The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

The race for the title at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership remains wide open as leaders Haverhill Rovers dropped points for the 2nd successive match. A 3-2 defeat at home to Leverington Sports Ladies last weekend Haverhill were entertaining Netherton United Ladies this Sunday. The visitors leading 1-0 at half-time thanks to a goal from Georgina Parrett. Haverhill coming back to level the scores in the 2nd period with Sian Cottrell scoring from the penalty spot. The hosts pushing hard to find a winning goal, Netherton keeping them at bay to see the sides take a share of the points. 

 Getting back to winning ways last Sunday away to Haverhill Rovers Ladies, Leverington Sports Ladies climb up to 2nd in the Premiership table this weekend to close the gap on the leaders to 3 points. Were away to Ketton Ladies the pair promoted last season from the Championship North after being neck and neck at the top all season. Leverington beginning life in the Premiership well amongst the early pacesetters have stayed in the top 4 since. A 2-0 win agianst Ketton in the reverse fixture at the start of the year. The visitors getting into the lead from a free-kick the ball put into the box Terri Ann Moeser with the shot an excellent save from the keeper however top scorer Sophie Swinden latching onto the loose ball to fire into the back of the net, Leverington with a 1 goal advantage at the break. Leverington starting the 2nd half well Savanna Plavecz doubling their lead. Kaylee Swinden up for a free-kick powering in a header at the far post to make it 3-0 with her first goal of the season. Chloe Stanborough put through by Sophie Swinden to round the defence and score her 17th goal of the campaign. Ketton pulling a goal back from a free-kick struck well in off the bar. Late in the game though and Leverington were to add a further 2 goals with Plavecz netting her 2nd of the game and 9th of the season. Amy Newell seeing it finish 8-1 with a well struck 35 yard dipping shot.

Amy Newell striking the ball (photo credit Steve Hone)

St Ives Town Development Ladies were at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday a competitive contest the pair ending up sharing the points as it ended all square, Ebony Rule netting twice for Fulbourn to put her onto 17 goals for the season, Maisie Buckle getting a goal for St Ives along with Jade Carpenter returning to the side after a long spell out with injury her 6th of the season, the hosts 5th in the table pushing for a winner late on it finished 2-2.

Cambridge University Women climb up the Premiership table into 6th spot as they won for a fourth successive match at the weekend. Were at home to then 6th placed side March Town United Ladies. A close game both sides creating chances March giving debuts to new signings Tilly Sands and Yasmin Holmes on the scoresheet twice with goals from Josie Turner and Emma Searle. Cambridge University pipping them to the points winning the match 3-2 with goals from Lu Liu, Anna O’Leary and a 13th of the season for Amanda Wainwright.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup

Two of the youngest sides in the Cambridgeshire leagues meeting this Sunday in the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies new A side hosting Newmarket Town Women’s new Development side. Kaitlin Elsey scoring a double hat-trick on her Newmarket debut last weekend firing the visitors into the lead on 40 minutes to see them 1-0 up at the break. The Championship side going 2-0 up on the hour with Elsey on target for her 2nd of the game, the win sealed in the final 15 minutes with Clementine Key scoring Newmarket’s 3rd goal. 

Newmarket’s opponents in the Junior Invitation Cup Final will be Histon Ladies Reserves the game scheduled for the 5th May with a 7:30pm kick-off at Histon FC.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

The title race at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship as exciting as the Premiership above, Cambridge Rangers Women long winning run coming to an end Park Ladies ending a run of 13 straight wins, a 2nd defeat of the season coming at home to title challengers Pinchbeck United Ladies 3-2. Were at home this Sunday taking on a rejuvenated Cardea Ladies. The visitors scoring goals while conceding in recent games a clean sheet last time out as they rattled in 13 goals against Burwell Tigers Ladies. A much closer contest this weekend the pair goalless at the break. Clare Kyndt putting Cambridge Rangers into the lead on the hour. Cardea quick to find a reply with Nicola Anderson scoring her 8th of the season 6 minutes later. Finished 1-1 the first draw for both sides this season.

 Two further points dropped by Cambridge Rangers Women, Pinchbeck United Ladies close the gap to the leaders to 4 points as they kept up their own 100% winning run now at 13 matches away to 3rd bottom Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development on Sunday. Libby Friel on target to find the back of the net for four goals for Pinchbeck in the game takes her to 16 goals for the season. Freya Peters just a goal ahead of Friel to stay top scorer scoring a brace. Victoria Bradford also celebrating a goal along with Annie Vayro scoring her first Pinchbeck goal in an 8-0 win.

Park Ladies incredible run continues as they climb up to 3rd in the Championship table with a 10th straight win at the weekend. Were on the road played 2nd bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Francesca Piltsch getting another hat-trick for Park, leading the goal scoring charts with 18 goals for the campaign now. Sophie Fenner grabbing a brace their were goals too for Georgia Payne and Georgia Stimson moving to 10 and 13 goals respectfully to help secure a 7-1 victory. Emma Smart scoring for Swavesey. Park up to 3rd on goal difference over Mildenhall Town Ladies

  Mildenhall Town Ladies have spent most of the season positioned 2nd in the Championship table the league newcomers finding their feet early on, slip to 4th of the back of this weekends results with in form Pinchbeck and Park moving past them, Mildenhall themselves losing out in a 7 goal thriller away to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Annalise Brown and Charlotte Nash scoring for Mildenhall in the first half. Isleham giving it a go with top scorers Laura Todd and Poppy Green both on target to score their 8th goals of the season. Becky O’Connor and Kerry Murry with her first of the season seeing Isleham into a 4-2 lead. Lydia Vince pulling it back to 4-3 scoring for Mildenhall in the 90th minute.

Eaton Socon Ladies another new comer doing well in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this season climbing the table with a good run of results into the top 4 mow lay fifth in the table were taking on fellow newcomers Cambourne United Women this Sunday won for the 11th time this season to earn another 3 points beating their opponents 4-1. 

The Round-Up – Norfolk 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 

A huge game at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One played this Sunday as 2nd placed Bungay Town Ladies played host to runaway leaders Thorpe United Ladies. 13 successive wins for Thorpe at the top of the table 9 points clear going into the weekend captain Rebekah Lake having a prolific season in front of goal scoring 39 goals from just 15 games, Thorpe looking strong having a fantastic season so far into the League Cup final too. Bungay having a good season themselves losing just the one game that to Thorpe back in November losing away from home 1-0. 2 games in hand for Bungay, Sunday a crunch fixture you felt an eventful game in the finish a 7 goal thriller, Lake amongst the goals again racing past 40 onto 42 netting a hat-trick. Bungay though digging deep to get the 3 points and see Thorpe lose for the first time this season, Nicola Hazell scoring twice moving to 8 for the season. 2 goals too for top scorer Selina Rowland one from the penalty spot the game won 4-3. Thorpe ending the game with 10 players with Melissa Belsey red carded.

Selina Rowland

 

Nicola Hazell

 

 

Tavern Ladies enjoying a good season following promotion to Norfolk Women’s Division One join 3rd placed Sprowston Ladies on 27 points as they won for the 9th time this season away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the weekend. Strong in the final third Tavern are scoring plenty of goals since moving up a league. Atlanta Griffith top scorer this season so far well backed up by Katie Hart-Copsey and Lucy Kean all three on target on Sunday with Griffith finding the back of the net for four goals moving onto 19 for the season. Hart-Copsey scoring a hat-trick moves to 15 whilst Kean was also on target for her 14th goal of the season, Tavern running out 9-0 winners with midfielder Nicole Costin also celebrating a goal. 

Long Stratton Women also promoted to Division One this season were at home to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend. Both sides short on availability for the match Long Stratton with usual captain Samantha Walker fielding the bare 11. Taverham winning the Division Two title with a very small squad had just the 9 on the pitch. Has been a tough season in Division One for Taverham continue to battle away a tight knit squad in 9th a positive end to the season could yet see them pull out of the bottom 2, earning a 2nd successive point on Sunday are up to 9th spot, Lucy Staff’s first goal of the season seeing Taverham leading at half-time. Long Stratton coming back to level the game 2nd half with Beth Stratton scoring. Long Stratton almost finding the winner hitting the crossbar late on.

Has been a tough spell for Fakenham Town Ladies bouncing back to Division One at the first attempt a good run had seen them climb as high as fifth in the table as they look to consolidate. A slump in results though seeing them lose ground with 6 loses in league and cup got back to winning ways at last this Sunday at home at Clipbush Park to fellow promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. Thetford beginning to find their feet in Division One themselves it was a close match with the scores level at 2-2 with the game entering the final three minutes, Fakenham getting the ball into their opponents goal for a 3rd time winning the game at the death. Top scorer Sophie Lubbock scoring her 9th goal of the season for Fakenham, Megan Spurrell also on target for a goal along with a first Fakenham goal for Gina Pooley. Thetford’s goal scorers Shannon Richardson with her first of the season and Jessica Knight with her first for the club.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Stalham Town Ladies remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two, following their return to 11 a side football have lost just once in 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw lead the way by 4 points over Beccles Town Ladies who do have two games in hand the chasing pack a further 5 points back. Amber Mayhew’s goals going a long way to Stalham Town’s points tally this season is in great form in front of goal. On target for another hat-trick again this Sunday away to 5th Waveney Ladies to see the club make it 10 wins for the season the game won 3-0. Mayhew on 22 for the season now. The top two meeting this coming Sunday.

Beccles Town Ladies looking to bounce straight back to Division One have themselves lost just the once this season, looking to chase down Stalham Town Ladies at the top of the Division Two table have had a frustrating season in terms of getting games played, that though has allowed injured players to return to fitness and ready to push on towards the latter 3rd of the season. Were at home to struggling Red Rose Ladies at the weekend 2nd bottom Red Rose were short of a full side meaning it would be a tough test against a Beccles sides scoring goals. Did well though to keep it down to 4-0 at half-time but eventually tiredness was going to play a part and Beccles ran amok in the 2nd period. 3 players all netting 5 goals each, top scorer Lola Barber-King, Francesca Catchpole and Ellie Hills doubling her tally for the season. The final score 19-0 with Elisha Bower, Chelsea Caplin, Megan Vincent and Beth Owen all getting a goal.

Horsford Women are up to 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table as they made it 4 straight wins on Sunday away to Hockering Ladies. The pair drawing 1-1 at the half-time interval Hockering added a 2nd goal 2nd half Horsford though scoring twice more to win the match 3-2 to take home the 3 points. Natalie Roope moves onto 10 for the season for Horsford with goals to for Amanda Vincent and Laura Hudson on her debut. Olivia Baker and Shelley Woods scoring in each half for Hockering.

North Walsham Ladies move above Hockering into 6th in the Division Two table with a 5th win of the season away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday. Both Keira Brown and top scorer Rhiannon Holt scoring twice to move to 6 and 12 goals for the season respectfully. Ella Chambers also scoring in the match celebrating her first goal of the season as North Walsham ran out 5-0 winners.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March 

ERWFL Cup

After a long month of postponements Peterborough Northern Star Ladies finally played their County Cup semi-final match against Moulton Ladies a convincing 11-0 win seeing them through to the final of the Northamptonshire Women’s up where they will face local rivals Peterborough United Ladies. That game out of the way the ERWFL Premier Division side had another cup game long lined up at home to fellow league side Colney Heath Ladies in the ERWFL League Cup quarter finals a home tie against Wymondham Town Ladies awaiting the winners. Early chances for both sides Katie Steward firing wide for Peterborough, Sarah Hudson in goal making a quality save to deny Colney Heath. Leah Cudone top scoring for Peterborough through one on one with the keeper to open the scoring for the hosts, Cudone in again to send the ball over the keeper to make it 2-0 with her 20th goal of the season going on to complete a hat-trick with just 21 minutes played. Samaira Khan top scoring for Colney Heath this season pulling it back to 3-1 10 minutes before half-time. The visitors threatening a comeback as Colney Heath pulled a 2nd goal back 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Pushing hard Colney Heath unable to find a levelling goal, Cassie Steward returning to the side recently having had a baby on target to score her first of the season to wrap up a 4-2 victory and send Peterborough into the last 4 of the league Cup.

