficult. A single goal in the tie though all to play for in the 2nd half.

Brettvale’s 8 outfield players lining up for the 2nd half

Brettvale starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st with 9 on the field with the 10 minute penalty yet to be completed. A substitution though seeing Kristie Turner on for Lindon on the right. Stowupland unchanged. The sun low in the sky now unlikely to pose a problem the wind biting now and cloud beginning to grow darker as the hosts get the 2nd half underway. Brettvale forming two walls of four frustrating Stowupland who are rushing their passes when perhaps they can pause a little on the ball. Turnbull getting hold of it in the centre out to Berry on the left, Bieniauskaite closing her down.

Brame central collecting the ball into her feet holding off a challenge before spinning well to her left to release Hutching on the right wing her cross shot on the angle landing on the roof of the net. Hutching in the middle plays the ball out to Bates to the right, Turnbull coming across to slide in and tackle. Stowupland with a corner on the left driven in low near side deflected out to the top of the area a snap shot charged down by Brettvale. Brame trying to bring the ball down around the D set up a shot  can’t get it away before Lynch can get back on her to block. A rainbow forming in the sky beside the black cloud tells me rain in imminent.

Brettvale’s Danielle Lynch moving in to block Laura Brame’s incoming shot

More drama as another yellow card is shown and Brettvale coach Andy Parton is asked to vacate the area for 10 minutes for dissent having called for a hand ball. On the pitch however Brettvale are back to their full complement having kept Stowupland at bay with just 9 on the field. Tuley up to positioned left of the D 20 out as Berry makes a run with the ball across the D lays the ball into her feet, turns, Durrant close in blocking her shot. A few spots of rain starting to fall

Ella Edwards on the ball for Stowupland carrying it on through the middle playing the pass into Hutchings to the right drives on into the box, Lynch going with her blocking her cross to divert the ball behind for a corner. The set-piece fired on low at the near post turned behind for a goal kick.

Stowupland captain, Ebonie Calvert

Penalty! Brettvale have a throw on the left high up the pitch put into Tuley’s feet back to goal outside the box, is strong turns getting into the area, where she is tripped by Calvert before she can get a shot away the referee pointing to the spot. Tuley placing the ball to take it. gets plenty of power behind the ball but too much height as she shot cannons down off the crossbar and a foul is spotted before anyone can go after the rebound.

Laura Tuley’s penalty hitting the crossbar

The rain falling heavily now a pain as I need the umbrella, but a notepad, camera, umbrella and wind are a bad combination the umbrella escaping for a moment needing rescuing the joys of grassroots football. The game has developed into a series of free-kicks given away by both sides as they look to hustle the ball. Turnbull in particular getting about the pitch to break up play.

Brame looking to combine with Hutchings up top the latter moving about not staying on one defender for long. Ella Edwards with a good pass into Brame central looks to shift to the right move in behind to shoot, is quickly closed down by both Coral Young and Turnbull.

Brettvale captain, Claire Turnbull

 GOAL! Not long after they are awarded one penalty Brettvale get an opportunity from the spot again. Off a throw in high on the left the ball launched into the box left side, Brettvale players immediately appealing for handball the decision in their favour the referee pointing to the spot for a 2nd time. Kristie Turner to take it this time, keeping it low placing it wide into the bottom corner as the keeper dives the right way 0-2.

Kristie Turner doubling Brettvale’s lead from the spot

Brettvale doubling their lead midway though the 2nd half, Stowupland get straight on the attack from the restart the ball up the right a throw won into Hutchings she spins inside turning into the box sending a cross through the six yard box no one there Lynch able to clear for Brettvale. Quick to get up the other end the ball crossed into the Stowupland box headed behind for a corner by Calvert. The set play driven in near post attacked, deflected behind for a goal kick.

 

Turner with a strike from distance on the angle some 30 yards out races wide across goal. Tuley soon after from a similar angle 25 yards out driven on low has Goodenough scrambling across her goal diving must have gotten fingertips to it as it runs wide a corner awarded. from the left dropping down in the six yard box at the far post squirms free for Tuley unmarked 10 yards out sends her 1st time strike over the top.

  GOAL! Stowupland get themselves back into the game pulling a goal back 5 minutes after falling 2 behind. Gant with a fantastic ball forwards from the left into Brame 30 yards out left of the D turns and lobs the advancing keeper to score 1-2.

Laura Brame pulls it back to 2-1 for Stowupland

 The goal giving Stowupland renewed confidence as they push players forwards hustling the ball in the final 3rd. Hutchings nicking it off the full back spinning in behind on the right squares it central for Brame, who helps it on looking to put it on a plate for the advancing Kim Edwards, Turnbull putting in a superb tackle to take the ball away to the left, Skeggs forcing a throw in the pressure staying on Bates moves in central with the ball seeing a shot blocked from 20 yards out.

Stowupland’s Milly Gant

 Gant in a central position from a deep position lifting a long ball in towards the far post, Bird scrambling across her goal dropping on it far post. Nokes left on for Berry, takes on Bieniauskaite the full back forcing her wide preventing a cross coming in. as the game moves into the final 15 minutes. Coral Young 30 yards out passes to Harriet Young on her right 30 yards out allowed time and space to line up a strike sends her effort over the bar. 

 

  Turnbull winning a free-kick for Brettvale after a strong run on the right outside the box, fired in at an inviting height through the six yard box Berry closing in at the far post can’t quite get anything on it. The ball still in play retrieved by Berry her cross in central Turnbull laying it off for Coral Young to clip over. 

 GOAL! Brettvale are awarded a free-kick inside their own half. Lynch over the ball as players go forwards. Is a miscue not the ball she intended but even as she lambasts herself it turns into a fantastic assist for Tuley. Intending to play it high to the right instead it is scuffed low central nevertheless catches the defence flat footed the ball in behind Tuley inside the D alert latching onto it taking it left turns back inside onto her right opening up her body to lift the ball past the keeper into the top corner 1-3.

Laura Tuley scores to give Brettvale a 3-1 lead

Less than 10 minutes on the clock Stowupland make a change bringing Harrison back on for Bieniauskaite. Light is fading fast as Stowupland win a corner on the left goes long put back in on the right by Skeggs cleared by King, out to Lindon on the right drives on into the area before giving away a foul against Gant.

 GOAL! Stowupland committing players forwards as they look for a goal are hit on the break the ball cleared out of defence into Turnbull in the middle releases it early for Tuley in attack to have a clear run at the box closing in on the keeper producing a clinical finish shooting low to place it in the bottom corner 1-4.

Two quick fire goal seeing Brettvale take control of the tie with less than 10 minutes left. Stowupland keep up their attacking play the ball pushed into Brame in the left channel turns inside king coming to close her down. A triple switch for Brettvale sees White, Harriet Young and Tuley replaced by Wilson, Sophie White and Rachel Linsdell. Ella Edwards fouled as she looks to make progress on the right for Stowupland the hosts with a free-kick inside for Bates central goes forwards is tackled 25 out by Linsdell, then a shot his blasted wide from distance.

  Into the final minutes Stowupland pressing a free-kick right side in from deep Sophie White heading it clear at the far post. Seconds left as Linsdell gets it out to Lindon on the right powers her way into the box before being tackled by Gant. The final whistle blows and Brettvale progress to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup quarter finals.

Full time Stowupland Falcons Women 1-4 Brettvale Ladies

  An entertaining cup tie that sees Brettvale progress with a 4-1 win, 2 late goals ensuring the result after a brief fightback from Stowupland after they got it back to 2-1. A even contest for much of the 1st half with both sides quick to close the other down few chances created Brettvale with the narrow lead at the break ending the half and starting the 2nd with 9 on the pitch, their game management then was superb with Stowupland failing to take advantage. A missed penalty but a 2nd opportunity taken from the spot midway through the 2nd half. Stowupland though pulling it back to 2-1 for a little while it was certainly game on before Brettvale took control with two quick goals from Tuley to ensure the result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances of note to mention first though. For Stowupland, Milly Gant had a excellent game at left back, certainly an area Brettvale were looking to exploit they got little joy with Gant putting in some good tackles. Laura Brame showing good movement and positioning linking up the attack and midfield well. For Brettvale, Kirby King was excellent in defence with a number of vital headers and tackles. Laura Tuley up top late on with two clinical finishes. The award though goes to Brettvale captain, Claire Turnbull was strong in the middle throughout and getting about the pitch to make tackles and break up play. Organised the team well when they were forced down to 9.

  Every game is different and that’s why I love it! An entertaining cup tie from Suffolk. Seeing two new sides for the first time although I have to say plenty of familiar faces. My thanks to both sides for their assistance today as always it is much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Norwich City Women

Sunday 14th November

FA Women’s Cup

 This season’s FA Women’s Cup reaches the 1st Round Proper with the sides from the FAWNL Premier Division’s North & South entering the competition. Overall 108 sides meeting this weekend across the country. Women’s Football East at on of those ties on #WomensFootballWeekend a local derby too as Wymondham Town Ladies take on Norwich City Women.