A first half hat-trick on Sunday for Peterborough Northern Star’s Leah Cudone (photo credit Jason Cox Photos)

ERWFL Premier Division

ERWFL Premier Division leaders Harlow Town Ladies stay 6 points clear at the top of the table as they kept their unbeaten season going at home to 4th placed Bedford Ladies this Sunday. Both sides scoring goals their were plenty on show with the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. The fourth match in a row Bedford have score 4 or more goals, Natasha Fensome leading the attack getting a good portion of them on target to score a hat-trick against Harlow, Jasmine Ajayi also scoring a goal for Bedford. 4 goals for Bedford too last weekend ended up with just a point against local rivals AFC Dunstable Ladies, disappointment at the final whistle this Sunday leaving the Harlow Arena empty handed as a hat-trick from striker Georgia Box helped Harlow to a 5-4 win. Amy Nash and Tayla Handscombe also celebrating a goal each.

Georgia Box scoring a hat-trick for Harlow Town Ladies this Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)

Luton Town Ladies move 4 points clear in 2nd spot in the Premier Division table, 6 points back from Harlow with a game in hand. Were at home to Wroxham Women this Sunday in the league. Wroxham having seen a few games called of recently slipping down the Premier Division table, Luton in good form creating opportunities opening the scoring late in the first half Zara Carroll with the ball in for Jess Mckay to head in. 1-0 up at the break Luton were quick out of the blocks 2nd half Dionne Manning with an early chance saved Funmi Babalola putting over on the rebound as McKay’s strike struck the crossbar. McKay finding the top corner for her 2nd of the game in the 58th minute sees her onto 19 for the season. Rebecca Kane with a shot in the final five minutes rolled in by a defender to see Luton win the match 3-0.

Wymondham Town Ladies manager Alex Guy, celebrating a milestone this Sunday his 200th match in charge of the side, the Norfolk side enjoying a great spell in that time rising through the leagues and back to back successes in the County Cup, are up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division table now after coming home with the 3 points secured away to 2nd bottom AFC Dunstable Women. The hosts though taking an early lead going 1-0 inside 2 minutes scoring from a corner. Wymondham getting themselves back into it starting to control possession equalising on the half hour, Chelsea Clarke putting in a cross for Laura Nicholls finish first time. Wymondham going on to take the lead on the closing minutes of the first half Mollie O’Callaghan with the corner kick Mia Etheridge rising to head home. 2-1 up at the break Wymondham went on to seal the win midway through the 2nd half good work from O’Callaghan in midfield the ball on to Etheridge shooting into the bottom corner to make it 3-1.

Royston Town Women another side to have slipped down the ERWFL Premier Division table due to called off fixtures, in good form at the start of the season recent results a mixed bag have reached the last 4 of the League Cup were at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this weekend. Rebecca Vass doing well for Royston since joining the club scoring twice at the weekend to move onto 21 for the season off 14 appearances Charlotte South alos getting a goal for the Hertfordshire side her 5th of the campaign along with a first for Becki Ingram in just her 4th appearance for the side. The 4-0 win for Royston lifting them above Bowers & Pitsea into 7th a point out of the top half with games in hand on a couple of sides.

ERWFL Division One North

Just 3 games left to play for ERWFL Division One North leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development enjoying a strong debut season in the ERWFL losing just one of their 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw end Sunday 4 points clear of 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies who sat out this weekends fixtures. Cambridge were away to fellow promoted side East Bergholt United Ladies, the Suffolk side an early pace setter along side Cambridge have since slipped all the way down to 7th in the table. 3 sides for Cambridge this season a big games elsewhere too travelled Suffolk with the bare 11. East Bergholt getting off to a good start 1-0 after just 5 minutes. East Bergholt playing well Cambridge got themselves back level in the 35th minute Bella Simmons brought down inside the box Carla Penny scoring the resulting penalty. East Bergholt came back to retake the lead from a well worked goal to go in 2-1 up at the break. Cambridge regrouping starting the 2nd half well early pressure seeing the ball handled inside the box a 2nd penalty awarded Penny up to score her 2nd of the game top scorer with 19 goals for the season. East Bergholt a threat going forwards fighting to retake the lead, instead it a Cambridge who get thier noses in front midway through the 2nd half with Simmons finding the bottom corner from 20 yards out to score her 12th of the season. Cambridge holding on to win the game East Bergholt left frustrated their goals scored by Jessica Quinsee and Pippa King both on target with their first goals of the season.

Needham market Women also new to the ERWFL this season finding their feet in regional football in just their 2nd season together climbing to 3rd in the Division One North table had closed the gap to leaders Cambridge to 6 points with a game in hand and two games against the league leaders home and away to come. Were away to Histon Ladies this Sunday the Cambridgeshire side 5th also have games in hand 6 left to play before the weekend and on 14 points could well press on into the top 3 themselves. Annie Northwood on target to score her 14th of the season putting Needham market into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A good as it would get for the visitors in the first half however as Histon bounced back well to losing the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final in midweek, equalising in the 22nd minute went on to take the lead on the half hour quickly adding a 3rd goal. Histon leading 4-1 at half-time, Poppy Kelly netting a brace to give her 12 for the season. Alison Wright scoring for the 7th time this campaign and a first goal for defender Amie Flack. An own goal seeing Histon go 5-1 up in the 2nd half. Needham Market getting one back through Millie Carter on the hour as good as it would get Histon moving onto 17 points up to 4th.

AFC Sudbury Women playing their last game of the season this Sunday rebuilding with a young squad after relegation last term have grown as a team results not coming early on but have picked up one notable scalp, Cambridge City’s only defeat this season against Sudbury. Ended the season on a high at home to bottom side Gorleston Ladies, the Norfolk side also new to the league this season enduring a tough campaign no points on the board for the 2nd successive weekend travelled with just the bare 11 players carrying injuries to playing on a tough task against a Sudbury side with 5 named on the bench. Rebecca Stephenson netting a hat-trick for Sudbury. There were also two for Charlene Roach-Smith with Evie Creaton and Phoebe Guiver also scoring in a 9-1 win that sees Sudbury 6th for now at least.

ERWFL Division One South

The fixtures wiped out again last weekend in ERWFL Division One South there was a full fixture list with 3 games on this Sunday. Unbeaten leaders Millwall Lionesses were hosting bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies travelling with just 10 players it was always going to be tough against a Millwall side with plenty of energy and creativity in attack. Molly Hawkins getting the hosts off to a fast start putting Millwall up inside 3 minutes adding a 2nd 5 minutes later was celebrating her hat-trick with 20 minutes gone. Shannan Drewe in on goal to make it 4-0 on the half hour Millie Connell making it 5 moments later. Connell on the scoresheet for her 2nd to score from the penalty spot after Hawkins was fouled inside the box. Matilde Strocchi rounding the keeper to score on her Millwall debut to see the hosts 7-0 up at half-time.

  The goals kept coming 2nd half Kaitlyn Lewis heading in Millwall’s 8th. Hawkins in to score her 4th of the match, Sian Fitzpatrick bringing up double figures. Rebecca Scola getting one back for Hoddesdon midway through the 2nd half. Connell with her 2nd penalty of the match to bring up her hat-trick. Drewe with a quickfire goal making it 12-1 going on to complete a hat-trick with 15 to play. A flurry of goals at the death with Connell making it a hat-trick from the penalty spot Hawkins with her 5th and one from Daniella Colorado.

Millie Connell with 4 goals for Millwall Lionesses at the weekend including a hat-trick from the penalty spot.

Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to keep pace with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the ERWFL Division One South table the Essex side new to the league this season enjoying a strong campaign at regional level a very young side were away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway amongst the goals joining Leigh Ramblers this season was on target to score her 12th of the campaign at the weekend with goals to from Rebecca Dalgarno her 8th of the season and a goal each for Kate newton and Paige White to help secure a 4-1 victory. Harriet Douglas scoring for Stevenage. 

Hutton Ladies 3rd in the ERWFL Division One South table the side the leading pair need to keep an eye on unbeaten themselves the Essex side have much more experience in their ranks and games in hand with the gap now 4 points were away to Lawford Ladies at the weekend their first league game since the 2nd week of the new year plenty of goals scored so far this season were strong in attack again this Sunday top scorer Vicky Kinsman with another brace to her name moves onto 36 now for the season from just 12 games. Lauren Knight on the scoresheet too for her 9th of the season along with a goal for Clare Edmondson and a first for Kayleigh Franklin in a 5-0 win.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March

FAWNL Plate

A much delayed quarter final tie for Watford Ladies the club finally playing their game against Chichester City Ladies after a month. Winning through to the semi-finals Watford faced another long journey this time to the North West to play Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women in the semi-final. That game suffering from postponement last Sunday the Southern Premier Division side haven’t played a league match since the final weekend of January. At last this Sunday the game was on better weather finally. Few chances created on the first period a close contest the pair going in all square at the break 0-0.

  The 2nd half starting in the same vein, Watford going down to 10 on the hour with goalkeeper Nina Wilson sent off for handling outside the area. 2nd half substitute Hattie Kettle going in between the posts. Watford with a good response after going down to 10, Alysha Stojko-Down shooting wide. The game into the final 20 minutes Watford get their noses in front a good ball to see Anne Meiwald through on goal her initial strike hitting the post is closing in on the follow-up to tuck away the rebound. Both sides down to 10 with 10 minutes left Middlesborough’s Rebekah Bass red carded for an off the ball incident. Watford push on in the final minutes a god chance on 87 minutes the game sealed in the 90th minute Megan Chandler in to win the ball outside the box with a fantastic strike to make it 2-0.

Watford will play West Bromwich Albion Women in this season’s Plate final the game taking place on Sunday 22nd March at Stafford FC.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Wet weather was to affect the FAWNL Southern Premier Division elsewhere with the games between Chichester City Ladies and Gillingham Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies called off. Two matches surviving. A mid-week victory for Oxford United Women 2-1 at home to Milton Keynes Dons Women saw them climb up above Plymouth Argyle Ladies into 3rd spot on goal difference, were back at home this Sunday taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Oxford opening the scoring in the 23rd minute pressure from the hosts around the penalty box the ball put into Kayleigh Hines 25 yards out an impressive strike clipping the woodwork in its way in to the top corner. Portsmouth coming on well both sides creating chances a gritty game at times the visitors back on level terms just past the half hour getting forwards the ball flashed in across the face of goal Hayley Bridge arriving at the far post to make it 1-1. Oxford with good chances to retake the lead however it was  level at half-time Oxford had to dig in at times as Portsmouth came on 2nd half both sides with opportunities in front of goal, the winner coming in the 75th minute ex-Portsmouth player Daisy McLachlan lashing the ball home after coming in at the far post. 2-1 to Oxford close the gap to 2nd placed Watford to a point albeit Watford have 3 games in hand.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies too closing the point to Watford to a point on 14 games the same as Oxford United Women, at home this Sunday hosting 2nd bottom side Hounslow Women. Plymouth getting forwards well chances coming opened the scoring just past the half hour winning a corner kick a low ball played in by Helen Bleazard, Ebony Dover laying it on for Lydia Huntley to slot past the keeper for her first goal of the season. The advantage doubled 2 minutes before the half-time whistle Bleazard playing Dover through to put her shot past the keeper. A 2-0 lead for Plymouth, a quickly reply from Hounslow Women at the start of the 2nd half getting it back to 2-1 straight away. Plymouth settling after that coming on in search of a third goal Hounslow battling well to keep them out keeping the scoreline tight but not able to find an equalising goal Plymouth finishing 2-1 winners.