 Wymondham Town Ladies currently top of the ERWFL Premier Division aiming for promotion to the FAWNL to join today’s opponents Norwich City Women in South East Division One. On paper not alot separating the sides. Wymondham have in recent seasons enjoyed their FA Women’s Cup campaigns knocking out higher league opponents on a few ocassions. Making a strong start to their ERWFL season winning all 4 of their opening league matches to top the table, suffered 2 straight defeats at the end of September but haven’t looked back since.

Going on a run now at 6 straight wins in league and cup beginning in 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup away to Haverhill Rovers Ladies, striker Hannah Waters scoring 4 times as Wymondham cruised through to the next round with a 10-0 victory. Faced a long away trip in 3rd Round Qualifying to Essex to face ERWFL Division One South title contenders, Leigh Ramblers Ladies, a hat-trick for Natasha Youngs seeing Wymondham reach the 1st Round Proper with a 5-1 win. Currently 6 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with Hannah Waters top scoring with 12 goals from 12 appearances close behind young striker Francesca Catchpole who has 10 from 12 appearances showing her potential after returning from a serious ACL injury before joining the club. Long term injuries a blow Wymondham has had to deal with all too regularly over recent seasons but the squad has remained resilient throughout, just the one out long term at the moment defender Betty Fretwell.

Saw Norwich City Women on the opening day of their FAWNL South East Division One campaign and they won’t want reminding of that game. Suffering a heavy loss to title contenders Billericay Town Women. Were missing several first team regulars that day and despite a difficult start to the season rallied well with a positive run to gain 7 points from 3 games to pull clear of the bottom of the table. Alot of work to do still if they are to avoid relegation but are in touching distance with the mid-table sides above. Entering the FA Women’s Cup in 3rd Round Qualifying were drawn away to fellow league side Harlow Ladies for a 2nd successive trip to Essex the 1st seeing Norwich 3-0 up in the league only for Harlow to mount an incredible comeback to win the game 4-3.

No such drama the the cup however as 1st half goals from Ellie Bishop and a goal from new signing Freya Fuller on her debut secured a 2-0 win. Fuller joins from Billericay Town Women. Norwich recruiting a trio of Wymondham players over the close season with defender, Chardonnay Johnston, midfielder, Mollie O’Callaghan and attacker Freya Symonds all joining along with goalkeeper Yaz Walford from Royston. Like Wymondham play on an artificial surface at The Nest.

Ketts Park, Wymondham Town Ladies home ground. The community and recreation facility newly build on the outskirts of the town. An all weather artificial main pitch with playing fields beyond. The clubhouse serving hot drinks. A viewing area for spectators along one side of the pitch marked out with various sized pitches catering for all age groups. An overcast day a few spots of rain in the air before kick off, fetched the umbrella but it wasn’t needed.

 Remembrance Sunday everyone pausing for a moments silence before the match.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Mary Croft, Leah Newcombe (C), Lauren Kett, Aimee Stretch, Jenifer Codman, Katie Knights, Becca Russell, Natasha Youngs, Francesca Catchpole & Hannah Waters. Subs – Jess Luff, Hayley Kindred, Rachel Cossey, Chelsea Clarke, Jess Hawkins, Laura Nicholls & Lyla Studd.

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Anna Larkins, Jess Harper, Kate Parsons, Chardonnay Johnston, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Freya Symonds, Kathryn Stanley, Megan Todd & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Mollie O’Callaghan, Katie Appleton, Rosie George, Samara Nche, Leilah Gooding, Freya Fuller & Ellie Bishop.

A switch of ends as Norwich get the tie underway kicking off the first half wearing their yellow and green kit. Wymondham wearing red shorts and shorts with black socks. The visitors sending a long diagonal ball out to the left for Kathryn Stanley to attack, dealt with by Wymondham captain, Leah Newcombe at right back for a throw, taken quickly a cross sent into the box from deep, into the gloves of Wymondham goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce. 

  Norwich come through the middle pushed out to Megan Todd pulling right 25 yards out looks to lift it into the box for Natasha Snelling, Lauren Kett defending for Wymondham heading the ball clear. Katie Knights central for Wymondham passes to Natasha Youngs on the left her diagonal ball forwards aimed towards Hannah Waters up top, turning towards goal is pushed out to the right Kate Parsons coming across for Norwich to put in the challenge the ball going away for a throw in the corner. Wymondham working it back up the line before sending the cross in Bryony Williams in goal for Norwich calls and comes to claim the ball.

Wymondham’s Hannah Waters with Norwich captain, Millie Daviss

   Norwich getting on the front foot Freya Symonds getting hold of the ball in midfield going on before playing it forwards to Snelling pulling away to the left her first touch taking her inside moves across the top of the area 20 yards out sending it into Todd’s feet she clips a shot in towards goal looping up comes down off the crossbar! Both sides up for the contest the ball keenly contested in the middle, Symonds closing in on Mary Croft to steal the ball in behind losing her footing can’t capitalise before Wymondham regroup.

Freya Symonds bringing the ball on for Norwich

  Wymondham put the ball into Waters feet back to goal 30 yards out holds it up turning attempting to thread it in behind for Francesca Catchpole making the run, a timely interception by Norwich centre back Chardonnay Johnston. Newcombe at the other end does well defensively heading a sweeping diagonal ball away as Norwich send it in from the right. Symonds finds herself up with the attack central as Todd plays the ball into her inside the D, playing the return ball to Todd she looks to go around the Wymondham defence to the left into the area before unleashing a shot running along the ground lacking the pace to trouble the keeper.

Norwich defender, Chardonnay Johnston

  Norwich making some positive attacking runs at the start of the game Snelling playing it across the top of the area into the path of Todd who strikes a shot over from 25 yards out. Norwich’s captain Millie Daviss central playing a ball out to Anna Larkins moving up field on the left she crosses into the middle picking out Stanley 30 yards out, has a shot the ball loops into the box dropping straight into Pearce’s gloves. Is a little lively on the tackle front both sides giving away freekicks.

Wymondham midfielder, Jenifer Codman

  Jenifer Codman central sees Newcombe on the move down the right the ball put out to her play the diagonal ball forwards early as Waters comes across, Parsons quick to respond going with her tackling for Norwich before Waters can fashion a strike. Catchpole getting onto the ball on halfway allowed to travel with the ball lets fly from all of 30 yards out the shot wide of Williams goal. Players looking to take the ball on through the middle a feature as Stanley gets hold of it for Norwich spots Snelling drifting in behind the defence attempts to lift it through to her, Kett getting her foot up to make a timely interception.

  Kett across to defend against Snelling on the right conceding a corner. The delivery flashed into the box headed clear by Becca Russell for Wymondham. Look to counter on the left, Jess Harper getting across to snuff out the danger. Todd moving to the right with the ball at her feet has Stanley in support the pair exchange passes, Todd trying to get into the area is tackled by Wymondham’s Croft. Appeals from the Wymondham bench for a penalty as Parsons comes across to challenge Waters inside the box the protests waved away. 

  Two fairly evenly matched sides the game open space for both to exploit Norwich counter quickly Stanley on the move with the ball through the middle looking to go all the way is stopped by Aimee Stretch defending for Wymondham. End to end Wymondham play the ball through the middle up to Waters back to goal holding off her marker plays it back to Katie Knights who lifts it out to Catchpole on the left, Larkins coming to close her down the ball out for a throw. 

Lauren Catchpole coming away with the ball for Wymondham

 Russell on the left bringing the ball forwards plays the pass into Waters she turns well to make a run into the box, Parsons coming to challenge lunges across Waters to block her strike. Snelling is moving well across the final 3rd for Norwich making her harder to mark drifting to the left looking to get on the end of a diagonal ball, Newcombe goes up with her to win the header clear for Wymondham. Waters gathering the ball inside her own half plays it forwards looking for Youngs, stretching as she attempts to get hold of the ball run in behind appears to caught her foot in the pitch going down is clearly in distress play is stopped for her to receive treatment. Tentatively gets back to her feet and is okay to continue.

 Waters is the target up top for Wymondham whenever they attack, either to hold the ball up or turn the defence, Parsons more often than not keeping close to her. Waters does well to flick the ball to her left spin in behind going on looking to dig the ball out of her feet inside the d get a shot away, allows the Norwich defence to get back on her en masse to clear. Symonds fouls Knights giving Wymondham a free-kick inside their opponents half. Croft playing the ball up for Waters top of the area parsons winning the header for Norwich.

  Wymondham bring the ball on from the back Croft into Knights pushes it out to the right with Waters moving into the channel to receive, Parsons sliding in to tackle the loose ball latched onto by Catchpole 25 yards out goes for goal her strike sent over the bar. Harper playing the ball on down the right for Snelling to chase in the corner, Stretch comes across to slide in put the ball away for a throw. Jodie Drake in midfield for Norwich with an ambitious strike from all of 30 yards out right side runs wide across the area. 