FAWNL South East Division One

Battles shaping up at both ends of the FAWNL South East Division One table. The top half of the table competitive right from the start the tussle at the bottom livening up in recent weeks as sides attempt to get themselves out of trouble. A host of international call-ups seeing Ipswich Town Women leading the table not played another opportunity for AFC Wimbledon Ladies to return to within a point of the leaders, wouldn’t be easy though away to 6th placed Enfield Town Ladies at the weekend. Sarah Wentworth with her first goal of the season firing Wimbledon into the lead inside 5 minutes getting into box sending her strike up high into the net to make it 1-0. Enfield with a quick reply back on level terms just 6 minutes later captain Nuala McKevitt on the scoresheet from a corner. Chances coming for both sides Enfield hitting the crossbar. A cracking strike from Elizabeth Berkeley putting Wimbledon back into the lead in the 33rd minute. The visitors 2-1 up at the break. A bright start to the 2nd half Enfield awarded a penalty on 54 minutes, Beth Lumsden stepping up to put Enfield level at 2-2. Wimbledon straight up the other end to retake the lead Rosie Russell smashing the ball home from inside the box to make it 3-2 with her first strike of the season. The game into the final 15 minutes a fantastic run from Georgia Heasman before setting up substitute Helen Ogle to find the back of the net and put Wimbledon 4-2 up. The gap to Ipswich back to a point wit both having played 14.

AFC Basildon Women have won 6 in a row to climb up to 3rd spot in the South East Division One table were hosting 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC at the weekend looking to make it 7 straight league wins. Their opponents the last side to beat them in the league back in September a 3-0 win in the reverse fixture. Basildon on top in the first half unable to break the deadlock the pair going into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A goal ruled out for offside for Basildon right at the start of the 2nd half. Basildon finally getting their noses in front midway through the 2nd half, awarded a free-kick, Poppy Binding’s strike getting a touch of the Leyton Orient defence on it’s way through to goal. Kelly Wealthall and Holly Turner both coming close to doubling the lead. The game into the final 15 minutes, Courtney Clarke down the left putting the ball into Turner inside the box for a composed finish to make it 2-0. Leyton Orient pressing but unable to find a reply as Basildon extend their winning run. 

Holly Turner finishing at the near post to put Basildon 2-0 up (photo credit Jason Clogg)

Billericay Town Ladies stay a point behind Basildon fourth in the South East Division One table with two games in hand as they won at ‘home’ to Actonians Ladies on Sunday, enjoyed an exciting match in the Women’s FA Cup at the start of the year. Postponed from last week rearranged for this Billericay winning more comfortably this weekend the game a Malden, Therese Addison sending the ball past the advancing keeper to open the scoring would go on to miss a penalty. Ellie Nicholls opening her Billericay account with her first senior goal. Hannah Smith also on target with her 6th of the season. Zoe Rushen celebrating a 2nd half brace going clear as top scorer once again on 13 goals. Billericay winning 5-0.

Crucial games to come at the bottom of the South East Division One table too, Cambridge United WFC winning 1-0 away to bottom side Kent Football United climbing above Stevenage FC Women and Norwich City Women into 8 position as they began a run of 4 games playing the sides down around them including the pair mentioned above a local rivals Cambridge City Ladies. At home this Sunday at St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium were hosting Stevenage FC Women. The featured game on Women’s Football East this Sunday the full match report can be found below this post. Amy Butler making her debut in goal for Cambridge United. Both sides looking to exploit width get up the flanks Stevenage making a good start a couple of chances Ashleigh Deacon causing problems with her pace out on the right getting on with the ball her cross in cut out straight to midfielder Amy Josland at the top of the area hit it back in to open the scoring put Stevenage 1-0 on 19 minutes. Cam close again the woodwork struck, Cambridge United building momentum as the 1st half wore on getting at their opponents with good opportunities before the half-time whistle.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Crisp getting a leg up to block Stevenage’s Nicole Emmings strike on goal.

A narrow advantage for Stevenage at half-time, Cambridge United began the 2nd half well getting forwards quickly an early goal from Amy Howlett ruled out for offside. The hosts winning a corner a good delivery in from the left clearing the keeper near post Faith Hewitt meeting it beyond to nod in from close range. Cambridge United doing well, Stevenage frustrated 2nd half Cambridge United going on to take the lead with 20 minutes left getting forwards well with pace Hewitt on for Kelly Blanchflower to pick out Emma Jenkins left side her cross put into the box saved by Grace Brooks the ball pushed out towards the top of the area Blanchflower quickest to it latching onto the shot firing the ball home to score her 7th goal of the season. Stevenage looking for a reply pushed on but Cambridge United defended well to make it back to back wins and pull further clear from the 4 sides below.

A massive 3 points too for Cambridge City Ladies at the weekend as they won at home to Norwich City Women the 2nd bottom side moving to within two points of the Norfolk side as a result and just one behind Stevenage. Confidence high as Cambridge City beat Histon Ladies 6-0 in mid-week to win this season Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final. Norwich though getting off to a good start taking an early lead winning the ball high from a goal kick a diagonal ball finding top scorer Chelsea Garrett free in the box right of goal shot across the keeper to put the visitors 1-0 up, Cambridge responding well Charlotte Gillies with a good opportunity. Norwich coming close as Aimee Durrant almost broke free into the box stopped by goalkeeper Dominika Szary. The hosts getting back on level terms midway through the 1st half Gillies pace causing problems right side was played in central running on lobbing the keeper to score. Karly Tolentino with a good chance to put Cambridge City in front, got the goal minutes later as she scrambled the ball in at the near post from a corner on the half hour. Cambridge City leading 2-1 at half-time Laura Mills clear firing a shot over early in the 2nd half for the hosts Gillies on the move making it 3-1 on the hour shooting into the bottom corner from the top of the box. Norwich unable to create a clear opportunity up the other end Cambridge City now breathing down their necks have games in hand on both Norwich and Stevenage.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 8th March

FAWNL South East Division One

No storm sweeping in across the country this weekend so for the first time in a month it was nice to make plans early get a game sorted, keen to get some action in from the FAWNL, headed to St Neots Town FC this Sunday to watch Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women. 

  Battles shaping up well at both ends of the table competitive in the top half for the title race and in the bottom half although no one wants to be there a crucial period coming up for the sides wanting to avoid relegation. The two promoted sides Kent Football United and Cambridge City Ladies positioned in the bottom two are just a couple of positive results (if they can find them) from getting clear of trouble, the sides immediately above scrapping for points themselves to keep clear of danger amongst those today’s opponents Cambridge and Stevenage. Norwich in the mix too and all the sides in the bottom five have crunch games against each other coming up.

Cambridge United WFC into the 2nd of a 4 game run against the sides in and around them. An Emma Jenkin’s goal enough to secure all 3 points away to bottom side Kent Football United last weekend lifts them up to 8th in the South East Division One table 5 points clear of the bottom two with a trio of home matches to come starting with Stevenage this afternoon, then local rivals Cambridge City and Norwich City Women at The Abbey Stadium on Weds 18th March. The women’s sides making the switch to a new ground this season now at St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium along with their Development side.

New beginnings bringing mixed fortunes, a new era of sorts an great opportunity to grow a new fan base great facilities but a change in coaching set up saw several player departures before the season started the squad smaller struggling for results early on, out of the cups early. A long period without a game more changes in management Ben Yeomans stetting up from assistant to first team coach. New faces coming in the club has never been sort of positively. The move to St Neots seeing Cambridge United unable to defend the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup this season but now within the catchment area of the Huntingtonshire FA have reached the final of the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Cup, facing St Ives Town Ladies on Thursday 23rd April at Eynesbury Rovers FC.

Stevenage FC Women themselves playing in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup final next Sunday taking on Watford Ladies U23s for the second successive final. Will be Stevenage’s sixth consecutive County Cup final appearance and will be looking to regain the trophy from their opponents. Joining forces with the Stevenage FC Foundation this season were looking to push on become an established side in the FAWNL having recently gained promotion. Injuries a few long term and being unable to secure a main shirt sponsor hampering their season somewhat falling to 10th spot four points clear of the bottom two have been unlucky with some results scoring goals okay just conceding too many. A narrow 3-2 defeat away to Leyton Orient WFC last time out. Beat Cambridge United comfortably 4-0 in the reverse fixture back in September and have home games against the bottom two to come.

Once I’ve successfully negotiated the roadworks on the A14 at Cambridge the venue for today’s game The Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC as well Cambridge United WFC. The entrance to the pitch through the clubhouse hot drinks available onto the stadium itself the grass pitch in great condition offering good width. Dark cloud around and quite breezy didn’t talk of much rain around but short sharp showers would be a feature of the afternoon, one before kick-off as the teams warmed up seeing an early retreat to the changing rooms. Headed to the mainstand myself but the wind blowing straight into it offered little protection. Like to be on the opposite of the pitch however and as the rain died decided to risk it.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Amy Butler, Charlotte Crisp, Carrie Bennett, Albany Hodgson, Jemma Moore, Faith Hewitt, Gisela Otten (C), Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Abi Davies, Kayleigh-Anne Burt & Katie White.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Grace Brooks, Leah Dunnage, Gemma Biggadike, Lucy Webster, Dominique Godbeer, Cara Breckenridge, Amy Josland, Ashleigh Deacon, Tamsyn Sibanda, Amy Makewell (C) & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Charlotte McLucas, Erin Pope & Katie Knell.

Amy Butler making her debut in goal for Cambridge, new arrived from ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies. Allowing Albany Hodgson to rejoin the defence having donned the goalkeeping gloves herself in the last couple of matches, injuries at the back also seeing Charlotte Crisp usually operating in midfield at right back. Stevenage to kick off the first half wearing white shirts with red vertical pinstripes, red shorts and socks. Cambridge opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves black shorts and socks. Playing the ball back towards their defence Cambridge press high the ball released sent long out to the left knocked on into the box, Butler with an early touch of the ball off her line to kick clear.

 Cambridge work the ball through the middle Amber Cantwell putting it out to the right for Amy Howlett running on up the line cuts inside, Stevenage’s Leah Dunnage closing in to put in the tackle prevent a cross. Pace from both sides going forwards Stevenage come on the diagonal pass into Ashleigh Deacon on the right side, bursts on with the ball travelling into the box players rushing on through the middle to join her the ball squared along the top of the six yard box, Hodgson cutting it out for Cambridge. Deacon a threat on the right side early on getting hold of the ball taking it on fires another ball into the six yard box Nicole Emmings seeing it into her feet laying it back to captain Amy Makewell top of the area strikes it back on on target low but well seen by Butler back on her line down to save. 