Norwich’s Kathryn Stanley

 A throw deep on the left for Wymondham Waters turning putting it inside for Codman who turns looking to feed in Youngs behind her, Johnston lunging in to challenge winning it back for the visitors. Stretch with another important interception through the middle as Daviss attempts to thread the ball through for Snelling. The tempo is high both sides moving the ball quickly attacking players providing good passing options not always finding there mark. Croft from a throw left picking out Russell shifts inside sending a diagonal ball into the D, won well by Parsons at the back.

Becca Russell with the ball for Wymondham

   Symonds on the drive central for Norwich plays the pass to rake on her left forwards it goes to Snelling central turns her effort on goal blocked spinning away behind for a corner kick on the right. A little under 5 minutes left to play in the first half.

 GOAL! The delivery sent in long attacked at the far post dropping central Russell trying to bring it down slices it away to the right, corner taker Larkins gathering it on the edge of the box, goes on checks then spins right to whip a dangerous ball in low through the six yard box, Parsons is there at the far post lunging in to divert the ball into the back of the net to score her first goal of the season 0-1.

Kate Parsons opens the scoring for Norwich

  Norwich gaining the lead with the clock ticking down in the first half. Clashes in the middle seeing both sides getting free-kicks. Catchpole needing treatment can continue. Careless at the back from Norwich sees Catchpole taking advantage looking to get away Parsons has closed enough to throw her off her stride get back possession. A neat triangle in attack on the right from Norwich between Todd, Symonds and Snelling before Croft sticks out a foot to take the ball.

 Norwich finishing the half strong Symonds up in the final 3rd central holding the ball up spinning left to clip it into Todd on the right down the lone flashes a low cross into the six yard box Snelling meeting it at the near post lifting her shot over.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-1 Norwich City Women

  Norwich scoring late on in the first half holding a narrow advantage at the break. Has been a contest between two evenly matched sides so far. Competitive in the midfield both looking to get the ball forwards quickly, Norwich in particular looking to make runs through the middle get support into the attackers. The crossbar hit early one by Norwich both keepers though have been little troubled, defences challenging and intercepting well for the most part. Still very much in the balance as the teams come out for the 2nd period, extra-time and penalties both available should the scores be level after 90.

  No changes for either side at the break as Wymondham get the 2nd half underway, put back to the defence Norwich are quick to close the ball down Stanley in on Newcombe stealing possession to skip in behind sends in in field for Snelling who in turn spots Todd running into the box from the right lifting the ball in towards the far post high Todd leaping can’t quite get her head to it as the ball runs out for a goal kick. 

Norwich’s Megan Todd

  What happens next is a serious test on my memory and note taking skills as all chaos breaks out in the Norwich box. Wymondham play the ball out from the back into Catchpole she sends it forwards into Waters back to goal lays it off to Russell coming on left, played out further to the advancing Croft who whips a shot in on the angle a powerful strike it kisses down off the cross bar into the six yard box, Youngs is close to it shoots her effort blocked by a defender, then Waters sees another effort blocked at close range the loose ball back to Youngs her 2nd attempt on target rising Williams throws herself back to punch the ball away her save giving the defence the advantage to scramble the ball away… at least that’s what I think happened!

  GOAL! No sooner have Wymondham scared the life out of the Norwich defence the visitors get up the other end to score and double their lead. Todd on the right winning a corner off Stretch. Is a good delivery from Larkins. Through the middle too high for those jumping to attack it central drops at the far post met by Snelling who slots it into the back of the net 0-2.

Natasha Snelling scoring Norwich’s 2nd pictured with Wymondham’s Mary Croft

  Newcombe comes forwards with the ball on the right for Wymondham getting in beyond Larkins to lift a cross into the box, Parsons is under it clearing with a firm header. Codman moving out to the left playing the pass inside for Russell to clips a shot in from 25 yards out, low is claimed by Williams. Kett is booked for Wymondham as she comes across to foul Todd as the Norwich attacker surges for the box. The free-kick on the right corner of the area played short into Drake right of the D, her strike at goal racing in low wide across the six yard box out beyond the far post.

Wymondham captain, Leah Newcombe

   Norwich look a threat on the counter attack Snelling coming for the pass central spinning the ball into Todd’s path on the right, Kett getting across her well shielding the ball before playing it back to her keeper to clear. Wymondham make the first change Catchpole coming off with Chelsea Clarke the player coming on on the left. Knights is brought down in the middle a free-kick to Wymondham launched into the box, Williams keeping her eye on it catching cleanly with Kett closing in.

  A moment of controversy, although I’m just saying that for dramatic effect, Waters getting hold on the ball inside the left channel escaping her marker driving towards the box left of the D, Parsons gets back on her the two coming together Parsons bringing Waters down, from where I’m standing and most of the crowd agree it’s inside the box and as the referee blows up are surprised to see it’s a free-kick outside the area. Parsons recieves a yellow card. An interesting one but I have a mate at work who’s a referee and he will always say who was the referee positioned and in this instance much closer to the incidence than most of the crowd. Nevertheless it’s a free-kick in a dangerous position from Wymondham and Russell is over it. Gets her shot in over the wall the keeper beaten the ball comes back down off the crossbar for a 2nd time.

Becca Russell’s free-kick striking the crossbar

  Symonds continues to make strong runs through the middle for Norwich playing the ball onto Todd central who in turn plays it to Snelling on the left her touch taking it inside a little too heavy allowing Croft to step out and clear for Wymondham. The hosts take the ball on down the right winning a corner kick the delivery lifted into the six yard box, Williams coming through bodies has to claim it and does well to get her gloves on the ball. 

  Parsons across to the right channel slides in to foul Waters presenting the hosts with another set-piece. Players forwards lining up at the far post as Russell lifts a high ball into the box. Williams sees it all the way taking a clean catch as players close in on her. 

  A 2nd change for Wymondham sees Laura Nicholls coming on up top for Youngs. Norwich’s Daviss into Stanley racing forwards central plays it out to Todd on the right wing taking it on down to the by-line checks back laying it back to Harper to cross in from deep her ball into the area dealt with by Stretch for Wymondham. Williams out smartly to the edge of the box to slide in a claim the ball as Knights’ pass threatens to release Waters. Nicholls plays it on for Waters who returns the pass to Nicholls right as she goes on put inside for Codman she opens up her body sending a through ball into the area right side, Williams down onto it before Waters can pounce.

Wymondham’s Katie Knights

  Changes for both sides, Norwich with a double substitution bringing off both Drake and Stanley, on come Mollie O’Callaghan and Freya Fuller. Wymondham’s 3rd change sees Rachel Cossey replacing Codman. The Norwich substitutes combining right away as Fuller holds the ball up well out left before sending the pass inside for O’Callaghan 30 yards out has time to look up and take on the shot plenty of power on the ball however Pearce sees it all the way drifting across her goal to take into her midriff. 

  The game remains open Wymondham committing players on looking for a goal, Norwich ready to break on the counter. Todd out on the right drives forwards into the box taking the ball all the way to the by-line doing well to keep it in play squeezing a cross into Snelling at the near post, the attacker can’t get her feet sorted out in time to release a shot as Kett comes in to close her down and clear the ball back with Norwich on the right struck back in low on the angle the effort blocked.

  Knights on for Waters has Nicholls to the right as Wymondham attack, Newcombe round behind her on the overlap the cross squared inside Russell closing in can’t quite take it in her stride allowing the visitors to clear. Symonds pulls up suffering from cramp alot of tired bodies out there alot being put into the game. Waters has been closely watched by Parsons all afternoon the game entering the final 10 minutes. The Wymondham striker working hard throughout to find an advantage battles her way into the area from the left winning a corner. An inswinging delivery, Williams is there to catch cleanly once again. Nicholls is shown a yellow as she pushes Symonds over Norwich with the free-kick Symonds can’t continue comes off to be replaced by Leilah Gooding. The set-piece flung into the far post hooked clear.

   Cossey and Waters link up out on the right in attack for Wymondham the cross flung into the near post just behind Nicholls trying to pull it across her to get a shot away, Johnston gets across to challenge. Clarke forwards on the left for Wymondham squaring a ball into the top of the area Knights stealing in to take the ball inside and send a shot up over the crossbar. Wymondham pushing players on late in the game Cossey with Newcombe forwards on the right the cross sent into the box looping up, Waters rising central can’t get her head on the ball.

 The hosts with a corner on the left driven in near side headed back out to the left Newcombe inside to Clarke 25 yards out left of the D, smashes a low shot wide of the far past. Late pressure for Wymondham another corner on the left in low near side Russell attempting to flick it on cut out and cleared. Gooding in hard on Newcombe a free-kick for Wymondham on the right.

 Russell lifting it into a crowded six yard box headed away Fuller attempting to bring it away on the left, Newcombe tackling to get it back for Wymondham crosses the ball in can’t quite find Knights stealing in at the near post out for a goal kick. The final whistle blow and it’s Norwich who celebrate as they advance to the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-2 Norwich City Women 

  An entertaining contest between two evenly matched sides. Norwich scoring twice from a set-piece either side of the break to win the tie. Wymondham coming close with two efforts off the woodwork but overall neither keeper was overly tested. Was a strong battle in the middle of the park with the defences on both sides doing well to limit clear cut chances in front of goal. Fouls given away cheaply by both sides although it was never played with any bad spirit. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Rarely an easy decision, as always a few performances of note to mention. For Wymondham, Hannah Waters worked tirelessly up front trying to create openings and passing options for her teammates. Becca Russell doing well in the middle winning several challenges trying to link with the attack. For Norwich it was a solid performance right down there spine. Waters the threat up front for Wymondham, Kate Parsons stayed on her throughout the game putting in challenges and forcing her out of the middle. Freya Symonds was dynamic in the middle thrusting forwards with the ball and often getting an attacking play on the move. The award though goes to attacker Natasha Snelling showed great movement throughout drifting left and right allowing others to burst forwards and created several opportunities. Scoring the 2nd goal.

  Another enjoyable game from the FA Women’s Cup and an entertaining local derby between two sides that will no doubt lock horns in crucial games in the future. Like Norwich I look forwards to the draw for the 2nd Round Proper. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Ipswich Town Women v Southampton FC Women

Sunday 7th November

FAWNL Cup

 Another venture into Suffolk this Sunday to watch a heavy weight clash as the top two in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, Ipswich Town Women and Southampton FC Women both with a 100% winning start to the season meet for the 1st time this season drawn together in the 1st Round of the League Cup.

 A fabulous start to the season for the pair who are newly promoted to the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, Ipswich Town Women making it 10 straight wins to start the season with a 5-0 away win away at Plymouth Argyle Women to open up a 9 point lead at the top of the table. Their young and upcoming talent getting alot of rave reviews from rival clubs as they began breaking into the first team. Gaining thier experience in the WSL academy league, looked strong in both the COVID affected seasons in FAWNL South East Division One and when the FA announced some upward movement for the 21/22 season Ipswich saw themselves promoted.

  Youth very much remains the foundation of the side. With several England youth internationals amongst the squad. Have added two players to the squad with a wealth of experience playing in the FA WSL and Championship, goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill most recently with London Bees, so too midfielder Bonnie Horwood who I remember well as part of the Lincoln Ladies squad that got me hooked on women’s football in the first place. 38 goals scored in those 10 victories with just 3 goals conceded. Zoe Barrett and Natasha Thomas leading goal scorers with 6 each so far. Thomas moving past 100 goals for Ipswich now a tremendous achievement and has attracted interest from clubs playing in the Championship, Thomas though would like the be playing in the Championship with Ipswich which is very much the target. In recent seasons the club has worked hard to grow it’s fanbase and a number of Ipswich fan groups have become established aiding to promote the club. Have unfortunately lost their captain Blue Wilson for the season after she sustained an ACL injury earlier in the campaign.

The Championship too very much the ambition for Southampton FC Women. Many surprised that the club hasn’t already been accepted into the 2n tier of the women’s football pyramid though the earlier applications process with the Premiership club investing heavily into their women’s side. Like Ipswich strong in the FAWNL South West Division One during the COVID hit season’s was right for them to also be promoted to the Southern Premier Division. Matching Ipswich’s fantastic start winning 7 out of 7 so far recent postponements seeing them loose ground on the Suffolk side.

 Ex-England Women’s assistant manager Marieanne Spacey-Cale is Head Coach, a strong playing squad has been assembled including Northern Irish internationals, Laura Rafferty and Ciara Watling, New Zealand striker, Katie Rood amongst others including captain Shannon Sievwright spent several seasons in the Southern Premier Division with local rivals Portsmouth and latest signing Alice Griffiths from Bridgwater United Women. Scoring 40 goals in the league so far whilst conceding just 1 in 7. Ella Pusey leading the goal scoring charts with 13 goals. 

The Goldstar Ground the venue for today’s cup clash home to both Ipswich Town Women and Felixstowe & Walton FC. The stadium seeing alot of improvements in recent season a new clubhouse housing the changing facilities with a bar area and kitchen hatch serving hot and cold food and drinks a good variety too. A large seating area leading out to the large grass pitch. A good crowd in attendance early on testament to the lengths Ipswich have gone to to promote their women’s side. A bright sunny if chilly afternoon, a light breeze with some cloud around.

A minutes silence held before the game leading up to Remembrance Sunday

Ipswich Town Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill, Paige Peake, Lucy Egan, Abbie Lafayette, Eva Hubbard, Summer Hughes, Kyra Robertson, Bonnie Horwood (C), Natasha Thomas, Eloise King & Maddie Biggs. Subs – Leonie Jackson, Maria Boswell, Lucy O’Brien, Zoe Barrett & Sarah Brasero-Carreira.

Ipswich Town Women

 Southampton FC Women starting XI – Kayla Rendell, Milly Mott, Shelly Provan, Rosanna Parnell, Laura Rafferty, Shannon Sievwright, Phoebe Williams, Ciara Watling, Georgie Freeland, Alisha Ware & Ella Pusey. Subs – Sara Luce, Kirsty Whitton, Caitlin Morris, Lucia Kendell & Katie Rood.

Southampton FC Women

It’s the hosts Ipswich to get the cup tie underway wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Southampton line up opposite wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and white socks. The ball played back into defence sent long upfield out to the left for Eva Hubbard to attack, the ball dealt with by Southampton full back Milly Mott out for a throw in. The ball quickly closed down in the middle fired up to Natasha Thomas 20 yards out left of the D heads it to the left into the path of Hubbard who takes it on to the by-line attempting to slide a cross in, Mott comes back on her sliding in to deflect the ball behind for a corner kick. Fired into the six yard box Southampton defend heading it back out to the left, the return cross blocked the visitors rush out to close Ipswich down forcing them to play it all the way back to their keeper.

   Paige Peake winning the ball on the right for Ipswich sweeps a long diagonal ball infield up towards the top of the D, Laura Rafferty winning the header at the back for Southampton launching it clear. Southampton get the ball through on the left for Ela Pusey to go after, Peake sliding in to put the ball out for a throw in the corner dropped into Ciara Watlings feet the ball controlled put up towards the top of the area for Shelley Provan 25 yards out curls a shot in across the area the ball dropping onto the roof of the net.

Southampton’s Ciara Watling with Ipswich captain, Bonnie Horwood

  A cagey opening both sides moving quickly against the other to close down the ball the midfield hotly contested, Phoebe Williams winning the tackle playing it on for Watling her squared ball looking for Pusey intercepted by Ipswich’s Lucy Egan. Fouls being conceded clumsy from Williams on Kyra Robertson in the circle. Abbie Lafayette to play the ball forwards, no one connecting top of the area the ball safely through to Southampton goalkeeper, Kayla Rendell. 

Ipswich’s Summer Hughes

  Egan inside the box with a firm defensive header to clear for Ipswich as Mott plays a free-kick in from deep on the left. Is tense scrappy at times neither side wanting to give anything away attacking moves broken up before they can get going. Provan has space ahead of her as she calls for the ball off her goalkeeper taking it on down the left fires a dangerous diagonal ball into the box for Pusey to attack, Egan doing really well in defence up against her to clear for Ipswich.

 

  Thomas looks to link up with Summer Hughes on the right for Ipswich, Robertson coming across offering support outside the box, Rosana Parnell stepping out of the back line to disrupt the attack for the visitors play compacted as both sides close in on the ball centrally. Hughes is played onto the ball attacking on the right driving forwards is forced wide by Provan out to the touchline does well to wriggle inside and put it into the centre for Maddie Biggs outside the D, taking the ball across the area only has one intent getting a half a yard of space to unleash a shot, does so connecting with the ball on the spin clips a rising shot wide of the far post.

Southampton defender, Laura Rafferty up with Ipswich attacker Maddie Biggs

  Moving out to the left, Pusey looks to bring down Provan’s forward pass and spin behind Egan who has tracked across with her, the defender tugging her shirt brings Pusey down Southampton awarded the free-kick. Ipswich reset defending the ball into the area. The hosts attack on the left an good ball form Thomas fired in across the area, Biggs closing in beyond the far post stretching for it, Provan throwing herself into the block the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. The delivery from Horwood long beyond the far post cleared back out to the right Horwood to put back in Rafferty getting her head on the ball to defend before the loose ball inside the area is attacked, Southampton getting the free-kick to end the attack.