Cambridge’s Amy Howlett with Stevenage captain Amy Makewell

 A lively start from both sides Faith Hewitt getting hold of the ball on halfway for Cambridge sending it up field to Emma Jenkins on the right Gemma Biggadike staying with her Jenkins forces a corner. The delivery long through the six yard box before being cleared. A crunching 50/50 ball in the middle between Stevenage’s Amy Josland and Cambridge captain Gisela Otten the rebound favouring Stevenage Emmings getting hold of it on the left jinking her way into the area Butler coming to close the angle takes it around wide on the angle shoots the ball landing in the side netting.

Cambridge United WFC captain, Gisela Otten

  Lucy Webster coming across the back line to tackle Jenkins as she gets free on the left for Cambridge. Emmings causing problems in attack for Stevenage moving out to the left head down on the ball looks to get in behind a good tackle from Crisp to regain possession. A good contest in the middle of the park, the ball closed down Cara Breckenridge this time playing the ball to Deacon on the right has Makewell giving her a run ahead of her into the box laying it into her path, Jemma Moore gets across well to lunge in front of her to take the ball away before the attacker can pull the trigger. 

Ashleigh Deacon taking the ball on for Stevenage

  Cantwell getting forwards with the ball at her feet, is brought down, the advantage played as the ball runs straight to Kelley Blanchflower she plays it across the top of the area to Jenkins left side, upended by Webster, Cambridge get the free-kick this time. Jenkins herself to take floating the ball into the area, Stevenage’s Dominique Godbeer winning the header dropping down outside the box, Cantwell after it puts her foot through the ball her strike charged down. Neither side on top getting forwards quickly Cambridge have it on the right a throw won taken quickly Cantwell laying it on up the right for Blanchflower, strong on the ball takes it in towards goal a defender on her shoulder gets a shot away the ball wide across the face of goal. 

Stevenage’s Lucy Webster

 Blanchflower seeing the ball into her feet right channel 25 yards out takes it on into the area Godbeer sliding in as she shoots the deflection seeing the ball come out to Hewitt 20 yards out top of the D strikes it first time screws it high and wide of the left post. Hewitt with a fantastic tackle to win the ball inside the Stevenage half attempts to thread it through for Blanchflower a little too much on it allows Stevenage goalkeeper, Grace Brooks to claim. Both sides looking to get their wide players on the ball Jenkins is fouled as she tries to get into the box coming in from the left. Jenkins has a go for goal a high ball presenting a danger to Brooks back on her line as it drops goalwards… but lands safely on the rook of the net. 

The ball’s there if you look for it a tricky on for Stevenage goalkeeper Grace Brooks to keep an eye on.

 

  GOAL! 19 minute played and the deadlock is broken, Stevenage getting forwards well pressure in the final third, Deacon with the ball right side takes in on towards the corner, players race on through the middle to support Deacon sends a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Hodgson falling cutting it out central sends it out towards the top of the area, straight to Amy Josland she strikes it first time getting curve on the ball sending it swerving away from the keeper into the bottom corner to give the visitors the lead 0-1. 

Amy Josland firing Stevenage into the lead.

 Stevenage lively getting forwards well Makewell giving an option drifting into the right channel the ball fed to her takes it on Moore closing her down the pair tussling for the ball Makewell fouling the free-kick going Cambridge’s way much to her annoyance. Stevenage on through the middle Sibanda inside for Josland, Hodgson intercepting and sending up field to Howlett on the right goes on finding Blanchflower ahead of her powerful with the ball at her feet holding off her marker the angle tight sends her shot into the side netting. 

  Jenkins with the ball left side Hewitt up with her inside 25 yards out gives her the ball, opens her body to clip it forwards for Blanchflower stealing in behind, Brooks down well to save at the strikers feet. Hewitt involved again winning it central her pass finding Cantwell 30 yards out right of goal takes on the shot the ball held by Brooks. Otten with a couple of challenges to slow Stevenage down before a somewhat out of control tackle by Cantwell sliding in gives the visitors a free-kick 25 yards out right of goal. Sibanda over it goes for goal her effort wide of the near post. 

Stevenage striker, Nicole Emmings

  Stevenage coming on well in the last 5 minutes getting bodies forwards pushing Cambridge back Deacon right side a corner won. A good delivery into the six yard box Otten does well to clear for Cambridge play brought back for a head injury to Hodgson. Josland in quick to win the ball, up to Emmings the striker can’t find the room to get a shot away top of the box before being crowded off the ball. A high ball played forwards into the Cambridge area awkward for Hodgson to deal with Makewell in close attention the ball bouncing, Makewell getting to it first hitting it on the angle towards the near post Butler can’t take any chances down to palm it behind for the corner. From the left inswinging into the six yard box Cantwell doing well getting there ahead of Godbeer to put it behind for a 2nd corner on the right. Another good delivery across six yard box Godbeer free this time at the back stick rising to head the ball her effort coming back off the crossbar. 

 Cantwell and Jenkins combine well through the middle for Cambridge, exchanging passes before Jenkins plays it out to Howlett on the right, takes it on Dunnage in to win the ball back for Stevenage. A good take by Brooks low in her box as Cambridge come on Cantwell into Jenkins coming in from the left her shot taking a deflection, Brooks across down to save. Biggadike gets on right side for Stevenage ahead of Deacon fires in a cross/shot towards the near post Butler keeping her eyes on it well gathered even as Emmings lunges at it in front of her. 

Charlotte Crisp getting on with the ball for Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge picking it up in the closing minutes of the 1st half getting forwards better Hewitt winning it on for Blanchflower right of the D a good diagonal ball picks out Jenkins coming in from the left pushes it in cross the top of the six yard box looking to get a shot way just runs too far allows Godbeer to get across her and clear the ball out for a throw right side. Dropping into Blanchflower the Cambridge attacker turns and strikes the ball her effort a foot over the crossbar. 

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Stevenage FC Women

  Stevenage slightly edging the 1st half with a 1-0 going into the break. A competitive game a good battle going on in the middle between Cambridge’s Otten and Hewitt up agianst Stevenage’s Breckenridge and Josland. Both sides looking to get forwards quickly use the width Deacon in particular on the right, Emmings in attack showing good movement, Cantwell with good options left and right with Blanchflower up top. One goal in it the 2nd half will be no less eventful. The rain making a return at half-time the reserve umbrella up just another light shower however as the sides return to the pitch.

No changes made, Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway. A early clearance presented to Blanchflower drifting left has support from Jenkins ahead of her rolls her in her cross into the area cut out by Godbeer for Stevenage. Cambridge making a fast start to the 2nd half the ball won back high play turned around Blanchflower left sends it on towards the box, intercepted by Webster deflects off her legs straight to Cantwell inside the D has Howlett free inside the box to her right plays the pass by even as Howlett’s shot nestles in the bottom corner the whistle blows for a raised flag, offside. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Amy Howlett

Under pressure early on the ball cleared up to the left, Makewell does well to bring it down keep in play putting it back to Sibanda a good strike of the ball to send it up the wing for Emmings running in behind takes it on, Moore getting across to challenge the ball behind for a corner kick. Players come forwards a vicious ball fired in low through the six yard box Emmings lunging at it far post isn’t too far away from making a telling contact. 

Gemma Biggadike challenging Gisela Otten for the ball

 Cambridge sharper to the ball now getting their tackles in high Hewitt out for Howlett right goes on with it, Sibanda getting back to tackle her. Crisp fouled as she gets forwards on the right. The free-kick put high into the area headed clear by Godbeer, Stevenage get on he counter attack Deacon out to Emmings moving right, Moore closing down to send the ball out for a throw. The sun making an appearance a rainbow over the ground. The tempo high Cambridge coming on Cantwell clipped top of the D as she looks to get a shot away a free-kick for Cambridge, Jenkins on it hits it low strikes the wall deflected out to the left more Cambridge pressing brings a corner. The ball cleared Stevenage can’t make any head way in attack as Cambridge come straight back, Cantwell left 20 out looks to thread it into Blanchflower inside the box near post, Brooks just about gets there but a deflection sees the ball behind for a corner.

 GOAL! 56 minutes played and Cambridge equalise scoring from the corner, Cantwell to play it in a good inswinging delivery close over the goalkeeper, players attacking it beyond one of those Hewitt getting her head on the ball nodding it down into the back of the net 1-1. 

Faith Hewitt with the header to put Cambridge United WFC level

  Stevenage with a quick response coming close to retaking the lead within seconds of the restart, the ball into Deacon right side hits it on the run her strike clipping the crossbar. Stevenage come again another effort at goal stabbed wide by Josland from 25 yards out. Blanchflower making some great runs in attack for Cambridge now clear to the right takes the ball on into the corner options limited nevertheless spots Hewitt positioned inside the D sends the ball racing into her Hewitt not quite able to connect. Otten with a strong challenge breaking up a Stevenage attack the visitors frustrated now not getting the ball into their attackers as easily as they did first half. 

Amy Josland in to tackle Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins

  Sibanda with some good tackling left side for Stevenage looking to get on up the field attempts to thread a pass through for Emmings in behind but Butler with a good starting position can get there first to claim. Blanchflower fouled on the left a free-kick awarded. Cantwell to deliver put in close to the keeper, Jenkins up with her Brooks gloving the ball up onto the bar before it goes over. A lively contest both sides going for it Stevenage’s Emmings shows good control on the ball to work it out to Deacon to her left, Moore coming in to close down with a good challenge. 

Cambridge’s Amber Cantwell

 Sibanda getting up to support the attack on the left on to Emmings comes inside striking the ball from 20 yards out, Crisp sticking out a leg getting in the block for Cambridge. Sibanda staying up high left winning a throw keeps the attack alive turning inside to get another shot away again Crisp is there to block near post. Stevenage with a good spell of pressure Emmings has it left on the by-line strong to turn inside sends a cross into the six yard box Makewell there gets a touch the ball send wide at the far post. Stevenage make the first change of the match bringing on Katie Knell for Breckenridge as the rain starts to fall again 20 minutes left to play.

Charlotte Crisp getting a leg out to block Emmings shot

  GOAL! Cambridge regain possession in the middle Hewitt on for Blanchflower left channel sends it on for Jenkins racing away down the wing she fires in a fierce ball into the far post Brooks down to save gloves it away loose out to the top of the box, Blanchflower racing in first to it strikes it hard arrowing into the goal beyond 2-1.

Cambridge striker Kelley Blanchflower holding off Stevenage’s Tamsyn Sibanda

 Stevenage make a 2nd change straight away Erin Pope comes on for Biggadike. Cambridge on the attack good work from Otten winning it central puts it to Blanchflower moving left down the line her ball into the box finds its way through to Howlett, doesn’t get a clean strike of the ball, sliced wide. Cambridge make their first change with Katie White coming on for Jenkins. Pope with a snapshot 20 yards out as the ball is deflected into her path sends it wide of goal. Stevenage pushing players on risk leaving gaps at the back Blanchflower ready to exploit the ball over the top seeing her clear through the middle, Brooks comes out of her area attempting to win the race not quick enough Blanchflower attempts to put it past her fortune favours the keeper as it strikes her legs.

  Crisp taking a quick free-kick up to Blanchflower inside the box Godbeer on her shoulder let of goal manages to get a shot away deflected across the face of goal Howlett retrieving right side puts back in Webster intercepting for Stevenage. Cantwell winning a corner for Cambridge on the right puts in another good delivery Hewitt further out winning the header on target down, cleared on the line by Sibanda. Stevenage with a free-kick on halfway the ball finding Pope top of the D gets a snapshot away blasts it wide of the right post. A third change for Stevenage as Godbeer comes off on comes Charlotte McLucas to make her first team debut. 