Southampton’s Georgie Freeland

   Pusey sweeps the ball out to Georgie Freeland running down the right for Southampton down the line her cross blocked by Lafayette, a throw in conceded, Southampton shifting the ball inside to lift a cross into the box can only find the head of Egan who sends it clear for Ipswich. It’s a little to intricate at times the two sides cancelling each other out at times as they try to pass there way through an often congested midfield. 

Southampton’s captain, Shannon Sievwright

 Southampton captain Shannon Sievwright getting hold of the ball as she moves out to the left charging forwards runs into trouble the challenge taking the ball away from her is quickly regained by Alisha Ware behind her takes it on to the by line back up the pitch for Sievwright her angled cross flighted into the six yard box caught cleanly by Ipswich goalkeeper, Sarah Quantrill. The foul count is rising, niggly disruptive fouls rather that malicious though. The game fragmented with neither side finding a gap to exploit. 

Ipswich’s Eva Hubbard

 Hubbard up the line left side for Ipswich into the corner holds onto the ball as Mott comes to close her down doing well to win a corner kick. An inswinging ball in from the left, above head height inviting is plucked down well in her gloves by Rendell is a crowded six yard box. The ball played up to Pusey laid back for Mott on the flank in turn on for Freeland advancing down the wing, goes to cross early, Lafayette in turn out quickly to close her down and block. A pause in play as Biggs is down for Ipswich needing treatment a chance for both sets of coaches to relay instructions to their players.

 Sievwright starting to drive on from the middle more looking to give Southampton further options in attack, her forwards pass cut out by Peake at the back for Ipswich. Horwood is covering alot of ground in the middle for Ipswich looking to win the ball break up Southampton’s play. The ball played into Robertson on through the middle for Hughes she drives on towards the area eventually stopped by Parnell. Williams into Pusey has Watling advancing on her right lays the ball forwards, Quantrill out to close her down the ball sliced away for a throw. Mott doing well as she spins inside, her cross though dropping behind the goal.

  Pusey with a push in the back on Egan Ipswich with a free-kick inside the circle, Peake to play it forwards Thomas rising to try and head it on right of the D as Biggs breaks into the area, Rafferty clearing for Southampton the visitors with a quick break with Freeland on the right winning a corner kick. Played in under the bar Quantrill does well to get her fist on the ball punch it away clear on the right Horwood collecting played forwards won back lifted into the middle the Ipswich defence stepping out well catching Freeland offside. 

Paige Peake looking for a pass for Ipswich

  Ipswich come on through the middle pushed into Thomas 25 yards out left channel her crossfield pass picking out Hughes on the right back inside for Horwood who in turn slides a great diagonal ball into the box for Biggs to attack far post, Mott doing great defensively for Southampton closing Biggs down to come away with the ball. A good passage of play from Ipswich. Hughes taking the ball on down the right back for Horwood central attempting the return ball into the area for Hughes, Provan gets across her to shield the ball out for a goalkick. 

Southampton’s Shelley Provan

  Ware on the the left working back to win possession for Southampton as the 1st half moves into 4 minutes added time. Horwood on for Robertson through the middle out to Biggs drifting left, Freeland across to make the challenge for the visitors. A late chance to take the lead in the first half as Southampton play a hopeful ball upfield allowed to bounce sees Egan under pressure right of the D as Pusey rushes in after the ball, Quantrill comes rushing out to the top of her area Pusey stretching her leg prodding the ball past the keeper as she and her defender collide, the ball rolling narrowly wide of the near post. Egan down needs treatment before she can continue.

 

  Southampton ending the half strong Provan getting forwards on the left her cross deflected off Hughes to win a corner. The ball played up towards the top of the area intercepted by Lafayette, does get it away as Southampton lift it back high into the box, Peake getting her head on it to clear for Ipswich as the half-time whistle blows.

Half-time Ipswich Town Women 0-0 Southampton FC Women

  Certainly a cagey affair almost like a game of chess at times with neither side willing to concede an inch of space to the other. Cancelling each other out the ball hotly contested especially in the middle Southampton happy to sit deep and defend leaving no room to run into that has probably limited the amount of players they can get forwards with pace on the counter. Fragmented with niggly fouls disrupting play a half of few chances and you’d expect as much with only 4 goals conceded so far between the pair. Neither goalkeeper called into action to make a save. How to unlock the door is a question I’m sure both coaches will be pondering at the break.

  Ipswich making a change at half-time with King coming off to be replaced by Zoe Barrett. Southampton to get the 2nd half underway. Win an early free-kick in the middle, Players up into the box played forwards Parnell getting her head on the ball but not controlled as Ipswich clear. Biggs looks to break left for Ipswich into the box shifts inside, Rendell coming towards the ball able to claim low. Ware links up with Provan on the left for Southampton before crossing into the Ipswich area Peake winning the ball for the hosts. The 2nd half starting as the first finished neither side getting a foothold. Little room available on the flanks for Ipswich to take advantage off Mott and Provan giving little away. 

 Barrett left avoiding Provan’s sliding challenge gets hold of the ball shifting infield plays it central for Egan 25 yards out space opens up before her she sets her sights clipping a shot narrowly over the crossbar. Horwood continues to work hard covering the ground regaining possession inside the Southampton half on for Barrett her over the top ball cleared. Biggs out on the right with a shot on the angle 25 yards out sent wide across the six yard box. 

Zoe Barrett on the attack for Ipswich

  Barrett has made an impact since coming on for Ipswich getting hold of the ball and looking to take players on left side receiving off Horwood in the middle powers her way to the by-line Mott getting back at her to put in the tackle regain possession bring it out from the back for Southampton. Into midfield Sievwright out to Pusey peeling away to the right, can’t get past Lafayette. 

Southampton’s Milly Mott getting the better of Ipswich’s Zoe Barrett

  Ipswich enjoying a good spell on the ball getting forwards the ball coming through the middle, Southampton stretched, as Thomas looks to link with Robertson as they advance on the box, Robertson putting it into Thomas to her left, inside the box, Mott in with a firm tackle taking the ball away from Thomas across the top of the area, Parnell getting there just ahead of Robertson who goes down, leading to appeals for a penalty from the Ipswich fans gathered behind the goal, nothing doing a little bit of afters between Robertson and Parnell the Ipswich midfielder not happy continues her complaints leading to her being shown a yellow card by the referee.

Ipswich’s Kyra Robertson

  Rafferty bringing the ball out from the back for Southampton out to Ware on on the left she gets her head down drives at the Ipswich defence, 3 players converging on her she is crowded off the ball. Sievwright over a free-kick in the middle of the Ipswich half clipped up into the box, Quantrill calls for it and claims comfortably. A change for both sides sees Ware come off for Lucia Kendell in attack for Southampton. Lucy O’Brien enters the field for Ipswich replacing Biggs.

Phoebe Williams heading the ball for Southampton

  Barrett getting hold of the ball left driving on does well to get in behind Mott pushing on towards the area, Parnell comes across well on the covers to tackle send the ball out for a throw in. Taken quickly worked inside top of the area the shot taken on the spin pulled wide of the near post. Is a good contest between Mott and Barrett as the Ipswich attacker pushes on down the left momentarily away Mott recovering quickly to get back on her to challenge for the ball, set up a counter, Williams to Pusey over halfway an ambitious effort bouncing wide of the goal. 

  Watling out on the left now with Kendell through the middle with Pusey, has possession on the flank good close control shifting left then right looking for a crossing opportunity closed down can only win her side a corner. Southampton have tried a few short corners throughout the game with little success, this one put up the line crossed in from deep, attacked, Quantrill though isn’t fazed as she gets up well to catch. Freeland shifting the ball inside 20 yards out shapes to shoot, Egan out to close her down putting in the block for Ipswich.

 

  Ipswich away on the right Hughes with the ball into the box for Thomas central to attack, Mott up with her the pair coming together Thomas knocking the ball downwards towards the near post Rendell snatching it up into her gloves. Mott staying down needing treatment on an injured neck but is okay to continue. It continues to be a tense affair both sides still working hard to close the other down, Watling high on the left winning a throw, taken headed on across goal, retrieved out on the right a shot driven in low across the face of goal, taking a nick off an Ipswich player as a corner is awarded.

Natasha Thomas and Alisha Ware battling for the ball

  Freeland on the left has Kendell making a run ahead of her to the right knocked into her path Kendell attempts the back heel intending for Freeland to run onto it nip in behind the Ipswich defence into the box, a good idea… only Horwood reads it like a book and intercepts for Ipswich. Southampton with a corner on the right played long to the far post headed back across to the near side dropping down into the mix bodies everywhere the ball is scramble away. Very nearly an own goal from Ipswich as Southampton attack on the left Watling attempting the cross, Ipswich defending the head deflecting the ball up and away across the face of their goal has Quantrill scrambling across her line nudges it wide beyond the far post.

 Southampton building some momentum in the final 3rd with a little under 15 minutes to play. Another corner on the right put long once again well past the far post the ball nodded down struck towards goal. Ipswich have the posts covered the defender on the right post rushing out to block the shot.

  GOAL! The deadlock is broken in the 79th minute, as Southampton keep the ball up on the left Provan advancing into Kendell outside the area, left of the D isn’t closed down allowed to turn into a right foot strike and curl a wonderfully struck ball rising and curling across the diving Quantrill to find the top corner from 25 yards out 0-1.

Lucia Kendell scores to break the deadlock in the 79th minute for Southampton

  Ipswich get straight on the attack from the restart, Robertson onto Thomas right side drives on with the ball  into the box angles a ball into the six yard box the Southampton defence back tracking en masse Mott with the clearance. Mott getting up the pitch as Pusey sends the pass out to her on the wing, the ball deflected back to Freeland she strikes it in towards goal on the angle, Quantrill at full stretch getting up to tip the ball away from under her crossbar. 

  A double change for Ipswich as they break off Egan and Robertson for Maria Boswell and Sarah Brasero-Carreira. Southampton make a change in attack bringing off Pusey for Katie Rood. 

  No sooner has Quantrill made a brilliant save at one end then Rendell is called into action to do the same at the other. Brasero-Carreira with an immediate impact seeing the ball into her feet right side of the area 25 yards out strikes her shoot hard angling in towards goal looking sneak under the bar Rendell throw herself up getting a glove on the ball to tip it onto the roof of her net keep her side in front. 

Southampton goalkeeper, Kayla Rendell

  For a moment from the resulting corner everyone thought Ipswich hand equalised as the ball is attacked at the far post by Thomas a yard out, dropping down is just the wrong side of the post before being cleared another corner awarded however. This one defended well at the near post. Ipswich press on looking for a reply the clock ticking down Horwood out to Brasero-Carreira down the right wing whips a cross in along the top of the six yard box, Thomas jumping in the centre can’t quite get her head on it. 

  The game entering stoppage time, 4 minutes to be played. Southampton get the ball into Watling drifting inside from the left charging towards the area, Quantrill out to close her down does enough to put Watling off as she stabs the ball past her no power on the ball as the defence get back on the cover to clear the ball. Ipswich come right the ball in central to Barrett top of the six yard area under pressure from Mott, blazes her attempt over the bar. 

  Rendell is shown a yellow card late in the game for Southampton for time wasting. Lafayette too as she cynically takes out Freeland as she attempts to get by her on the right flank. Seconds left Horwood hasn’t stopped running plays the ball on for Brasero-Carreira 25 yards out central spins off her marker and lets fly, Rendell though moving across her goal can see it safely wide of her left post. The last of the action, a single goal settles it as Southampton advance in the FAWNL Cup.

Full time Ipswich Town Women 0-1 Southampton FC Women

  Have to say there was a moment there where I thought this tie was going to all the way to a penalty shootout… and that would have been as hard to call as the final result. A single goal enough to settle it in the end and no surprise really. Can clearly see why these two are where they are at the top of the Southern Premier Division. Neither wanting to blink first as they met for the 1st time this season. A cagey affair, both sides cancelling each other out somewhat, not wanting to give the other an inch made it a bit fragmented and scrappy at times but nevertheless an intriguing contest. Both with chances to win the game the keepers both making an excellent save. Southampton probably wouldn’t have had too much to complain about if it had been them defeated by a single goal. As it was that all important strike belonged to them and it meant alot. The two sides meeting again in just a fortnights time in the league as Ipswich travel down to the South Coast.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. It’s another tough one to single out an individual players both sets of players putting everything into the game. Lucy Egan strong at the back for Ipswich whilst Bonnie Horwood was immense in the middle of the park getting about the pitch to disrupt Southampton’s play and win possession back. Georgie Freeland moving well on the flank coming inside to make herself available for Southampton. The visitors defending deep especially 1st half allowing no way through were solid, Rosana Parnell with a number of vital challenges, the award though goes to full back Milly Mott. Ipswich looking to get momentum on the left Southampton’s right back found herself with alot to deal with and throughout the game was equal to the task.

  An enjoyable trip to The Goldstar ground a really impressive crowd of 619 in attendance for the match showing how well Ipswich Town Women have grown there fanbase no doubt inspired many in the process. Are the leading force by some distance for women’s football in Suffolk. Easy to see why both sides are where they are and where they want to be will no doubt continue to be an intense title battle throughout the season. A pleasure to see both in action. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Herts Vipers

Sunday 31st October

ERWFL Division One South

 A road trip down south this weekend into Suffolk to watch a game from ERWFL Division One South for the first time this season with AFC Sudbury Women hosting one of the leagues newcomers Herts Vipers.

 Tier 6 of the women’s football pyramid seeing an influx of new sides following the previous two seasons disruption due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. The ERWFL aiming to reach it’s full capacity in the near future as the county leagues below continue to expand. A total of 7 sides promoted to the regional set-up this season with 4 of those joining ERWFL Division One South, Essex sides, Billericay Town Ladies Development and FC Barking Women along with Hertfordshire pair Cheshunt FC Women and Herts Vipers.

  A great start to life in tier 6 for 3 of those sides with Herts Vipers, Cheshunt and Barking 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectfully in the table. With just 5 points separating the top five right now with Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies setting the pace. All five of those sides losing just the one match so far so the league looks  like the title race will be hard fought. 

  AFC Sudbury Women currently in 5th spot in the ERWFL Division One South table having played 5. With 3 wins an draw and one loss. Started the season strong with 7 points from their opening 3 fixtures. Defeat in the FA Women’s Cup and their 1st loss of the season at home to Barking following before Sudbury returned to winning ways at Suffolk rivals East Bergholt at the start of the month. An extended period without a game return to action with successive home fixtures against 2nd place Herts Vipers followed by leaders Leigh Ramblers next weekend. 

 Phoebe Guiver currently top scorer with 4 goals so far this season with both Alex Penny and Jessica Allen having 3 goals apiece. AFC Sudbury with an academy set-up for both boys and girls with the Women’s 1st team backed up by a Reserves sides playing in the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division. AFC Sudbury as a whole looking to push the women’s game forwards including giving experience to young female referees, one running the line for today’s match.

Herts Vipers burst onto the scene at the beginning of the 2019/20 season entering a women’s side in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three. Right from the off the squad assembled looked too strong for that division surging to the top of the table off the back of a number of high scoring wins. Didn’t get to celebrate a title win however as COVID came along to see the season ending null & void. Were promoted straight into the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division the following season whilst setting up a new Development side. Again were making good progress with Nicole Jancey in particular scoring plenty of goals which would see her go on to play for London Bees in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. The 20/21 season of course following the same fate as the previous season the Beds & Herts league adapting their season into a mini-league formant where Herts Vipers went on to win Group A alongside fellow Premier Division sides, Oakland Wolves Ladies, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies & Garston Ladies.

  Applying for promotion to the ERWFL regional set-up Herts Vipers are an ambitious club and have started life in tier 6 very well winning their opening 3 matches. A draw and first defeat of the season at home to Hutton following before they bounced back to win 3-1 at home to Billericay Town Women Development a fortnight ago. Making history too in the FA Women’s Cup beating East Bergholt 4-3 last weekend to reach the 1st Round Proper of the competition where they will be at home to FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women. Kelsey Millen top scoring so far this season with 5 goals with, Georgia Royall, Rachel Wall and Natalie Powell hot on her heels with 4 goals each.

The MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’s match, the weather as much of a factor for determining today’s game as anything else. An artificial pitch inside the main stadium with a training pitch beside the carpark. A new build clubhouse with seated stand along side one side of the ground another terraced stand on the opposite side, covered areas behind both goals. A wide pitch, plenty of volunteers about the place getting the stadium ready for the clubs upcoming televised FA Cup clash against Colchester United. Heavy rain moving across the region to start the day leading to several postponements. Forecast to clear by early afternoon had stopped by the time I arrived at the ground and the sun was forcing it’s way through which with the clocks going back this weekend would pose an issue setting behind one goal.

AFC Sudbury Women

 AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Becky Platt, Jodie Donley, Amber Provan, Teigan McHale, Bonni Shephard, Kate Edwards, Phoebe Guiver (C), Bella Crawford, Evie Creaton, Alex Penny & Jess Allen Subs – Brandi Whymark-Broyd, Georgia Thorpe, Emily Smith, Tye Smith & Georgia Sleep.

Herts Vipers

  Herts Vipers starting XI – Sasha Tucker, Rebecca Edge, Ciara Meeking, Eva Ramsey (C), Rebecca Scott, Katie Moule-Betell, Sarah Payne, Georgina Royall, Kesley Mullin, Natalie Powell & Rachel Wall. Subs – Maisie Threadgold-Smith, Danielle Cliffe, Chloe Clay & Ellie Stammers.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Bright sun by the time kick-off arrived behind one goal is definitely going to pose an issue as the game draws on. Sudbury with the kick off in the 1st half wearing an all yellow kit with Herts Vipers lines up opposite in an all light grey strip. The ball lofted forwards cleaned up by Herts Vipers centre back and captain Eva Ramsey, play spread out to the left the forwards pass infield for the advancing Sarah Payne, looks to thread it through into the box for Rachel Wall, Becky Platt quickly out of her six yard box to gather for the hosts.