Stevenage’s Erin Pope in to tackle Cambridge’s Amy Howlett late on

 Hodgson closing down Emmings to concede a throw as the Stevenage attacker looks to get on right side into the box. A few strong challenges coming in late on both sides giving as good as they get Stevenage keen to get on with the clock running down, Cambridge battling to hold onto their lead. The game heading into stoppage time play frantic, Sibanda tackling Howlett puts it inside to Makewell can’t shake off Otten.

  Cambridge trying to get it down into the corners, easier said than done, Hewitt into Blanchflower, Sibanda closing her down to regain possession doesn’t stick up top, Cantwell cleans out Sibanda as she looks to carry it out on the left, earning her the first yellow card of the game. Into the final minute Crisp bringing the ball on rolled into Blanchflower held up in the Stevenage final 3rd no time to mount one last attack as the final whistle blows and Cambridge win another valuable 3 points.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-1 Stevenage FC Women 

 Cambridge with back to back wins 6 points seeing them pull further clear of the battle at the bottom, Stevenage now very much in it losing today and seeing Cambridge City Ladies win at home to Norwich the 2nd bottom side closing the gap to just a point. Several crucial games to come. A good first half from Stevenage starting well and stayed on the front foot through out the first 45 minutes taking the lead and creating several good opportunities. Cambridge not out of it by any means with chances of their own. The 2nd half very much Cambridge’s started well he pressure paying off equalising from a corner then going onto take the lead with 20 minutes left. Stevenage make then work hard for the 3 points an intriguing contest, Stevenage had chances to level.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few performances of note and a tough one to decide who gets the award. For Stevenage, Ashleigh Deacon was a threat going forwards on the right and Nicole Emmings showed great movement and presence in attack. Tamsyn Sibanda with some fantastic challenges especially 2nd half. For Cambridge Jemma Moore with some timely tackles at the back. Amber Cantwell with good movement and passing spot on from her corners. Kelley Blanchflower in attack always available making good runs creating goal scoring opportunities. Now it gets tough really the final two are neck and neck for me but have to pick one, Faith Hewitt was fantastic in the middle for Cambridge great tackling and good runs forwards supporting the attack, the award though goes to Charlotte Crisp not usually at right back but had an excellent game made several important tackles and blocks.

An enjoyable trip to the Premier Plus Stadium this Sunday, my thanks to both sides for the team details. Will be seeing Stevenage again next Sunday in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

Wednesday 4th March

Cambridge City Ladies v Histon Ladies

  The first of this season’s Cup Finals this Wednesday night in the East, the Cambridgeshire Women’s S-Tech Insurance Invitation Cup this season being contested between Cambridge City Ladies & Histon Ladies.

  The Invitation Cup Final being hosted for the 2nd season at The Abbey Stadium home of Cambridge United FC the counties leading club. Women’s football growing in Cambridgeshire the two county divisions the Premiership and Championship seeing a rapid growth this season. Women’s and girls football in Cambridgeshire supported by S-Tech Insurance along association now into it’s 13th year sponsoring tonight’s final.

  The holders of the cup however not taking part this season, Cambridge United WFC dominating the competition on recent season’s moving to a new ground this season St Neots Town FC which falls under the Huntingdonshire FA umbrella they themselves launching an inaugural Women’s Cup this season, that final to be contested by Cambridge United WFC and St Ives Town Ladies. Unable to defend the trophy the opportunity to win silverware going to a new face?

  Well not so new in Cambridge City Ladies case as they won the trophy two season’s back beating rivals Cambridge United WFC, the pair dominating the final recently as Cambridge City Ladies rose rapidly through the women’s football pyramid, reaching the FAWNL. Have an equally ambitious Development side new to regional football this season topping the table in ERWFL Division One North and new for this season too a third side Cambridge City Ladies A competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Reaching the final of the Invitation Cup yet again it is a distraction from their league woes Cambridge City struggling for points 2nd bottom of FAWNL South East Division One with some crucial games coming up, the chance of winning silverware tonight an excellent opportunity with the added incentive of possibly inspiring the team for tough games to come.

  Histon Ladies reaching the Invitation Cup for the first time, although themselves were familiar opponents for Cambridge United… then Cambridge Women before Cambridge City came along. Back then were know as Great Shelford Ladies. That name consigned to history now as the club joined forces with Histon FC and getting good support playing at the club’s Glassworld Stadium are looking to grow become a strong force for women’s football in Cambridgeshire adding a youth section, the 1st team competing in ERWFL Division One North, a Reserves side coming in too to bolster the 1st team playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership have made it a cup final double by reaching the Junior Invitation Cup Final, where it could yet be a copy of this evenings final with Cambridge City Ladies A meeting Newmarket Town Women Development in the other semi-final. As well as reaching the Invitation Cup Final, Histon are also into the last four of the ERWFL Plate competition.

Road the the Final

  Both Cambridge City Ladies and Histon Ladies receiving a bye in the 1st Round of this season’s Invitation Cup progressing to the 2nd Round/Quarter Finals. Cambridge City Ladies were drawn away to Premiership side March Town United Ladies a gap of 4 leagues between the pair. Karly Tolentino joining Cambridge City this season netting a hat-trick as the FAWNL won through to the semi-finals 8-0. Histon Ladies were at home taking on Cambridge Women’s Premiership side and amongst the early table toppers Leverington Sports Ladies a potentially tricky tie, goals from Sydney Graham, Poppy Kelly, Siobhan White and Alison Wright saw Histon safely through winning 4-1.

  Onto the semi-finals Cambridge City Ladies were drawn at home to ERWFL Division One North side, Newmarket Town Women. The tie hit by the recent storms eventually switched to Newmarket’s 3G playing surface to complete. Giving up home advantage not affecting Cambridge City, Tolentino on target for another goal along with one each for Charlotte Gillies, Freya Standing and Beatrice Fitzsimons returning from injury seeing them through 4-1 to this Wednesday’s final. Histon Ladies were away to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the semi-finals of the competition. The Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side taking the lead from the penalty spot on 17 minutes. Histon coming back to level the scores through Poppy Kelly in the 44th minute went 2-1 up on the stroke of half-time as Kelly fired home her 2nd of the game. Fulbourn coming back to level it at 2-2 on the hour. Histon retaking the lead from a corner in the 69th minute Lauren Martin heading in at the near post. The cup final spot secured in the final minute Kelly clipped inside the box, Alison Wright putting the ball into the back of the net.

  A special occasion for both sides this evening getting to play at The Abbey Stadium the main stand open. hot food and drink available. A good crowd building. The pitch in good shape offering plenty of width the surface slickened up as rain began to fall and hour of so before kick-off falling lightly under the floodlights as the two sides were lead out onto the pitch by referee Stacey Fullicks. 

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Ceri Flye, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Freya Standing, Laura Mills & Karly Tolentino. Subs – Becky Langthorpe, Beatrice Fitzsimons & Shannon Shaw.

Histon Ladies

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Eleanor Morgan Abby Laughlin, Georgia Huse, Amie Flack, Tessa Shaw, Sophie Lanham (C), Alison Wright, Lauren Martin, Abi Davies, Kirsty Geal & Poppy Kelly. Subs- Kaya Haq, Rebekah Fisk, Sophie Lanham, Tara Fitzjohn & Siobhan White.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Cambridge City to get this season’s Invitation Cup Final underway kicking of 1st half, wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Histon opposite lined up wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball played back to the defence captain Becca Fay sending it out to the right Charlotte Gillies on the flank bursting forwards, Georgie Huse in to defend for Histon the ball out for a throw. Cambridge quickly into their stride the ball out to the wings Gillies right and Freya Standing left looking to get on.

 Cambridge come right a throw won high up the pitch working down the line the cross into the box cleared straight to Laura Mills positioned inside the D, free opts to thread the ball low into the six yard box rather than take a strike herself, Amie Flack cutting it out clearing for Histon. Cambridge win the ball back central out to Gillies right down the line pace a cross whipped in near post Mills with the run, Histon goalkeeper, Eleanor Morgan in ahead of her to gather. 

Barely 3 minutes on the clock Histon on the back foot played the ball to their right, Lauren Tomlinson at left back winning it for Cambridge sending the ball on for Standing who has Karly Tolentino making a great run into the channel ahead of her, taking the ball on into the box Tolentino strikes it well from close range rising evades Morgan smashed into the top of the post beyond. Relentless from Cambridge as they win a corner left side the ball coming in low near post Morgan forwards taking it cleanly in her gloves despite a Cambridge attack lunging in in front of her.

Cambridge City Ladies, Freya Standing with Histon’s Abby Laughlin

  Histon need to get hold of the ball in the middle, Alison Wright does just that the ball played high into the box, Cambridge goalkeeper Dominika Szary catching it high under pressure from her left. Cambridge with the ball in the net on 6 minutes as Mills comes away with it on the right side fires in a low cross for Tolentino breaking on to the near post sides foots in across the keeper, but won’t count the flag up against her for offside.

  Cambridge moving the ball quickly Hannah Bodily to Sofia Castiglione in the middle of the park out to Standing on the left, jinks inside but is tackled by Histon’s Abby Laughlin. Played into the middle captain Sophie Lanham on for Wright looks to thread it between the Cambridge centre backs with Poppy Kelly breaking in behind, however Szary is quickly out of her area to sen the ball up field. A free-kick for Cambridge on the left Tomlinson to delivery sent in towards the top of the area, cleared by Histon looking to break sent out to the left wing Kirsty Geal looking to get hold of it take on the full back, Cambridge’s Amy Reed though with a good tackle to halt the advance. 

 Cambridge getting joy in the wings Gillies getting forwards on the right a corner kick won, players up from the back the ball sent in high near post Morgan getting a touch behind for a 2nd corner, this one short up the line to Bodily floats the ball into the six yard box, Morgan rising well to claim the ball. Lauren Martin onto the ball central for Histon releases Kelly in attack right channel in turn out to Abi Davies high on the wing, Histon getting a throw near the corner flag, Wright up towards the edge of the box to receive the ball down into her feet holding off her marker well turns to put in a cross near post Kelly in close meeting it sends her shot up over the bar.

  Reed bringing the ball on right side for Cambridge, played on into Gillies takes on the first time strike on the angle, Morgan down throwing herself into the dive to push the ball behind for a corner kick. The corner taken short again the ball lifted in towards the far post Davies up well to defend for Histon. Play end to end suddenly Histon coming on the pass finding Davies racing on right side her diagonal ball aimed into Kelly’s path, Szary racing out to the edge of her area to launch up field turns into a fantastic ball with Gillies running in behind surges on with the ball into the box, Huse with a great last ditch challenge sliding in to take the ball away. 

  Tolentino making some fantastic runs up top in attack for Cambridge, not staying on any single Histon defender hard to track gets on the move left to right towards the near side as Gillies gets hold of the ball right wing sends her in on goal gets her shot off early beating Morgan coming to close the angle the shot though narrowly wide across goal. Tomlinson making a strong tackle for Cambridge getting hold of the ball put down the left a throw won high, Tomlinson forwards to take has a long throw in her armoury put onto Tolentino’s chest inside the area brought down well.

  GOAL! 22 minutes played and Cambridge take the lead, Tolentino with a powerful run into the box left of goal half a yard clear, Tessa Shaw sliding in to make the challenge gets some of the ball but more of Tolentino as she attempts to close in on goal, the referee pointing to the spot. Shaw yellow carded. Tolentino picking herself up to take it struck well low and hard into the bottom left corner 1-0.

Karly Tolentino opening the scoring from the penalty spot for Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge piling forwards Tolentino lively up top all over the place Morgan exposed as she runs out to the ball right side, can’t pick up edge of the box, Gillies closing in taking the ball past her, Huse getting back to make the challenge clear the threat for Histon. Tolentino moves away to the left Tomlinson on the ball forwards for Standing into Tolentino she goes on towards the area twisting and turning on the ball before getting a high cross away into the six yard box, Huse with a strong header the clear not perturbed by Gillies in close attention. 

 Cambridge very close to being awarded a 2nd penalty the foul mere inches from being inside the box, Tolentino clipped the set-piece left of the D, Castiglione on it a curling shot clearing the wall an excellent save from Morgan back on her goal line tipping it over the bar. Morgan saving well from the resulting corner.

Histon goalkeeper Eleanor Morgan tipping Sofia Castiglione’s free-kick over the bar

 GOAL! Cambridge double their lead with the half hour fast approaching Histon trying to get on up the left the ball lost put down the line into Mills breaking in behind to fizz in a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Histon cut out but don’t clear, Tolentino latching onto the ball shifts it inside to give herself room and blasts it in from close range for her 2nd of the game 2-0.

Karly Tolentino with 2 goals in this evening’s Invitation Cup Final

  Martin does well in midfield for Histon closing in well to take the ball on Davies available to her left squares it in field to Wright 25 yards out central closed down quickly by Castiglione who ends up being awarded the free-kick. Laughlin doing well at the back getting across Standing inside the box left to shield he ball back to Morgan. Playing the ball out from the back Shaw onto Lanham, Histon’s captain aims her pass for Kelly in attack moving left to right, Fay intercepting for Cambridge setting up a quick counter attack. Wright pushing on a bit now from midfield to support the attack for Histon plays it left to Geal is tackled well by Reed. 

 Cambridge quick to turn play around all through the first half get the ball on deep over the top for Tolentino clear left side her cross field ball into the box aimed towards Mills coming in far post, Huse defending for Histon. Davies on the ball right side for Histon travels up the wing cutting infield past Tomlinson towards the box runs onto Ceri Flye the Cambridge centre back winning the ball. Histon able to come on better in the latter stages of the first half Cambridge dealing well at the back won inside the D the ball sent forwards quickly Tolentino available for the pass moving left brings it under control races forwards comes inside travelling across the top of the Histon area, not challenged into the D strikes the shot the ball whipping up over the crossbar.

Histon’s Abi Davies with Cambridge’s Lauren Tomlinson

  Histon chances rare can’t get the ball to stick up top Kelly making some good runs but Geal and Davies are being checked well by Tomlinson and Reed at the back for Cambridge. Wright coming from the middle looking the most likely to make something happen. Risk being hit on the counter Cambridge playing the ball on into Mills central out wide left to Standing gets to the by-line whipping in a cross rising near post Tolentino there attempts to flick it of her boot wide of the keeper but puts it straight into Morgan’s gloves. 

  Late into the 1st half and Szary is called into action to make a save for Cambridge Histon getting hold of the ball in the final 3rd from a goalkick, Wright getting a shot away from around 25 yards left of the D hit low with pace Szary down well to her left to get herself behind the ball. Cambridge bring the ball forwards creating another opportunity late in the half put on down the right into Mills sends it diagonally into the box for Standing forwards left side bearing forwards is closed down by Laughlin and Flack to block the shot. 

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-0 Histon Ladies

  The half-time whistle blows and Cambridge head into the changing room’s under the mainstand leading the Invitation Cup Final 2-0. On top right from the start their pace a movement causing Histon problem’s especially down the wings Standing and Gillies getting forwards at will along with Tolentino through the middle has drifted left and right finding space to exploit. Numerous chances before opening the scoring could be out of sight but for Morgan making a couple of vital saves for Histon, their chances few and far between but at 2 nil are far from out of it need an improved performance 2nd half but the risk is as they search for a reply further gaps open at the back mustn’t concede early you feel.

Sophie Lanham heading the ball clear for Histon Ladies

A triple change for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half, Becky Langthorpe on to replace Reed at the back, Beatrice Fitzsimons on for Castiglione along with Shannon Shaw going up to replacing Standing with Tolentino moving to the left. Histon to get the 2nd period underway go long straight from the off, the ball off target inside the box Szary out to get hold of the ball. A much quieter start to the 2nd half Histon looking to make progress right side the ball inside dealt with by Fay for Cambridge.

Cambridge City Ladies captain, Becca Fay

Cambridge break away on the left the ball rolled on for Mills to take into her stride carries it inside before firing a crossfield ball into the box picking out Gillies bursting forwards on the right hits her strike early the ball fizzing wide at the near post. 

GOAL! A blow for Histon 5 minutes into the 2nd half as they are caught on the break by Cambridge. Initially winning a free-kick players forwards as Flack delivers the ball in towards the top of the area Cambridge defend and get straight on the offensive Gillies in the clear on the right the ball fired into her takes it on into the Histon box near post closing in on the keeper shoots low pass Morgan in at the near post 3-0.

Charlotte Gillies bearing down on the Histon goal.

Histon respond making a triple change of their own and a formation change too switching to 3 at the back off come Laughlin, Huse and Shaw on to the field enter Kaya Haq, Sophie Hopkin and Siobhan White. Wright into the defence along side Davies and Flack. A good response from Histon to going 3 down get forwards right side a throw won high up the pitch the ball crossed into the box, Kelly wriggling free inside the box gets a shot away puts it straight at Szary the keeper claiming. Kelly with another attempt moments later from 25 yards out as Histon quickly regain position in the middle the shot though finds Szary back on her line. 

Histon’s Tessa Shaw tackling Cambridge’s Beatrice Fitzsimons

 Davies keeping close tabs on Tolentino out wide she manages to squeeze the ball into Mills central, Shaw providing the run through the middle in behind, the pass put forwards too much on it Morgan able to advance off her line and collect. Martin lays it forwards for Hopkin has White to her right feeds the ball into her, Tomlinson in well to regain possession for Cambridge. Winning a corner on the left taken short up the line once more the cross sent in from deep, Morgan rising well at her near post to catch. 

  Histon getting forwards better now though the middle quickly players forwards to support Kelly in attack the striker put through into the box left of goal her shot charged down by Flye the deflection coming straight to Hopkin positioned top of the D lines up a shot fired in a deflection sending it wide of the post. Lanham in to win the ball in the centre circle pushes it into Hopkin 25 yards out goes to shoot Flye closing her down putting in the block. Histon looking sharper now but as they come forward risk being hit on the counter more. 

Ceri Flye tackling to win the ball back for Cambridge City

 Geal coming forwards left side finds some space as White plays the crossfield pass into her goes on down the line, Langthorpe recovering well to get back on her lung in to make the tackle. Haq defending against Gillies right side as she gathers the ball and charges on. 

GOAL! The final 20 minutes fast approaching and Cambridge get on the scoresheet wit a 4th goal Mills onto the ball out right side playing it in across goal, Shaw closing in central can’t quite get it on the volley as she ends up off the pitch past the right post, wanders back on as Tolentino gathers left side does well to beat a couple of players wriggle free to fizz it back across goal Shaw there unmarked to put into the empty net as it evades Morgan covering the angle 4-0.

 Histon come forwards Geal clear left side the pass into her feet plays it inside for Kelly 20 yards out takes aim her shot dropping wide of goal. Histon make another change Rebekah Fisk on for Lanham. Good work between Hopkin, Martin and Geal left side for Histon coming forwards the pass into Kelly, Cambridge defending top of the area. Geal coming off as Histon send on Tara Fitzjohn with 10 minutes to play.

GOAL! Cambridge win the ball in the middle rolled on for Gillies right holds it up her touch bringing her inside, Mills racing into the space vacated on the wing Gillies playing her in she puts in an early cross, Flack in to clear the ball taking an unfortunate deflection off Wright sending Shaw running clear into the area to place the ball wide of the keeper 5-0.

GOAL! A sixth goal coming soon after, Tolentino and Tomlinson combining out on the left Cambridge closing down the ball well, pushed up Flye onto it playing a fantastic through ball low along the ground for Mills central top of the area t break through onto goal and put her shot to the keeper right into the corner of the net 6-0.

  Mills with plenty of pace late on plays the ball to Standing back on on the right for Gillies, Haq closing her down putting the ball out for a corner. Tolentino coming off Gillies back on. The corner headed up at the near post across the six yard box cleared far side straight to Castiglione top of the D strikes it back in finds it’s way through on target skipping up off the surface but Szary right behind it. Another corner for Cambridge left side taken short up the line before the cross is flung into the box, knocked down straight to a Cambridge player the shot fired wide. 

 Into added time Cambridge finishing strong Mills coming onto the ball left side 25 out turns inside her marker to get a shot away the ball racing wide out at the far post. The final whistle blows and Cambridge City Ladies win this season’s Invitation Cup Final.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 6-0 Histon Ladies

   Cambridge with a god start to the match on the front foot from the off chances created Standing and Gillies getting free on the flanks Tolentino through the middle leading the attack well. Histon not getting much joy in attack themselves finding themselves 2-0 down at the break. Cambridge getting into a 3-0 lead early in the 2nd half Histon made changes to personnel and formation bringing them more joy in the final third, Cambridge though a constant danger on the counter attack defending well. A 4th goal sealing the victory with 20 minutes left 2 late goals making the result comfortable. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A few to mention Cambridge featuring Charlotte Gillies getting on well right side always available. Laura Mills with some fantastic runs too. Lauren Tomlinson superb at the back with a fantastic performance, edging it for myself however is attacker Karly Tolentino played brilliantly especially in the first half her runs well timed a real threat Histon struggled to cope with winning and scoring the penalty and putting Cambridge into a 2 goal lead going a long way to securing the cup.

Cambridge City Ladies 2019/20 Invitation Cup Winners

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

An enjoyable trip to The Abbey Stadium, a good atmosphere, an entertaining final, my thanks to Cambridgeshire FA for the hospitality in particular Chris Abbott and to both teams for getting those all important team details and to Gary Reed for to photo’s does a fantastic job helping to promote the game. One final down plenty more to come. 

 

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The weather once again affecting the fixtures in the Beds & Herts women’s football league games called off in all three divisions alot of work put in to get other played however with sides trying to switch Garston Ladies Vintage Purples, Sherrardswood Ladies and Buntingford Town Ladies all originally at home travelling to their opponents. 

 Starting with the action form Division One this Sunday and a win for 2nd placed St Albans Ladies would see them return to the top of the table on goal difference over Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. Were hosting 3rd placed Northwood Ladies who themselves needed a positive result to keep up the pressure on the top 2 a high scoring contest won by the odd goal in 9! Northwood’s last league action way back at the start of the year. St Albans with an early goal Jessica McNamara scoring. Kayla Johnson scoring on the hour added a 2nd goal late in injury time with top scorer Eleanor Lovelock firing in her 26th goal of the season with 7 minutes to play. Not enough for St Albans to take anything from the match however as Northwood performed well as a team to take home all 3 points, Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick goes to 11 for the season whilst there was another brace for top scorer Emma Steele who has 26 now for the season. Northwood winning 5-4.

Garston Ladies 1st team also in the mix in the top 4 as they keep level on points with Northwood both now 2 points back from St Albans as they won at home this weekend against Hitchin Belles who claimed their first league win in Division One last weekend. Garston in good form in the league winning 4 in a row coming into Sunday’s fixture, Hitchin buoyed off the back of their victory the pair drawing 1-1 at the break, Bonnita Woodward with her first goal of the season for Hitchin Belles. Garston starting the 2nd half well taking the lead 10 minutes in going on to score a 2nd quickly 3-1 up added a 4th to make it 5 wins league wins in a row 6 if including their cup win. Paige Andrews with a brace her first goals of the season their was a goal each too for Cassandra Chase and Hayley Carr.

A good start to the season in Division One for Hitchin Town Ladies newly promoted to the league a run of losses against the top 3 sides seeing them slip down the table, arrested that run against local rivals Hitchin Belles were on the road this weekend taking on 5th place Hartham United Ladies a positive result would see them leap frog them back into the top half of the table. Hitchin Town taking the lead 1st half through their captain Emma Chaffey with a great strike from the edge of the box to find the bottom corner. The visitors going on to take a 2-0 lead into half-time a long ball on finding Chaffey through on goal to chip the onrushing goalkeeper. Chaffey doubling her tally for the season in the 2nd half Hitchin Town awarded a penalty the spot kick sent home to see Hitchin Town move back to 5th winning 3-0.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Two games surviving in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two both seeing a switch of venue, Garston Ladies Vintage Purples now away to 4th placed Langford Ladies. Emma Trill in great goal scoring form for Garston in recent games set up unselfishly by Lucy Zecchin through on goal with only the keeper to beat put in Trill to send home. 1-0 Garston had their backs to the wall as Langford pressed for an equaliser, Trill in a again through to beat the keeper to the ball to score her 2nd and 18th goal of the season seeing Garston leading 2-0. Langford pulling a goal back just before the half-time whistle. Langford strong at the start of the 2nd half Garston working hard to try and defend their lead Langford strong on the counter attack coming back to level the scores a 30 yard run leading to a 2nd goal. Garston put everything into defending the point glad when the final whistle blew. 2-2 the final score Tabitha Brown and Chloe Scott with the goals for Langford.

Sherrardswood Ladies now away to Evergreen Ladies this Sunday. Evergreen’s first game for 4 weeks, have had some eventful games with Sherrardswood already this season. A good first half from Evergreen however they found themselves trailing 1 nil at the break as a Sherrardswood fired a low cross into the box resulting on the opening goal in the 38th minute Melissa Wright with her first goal of the season. Evergreen starting the 2nd half well getting the ball up and around the Sherrardswood penalty box were awarded a penalty for handball in the 53rd minute captain Rebecca Freeman putting it away to score her 8th goal of the season. 1-1 Evergreen went on to find the winning goal with 15 minutes left on the clock a ball over the top saw Natalie Maher through to make it 2-1 and secure the 3 points.

Evergreen Ladies winning 2-1 at the weekend (photo credit Evergreen Ladies – Facebook)

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two matches also in Division Three this weekend, 3 points awarded to leaders Herts Vipers already with scheduled opponents Stotfold Juniors unable to field a side. Herts Vipers getting another league game sorted this time against 3rd placed Harvesters Ladies as they look to keep their 100% record going. The pair neck and neck at the top of the table in the first part of the season. Top scorer Nicole Jancey getting Herts Vipers into the lead inside 10 minutes after Rachel Wall had intercepted the ball. That the advantage going into the break, Jancey having a brilliant season in front of goal her first half strike her 49th of the season just 10 minutes into the 2nd half she was celebrating her 2nd and more significantly 50th goal of the season, these coming from just 16 appearances. Tazmin Symonds-Bishop ensuring the win with 20 minutes left the ball put to her six yards out to score. 

Congratulations to Herts Vipers striker Nicole Jancey on reaching 50 goals this season (photo credit Herts Vipers)

A significant result too at the bottom of Division Three at the weekend as Buntingford Town Ladies win for just the 2nd time this season another side reversing their fixture now away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies. The pair fairly even in the first half both scoring, Flitwick through Brittany Holdsworth to see them level at 1 each. Buntingford having the better of the first half as they went on to take the lead and score another 3 to win the game 5-2. Sammy Beharry on target with Flitwick’s 2nd goal with 10 minutes to play, Buntingford off the foot of the table with the 3 points.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Another weekend of disruption across the county leagues with heavy rain falling at the start of the weekend leaving pitches waterlogged 3 games affected in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership leaving just the two on. Leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies on 3G , 5 points clear at the top as they hosted Leverington Sports Ladies in 4th. Haverhill starting the game well winning a series of corner kicks capitalising from one to take the lead. Leverington keeping solid at the back preventing any further goals as they got themselves back into the game trailing 1-0 at the break the visitors coming back to level the scores top scorer Sophie Swinden twisting and turning at the top of the box before shooting to net her 20th goal of the season. Five minute later Leverington were in the lead Savanna Plavecz playing Chloe Stanborough in to beat the keeper. Haverhill’s turn to press on in attack winning more corner the game entering the final 10 minutes the hosts coming back to level the ball in initially saved the keeper falling the ball loose scrambled over the line. Leverington poured forwards in the closing minutes Stanborough in again rounding a defender to send the ball into the bottom corner to score the winning goal. Leverington stay 4th but move level on points with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves. Haverhill losing for the 2nd time this season their goalscorers Joeli Kirby and Julie Brown.

ICA Sports Ladies 3rd in the Premiership table going into the weekend took full advantage of 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves match being called off to win the 3 points on the road and move above them in the table closing the gap to leaders Haverhill to 4 points. Were taking on Cambridge City Ladies A, some good football on show by both sides ICA Sports coming out on top with Hannah Murphy netting a hat-trick taking her onto 9 for the season. Lorna Hart getting on the scoresheet too with a brace. Also goal too for Donna Nicholls seeing her join top scorer Annie Posnett on 10 goals ICA Sports winning 6-1. 

A hat-trick on Sunday for ICA Sports Ladies, Hannah Murphy

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup

The first of this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup semi-finals played this weekend. Not wanting to be beaten by the weather the game switched onto 3G at Cambourne Sports Centre kicking off at 3pm, Histon’s Reserve side hoping to make it a cup final double for the club by matching the first team who will be playing in this season’s senior Invitation Cup final against Cambridge City at The Abbey Stadium this Wednesday evening. Both sides struggling for points in their respective leagues a cup final to play for Swavesey Spartans have saved their best form for the cups this season. Scored through Stacey Askew, proving a tough test for Histon the pair drawing 1-1 at the finish with Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes getting the goal the semi-final going to penalties, Histon edging the shoot-out 6-5 to book their spot in the final. Histon’s opponents will be either Cambridge City Ladies A or Newmarket Town Women Development the pair contesting their semi-final this coming Sunday.

Histon Ladies Reserves through to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup final (photo credit Histon Ladies Reserves)

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Four matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend, and a huge game at the top of the table with leaders Cambridge Rangers Women hosting 3rd placed Pinchbeck United Ladies. Cambridge Rangers with a long winning run topping the table ended by Park Ladies at the end of January. Just the one loss so far hosting Pinchbeck who themselves as the only 100% winning side left. games on hand can close Cambridge Rangers down these crucial games, Cambridge Rangers pushing Pinchbeck all the way scoring twice with Robyn Barlow and Laura Kelly on target, Pinchbeck themselves scoring twice the scores 2-2 late in the game the visitors nicking the win late on taking it 3-2 to extend their 100% run to 12 games stay two points behind 2nd placed Mildenhall, 6 points behind Cambridge Rangers with 4 games in hand. Pinchbeck’s three goals scored by Holly Coupland, Chloe Gray and Libby Friel with her 12th of the season.

Mildenhall Town Ladies remain 2nd in the Championship table as they won at home this weekend against Cambourne United Women. Two goals in the 2nd half from top scorer Katie Hayes her 20th and 21st strikes of the season seeing Mildenhall come back from trailing 2-1 at half-time to win the game 3-2 after Emily Arnold and Abby Cotten had give Cambourne the lead at the break.

Mildenhall Town Ladies beating Cambourne 3-2 at the weekend (photo credit Mildenhall Town Ladies)

 Park Ladies fine run of form continued this Sunday as they extended their winning streak in the league to 9 matches, up to 4th in the Championship just 3 points of 2nd placed Mildenhall with a game in hand. Were away to Deeping United Ladies this weekend, a 2-1 win for Park in the reverse fixture back in mid-December at the start of their winning run. Goalless in the first half Deeping pressing Park hard had to work for their win eventually coming out on top in the 2nd period scoring twice to claim the 3 points with both goals score by Georgia Payne giving her 9 got the season.

Cardea Ladies were also in action this Sunday in the Championship at home to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Frustrating results for Cardea in their previous two games taking early leads before going on to lose 7-3 & &-4 respectfully. Emma Frost getting her first goal for the club to fire Cardea into the lead in the 11th minute. Anna Langa quickly adding a 2nd. Cardea going on to dominate the first half adding a further 4 goals with Nicola Anderson, Courtney Coles, Frost with her 2nd and captain Laura Rudd scoring. The goals kept coming 2nd half Rudd on the hour making it 7-0. Langa with 15 minutes left adding her 2nd the last ten minutes seeing a flurry of goals. Coles and Anderson with another goal each, Langa completing her hat-trick adding a 4th goal her 12th of the season as Cardea ran out 13-0 winners.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Plenty of action around Norfolk this weekend the only county not to be affected by the wet weather at the end of the week all 9 games listed getting played. 4 games in Division One and 13 is not an unlucky number for Thorpe United Ladies as they extended their 100% record to 13 matches at the top of the table to stay 9 points clear of the sides below. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Thorpe with captain Rebekah Lake leading the attack scoring plenty of goals easy to overlook they have the tightest defence in the league too conceding just 6 goals so far this season. Lake on hand to fire in another 2 goal this weekend taking her to 39 for the season ran out comfortable winners in the finish 9-1. Sophie Jermy also netting a brace. Midfielder’s Alice Ladbrooke and Laura Hedtke forming a good partnership in the middle of the park this season both on the scoresheet at the weekend with their 8th goals of the season. Aneliese Smith and Natasha Levesley both scoring a goal each too along with Kelly Conroy in her 1st team debut. Rebecca Carver with the goal for Wymondham.

With Sprowston Ladies playing in the League Cup this weekend Bungay Town Ladies had the opportunity to move 3 points clear into 2nd spot in Division One as they travelled to play Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts with just the bare 11 available. Bungay themselves scoring goals this season whilst keeping it tight at the back just the one loss so far this season that a narrow defeat against Thorpe. Goals spread amongst the side too, Selina Rowland staying a goal ahead as top scorer with one at the weekend has 14 now for the season, Leanne Smith one behind on 13 also scoring a goal. Shannon Dade also celebrating a goal whilst their was a brace for Lauren Purling who has 6 goals now from 7 appearances. Bungay winning the game 5-1, now 9 points behind Thorpe with 2 games in hand, their next match at home to Thorpe this coming Sunday! Rebecca White getting the Thetford goal.

Tavern Ladies another side amongst the goals this season 4th in Division One make the trip to Clipbush Park this Sunday to face Fakenham Town Ladies for the 4th time this season. Beating them 3 times so far in league a cup (twice). Fakenham up against it this weekend with just the bare 11 battled hard in defence Tavern carrying a threat form midfield Atlanta Griffith on target twice to score taking her to 15 for the season with Sophie Fuller back in the side also scoring a goal to see Tavern win 3-0.

A tough season so far in Division One for Freethorpe Ladies bottom with just the one point so far this season from 13 played adrift at the foot of the table where hosting 2nd bottom Taverham United Ladies at the weekend, keep plugging away Lily-Ann Marples on the scoresheet for her first goal for Freethorpe seeing them drawing with Taverham 1-1 at half-time. Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham. Winning Division Two last season in their debut season in women’s football Taverham finding it tougher in Division One, not scoring the goals that won them the title the pair sharing the points in the finish neither adding another goal. Freethorpe celebrating a 2nd hard won point. Incredibly tight in the bottom half of the table Taverham if they can find them are just 2 wins away from a mid-table position.

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

 Postponed from last weekend Long Stratton Women were hosting Sprowston Ladies this weekend in the semi-final of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, both knowing they will be facing Thorpe United Ladies in the final after they beat Tavern Ladies 4-0 last weekend. Sprowston the current League Cup holders have Victoria Leyer leading their attack prolific in front of goal this season vying with Thorpe’s Rebekah Lake for the golden boot (or whatever the equivalent is in Norfolk) Long Stratton giving it a go have goals in them themselves the first half ending all square with both sides scoring twice, Charlie Head and Summer Moore for Long Stratton. Sprowston coming out on top in the 2nd period taking the lead and going on to add a 2nd goal to reach the final once again with a 4-2 victory, Leyer putting the ball into the back of the net for another hat-trick taking her to 33 goals for the season with Hannah Roe on target for her first goal of the season.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Four games too this Sunday played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. League leaders Stalham Town Ladies 4 points clear at the top losing just once so far this season were back in action for the first time since Jan 12th hosting 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies. No signs of rust as Stalham ran out comfortable winners in the finish. Amber Mayhew amongst the goals this season on target for a hat-trick to go onto 19 for the season from 12 appearances. A hat-trick to for Emma Gillespie who has 8 for the campaign now. Stalham winning 7-1 with the other goal coming from Charlotte Crane her first of the season. Molly Howes scoring the goal for Thorpe.

Beccles Town Ladies looking to chase Stalham down at the top stay 4 points behind with 2 games in hand as they themselves won convincingly away to North Walsham on Sunday. Beccles last game also back in 12th Jan. Have Francesca Catchpole back in their side after recovering from a nasty knee injury that had her out long term she was on target to score a hat-trick on Sunday her return now 12 goals from just 4 appearances. Lola Barber-King holding onto the top scorers position at the moment getting on the scoresheet too with her 15th goal of the season. Beccles running out 8-2 winners with 4 more names on the scoresheet, Elisha Bower, Francesca Heaney, Lucy Robbens and Beth Owen. Keira Brown and Sophie Hall scoring the North Walsham goals.

Waveney Ladies climb back above Thorpe United Ladies Reserves on goal difference as they won away from home on Sunday to 2nd bottom side Red Rose Ladies. The damage done in the first half a comfortable lead for Waveney went on to add another goal 2nd half to win the game 5-0 to come away with the 3 points.

  Is a 3 way tie on 19 points now in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with 5th placed Horsford Women matching Thorpe United Reserves and Waveney’s points total as they extended their winning run to 3 matches 10 points from their last 4 overall Were hosting bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this weekend First half goals from Natalie Roope and Amanda Vincent helping Horsford to a 2-0 victory.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL Premier Division

Four games beating the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday. Luton Town Ladies 3rd in the table going into the weekend hosting 3rd fro bottom St Ives Town Ladies. Luton with a fantastic gesture offering all gate money plus more to a charity of choice in memory of St Ives player Charlene Martin who was laid to rest earlier in the week after losing her battle with bowel cancer. An emotional period for St Ives. 

Luton with an opportunity to climb above Peterborough Northern Star into 2nd spot in the table starting well taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Funmi Babalola on target to score her 10th goal of the season. St Ives goalkeeper Kira Markwell with a couple of fine saves to keep Luton from adding to their tally, the host though getting a 2nd goal at the close of the first half Jess McKay on the end of a Zara Carroll free-kick to put the ball away for her 17th goal of the season. St Ives coming out 2nd half looking to pull a goal back neither side with any clear cut chances the game heading into the final 15 minutes, Markwell again saving well. Luton with a corner kick on 79 minutes the ball put into the area by Erica Byron, Leyah Maddix getting onto the end of it to score her first goal and see Luton win the game 3-0. Move up to 2nd six points behind leaders Harlow with a game in hand and a game at home to Harlow to come.

Fourth placed Bedford Ladies made the short journey to play Bedfordshire rivals AFC Dunstable Women at the weekend. Bottom of the table Dunstable rebuilding their side looking to give it a go as they attempt to avoid relegation just 2 points on the board so far this season, Bedford in good form recently getting off to a fantastic start Maya Sidhu putting them into the lead inside 2 minutes. Bex Cray with a couple of early chances too for Bedford one striking the post, Dunstable coming back to level early though 1-1 inside 10 minutes a shot striking the crossbar put away on the follow-up. The hosts going on to take the lead in the 18th minute Nina Regolo with a fine save conceding a corner Dunstable capitalising on the set-piece making it 2-1. Bedford’s turn to come back into it midway through the half, defender Gemma Franklin with the pass out to Sidhu on the right she in turn putting it across for Natasha Fensome to send home 2-2.

  Bedford retaking the lead with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Fensome playing in Setor Acolatse with the header saved but pouncing on the loose ball to score 3-2 up Dunstable with a quick response the scores levelled for the 3rd time in the match again from a corner. The scores all square at the break the game played in windy conditions. Both keepers called into action saving in the 2nd half as both sides pushed on looking for another goal Dunstable fighting getting their noses back in front with 15 minutes left, Regolo saving with her legs as cross put in from the flanks, the ball loose Dunstable quickest to it the shot deflected and in. Dunstable coming so close to recording their first league win of the season the game deep into stoppage time Bedford finding an equaliser in the 95th minute, good work on the ball by captain Priya Bhatti on the left the ball put on for Fensome to strike of the volley to see it finish 4-4! The point enough to take Dunstable off the foot of the Premier Division table their goals scored by Sasha Manders, Jodi McClelland, Danielle Snowden and Chelsea Jeffery.

Haringey Borough Women themselves without a win this season now bottom on goal difference as they missed out on their first win of the season after a late fight back and last gasp winner from hosts Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. Travelling with the bare 11 Haringey fought well getting themselves into the lead. 15 minutes to go and Colney Heath drew level Charlene Moreton scoring on the volley. Christina Freestone scoring the winning goal with a fine strike with what proved to be the last kick of the game.

Another high scoring encounter at the weekend between Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies. Wymondham making the long journey down Essex, neither side with any clear cut chances in the opening 15 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking the lead in the 21st minute awarded a free-kick put away by Megan Harley, her 13th goal of the season. Wymondham coming straight back to level the scores Mollie O’Callaghan lobbing the keeper to make it 1-1. Chances for both after that Georgia Fraser striking the bar, Wymondham straight up the other end to take the lead Hannah Water setting up Freya Symonds to round the defence and score. Wymondham leading 2-1 at the break.

Wymondham Town Ladies midfielder, Mollie O’Callaghan

 A great start to the 2nd half by Wymondham, extending their lead in the 57th minute Chelsea Clarke with the pass for Waters to shoot past the keeper. 3 minutes later Wymondham were 4-1 ahead Waters with her 2nd of the match O’Callaghan with the assist. Bowers & Pitsea pulling it back to 4-2 with a little over 15 minutes to play, Courtney Fraser with a great strike from outside the box to find the top corner. Wymondham straight back to restore their 3 goal cushion Symonds away on the right a dangerous ball into the six yard box turned into their own net by the Bowers & Pitsea defence. The game moving into stoppage time O’Callaghan with the free-kick, Mia Etheridge rising to head the ball in to make it 6-2. Georgia Fraser getting a goal in the closing moments for Bowers & Pitsea to see it end 6-3.

ERWFL Plate

A County Cup final appearance for Histon Ladies in midweek, they were in Cup action too at the weekend in the last of the ERWFL Plate quarter finals away to East Bergholt United Ladies. Not much between the sides in the first half going in at 0-0 Histon with the better chances. The 2nd period following a similar pattern Histon eventually getting their noses in front with 20 minutes left to play Alison Wright with the header at the near post initially blocked finding it’s way over the line. The win sealed in added time with captain Sophie Lanham chipping the keeper to see Histon take it 2-0.

Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies Development

North ERWFL Division One North

Two games played in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend whilst a three games were lost in Division One South on Sunday, it was to one of these Women’s Football East headed too, 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies making the switch to 3G to avoid a 3rd weekend without a game were taking on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. The visitor finding life tough having made the step up to regional football this season without a point on the board and new it would be a tough ask today against a full strength King’s Lynn side as they travelled with the bare 11 several players missing, players carrying knocks and out of position. King’s Lynn were straight on the front foot creating chances Brianne Dyer busy in the Gorleston goal, Rachel Skinner from a tight angle wide on the right opening the scoring her ball in across goal finding the far corner. Nikita Morris doubling the lead after captain Becky Russell’s shot from the top of the box was blocked latching onto the ball near post to turn and smash high into the net. Emma Corbyn seeing King’s Lynn into a 3 goal lead putting in a Russell cross at the near post. Gorleston with little opportunity to get forwards in attack player manager Sophie Gillett with a tremendous strike on the half volley from 25 yards out getting it back to 3-1. King’s Lynn straight back up the other end to make it 4-1 before half-time a double save from Dyer in vain as Millie Hopkisson closing it scores from close range at the near post. 

King’s Lynn always looking to get forwards against Gorleston on Sunday

  4-1 up at half-time King’s Lynn ran riot in the 2nd period racking up the goals as they closed to gap at the top to a point on leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development. Getting off t a fantastic start a hammer blow for Gorleston scoring two quickfire goals Hopkisson and then Corbyn with their 2nd goals each. Corbyn with another effort ruled out for offside. The goals kept on coming Zara O’Neill on in the 2nd half to make her King’s Lynn debut with a great run into the box to get her first goal. A frustrating game for attacker Tiffany Forshaw a host of missed chances 1st half got off the mark to fire King’s Lynn into an 8-1 lead. Both she and O’Neill would go in to score 4 goals each as Gorleston tired, Becky Russell also on the score sheet scoring from a corner kick to see the game finish 15-1. The full match report available further down the page.

Tiffany Forshaw on the scoresheet for King’s Lynn early in the 2nd half going on to score 4.

Zara O’Neill with 4 goals on her debut for King’s Lynn

  Also in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday it was another Suffolk derby match with Needham Market Women up to 3rd in the league away to AFC Sudbury Women. This game a tale of two halves Sudbury with some excellent play in the first half Needham Market not at their best the hosts though unable to breach their opponents defence both keepers making crucial saves saw it goalless at the break. Needham Market dug deep improving in the 2nd period the break through coming in the 70th minute Amber Sparkes setting up Nia Evans controlling the ball before smashing it into the top corner. The 3 points sealed 2 minutes from time with Sparkes striking to find the top corner. Needham Market winning 2-0 are now 6 points behind leaders Cambridge City with a game in hand and have yet to play them 2 potentially huge matches back to back coming up at the end of the month, King’s Lynn will certainly be an interested observer.