  Herts Vipers making a positive start to the game the ball fed up the right for Natalie Powell to run onto wins the visitors and early corner, players coming up into the box the delivery by Kesley Millen whipped invitingly across the top of the six yard box is Powell rising at the far post narrowly missing the header. 

  A high line defensively for Herts Vipers, striker Jess Allen caught offside as the hosts attempt to move out quickly from the back. Millen winning the ball on halfway for Herts Vipers passes it forwards early with both Wall and Powell after it as Teigan McHale finds herself under pressure heading for her own goal, keeps her composure though playing it safely back to her keeper, Platt launching it up the pitch. Herts Vipers get players up to support Georgina Royall on the left inside to Payne 25 yards out shoots on the angle the ball skipping along the surface gathered by Platt covering her near post.

Herts Vipers Katie Moule-Betell

  Powell runs in behind on the right side, Bonni Shepherd getting back on her forcing the attacker wide, holding the ball up Millen gets down the line in support the ball laid back to her she attempts to return it to Powell making a move into the box the pass too heavy runs out of play. Payne links up with Powell central 30 yards out the ball put out to the right as Millen bursts forwards towards the area her shot blocked by Jodie Donley. Herts Vipers keep the pressure on in the final 3rd won back on the left Wall turns 25 yards out striking the ball on the angle in low towards goal, Platt behind it once again.

Kelsey Millen attacking for Herts Vipers

  Herts Vipers are applying pressure to the Sudbury defence early in the game, Powell central hooking the ball over the top for Wall to go after Platt comes racing out to meet her Wall attempts to chip the ball over the keeper can only put it straight into her gloves. 

  GOAL! For all their bright start to the game Herts Vipers are undone on 10 minutes as captain Phoebe Guiver plays the ball through on halfway from Allen to run onto driving forwards central bearing down on the box getting inside the centre back sets her sights slotting the ball low past the standing keeper before she can react into the back of the net 1-0.

Jess Allen opens the scoring for Sudbury

   A mix up at the back almost presents Herts Vipers with a quick reply as Powell goes after a hopeful pass long into the box right of goal with both centre back and goalkeeper coming for it, Platt out of position rapidly back peddling as Powell gets hold of the ball on the by line the angle very much against no one else in the box plants the ball into the side netting. Powell a threat up top getting away on the right off a throw in the Herts Vipers attacker cutting it back towards  Wall top of the area right side of the D, looking to turn into the shot as the ball run across her doesn’t get a clean connection the ball deflected off a defender out to Powel who fires it back in on the angle, Platt down to get behind it make the save.

Natalie Powell attacking for Herts Vipers

   Alex Penny taking the ball on down the left for Sudbury whipping a dangerous cross into the six yards box headed clear by Herts Vipers, Rebecca Edge. Up the other end Powell latches onto a poor goal kick taking the ball out to the right wrapping her foot around the ball flashed in across the penalty spot, Payne has gambled breaking from midfield arriving the cross narrowly beating her. The ball being hotly contested in midfield, Guiver winning it plays an early ball forwards for Allen, the raised flag halting her progress. The wind picking up behind Herts Vipers back hindering there forward play ball running on form both Payne and Millen.

Sarah Payne looking to win the ball for Herts Vipers

   The visitors pressuring the Sudbury defence, Amber Provan gets it clear, on for Guiver right side she sends it long for Allen making a run into the right channel takes on the shot early 30 yards out blazes her effort over the bar. Guiver influential in the middle of the park is down having picked up an injury, is unable to continue Sudbury making the change bringing on Emily Smith with Kate Edwards taking the armband.

    Powell is upended wide on the right Herts Vipers awarded a freekick. Millen over the ball angled in towards the far post runners closing in the ball knocked back down across goal comes back out to Millen on the right clips a high ball back into the area dropping down at the far post Platt gets up well to claim high taken a blow as she is clattered into. A pause in play as the goalkeeper recieves treatment but is okay to continue.

Sudbury’s Alex Penny

 

 Penny forwards on the left for Sudbury has help from Allen the pair pressuring the Herts Vipers defence forcing a corner kick. Put in from the left, Shepherd hooks it in towards goal from the top of the area, the ball headed clear inside the six yard box. Wall fouled on the left presenting Millen with another set-piece opportunity 30 yards out, plenty of pace on her strike racing through the area, Wall closing in far side can’t reach it as it runs wide of the far post. 

Herts Vipers attacker, Rachel Wall

 A change for Herts Vipers with Ellie Stammers coming on up top for Wall. Teigan McHale winning the ball at the back for Sudbury plays it upfield for Allen moving out to the left wing, looks to take it in behind, Ramsey getting across to slide in on her put the ball out for a throw in. Shepherd getting up on the left to support Penny on the wing the pass inside looking for Edwards well placed 25 yards out, Payne throwing out her leg to intercept for Herts Vipers. 

  Millen finds herself out on the eft running onto the ball left of the D prods it on into the box for Powell to see into her feet, Shepherd close on her the striker attempting to turn get inside her marker, Shepherd doing well to prevent an attempt at goal knocking the ball away runs back to Millen who has moved back to the right takes on the strike from distance Platt saving pushing the ball out to her right. 

  GOAL! Half an hour played and the hosts go onto double their lead similar to the opening goal it is a fantastic pass from midfield by Edwards opening up her body too release Allen in attack taking the ball on in behind the defence to run at the box can’t be caught and once again keeps composed to slot it low under the keeper to score 2-0.

Jess Allen through on goal to score her 2nd for Sudbury

  Herts Vipers respond with a double change, bringing off Powell and Royall on come Chloe Clay and Danielle Cliffe. Rebecca Edge with a crucial tackle on Allen as she moves into the left channel seeing the ball into her feet looking to shift and spin in behind Edge timing her challenge perfectly to come away with the ball. 

  Allen is put through on goal central for a third time by Edwards running over halfway, out pacing the defence bearing down on the area, goalkeeper Sasha Tucker out quickly to the edge of her area getting down low to make the blocking save as Allen attempts to slot it past her, denying Allen her hat-trick. The second goal denting Herts Vipers confidence, giving an obvious lift to Sudbury as they close the ball down higher up the pitch, Crawford onto Edwards plays it forwards for Allen peeling away into the left channel shooting from outside the box, Edge blocking her effort deflected to Crawford 25 yards out right of the D her attempt at goal put over the bar.  Katie Moule-Betell brings the ball forwards for Herts Vipers playing it on for Millen right side taking it on into the area hasn’t many options doing well to win a corner. 

Herts Vipers, Ellie Stammers

  Millen playing a good ball into the six yard box, an inviting height, Stammers up well centrally can’t direct her header on target. Into the final 5 minutes of the first half Rebecca Scott challenging for the ball in the middle for Herts Vipers on for Payne who looks to thread it through for Clay inside the D, McHale intercepting for Sudbury. Allen bats the offside flag for Sudbury for a moment looks to be away but Ramsey recovers superbly to slide in take the ball away from her before being fouled herself. 

  Millen getting a throw deep in the Sudbury half played into Stammers turning on the by-line in near post Clay attacking it, doesn’t get hold of the ball, hurt as she turns needing treatment. A frustrating half so far for the visitors the final ball just not happening. Creaton taking the ball on down the right for Sudbury moves infield pushed on to Allen, turns but runs straight into Edge who tackles well for Herts Vipers setting up an immediate counter attack finding Millen on the right plays it on early through the middle with both Stammers and Clay after the ball the wind though favouring the advancing goalkeeper as Platt gets to it first. 

  Creaton powers on with the ball right side for Sudbury strikes the shot in on the angle, Tucker down to her left with a sharp save the ball pushed away across goal, for a moment Allen looks certain to turn the ball into an empty net but can’t get the ball down before the Herts Vipers defence get back on her to scramble clear. Sudbury finishing the half strong, Edwards on for Creaton comes inside from the right clipping a shot over from 20 yards out.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 2-0 Herts Vipers

  Arguably Herts Vipers have created more chances but it’s the visitors who find themselves trailing 2-0 at the break. The difference being Sudbury and particularly Allen have been clinical with their finishing when through on goal. Sudbury have dropped deep inviting Herts Vipers on at times but that has left room for Allen to run into whenever play is turned around. Frustration too for Herts Vipers as the final ball evades them. A confident start pressure early on a blow to concede. The 2nd goal seeing Sudbury grow in confidence finishing the half the stronger. You feel Herts Vipers need to score early in the 2nd half to get themselves back into the match.

  No change for either side at the break. The sun dipping low in the sky now the Herts Vipers defence with have that to content with too in the 2nd half. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway. Herts Vipers sloppy from the restart giving the ball away inside their own half out to Creaton on the right pressing forwards coming inside turning into the box, Ramsey tackling for Herts Vipers before Edge scrambles the ball away. 

Herts Vipers captain, Eva Ramsey

 Creaton flagged offside moment later as Sudbury close the ball down, Edwards winning it in the centre. Cliffe left links up with Moule-Betell for Herts Vipers central looking to lift the ball forwards, Edwards snapping in on her to regain possession for the hosts. Payne bringing the ball on has Millen ahead of her central pushing the pass on Millen reverses the ball putting it into Stammers left of the D, head down drives for the box, Provan standing up against her defending well for Sudbury.

  GOAL! Denied her hat-trick in the first half it doesn’t take long for Allen to claim it at the start of the 2nd half, the ball played out from the ball by Sudbury finding Creaton free on the right she helps it on quickly central in behind the Herts Vipers defence, Allen out paces Ramsey in the race for the ball taking her shot early smashing it high into the back of the net 3-0. 

A hat-trick for Sudbury’s Jess Allen pictured with Herts Vipers Ciara Meeking

  Platt saving at her near post off Cliffe as the Herts Vipers player gets a shot in close to the by-line on the right. The game becoming a little feisty free-kicks being given away as both sides try and close the other down on the ball, no one afforded any time to settle on the ball. No doubt Herts Vipers are frustrated. Creaton looks to plough her way through the Herts Vipers defence from the right but is stopped by Ciara Meeking. Creaton then gets back well to defend on Cliffe as she attempts to take the ball on down the right off a midfield pass from Scott. 

  Sudbury turn play around left side on to Allen up top she squares it to Creaton on her right the winger looking to come inside, goes with a left footed strike from inside the D the be swerving away from the far post. A little bit of rain in the air as Herts Vipers on the back foot press to get the ball, Payne looking to release Millen coming inside from the right, Platt though quickly off her line to slide in and take the ball on the edge of her area. Herts Vipers make a change with Cliffe coming off, Wall returning to the action.

 GOAL! Creaton’s shirt pulled the hosts awarded a free-kick wide on the right players sent up into the box as the set-piece by Creaton comes in the ball looping in under the bar Herts Vipers fail to deal with it at the far post knocked across the face of goal a scramble ensues bodies flying in from both sides, deflected towards goal, Tucker gets her gloves around it  on the ground hooks it away but by then it has already crossed the line, possibly and own goal, Donley with a touch claiming it for Sudbury 4-0.

  A huge blow for Herts Vipers conceding a 4th goal. Sudbury on top leaving the visitors with a mountain to climb if they hope to get anything from the game. Powell returns to the action for Herts Vipers replacing Payne. Meeking with a good ball forwards from the left up the wing for Wall, getting down the wing squares it into the box but behind Powell as McHale intercepts and launches clear for Sudbury. Herts Vipers taking risks pushing players on trying to pressure Sudbury at the back, Clay nipping in to take the ball outside the D, Edwards is back on her sliding in to tackle before a shot can be unleashed.

  The ball being hotly contested in the middle pinging back and forth deflects favourably for Allen up top after it, Edge comes round on the cover with a good challenge. Sudbury with a corner on the right defended at the near post behind for a 2nd corner. Dropping at the near post Tucker comes to catch, the ball kicked out of her gloves, she is smartly down to smother it inside her six yard box. The game opening up suddenly the Sudbury defence drawn out Clay seizes the opportunity lifting it over the top for Powell to chase looks to be one on one with the advancing keeper but for McHale her recovers her ground excellently sliding in with a well timed tackle.

Sarah Payne bringing the ball out for Herts Vipers

  Clay is caught hard on the ankle by a mistimed tackle out on the left, play brought back with no advantage for the free-kick. Clay though is in alot of pain, after lengthy treatment has to come off carried off the pick by her coaches. Royall coming back on. Edge on the set-piece long up into the area, Platt calls and coming through bodies claims well. A double change for Sudbury with Creaton and Allen coming off in attack. On come Georgia Sleep and Tye Smith. The low sun is making viewing difficult behind the Sudbury goal. Shepherd sliding in to block on Millen as she breaks into the box from the right a corner conceded. Donley defending for Sudbury.

Sudbury’s Tye Smith with Herts Vipers Katie Moule-Betell

  Sudbury are content to sit back invite Herts Vipers onto them the visitors with Scott on the ball out to Millen on the right, Shepherd out to her tackling to give away the throw. The hosts regaining possession off the throw moving the ball on up the left Sleep with the cross in along to top of the box cleared by Edge. Frustrations increasing the referee showing a card to the Herts Vipers bench as Crawford is fouled by Meeking on the right. 

  Millen driving inside from the right pushed into Wall inside the box plays it back to Moule-Betell to strike over from 25 yards out for Herts Vipers. The visitors pressing Stammers on the right plays it central for Royall top of the area heads it into the box, Platt down on it before Powell can pounce. Scott central out to the right for Stammers has support form Millen the pair exchanging passes before Stammers flashes a shot over the bar. Sudbury making a change with a little under 15 minutes left to play Georgia Thorpe coming on for Crawford. 

 Stammers getting down to the by-line well sends a cross along the face of goal only no one has gambled for Herts Vipers. McHale halting Millen’s progress as she looks to power her way through the Sudbury defence. Brandi Whymark-Broyd coming on in defence for Sudbury late on replacing Donley. Edwards out to Tye Smith on the left taking the ball on towards the box looses possession but quickly regains it squaring it inside for Sleep, Ramsey in well to defend for Herts Vipers. 

Seems no matter what Herts Vipers try nothing will fall their way in the final third 2nd balls more often than not claimed by a Sudbury shirt. Payne comes back on for Meeking. Whymark-Broyd defending in the box for the hosts against Powell as Stammers crosses from the right. Scott central on for Stammers she spins the ball away to the advancing Millen’s on the right from a tight angle smashes a strike in Platt throwing herself at the ball a sharp safe tipping the ball up and away to the left. Herts Vipers pushing on winning a corner on the left defended for a 2nd corner, Shepherd clearing that behind at the near post for a 3rd corner. This delivery longer to the far post headed down into into the mix blasted over the bar from 10 yards out.

  Late in the game Sudbury continue to soak up the pressure as Herts Vipers push on trying all they can to find a goal. Whymark-Broyd sliding into a challenge to stop Stammers advance. The ball inside the box pinging about a tackle, Platt picks it up, judged to be a back pass Herts Vipers are awarded a late indirect free-ick inside the box. Left of the goal 10 yards out Millen on it to tee up Edge. Sudbury slow to get players into there wall, gaps as Edge runs onto Millen’s nudge hits it hard through the fragmented wall giving Platt no chance as it’s hammered home for a late consolation goal 4-1. 

Rebecca Edge with a late consolation goal for Herts Vipers

  Too little too late the clock ticking down, Sudbury make a change bringing Creaton back on for Tye Smith. The home defence frustrated at conceding so late in the game the ball out on the right as Herts Vipers attack Millen fouled picking up and injury is brought off there’s seconds left no sub is made as the ball is played upfield to Sleep the final whistle blows and the 3 points go to Sudbury.

Kate Edwards contesting the midfield for Sudbury

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 4-1 Herts Vipers

  A convincing win in the finish for Sudbury who climb above Herts Vipers on goal difference into 2nd in the Division One South table. A poor start to the 2nd half from Herts Vipers seeing Sudbury capitalise to double the 2 goal advantage they had at the break. After that the Suffolk side was prepared to sit back and soak up the pressure ready to hit on the counter attack. The defence all making crucial tackles. A frustrating afternoon for Herts Vipers who I am sure can play better. Created opportunities making a good start to the game. A sucker punch from Sudbury to take the lead. Allen clinical for her hat-trick. Rarely did Herts Vipers open up their opponents.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances to mention first. For Herts Vipers, Rebecca Edge made a number of crucial tackles in defence and carried the ball out from the back well. Kelsey Millen on the right looked a threat and looked to set up a number of opportunities for the attackers. Overall it was a solid all round team performance from Sudbury hard to single a player out. Jess Allen of course was clinical in her finishing to net her hat-trick. Creaton was a constant threat on the right. Teigan McHale with some fantastically timed tackles at the back. The award though goes to midfielder Kate Edwards enjoyed the battle in midfield getting after the ball rising up after being handed the armband, played a number of excellent forwards passes.

 Another enjoyable trip to the MEL Group Stadium. I can see how much the club is looking forwards to their FA Cup encounter with Colchester and I wish them all the best of luck. Good to see both sides in action. Been wanting to tick Herts Vipers off the list for a while but like always this only means another side I want to see again. My thanks to both sides for giving me the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham