Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Royston Town Women

Sunday 15th September

ERWFL Premier Division

A trip down into Hertfordshire this Sunday to watch a top of the table clash from the ERWFL Premier Division, early pacesetters, Royston Town Women with a 100% record from their opening 4 matches away to local rivals Stevenage FC Women 4th in the table.

 The ERWFL Premier Division representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid with promotion up to the FA Women’s National League (FAWNL) for the league champions. More often than not a competitive league featuring a healthy quota of playing talent the Premier Division is a strong league. Today’s match up a local derby, the clubs enjoying a good rivalry Stevenage enjoying a long period as the dominant club in the county winning county cup 5 times in that spell. Royston knocking them out of the competition last season going on to lift the county cup for the first time . Stevenage’s Development/U23s side winning the inaugural Hertfordshire Women’s Trophy.

Stevenage FC Women welcome back their captain, Lucy Webster after spending the previous season out through injury. Retain much of the squad from that season coming into the new campaign as they look to get back amongst the sides pushing at the top of the league. 3 new signings, goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves joins the club having previously been with Reading FC Women. Gemma Croucher once with Royston comes into the club having been part of the Real Bedford Ladies promotion and treble winning squad last season. Libby Monaghan joins Stevenage on a dual registration with Oxford United Women.

 Got off to a winning start at home on the opening day of the season against Enfield Town Ladies, Grace Brooks, Rebecca Edge, Lilia Dempsey and Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe on target in a 4-0 win. A narrow 1-0 defeat to Luton Town Ladies followed before Stevenage bounced back with a 6-2 victory at home to Cambridge City Women playing out a 2-2 with newly promoted Watford Ladies Development last weekend. A 3 way tie for top scorer after 4 matches with, Lilia Dempsey, Amy Makewell and Gemma Croucher with 3 each.

 Royston Town Women out of the traps flying this season with 4 wins from 4 to lead the ERWFL Premier Division table. Have been building on and off the pitch over the last few season’s as they look to be amongst those regularly challenging at the top of the table. Like Stevenage have picked up a couple of players from last seasons league champions Real Bedford, attacker, Neve Mayes and full back Amy Reed. Lucy Ford joins the club from St Albans City Women. Jodie Donley has useful experience playing for AFC Sudbury Women in the FAWNL last season, also joining from Sudbury, goalkeeper, Millie Carter on a season long loan. Tilly Want is another goalkeeper coming to the club from MK Dons Women. With Katie Hayes impressing for Newmarket Town Women last season joining Royston keen to test herself at a higher level. 

  Royston Town Women at home on the opening day up against a Luton Town Ladies sides that themselves will fancy themselves for the title. A hat-trick from last season’s top scorer, Emma Slater the difference as Royston ran out 3-2 winners. Racked up the goals in their 2nd game of the season Neve Mayes netting 4 in a 10-0 demolition of Cambridge City Women. A 2-0 win at home to Watford Ladies Development followed that with another good result away from home last time out beating St Albans City Women 4-2. Emma Slater already on  for the season after just 4 matches, while Neve Mayes has 5.

 The County Ground in Letchworth the venue for this afternoon’s match. The Hertfordshire FA headquarter nestled in one corner of the stadium. The café open situated under the main stand offering covered seating. Covered terracing opposite with small terraced stands behind the goals. The pitch 3G refreshed with new rubber prepped for the new season. The weather pleasant warm if a little muggy, cloud cover around with rain possible towards the latter end of the match.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Lauren Reeves, Lucy Webster (C), Mistie Fox-Barker, Grace Brooks, Rebecca Edge, Chloe Gunn, Hannah Bodily, Amy Gooderham, Gemma Croucher, Anaise Corrigan & Amy Makewell. Subs – Anna Baker-Re, Kelsey Millen, Libby Monaghan, Eva Delaney & Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe.

Stevenage FC Women

Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Annie Georgiou, Amy Reed, Amy Houghton (C), Tally Miles, Stacey Roper, Ri Badel, Laura Mills, Katie Hayes, Emma Slater & Neve Mayes. Subs –  Jodie Donley, Lily Hall, Amy Cooper, Charlotte South & Lucy Ford.

Royston Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain. Lucy Webster & Amy Houghton with today’s match officials

  Lucy Webster back for Stevenage after a long term injury, Royston too have welcomed back a couple of key players back fit towards the end of last season, club captain Amy Cooper and midfielder Ri Badel. The latter starting for the visitors today with Cooper on the bench, Amy Houghton wearing the captains armband. It’s Royston to kick-off the first half wearing their all aquamarine away kit with Stevenage in their home colours white shirt with red trim, red shorts and white socks. Played back to the defence Stevenage rush in to press the ball, competitive right from the off Royston get the ball into Ri Badel moving left lays it forwards looking for the run Neve Mayes in attack left of the D into the area, Rebecca Edge closing in to tackle send the ball out of play.

  Royston out on the left pushing up the ball rolled into full back Annie Georgiou from deep sweeps a diagonal ball into the box, Mayes looking to attack it as it falls in front of her, Stevenage goalkeeper Lauren Reeves rushing in to close her down, making the blocking save getting clattered by Mayes in the process, the ball loose running on beyond out of play beyond the far post. 

Stevenage goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves called into action early in the game

  Royston making a positive start looking to get players forwards, Stevenage breaking up at attack outside their box look to attack played on through the middle up to Amy Makewell leading the attack, controlling the ball into her feet puts the ball across the the left looking for Anaise Corrigan pushing up to join her, can’t quite take the ball on in her stride, which might well have seen her escape the defence get into the box, however Amy Houghton can get her foot in to take the ball clear for the visitors.

  Stacey Roper closing the ball down well in the middle for Royston getting her side on the front foot. Plays it forwards into Badel who sends it on for Mayes 25 yards out central has Katie Hayes breaking forwards into the box on the left slides the ball into her, Edge lunging in to charge her shot down. Edge is then clipped on the right side as the defender carries the ball out of defence. An opportunity for Stevenage to get players up into the box for the set-piece, Webster over the ball, launched in to the far post area, Roper jumping for Royston getting her head on the ball turning it behind for a corner kick. A teasing ball delivered into the box, curling across goal over everyone out the far side for a goal kick.

Royston’s Stacey Roper

  Hannah Bodily getting onto the ball in midfield for Stevenage travels forwards, the opportunity presenting it self she pulls the trigger from 25 yards out the shot coming straight at Millie Carter back on her line. 

Hannah Bodily lining up a strike for Stevenage

  Gemma Croucher, shoved in the back by Roper off a Stevenage throw in on the right giving Stevenage a free-kick in a similar position to their previous one. Webster again to deliver swept deep towards the far post, Royston defend the ball cleared up field, Emma Slater looknig to turn and attack, Mistie Fox-Barker getting her foot in to win the ball back for Stevenage. Houghton winning it back for Royston in defence put forwards for Laura Mills, finds Mayes outside the box with her pass, the attacker evading a couple of challenges as she looks to fight her way into the area, Grace Brooks not letting her through. 

Stevenage defender, Grace Brooks

  A few niggly fouls being given away certainly has a derby feel about it, Webster brought down as the Stevenage captain makes a marauding run into midfield with the ball. Top of the circle, players forwards as Webster floats the ball in on the keeper, Carter getting her gloves up to take the ball Edge closing in to attack the ball colliding with the keeper, both going down hurt. A strong challenge referee Emma Chamberlain consulting with her linesman before issuing Edge with a yellow card. 

  Tally Miles in to tackle Amy Gooderham as she looks to turn in behind on the right, brings the ball on for Royston has Georgiou up with her the full back sending the ball up the line for Hayes who slides it into the area for Mayes making a run out to the side of the box, Brooks going with the attacker, getting across the ball to shield it out of play. 

 Webster goes on another surging run from the back for Stevenage going on into the final third central, Makewell makes a run to the right drawing defenders with her opening up the left channel, Webster looks to roll it into the path of Corrigan, just a little too much on the ball Corrigan unlucky again as the ball evades her stride. Reed tackling Corrigan as she looks to attack out on the left, cleared back into the middle, Chloe Gunn gets hold of the ball for Stevenage firing it back into the box, Makewell looking to turn and shoot, blocked by Houghton…

 GOAL! For the Stevenage attack, Royston hit their opponents on the counter the ball lifted on down the right for Slater to take on, runs into the box cutting a vicious ball across the face of goal, picks out Hayes who has burst into the six yard box on the keeper to turn the ball in from close range to put Royston into the lead in the 20th minute 0-1.

Katie Hayes opening the scoring for Royston

  A free-kicks mounting up for both sides, this time Mills is upended as she takes the ball on inside the right channel. The set-piece from Miles put into the near post area, Slater getting up to try and twist her header goal wards, looping out towards the far post Gooderham stretching out a leg turning it behind for a corner kick. Curled in from the left across the six yard box to the far post attacked and knocked over.

GOAL! Stevenage get themselves back on level terms and it from a piece of individual magic from Gooderham. Out on the right inside the Royston half sees the ball into her feet, flicking it behind her to turn her marker and get inside to charge on towards the box, driving in field moves central across the D, before letting loose a well hit left for strike to send the ball curling past the diving keeper inside the far post 1-1.

Amy Gooderham in the build up to her goal

A fabulous individual goal from Amy Gooderham to equalise for Stevenage

Is certainly an enthralling contest Stevenage getting themselves back on level terms, Miles sends the ball on up the left for Royston into Mayes has Hayes up on the wing the pair playing a one two the return pass coming to Mayes as she steals into the area sends her angled strike across the face of the Stevenage goal. 

Royston attacker, Neve Mayes

 A couple of knocks for both sides, Slater needing treatment following a Royston attack top of the area, Edge too hurt as she goes up to defend on Mayes at the back for Stevenage. Both okay to continue. Roper closing Gooderham down as the Stevenage winger looks to storm on through the right channel. Brooks winning the ball from Slater at the back for Stevenage carries the ball on into midfield aiming to put a threaded pass into Makewell, Miles intercepts well for Royston.

  Reed defending inside her box, clearing the ball as Carter coming for the ball is pressed by Corrigan. Reed finding Mills in attack as she steals in behind on the right to attack the by-line flashing a cross into the six yard box, Reeves down on it smartly to claim as both Mayes and Hayes close her down. Stevenage with a quickfire counter attack the ball into Bodily on the move through the middle for the hosts lays it on for Croucher 25 yards out moving right cuts her shot back looking to play it across the keeper, Carter getting own to gather up the ball.

Laura Mills

  Stevenage making a change, bringing off Corrigan send on Kelsey Millen comes right with Gooderham switching to the left with 8 minutes remaining in the first half. Millen involved straight away as the cross-field ball is played into her, out on the right sends the ball in over the top for Croucher attacking the area left of the D, Carter rushing out to charge her down sliding in to make the blocking save, then Reed charges down the follow-up strike. 

Royston goalkeeper, Millie Carter

  Stevenage looking to press late in the half, Gooderham inside to Bodily shapes to shoot from 30 yards out her effort put straight at the keeper. Royston quick to get on the counter up to Badel in midfield plays it up to Mayes in attack central lays it out to Hayes bombing on down the left, squares her cross into the area, cut out by Webster. Royston snatch the ball back in the final third Badel again lifting it out to the left for Hayes clips her cross back into the top of the D, Mayes looking to get it under control tackled by Brooks. Pops loose for Slater to run onto right side 20 out flashes a strike wide of the far post. 

Royston midfielder, Ri Badel

 A busy end to the first half both sides looking to get forwards, Miles with a diagonal pass into Mayes outside the box, can’t et it out of her feet before Gunn closes her down. Mills on the ball for Royston right channel fires it into the box for Mayes right post area, has Slater to her right attempts to put the ball into her feet, Brooks between the pair getting hold of it instead for Stevenage and clearing. The hosts mounting one last attack in the first half, the ball send on for Croucher left side puts it across the top of the area for Millen attacking right, Georgiou defending for Royston, then Roper gets it away as Makewell looks to pounce, won back prodded into Makewell central 25 out her shot is tame runs safely through to the keeper.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 1-1 Royston Town Women

 That was a highly entertaining first half, a competitive derby tussle with two committed sides. A bit of niggle added to the mix but nothing nasty. Royston started confidently positive looking to get forwards breaking from a Stevenage attack carving their opponents open to score the opening goal. Stevenage responded well getting back on level terms from a piece of individual magic from Amy Gooderham. Both sides with chances after that but defences holding firm set up brilliantly for the 2nd half.

  No chances of personnel at the start of the 2nd half with Stevenage to get things underway. A slight switch for Royston with Hayes and Slater setting up on opposite flanks. The ball put into Millen as Stevenage look to play it forwards lifted on for Makewell pulling out to the right, Miles stepping in to intercept for the visitors. Millen snapping in to win the ball back out wide lifting a cross from deep into the area claimed cleanly by Carter.

Royston defender, Tally Miles

  Houghton on the ball at the back for Royston clipping a long pass up to Slater attacking left of the D, lets loose a shot, straight forwards for Reeves in the Stevenage goal. Royston winning a free-kick on the left outside the box, Miles over the ball putting her delivery long out beyond the far post. 

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

 Stevenage burst forwards Millen on for Makewell right side turns to put in into the area with Croucher attacking the goalkeeper, Carter closing the ball down Croucher sliding in gets the ball under her to see it strike the base of the post and deflect across the face of goal, Gooderham throwing herself forwards at the far post can’t make contact as Royston launch it clear. 

Stevenage’s Gemma Croucher

  An open game both side wanting a goal Hayes in space on the right tracks on with the ball, Fox-Barker patient blocking the attempted cross turning it behind for a corner kick. Georgiou to play the ball into the box form the right curled in far post knocked down hits a defender to go behind for a corner on the left. A vicious in swinger across goal, Reeves doing well to get her fist on the ball to punch it away to the right for another corner. Edge getting up highest to head the ball away at the far post for Stevenage. 

  Badel bringing the ball on right side for Royston looking to link up with Hayes, Fox-Barker stopping the initial cross, Hayes with a 2nd attempt chipping the ball up into the area, claimed well by Reeves. Gooderham pulling up for Stevenage, has a slight injury concern as they bring her off in the 56th minute sending Corrigan back into the action. Royston making their first change too, Charlotte South going into midfield replacing Badel. Royston break away to the right Hayes taking the ball on whipping a dangerous ball into the six yard box, both Mayes and Slater closing in on the keeper, Slater with the final touch, Reeves superb staying big to save at close range bat the ball away.

  Stevenage with another set-piece on half-way Webster to play it in towards the top of the area, Roper heading clear for Royston. Corrigan on the left of attack for Stevenage tangling with Reed, coming away with the ball on the move looking to get in behind, Houghton is across on the cover to close the ball down for the visitors. 

Royston captain, Amy Houghton

 Reed playing the ball on up the right for Hayes, loops a ball into the box near side Mayes rushing in to meet it sees her effort drop wide of the post a knick off a defender though a corner signalled. Played in long from the right falling to Slater deep on the left her shot from the angle blocked inside the area, deflected back out to Hayes right of the D 25 out, holding the ball up back to goal has Miles charging past her looking for the pass ties her up Miles shooting across goal towards the far post, Reeves diving to her left getting down well to save. 

  Hayes getting in on the right for Royston sending another cross into the area, claimed by Reeves low at her near post. Reed and Corrigan enjoying a good tussle as the attacker looks to get past the full back, succeeds to race on down the line whipping a venomous ball across the face of goal, Millen sliding in on the keeper can’t get a telling touch, pops up on the line for Carter to snatch into her gloves. 

 Royston making their 2nd change of the match bringing off Mayes, send Lily Hall on to take up an attacking role on the left. Stevenage too making a change Corrigan off again, on comes Eva Delaney to take up the attacking duties on the left. All action in the middle of the park, South fouling Bodily. Mills looking for Hayes on the right, turns inside, Fox-Barker stretching to get the ball back for Stevenage.

Mistie Fox-Barker

  More changes as Gunn comes off for Stevenage, Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe coming on to join the attack. Roper off for Royston with Lucy Ford introduced to the action. Hayes in a central position outside the D, her shot smashes her shot into Croucher at point blank range a painful hit takes a few moments for Croucher to recover but is alright. 

 Croucher up the other end as Stevenage attack sees the ball into her feet well on the turn looks to slip Thomas-O’Keefe free inside the box, a vital interception from Houghton though. Stevenage working hard to frustrate Royston in the final third, Brooks winning the ball well. Slater booked as she brings down Webster. The set-piece top of the circle put in to the top of the box defended by Royston, look to get on the offensive the ball into Hayes looking to take the ball on right side, Fox-Barker tracking back with her, Hayes tripping herself up goes down hard striking her head on the 3G pitch a stunning blow play stopped so she can be checked out. Was a jarring impact but thankfully is okay to play on.

 GOAL! The clock ticking down into the final 5 minutes of the match, Royston mount an attack the ball fed on for Hall on the left knocking it down into the box central with Hayes closing in Fox-Barker with her defending well, however the ball skips up to the top of the area right of the D, for Slater to put her foot though looping back in towards goal, Reeves can’t react quick enough throwing a glove up to try and deflect the ball over, not enough as it drops under the crossbar to see Royston back into the lead 1-2. 

Emma Slater fires Royston back into the lead

 Royston making a change bringing off Hayes after the goal sending on Jodie Donley goes in at right back with Reed pushed up. Corrigan back on replacing Millen for Stevenage with Libby Monaghan on to replace Webster. 

GOAL! With Stevenage pressing looking for a reply Royston get hold of the ball and counter through the middle up to Slater top of the area central slides it on for Hall stealing into the box on her left Hall taking the ball into her stride and slotting her shot past the on rushing keeper to give Royston a 2 go cushion in the 89th minute 1-3.

Lily Hall off the bench to send Royston into a 3-1 lead

  A huge blow for Stevenage as the game moves into stoppage time a few injuries several minutes yet to be played Bodily playing the ball into Croucher right channel control and turns to slide the ball on into the box for Thomas-O’Keefe, shaping to shoot on the angle, Carter comes rushing out to slide in and make the blocking save. Croucher sending another ball into the Royston box from the right, Houghton stretching to close Makewell down, the striker shoots wide. 

  Slater coming off for Royston with Mayes sent back on. Stevenage pushing players on attacking right the ball angled low into the near post Croucher throwing herself at the ball goes wide as it brushes the near post.

GOAL! Into the 6th minute of injury time, Stevenage allowed the ball wide the cross in deep from the right is brought down well by Makewell central back to goal knocks it to her left to open up a yard of space to strike the ball back across the keeper and finds the bottom corner to pull a goal back 2-3.

Amy Makewell pulls a goal back in the dying moments for Stevenage

  A goal back for Stevenage but no time left on the clock to mount another attack as Royston see out the game to make it 5 wins from 5 to start the season and open up a 6 point lead at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division table.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 2-3 Royston Town Women

  Another enthralling contest from the ERWFL Premier Division, rarely disappoints and today was no exception. A local derby played with passion and commitment. Both sides up for it. A great one for the neutral well worth the trip down from Norfolk. Royston starting positively getting into the lead straight from a Stevenage opportunity. The host with a good reply to equalise. Chances for both in the first half to get into the lead. Stevenage looking for a positive start to the 2nd half working hard at the back to frustrate Royston, the clock timing down the visitors found the break though in the 85th minute, quickly going on to add a 3rd goal. Stevenage allowed the ball as Royston looked to see out the game getting a goal back at the death but not enough time left to create another opening. A brilliant start to the season from Royston.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders for this one and hard pressed to single one out although I did have one in mind leaving the ground. A local derby played with passion and largely good spirited. Several performances of note. Grace Brooks at the back for Stevenage put in several crucial tackles and got about the back line well. Hanna Bodily battling for the ball in the middle. Anaise Corrigan caused problems when she get hold of the ball. Gemma Croucher getting into some great attacking positions. Amy Gooderham with a fantastic goal, attacked down the flank with purpose. For Royston, Tally Miles was composed and read the game well. Stacey Roper was busy in the middle of the park, set the tone early on. Neve Mayes strong up top held the ball up well. Emma Slater gets a mention because she’s Emma Slater and always amongst the contenders for Royston. Edging it today for me Katie Hayes operating on both flanks provided a great outlet for Royston throughout the match looked to get others into the action, opening the scoring. 

 A thoroughly entertaining match from the County Ground this afternoon, both sides have started the season well and have assembled a strong collection of talent between them. The ERWFL Premier Division is a strong league will be intrigued to watch t unfold as the season progress. My thanks to both sides for their help today  as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v Willingham Wolves Women

Sunday 8th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two

The new season of county league action gets into full swing this weekend across the East. Beginning with a trip into Cambridgeshire for the Division Two opening clash between March Town United Ladies & Willingham Wolves Women.

33 sides competing across 3 divisions in Cambridgeshire. All three look hard to call in terms of title challengers and it will be intriguing to watch it all unfold over the coming season. 11 sides contesting Division Two in the county, Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies will be amongst the favourites to finish top, but who else might emerge as a title challenger is yet to be determined, could very well be one of the sides promote to the league this season.

It has been quite a while since I last visited March Town United Ladies and much has changed within the club since then a new management team bought in at the end of last season managed by Andy Wheatley, assisted by James Moon, Ben Green & Gray Sharman. Lost several players over recent seasons which has impacted their form in the league adding new players as they look to be competitive towards to top end of the league, Maisie Homden joining March having been at Whittlesey Athletic last season, Kacey Sharman an attacker joining from Peterborough United. Along with pacy striker, Tanaya Mayoh, back in the game after a spell away as does Chloe Granger. Rachel Sharman also new to the March squad.

Willingham Wolves Women have improved year on year since joining the Cambridgeshire Women’s football league in 2021, moving up the Division Three table recording a 3rd placed finish last term. This seeing the club promoted to Division Two for the upcoming campaign, a strong test. Have built up a large women’s squad. Willingham Wolves FC boasts a strong youth section right across the board. The wet weather a prominent feature for much of last season seeing the usual pitch the women play on out of action from October onwards. Will require drainage works in the future will finances have been secured for other improvements to their ground.  

  March Town United FC the venue for todays game on Robin Goodfellows Lane. Known as The Hares. The stadium with a unique layout, boasting the 2nd oldest wooden stand in the country, the grass pitch nestled inside an oval layout, having once hosted, cricket, cycling and greyhound racing back in the 1960’s. The contrast a modern entrance housing bar and kitchen hatch along with the changing rooms. The pitch looking superb in great shape. Showers in the area a heavy downpour on the way the the ground, both the sun cream and umbrella are on hand this afternoon. 

March Town United FC’s main stand

March Town United Ladies starting XI – Peggy Thurlby, Amy Hall, Jessica Lavender, Cassie Houghton, Chloe Wheatley, Maisie Homden, Lauren Martin, Lauren Peeling (C), Kacey Sharman, Sidnee Adams & Millie Jolley. Subs – Rachel Sharman Chloe Granger & Olivia Perkiss.

March Town United Ladies

Willingham Wolves Women starting XI – Abi Dowell-McGrillan, Cheryl Darby, Gracie Webster-Spriggs, Honor Freeman (C), Casey Mcmichael, Natalie Townley, Jazz Brinkman, Kirsty Wicks, Harri Morse, Holly Etteridge & Danielle Foster. Subs – Sophie Catchpole, Libby Willis, George Scott-Wilds & Eva Krawetkowska.

Willingham Wolves Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Honor Freeman and Laura Peeling with today’s referee

 It’s the hosts, March to kick off the first half wearing their home colours, amber shirts with black shorts and socks. Willingham too usually play in amber shirts, but are still awaiting the arrival of their new away strip so will be in white coloured shirts this afternoon, with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into midfield passed to the right, Maisie Homden looking to take it forwards linking up with Kacey Sharman on the wing, Cheryl Darby closing down for Willingham to prevent an early cross going into the box.

 March with a positive start getting on down the right winning a throw high brings them an early corner, the delivery short not troubling the Willingham defence. Millie Jolley up front for March seeing the ball into her feet looking to turn slide the ball in for Sharman on the move down the right, Darby in to cut it out for the visitors. Willingham looking a little nervous at the start passes going awry, March snapping in to regain possession get back on the front foot. Jazz Brinkman getting the ball under control for Willingham in the final third right channel attempting to thread it through into the box for Danielle Foster, Peggy Thurlby in goal for March out to gather unthreatened.

Willingham’s Kirsty Wicks with March captain, Laura Peeling

  Sharman on the right along with Sidnee Adams on the left flank looking to provide width and passing options as the March defence wins the ball back get the ball forwards quickly trying to catch their opponents with a high line, Adams stabbing a ball on over the top, Gracie Webster-Spriggs adjusts well as she is turned around to get the ball clear before Jolley can attack it. Out for a throw on the left March looking to lay it on into the box, Casey Mcmichael heading it behind for a corner.

  March’s corners not finding their mark in the early stages of the game. Natalie Townley sets Foster away down the left in attack pace to take the ball forwards, Cassie Houghton back at her to tackle for March. March launching a rapid counter on their right Homden bombing on to support Sharman, Darby getting in the way to challenge for Willingham. The visitors not settled, March looking the sharper. 

  Holly Etteridge up in attack for Willingham closing down to win the ball off the March defence 25 yards out carries the ball in behind looking to attack the goal, a recovering defender getting something on Etteridge’s shot as she goes to pull the trigger taking the sting out of the shot runs safely through to the keeper. 

 GOAL! No sooner have Willingham got a sniff at goal March break up the other end to score the opening goal the ball coming out to the right side Adams up with Jolley the ball clipped in across the top of the D, Sharman stealing the ball off the defence to carry it on into the box and from the angle strike her shot into the bottom corner across the keeper 1-0.

Kacey Sharman celebrates as she opens the scoring for March

 Willingham on the offensive from the restart Kirsty Wicks on for Foster down the left angles her early shot in towards the near post, Thurlby behind it has her angles covered. March captain, Lauren Peeling lifts a pass from the middle out to Adams advancing well on the left, one tough to clip the ball on over the top, Mcmichael looking to get there ahead of Jolley, her keeper, Abi Dowell-McGrilen with a good starting position will the call, coming to collect the ball. 

 Jessica Lavender, tackling Etteridge as she gathers the ball on the right plays it forwards for Adams racing up the left flank for March, whips a dangerous cross into the area across the penalty spot, Jolley isn’t too far away from getting a touch to divert it towards goal. March winning a free-kick on halfway lifted forwards, a vital touch from Mcmicheal at the back to win the ball or Jolley was though to attack the Willingham goal. March snapping back to win the ball high, Lauren Martin with Peeling lifted forwards again Mcmichael with the defending for Willingham getting her head on the ball to get the ball away.

  Sharman playing the ball into the box form the right, Mcmichael heading it behind to concede the corner. The delivery played up towards the top of the area near side, Mcmichael getting hold of it for Willingham carrying the ball out of the area…

 GOAL! … sent forwards into the path of Foster out on the left on the attack bringing the ball on 25 yards out fizzes the pass across the area looking Etteridge on the left in the clear right of the D, controls and takes aim a vicious strike with a got bit of swerve behind it deceiving the keeper as it evades her to burst the back of the net, Willingham back on level terms 1-1.

Holly Etteridge fires Willingham back on level terms

  Willingham levelling 18th minute, making a change after the goal bringing on Libby Willis in place of Townley.

GOAL! Having just gotten themselves back on level terms Willingham concede straight away, the ball from Jolley fed out to Adams on the left on her own all of 30 yards out isn’t closed down at all and with room to line up a shot accepts the invite, hits a fantastic ball looping up towards goal heading for the top right corner, has the keeper in trouble, dropping over her to send March back into the lead 2-1.

Sidnee Adams congratulated as her strike from range puts March back in front

  March pressing the ball in the centre Martin playing in into the left channel with Peeling getting on, looking to run in behind, Mcmichael looking to shield the ball calling for her keeper to come and collect top of her area, Dowell-McGrillan scooping the ball up into her gloves. Etteridge coming off for Willingham, George Scott-Wilds onto the pitch. Wicks off too replaced by Sophie Catchpole. Is hot under the sun when it can break through the clouds and a drinks break is called with 25 minutes played. 

 March resume with a throw on the right headed on by Peeling into the area, dropping central, Jolley interested, Dowell-McGrillan gathering it into her body well. Willingham captain Honor Freeman lunging in to stop Jolley as she looks to turn on the ball outside the D. The ball lifted on for Foster to bomb on down the left attacking sends a cross/shot in on the angle towards the far post, Willis racing in that side can’t reach it, however goes after the ball on the by-line wide to win her side a corner kick. Played long beyond the far post met by Morse blasts the ball back in across goal out the far side the referee signalling for another corner 

 The second delivery curled into the six yard box at the near post Scott-Wilds looking to get it down under control and get a shot away is quickly closed down by the March defence, Wheatley lifting it away to safety. Willingham gaining a bit of momentum in the last five minutes. March dangerous on the counter however as Peeling gets up on the right to support Sharman putting the winger on down the line Freeman going with her the pair into the box, Sharman stealing inside knocking the ball into the six yard box, Dowell-McGrillan dropping forwards to lay claim to the ball.

March’s Millie Jolley

  Sharman causing Willingham issues attacking on the right, beats the offside trap to carry the ball on towards the box striking her shot over the bar from the angle. Willingham’s defensive line holds this time as Homden looks to play Sharman in over the top, held up by the raised flag. Wicks back on for Willingham, replacing Darby. The visitors with the ball up on the right turned inside for Catchpole 25 yards out left of the D, turns to shoot, gets no power behind it, runs safely through to Thurlby. 

George Scott-Wilds with Lauren Martins

 An injury for Willingham forcing a change, Scott-Wilds needing treatment off Townley back on. Townley with the ball from Brinkman right side played forwards as Foster makes a run across her to carry it away to the right wing turning to strike the ball lifts her strike onto the roof of the net. Etteridge back on up top for Willingham sees the ball into her feet on the right, looking to turn inside, Lavender comes back at her tackling well to clear the ball. Into the final minute of the first half. March press the ball in the middle on for Adams left looks to take it past Webster-Spriggs the full back getting back at her to nudge the ball out for a throw in.

 

Half-time March Town United Ladies 2-1 Willingham Wolves Women

  March head into the changing rooms at the beak leading Willingham 2-1. The hosts with the better start to the game getting after the ball positive down the flanks, capitalising on Willingham’s nervous start, unsettled early on the visitors took a while to settle. March getting forwards to take the lead through Kacey Sharman. Willingham did well to get the game back on level terms a vicious strike from Holly Etteridge, but were guilty of switching off straight after to allow March to retake the lead a superb finish from Sidnee Adams. Chances for both in front of goal March holding the slender advantage. Feel there are more in it 2nd half which way they will go is up for debate. 

  Willingham to get the 2nd half underway, making full use of their substitutes throughout the first half. March with a change at the break, Peeling coming off with Rachel Sharman coming on going up top with Jolley deeper. Lavender wearing the armband. The ball rolled back to Freeman in defence clips it out to the left wing, Homden seeing it out of play for March. Willingham looking to make a positive start to the 2nd half getting up on the left

  The ball passed inside for Foster central to burst in behind closing in on the box, pulls the trigger her shot racing wide of the right post. Townley up on the right for Willingham put on for Willis onside racing on into the box after the ball, Thurlby advancing to lay claim to the ball.

GOAL! March pressing the ball in the middle Jolley forwards into Rachel Sharman, Adams up with her putting pressure on the Willingham defence, Freeman under pressure stabs the ball away from Sharman as she falls, Adams latching onto it 20 plus yards out to rifle a powerful shot in on goal, Dowell-McGrillan with little time to react getting her gloves up to block the ball but can only deflect it on over into the goal beyond 3-1.

Sidnee Adams extends March’s lead early in the 2nd half

 The perfect start to the 2nd half for march getting themselves a 2 goal cushion, and that moments after Willingham had a chance to level up the other end. Rachel Sharman sees a Willingham goal kick presented to her 30 yards out, quickly closed down she drags her shot wide of the left post. Homden with a mazy run on the ball as she gets on the move for March on the right laying it inside for Rachel Sharman inside the D, looks to control, turn, is closed down well by Morse for Willingham. 

Maisie Homden after the ball for March

 Willingham find Etteridge on the right in attack strong on the ball to get inside lays the ball into the box for Foster on the penalty spot back to goal lays it out to Willis racing on left of the D, moving into the box, squeezes her shot away past the advancing keeper, the ball traveling towards goal, cleared of the line by Hall. Willingham picking up a few knocks Morse needing a break Eva Krawetkowska coming on. Brinkman too replacing Catchpole. Townley winning Willingham a throw on the left, knocked on into the box cleared by Lavender for March. 

GOAL! Players drawn over to the left of the pitch as possession is fought over March physical getting hold of the ball the pass clipped cross-field finding Kacey Sharman all on her own in a central position drags the ball on to the right moving into the box, and strikes her shot low back across the keeper to join Adams on a brace 4-1.

Kacey Sharman sets her sights on the Willingham goal to score her 2nd of the game

 Willingham falling further behind look to stay positive play the ball from the middle into Willis tracking forwards on the right fires a cross along the top of the box, met by Foster inside the D, flashes a shot half a yard over the crossbar. Brinkman battling for the ball on the left surges forwards, Homden coming to close her down putting in the tackle, bashing her head hard on the turf as the pair collide. Play stopped needs to come off for a minute to recover but is okay to return. 

 Houghton with a crucial interception at the back for March as they get caught high with the visitors looking to release Foster through the middle. Jolley moving to the right with the ball lays it on into the box for Rachel Sharman ahead of her travelling into the box, Freeman come across to make the challenge put the ball out for a corner kick. From the right goes long cleared out to the top of the box, Martin onto it drags her shot wide. 

Willingham’s Eva Krawetkoska

Willingham get the ball on quickly through the middle threaded in behind, Foster races clear of the defence shoots early with Thurlby rushing out to close her down, the keeper with the blocking save… 

  GOAL! … the rebound latched onto by Krawetkowska 25 yards out left of the D, a good touch to send the ball on into the box and plays a superb cross in low towards Foster still in an advanced position right of goal to knock it back across the keeper to score her opening goal of the season 4-2. 

Danielle Foster pulls it back to 4-2 for Willingham

 Willingham pulling a goal back midway through the 2nd half with their tails up Brinkman winning the ball on into the box for Foster, Wheatley putting it out for a throw on the right. Foster looking to cause trouble in the box off the throw right side, Thurlby throwing her foot at the ball attempting to clear, sliced away to the by-line, Lavender preventing it going for a corner clearing up field. Foster seeing the ball played into her through the middle turns in behind to attack the box, Thurlby racing out to close the angle getting in to make a good blocking save as Foster moves right to shoot.

March goalkeeper, Peggy Thurlby

 Wheatley coming off at the back for March as the hosts send Chloe Granger onto the field. Willingham winning a corner out on the right, a dangerous delivery curled across the six yard box, falls to Freeman at the far post, awkward to control however, is closed down before she can get a shot away.  A 2nd water break called with less than 20 minutes left to play, Willingham picking up as few knocks. 

Willingham’s Natalie Townley

 Homden doing the defending at right back for March, as Foster seeing the ball into her as she moves left looks to try and spin in behind. A corner to Willingham on the left curled into the six yard box, dropping to Wills this time can’t dig the ball out of her feet before being closed down by Martin. The ball scrambled clear. Willis getting hold of the ball central for Willingham looking to lift it on for Foster to race in clear behind the defence, almost, but for a vital interception from Houghton.

  Krawetkowska goes down for Willingham as she looks to carry the ball on into the left channel, looks to have twisted her ankle, a painful one needs to come off, Willingham sending Catchpole back on. Townley getting up into an attacking position for Willingham from the left central as she gets onto the end of a Freeman pass takes on the shot early looking to lob the ball from inside the box over the keeper, but so too over the bar.

  Another injury blow for Willingham as Foster innocuously goes over on her ankle inside the box going to pressure Thurlby on a cross. Needs to come off, Scott-Wilds coming back on. Brinkman off too with Darby back on. Into the final 5 minutes of the match. March have Adams bringing the ball on up the left clips a great diagonal ball into the box for Kacey Sharman on the angle blasts her shot in towards goal, Dowell-McGrillan throwing herself down to make the save charging the ball down rebounds back to Sharman for a 2nd bite at the cherry shoots past the stranded keeper, Willingham have got a defender back on the line to clear.

  Hall cutting a threaded ball out at the back for the hosts as the game moves into stoppage time. Martin on for Rachel Sharman up top, Freeman closing her down for Willingham. Morse looks to get away down the right for Willingham as Townley plays the ball on. Adams in to close her down on the by-line sliding in to tackle knocks the ball onto Morse to see a goal kick awarded. The final whistle blows and March celebrate as they get their league campaign off to a winning start.

Full time March Town United Ladies 4-2 Willingham Wolves Women

  A good start to the game from March on the front foot early causing issues on the flanks getting into the lead. Willingham doing well to level the scores, however were behind straight away as they gave Adams the invite to shoot. The visitors gaining momentum late in the first half giving them renewed confidence going into the 2nd half. March with a few issues to settle at half time too. Got an early opportunity to extend their lead and took it. Willingham creating some good opportunities themselves but not taking one as March got clear to power into a 3 goal lead. Some great goals scored and Willingham fought hard to pull it back to 4-2. March determined working hard in defence had a little bit more guile and experience to see the game out and claim the win.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Not an easy one by any means and some god performances out there. Firstly for Willingham, Casey Mcmichael in defence with a number of vital interceptions read the game well. Danielle Foster in attack worked hard to create opportunities and be a ready outlet when Willingham attacked. Jazz Brinkman put herself about in midfield looking to mix things up. For March, Jessica Lavender was strong in the back line making several important tackles. Sidnee Adams with two superb strikes provided a good outlet on the left and played the ball well. Edging it though is the other brace scorer, Kacey Sharman set the tone early on getting on down the right for March in attack, caused issues for the defence throughout and again presented with the opportunity to take her chances put them away well.

 Good to see both sides in action a competitive contest and will look forwards to seeing how the season progresses for both sides in Division Two. Willingham stepping up a league have plenty of positives to take into the campaign ahead. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team details and must say I’m pleased Cambridgeshire have team sheets at last.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Aylsham FC Women v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Sunday 1st September

 Women’s FA Cup 1st Round Qualifying

The road to Wembley begins this Sunday with this season’s Women’s FA Cup getting underway with a whopping 145 ties in 1st Round Qualifying. For many sides making their debut in the competition, it’s to one of those I head today to Youngs Park to watch Aylsham FC Women as they take on Cambridgeshire side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds.

The first competitive game of the season for both with their respective county leagues getting underway next Sunday. A prestigious competition that has seen the prize money increase over the past couple of season’s, the winner today receiving £1800, with a run in the competition helping to make a significant impact on a grassroot clubs finances.

Aylsham FC Women winning promotion to Norfolk Women’s Division One last season after winning the Division Two title in their debut season. Consolidated their place in Norfolk’s top flight in what was an injury hit season where the club struggled for players early on. Grew stronger as the season progressed eventually finishing in 5th place. Preparing for the new season have seen a few experienced players leaving but in turn have clawed that experience back with an influx of new players most notably from Fakenham Town Ladies who spent the previous two season’s in the ERWFL. Twins, Sophie and Vicky Lubbock, dual signed with Fakenham last season commit to Aylsham this campaign as does Olivia Baker, joined by attackers, Rochelle and Shelley Woods and defenders, Jemma Riches and Sophie Buckley. Other new additions include young players, Jess Greengrass and Elisha Nobbs. Kiara Wright comes to the club via Horsford. Young goalkeeper Mya Parker joins from King’s Lynn.

A new era for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds under a new coach with Shane Lebbon returning to the game after a two year break. Vastly experienced in women’s football having been at Newmarket Town Women for a long spell, specializing in the development of young players and bringing them on into the 1st team set up. Joined Fulbourn towards the end of last season, helping the previous coaching set-up as Fulbourn finished runners-up in both the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and League Cup.

Fulbourn boast a formidable attack with, Ebony Crook, Marie Stubbings and Eleanor Woodley firing in 80 goals between them last season. Woodley with 41 of those. All 3 amongst those retained by the club this season. An experienced squad will be amongst the sides competing for the league this time around. Have see a few players depart but retain a strong core whilst adding a few new additions, defender Alex Milner having previously been with Newmarket. Grace Muffett returns to the game after spell at university has again experience playing for Newmarket. Megan Chandler too has played for Newmarket plus spells at Norwich and Cambridge. Emily Facerova the newest addition to the squad, a young player stepping up to women’s football.

  Youngs Park the venue for today’s Women’s FA Cup tie the new facility home to all of Aylsham adult and youth teams, boasting a new 3G pitch beyond the main pitch itself the grass looking a picture one of the best in the county. Standing viewing all round beside the large clubhouse, the bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drinks with a barbeque going outside. The ground a hive of activity the woman’s game the showpiece event of the day. Glorious sunshine at the start of September, hot and still, best enjoy it while it lasts, will put the fitness levels under test both sides getting their season underway.

Aylsham FC Women starting XI – Mya Parker, Cayla Brown, Elisha Nobbs, Sophie Buckley, Jordan Arnoup (C), Jess Greengrass, Shelley Woods, Vicki Lubbock, Olivia Baker, Christina Papadopoulou & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Chelsea Crowley, Ellie Snowling & Kiara Wright.

Aylsham FC Women

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Rachel Fallow, Amy Smith, Alex Milner, Jessica Adams, Jess Anderson, Daniella Quinn, Hollie Turner, Eve Seyf, Marie Stubbings (C), Ebony Crook & Eleanor Woodley. Subs – Megan Chandler, Grace Muffett & Emily Facerova.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Captains’ Marie Stubbings and Jordan Arnoup with today’s match officials

It’s Aylsham to get this afternoon’s Women’s FC Cup tie underway with the kick off 1st half wearing orange coloured shirts with royal blue short and socks. With Fulbourn lined up opposite wearing sky blue coloured shirts with claret sleeves, claret shorts and sky blue socks. Played back into the middle the ball fed out to the left channel dealt with by Jess Adams for Fulbourn. Won back by Aylsham as they press the ball played across to the right with Christina Papadopoulou bursting in behind the defence, Fulbourn goalkeeper, Rachel Fallow out smartly to the top of her box to see the ball roll safely into her gloves.

  Aylsham starting brightly on the front foot winning the ball high forcing a throw on the right, Alex Milner clearing for Fulbourn, Shelley Woods winning the ball back for Aylsham in the middle lifted on for Sophie Lubbock up top back to goal, hooks it over to the right side with Papadopoulou breaking in behind once more, Fallow has to get on the move reaching it just in time to kick clear. The ball away to the right for a throw high up the pitch, Aylsham work the ball on down the line Papadopoulou putting a cross into the area, Farrow claiming it safely inside her six yard box.

  Fulbourn build on the left Daniella Quinn out to Ebony Crook has captain Marie Stubbings bursting on with her played inside the ball laid forwards into a central position for Eve Seyf to attack, Aylsham goalkeeper, Mya Parker thinks about coming for the ball, hesitates as Seyf latches onto it and quickly back pedals into her area as Seyf takes the ball away to the right across the D before attempting to play her shot back across the keeper into the far corner, Parker though right behind her effort to collect the ball up into her gloves. 

Eve Seyf lining up a shot for Fulbourn

  Aylsham captain, Jordan Arnoup with a fantastic ball from the back to take out the Fulbourn defence sees Papadopoulou race in behind from the right channel, attacking the area, Anderson recovers brilliantly for Fulbourn getting back at the attacker, sliding in to charge her down as she goes to pull the trigger the ball angling behind off the defender for a corner kick. The corner floated in near side, Vicki Lubbock getting up well to turn the ball on into the mix falling to Woods top of the six yard box on the volley her effort is blocked at close range, Fulbourn clearing.

  Papadopoulou lively in attack for Aylsham in the opening exchanges making a number of penetrating runs, up top with Sophie Lubbock as Olivia Baker sends the ball on Lubbock cushioning it down for Papadopoulou to the left of the D, knocks it into the box, Adams getting across her the defender shielding the ball as Fallow comes to gather. Hollie Turner clipping the ball forwards for Fulbourn as they push forwards looking for Seyf making a move towards the right of the D, Parker is out quickly to snatch up the ball at the top of her area. 

  Fulbourn attacking down the right, Eleanor Woodley challenged by Sophie Buckley the ball out for a throw in, Cushioned down off the wing by Stubbings, looks to spin in behind, Woods lunging in gets her foot on the ball to send it away for another throw. Fulbourn pressing the cross fired in along the top of the area Turner, diverting it forwards into the path of Crook right of the D, sends her strike angling across goal, cut out by Cayla Brown at the far post, cleared.

Aylsham’s Cayla Brown

   Fulbourn having rode out the early assault by Aylsham have settled into the game competing for the ball Quinn in to win it back in the final third as Aylsham look to play it out from the back. Stubbings combining with Quinn through the middle, driving on, Vicki Lubbock stepping in to make the tackle for Aylsham. Competitive Quinn and Woods fighting for the ball Woods sends it up field Baker advanced on the left clipping it in behind, Papadopoulou looks to have strayed offside as she bursts in behind but no flag races clear striking early from 25 yards out sending her attempt over. 

Olivia Baker

  An intriguing tie unfolding Fulbourn coming back into the game well getting players forwards Quinn breaking up play keeping the momentum with her side, Elisha Nobbs losing the ball down at the back fired up to Woods along side Vicki Lubbock in the middle clips it on for Papadopoulou running in behind the Fulbourn defence, Milner goes with her though the full back timing her tackle well inside the D. 

  Crook getting hold of the ball central for Fulbourn has Woodley pulling away ahead of her right side of the D looks to pick her out a vital interception from Nobbs to deny the Cambridgeshire side a shooting chance. Quinn stealing in on the ball presses forwards Woodley out to the left sees the pass into her feet, angles a cross into the box, cleared by Arnoup at the back for Aylsham

Fulbourn midfielder, Daniella Quinn

  Woodley over on the right for Fulbourn as Seyf over on that sight gets the ball under control driving on finds Woodley ahead of her, screws her cross back in towards Stubbings running in towards goal right of the D, taking the ball on into the box, fires her shot across goal wide of the far post. Aylsham under pressure at the back Woodley into the area right side placing it into Stubbings top of the area, lays it out wide to Seyf to flash a cross in from the right wing, Crook racing in central on Nobbs can’t get a telling touch six yards out. Nobbs down injured after the attack, the referee calling a drinks break. Is very hot out there.

  Nobbs is back to her feet after lengthy treatment allowed back on, Stubbings off a throw in on the right lays it into Woodley driving in towards the top of the area right side, Parker rushing out getting her gloves on the ball before Woodley can pounce. Vicki Lubbock giving away a set-piece on halfway the ball played down the line a cross fired low into the near post, Parker positioned well dropping forwards onto the ball.

Aylsham’s Christina Papadopoulou

  Aylsham attack through the middle Papadopoulou carrying the ball on forwards into Baker to the left 20 yards out hooks it inside with Vicki Lubbock advancing right channel looking to bring it down in her stride, Milner putting in the challenge as she arrives in the box to sent clear. Fulbourn launching a fast paced counter on the left Woodley with Stubbings and Crook the ball sent on up towards Seyf in a central position 25 yards out, turns to attack, Buckley getting across her to hold her off allow Parker to come for the ball.

  Aylsham get bodies forwards from midfield to join the attack, Woods going along with Vicki Lubbock put into Papadopoulou drifting out to the left sends it back inside for Lubbock before turning into the box looking for the return ball, Lubbock playing it into her feet six yards out on the angle goes to shoot, Fallow coming to close her down having well with her legs.

Fulbourn goalkeeper, Rachel Fallow.

  Nobbs is down again, struggling with her earlier knock, can’t continue as is helped to the side-lines by her teammates. Aylsham forced into a change bringing Kiara Wright on. Remains a lively contest both side putting a lot of effort in despite the heat. The ball fired up to Sophie Lubbock up top for Aylsham 20 yards out sees one then 2 efforts blocks before laying the ball to her right with her twin sister racing forwards, Vicki met with a clumsy blocking tackle goes over inside the box, half hearted appeals but nothing doing as Fulbourn get the ball away to safety.

Sophie Lubbock

  Fulbourn get up the other end Seyf winning a throw on the right high level with the penalty box played inside to Stubbings top of the area right side, Parker racing out to close her down sliding in, Stubbings almost succeeds in taking the ball wide of the grounded keeper, however Parker dives at full stretch to snatch the ball away from Stubbings boot. 

 A fascinating game two sides giving it their all, evenly matched Fulbourn getting forwards well looking to find an opening, need to remain wary up the other end as Aylsham release the ball up to their attacking players Baker to the left clipping it across the top of the area for Sophie Lubbock on the right, runs straight into Milner. Parker in the right place to save as Seyf sees the ball into her feet central off a throw from the right, her low strike straight at the keeper.

  Aylsham on the move left side Woods getting on with the ball with Papadopoulou out wide the ball fired into the D for Sophie Lubbock moves to her right looking for an opening her shot blocked by Anderson comes straight back to Lubbock pulls the trigger a 2nd time, Woods in the way this time striking her inside the box and away for a goal kick. Sophie Lubbock getting onto the end of a ball hooked clear from the back turns to shoot all of 30 yards out put straight at Fallow in the Fulbourn goal.

  GOAL! – Quinn up with the attack putting the ball to the left Crook on for Stubbings down the line squares a cross into the box, intercepted by Arnoup back out to the left side, Stubbings with another opportunity to fire in the cross, this time finds Woodley central drifting in unmarked, one on one with the keeper, picks her spot to drill the ball low past Parker before she can react 0-1.

Eleanor Woodley with the opening goal for Fulbourn

  Fulbourn with the lead the deadlock broken in the 38th minute. Farrow kicking the ball out of her hands helped on through the middle, comes through to Seyf in attack up top through the middle looks to control and turn top of the D, Greengrass putting in the tackle the ball running behind wide for a corner kick. Swung in near side Aylsham clear. Smith advancing up the field on the right for Fulbourn finishing the first half strong, plays a one two with Woodley who races down the line before angling a cross along the face of goal the ball cleared by Greengrass at the far post with Crook closing in. 

Parker fouled as she gets up to try and catch a high ball flung into the box from Fulbourn’s right. Papadopoulou gathering the ball into her feet looks to get on the move down the right, Crook tracking back to challenge for Fulbourn. Aylsham press forwards the ball lifted into Baker inside the box right of goal knocks it down for Papadopoulou on the move right side, cuts her cross back for Vicki Lubbock running in 25 yards out smashes her shot wide beyond the far post.

  End to end and Fulbourn turn play around Turner on for Quinn up on the right with Seyf and Woodley moving into the corner her cross intercepted turned wide for a throw, into Woodley 25 yards out fires it in central for Seyf to hit the shot, angled in on goal comes at Parker with pace but right behind it gets her gloves behind the ball palming it down then claiming. 

Half-time Aylsham FC Women 0-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

 A thoroughly entertaining 1st half between to competitive evenly matched sides. A bright start from Aylsham getting on the front foot pushing on took Fulbourn a little time to settle figure things out but once they did the game became much more even the visitors getting forwards well, breaking up a number of Aylsham attacks, the hosts carrying a threat in behind forcing a save from the keeper. Fulbourn creating opportunities of their own taking a one on one with the keeper to open the scoring late in the first half. Both sides putting alot of effort into the game will be interesting to see if they can keep it up. Fulbourn with the slender lead will be looking to extend the advantage 2nd half, Aylsham needing to find a goal, if it’s all square after 90 minutes the game goes straight to penalties. 

 Aylsham with an enforced change in the first half making another at the start of the 2nd half, having lost one defender, lose another with Buckley coming off, Ellie Snowling entering the game. A positional change with Woods usually an attack minded player joining Arnoup at centre back. Fulbourn unchanged getting the 2nd half underway the ball back into Stubbings in midfield played across the back line before being played forwards into Woodley looks for Crook on the left, Brown seeing it out for a throw for Aylsham.

   Woodley pressing the ball on the left steals on on Brown to run past the full back, Brown back to her feet to get after Woodley and tackle to play the ball out for a throw. Fulbourn on the attack early on 2nd half pressing the ball high, out to Seyf wide right angles her diagonal ball inside into Woodley top of the D, turns to take the shot, Arnoup close in to put in the block. 

Aylsham captain, Jordan Arnoup winning the ball

 Fulbourn winning a corner on the right side, the ball curled in near post high over Turner comes to Woodley catching the attacker off guard six yards out gets her head to the ball looping up in towards goal, Parker though sees it all the way claims unchallenged.

 Fulbourn turning the screw Seyf on the right winning her side a corner kick, the ball swung in near side Parker up well to take it into her gloves. Parker busy at the start of the 2nd half Crook firing the ball on from the right for Woodley steal off the defence into attack the box, Parker out sliding in doesn’t quite get there but throwing herself across the attackers run does enough to see Woodley fire her shot wide of the right post however it comes at a cost, Parker down hurt.

 Play stopped a long pause drinks taken, some concern a change of goalkeeper considered, Arnoup the option to don the gloves has been an emergency goalie in the past. Time taken however and Parker is slowly back up on her feet and able to continue. Play resumes Vicki Lubbock up to Snowling on the left a forceful run sends the pass infield for Wright, held up by Anderson, looks to take it right before lifting a high ball into the box, caught high back on her line by Fallow at her near post. 

Fulbourn defender, Jess Anderson

 Anderson strong at the back for Fulbourn brings the ball out of defence sending it forwards for Crook running on down the left side whips a cross in behind the defence Seyf just a fraction away from making contact 20 yards out, the flag though is raised against her, close. A good contest as Baker hooks the ball on from the middle up to Wright who drags the ball to the right looking to get down the line, Anderson racing across to snuff out the chance sending the ball away for a throw.

  Aylsham coming back into the game having soaked up some pressure from Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half, Snowling and Vicki Lubbock looking to link up on the left side, Adams sliding in to halt proceedings for Fulbourn. The game stretched now with Fulbourn turning defence into attack well Quinn up to Woodley central lays it to Seyf to the right looking for the return ball as she races on into the box gets it, chasing it down Vicki Lubbock tracking back the pair come together Woodley’s heels clipped the visitors want the foul instead get a corner as the ball is deflected behind. Swung into the box Turner meeting it 10 yards out drills her headed effort over the cross bar.

Fulbourn captain, Marie Stubbings

  Anderson surges away on the left getting forwards pressures Brown in possession forcing the error, taking the ball on in behind to cross into the area out to the right for Crook inside the box attempts to play it back across goal as Anderson steals in far post turns her first time attempt over! Fulbourn pushing hard for a 2nd goal Quinn with Stubbings into Crook right side 30 yard out pulls the trigger her strike angling wide past the far post. 

Eve Seyf with Kiara Wright

 Wright fouled by Stubbings on the right on halfway, Arnoup ever dangerous on a set-piece to take angling a diagonal ball up towards Sophie Lubbock inside the D, knocks it down into the path of Baker 30 yards out takes on the shot her effort bouncing up sharply in front of the keeper, but Fallow unfazed to claim. 

Shelley Woods winning the ball for Aylsham

 Fulbourn break away the ball floated on down the left Woodley on the move no flag running in behind to curl a cross in across the top of the area to Crook on the opposite side on the run as she strikes the ball, wasn’t settled as the ball left her foot, the shot taken by Parker positioned well on her penalty spot. Wright and Milner enjoying a good tussle on the right of Aylsham’s attack the attacker slipping inside to send a cross into the box too close to Farrow covering her near post. 

Vicki Lubbock

Aylsham with a third change bringing of Baker, replacing her with Chelsea Crowley. Papadopoulou’s chances limited so far in the 2nd half, links up with Wright on the right to get away to send a cross into the Fulbourn box, intercepted by Quinn. Aylsham keep the momentum Papadopoulou knocking the ball on central for Vicki Lubbock outside the box can’t quite take it in her stride, Papadopoulou running onto the loose ball 20 out pulls her shot wide.

Ellie Snowling

  Fulbourn lively on the counter attack Stubbins breaking on with the ball laid forwards into Woodley, Woods sticking a foot out to stab the ball away for a throw. Fulbourn from the throw press the attack Stubbings controlling to send the ball down the line for Woodley cutting the cross back to Seyf arriving top of the area, turns inside to shoot, her effort lacking pace Parker can snatch it up cleanly into her gloves. Fulbourn storming on with the ball Stubbings on for Woodley through the middle looks to drive into the box, Woods struggling to catch her brings her down with a cynical foul outside the D, a free kick to Fulbourn, Arnoup was around on the cover preventing it from being a straight red card, yellow shown. Crook on the set-piece s annoyed with herself as she flashes her strike over the bar.

Ebony Crook

  The visitors pressing for a goal, Crook breaking on up the right the cross-field ball into her path bursts into the box, Greengrass in to pressure the shot as Crook lets fly fires the shot wide at the near post. A single goal between the sides Aylsham under the cosh at the back as Fulbourn push players on release the ball through the middle into Vicki Lubbock 25 yards out to the left of the D, pulls the trigger a powerful hit taking a wicked deflection of a defender lopping up in front of Fallow, Papadopoulou running in on the keeper on the follow up getting something on the ball but can only turn in frustration and the ball spins wide of goal. 

  Players getting tired out their the heat sapping, Sophie Lubbock has fresher legs to her left as she sends Snowling away down the left, Smith closing her down to put the ball out for a throw. Woodley on for Crook plays the ball over the top looking for Seyf in behind, the attacker hesitates for a moment expecting a flag, gives Parker the vital second she needs to race out of her area to put in the blocking clearance, however the flag is up. A double change for Fulbourn, Quinn and Seyf coming off to be replaced by Chandler and Muffett.

 Aylsham warded a free-kick on halfway. the clock ticking down as Aylsham search for an equaliser, Arnoup has a crack on goal, skipping through on target Fallow is forced into the save diving to her right full stretch to push the ball wide out of her box. Stubbings is finding the energy to keep up the attack running away with the ball on the left flashes a cross into the six yard box, Parker down low to knock the ball away from danger ahead of Woodley. 

  GOAL! 10 minutes of regular play left Aylsham find Wright central controls to lay the ball on for Vicki Lubbock 20 out left of the D, drives forwards evading a wild challenge to run on into the box and slot the ball past the advancing keeper to level the match 1-1.

Vicki Lubbock celebrates with her teammates

  Game on with less than 10 minutes to play Aylsham back in the tie. Players pulling up on both side with fatigue. A break in play a chance for both to regroup for the closing stages. Aylsham with their tails up attack through the middle Papadopoulou with Vicki Lubbock has Woods making a run to the left finds her the ball slid into the box, cut out and cleared by Anderson for Fulbourn. 

Alex Milner with Chelsea Crowley

  The visitors set Crook away on the right forwards for Woodley into Chandler out on the wing, Crowley slides in to put the ball out for a throw in. This time the in swinging corner flung over Turner at the near post doesn’t catch Woodley unawares, meets it six yards out with a bullet header flashed straight at the keeper, parker reacting instinctively batting the ball up into the air and plucking it down safely into her chest.

Aylsham goalkeeper, Mya Parker.

  Milner with a rare foray forwards for Fulbourn on the left swings a cross into the box looking for Woodley central, Parker has read the game well throughout there to claim the cross. Into the last five minutes Fulbourn finding the energy to launch a swift attack the ball clipped on by Stubbings to Woodley bursting through the defence, Greengrass finds the legs to get back on her pressure the attacker into the early strike from 25 yards out lacks the power to trouble Parker.

 The game stretched in the closing stages Aylsham tired pushed up trying to keep momentum in the Fulbourn half a risk but a goal now for either side surely wins the tie. Fulbourn dangerous on the counter Stubbings away with Woodley through the middle the latter sending Stubbings into the box right side, Woods going with her with a well timed tackle inside the box to turn the ball of Stubbings for a goal kick. Players down have given it their all, Milner struggling for Fulbourn nevertheless digs deep to deny Wright a crossing opportunity late on. 

 Woodley left side bringing the ball under control from a throw turning inside to lift a diagonal ball into the top of the area for Crook right of goal meeting it on the half volley sends her effort over the bar. Vicki Lubbock with a tired challenge to bring Woodley down central 30 yards out with the game deep into injury time. One last chance for Fulbourn outside the D, Crook with the deception to play the ball low out to the right for Woodley to attack inside the box on the angle smashes the shot in at the near post, Parker with the acrobatic save throwing herself to the left to glove the ball wide off the post… the final whistle comes straight after he tie going to a penalty shootout!

Full time Aylsham FC Women 1-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

 A thrilling game Fulbourn nearly winning it with the final kick of the ball. Created a host o chances 2nd half but couldn’t take one to extend their lead, needed a little more composure in front of goal but credit to Aylsham had to dig deep 2nd period deal with players in unfamiliar positions getting forwards got an opportunity to score and took it well holding on to send the game into a penalty shootout. In a contest that could have gone either way. 

Penalties

  Don’t like penalties as you know but the game has to be settled on the day, 5 each then if still level goes to sudden death.

  Aylsham up first, and it’s their captain placing the ball on the spot, Arnoup hitting the ball hard and low to her left, Fallow guessing the right way diving down to make the save deflect the ball up over the bar! 0-0

Rachel Fallow saves the opening penalty

 Crook walking up to the spot to take Fulbourn’s first penalty, a powerful hit angling arrow like to the right corner of the goal Parker going the right way has no chance 0-1.

  Vicki Lubbock to take Aylsham’s 2nd spot kick, no mistake blasts it down the middle to level things up 1-1.

  Woodley to take Fulbourn’s 2nd spot kick fires it in hard and low to the right, Parker throws herself across her goal to save getting her gloves behind the ball 1-1.

  Woods coming up to take Aylsham’s 3rd spot kick with an opportunity to fire her side into the lead, coolly taken to send the keeper the wrong way and score. 2-1.

  Turner to takes Fulbourn’s 3rd spot kick. struck to the right of goal, Parker agile moves crab like across her goal to get behind the shot and make the save. 2-1.

Mya Parker saving twice in the shootout.

  Sophie Lubbock up next for Aylsham, runs up a powerful hit angling to the left of goal at a saveable height Fallow dives gets her fingertips to the ball but the pace beats her to see Aylsham go 3-1 up.

  Chandler up next for Fulbourn has to score to keep her side in the shootout blasts her penalty into the top corner, well struck. 3-2.

  Papadopoulou walking up to take Aylsham’s 5th penalty scores and she sends her side into the next round of the Women’s FA Cup, runs in strikes the ball the keeper goes the right way but can’t get there the ball smashing down over the line off the crossbar to secure the win 4-2.

Aylsham celebrate as they advance to the next round of the Women’s FA Cup

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A clear winner this time around. Nevertheless several performances to mention. A thrilling cup tie both sides gave it their all and could have gone either way. Firstly for Fulbourn a tough call to single anyone out was a great team effort once they got into the game. The attackers all playing their part making some great runs and constant outlets for the ball. Marie Stubbings got about the park winning the ball setting her team forwards. Jess Anderson with a number of vital tackles at the back winning her fair share of challenges. Daniella Quinn strong in the middle too particularly first half getting forwards to break up Aylsham’s play kept the momentum with her side. For Aylsham, Christina Papadopoulou asked Fulbourn plenty of questions with some great attacking runs, Vicki Lubbock strong in the middle getting forwards to support the attack to her chance well. The award though goes to young goalkeeper, Mya Parker, a fantastic competitive debut for Aylsham her positional play was fantastic throughout, read the game well and made a number of vital saves, most notably in the final seconds and two in the shootout.

  Aylsham will face Essex side Stanway Pegasus Women  in 2nd Round Qualifying after they scored a 94th minute winner to beat Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 3-2. A cracking cup tie more often than not there is a tie that calls to me in the draw and this was it a great contest between the sides a proper cup tie and both can be proud of their performance their opening game of the season sets them up nicely for the league campaign ahead. Could have gone either way. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details, good to catch up with a few familiar faces and look forward to the next round.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Ipswich Town Women

Thursday 29th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

East Anglian derbies have been the highlight for many season’s between Norwich City and Ipswich Town, games full pf passion, excitement and drama and at long last it’s the woman’s sides who get the opportunity to steal the show at one of the two clubs iconic stadium’s with Carrow Road hosting the pair in the now traditional opening round of the FAWNL League Cup competitions the Determining Round. The winning side going on to contest the League Cup itself, with the losers still competing for silverware in the form of the League Plate.

 Before I continue I should apologise to the Norwich City Women fans, new and old for highlighting the last time I covered the two sides in an East Anglian derby. Back then on the 19th February 2020, was a wet and miserable evening in Blofield, at Norwich’s old home of Plantation Park. The hosts struggling in the league with Ipswich very much on the crest of a wave, building a strong side with a frightening array to talent coming into their side from their newly formed FAWSL academy side. Ipswich on the hunt for promotion from South East Division One proved too hot to handle on the night, Eloise King rattling in a hat-trick as Ipswich powered their way to a 10-0. ‘Ipswich and Norwich poles apart tonight’ the final words of that report.

 I only highlight that now so that it shows how far Norwich have come from that wet and miserable night. Run by a small but dedicated band of volunteers the woman’s side is now fully under the banner of the main club, Ex-WSL player Flo Allen coming in a General Manager. The club with a fantastic new home moving to the The Nest a newly build sporting facility on the outskirts of the city. As a result have gone from a side struggling at one end of the league to one now amongst the favourites to achieve promotion to tier 3. A growing fanbase too are very much on the up!

 Matching those ambitions by bringing in Andy Cook as their new head coach. Managing Newcastle United Women previously, winning the League Cup before achieving promotion to the FAWSL Championship last season. Will be looking to build on last season with Norwich finishing runners-up in South East Division One. 10 players leaving the club over the summer including captain Anna Larkins who had been at the club for 16 years. Megan Todd taking over the captain’s armband this season.

  6 new faces joining the club, Sienna Booty and Izzy Moore setting up to the 1st team from the Academy Development Program. Jess Barnes who had an impressive season at the centre of defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women as they won promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division dual signs with Norwich. Lara Densley having been with Norwich between 2020-22 returns after a brilliant season on the wing for Wroxham Women. Attacker, Ella Powell joins having been at Loughborough Lightning for the past 3 seasons along with Tamsin Medd-Gill who has tier 3 experience with Plymouth Argyle Women. Cook’s reign getting off to a fantastic start with 2 wins from two in the league 2-3 away to newly promoted Dulwich Hamlet Women on the opening day with Natasha Snelling bagging a brace in this Sunday’s home win over Cambridge United Women.  In fact just Snelling and Millie Davies remain from the side that featured in that 10-0 loss.

  Ipswich Town Women lit the touch paper when it comes to getting ahead in the game, like Norwich long established as a tier 4 side, moved for that extra bit of investment to carry the club to the next level building a strong side and with in a FAWSL academy league set-up full of talented youth players to push forwards. Bearing fruit in the 2019/20 season, Covid would come along to throw things off the rails but once that began to settle and the FA looked to reset the leagues Ipswich won their rightful place in tier 3 and haven’t looked back, finishing in the top 4 in the past 3 seasons, records a 3rd, 2nd and 4th placed finish under manager Joe Sheehan. Have also done well in terms of gaining new supporters and have a passionate fanbase cheering on the team.

  With just the one promotion spot available throughout the FAWNL, achieving it is a very difficult task and sides invest much into achieving it. Ipswich coming close remain ambitious the goal to reach the Championship beyond. Remain committed to seeking out young talent to develop while adding a smattering of experience, players moving on just 3 remain from that night at Plantation Park, hat-trick heroine, Eloise King, along with fan favourites, Sophie Peskett and Natasha Thomas. A new raft of players coming into the club this season all with useful experience, Angela Addison prominent amongst those, having previously featured for Charlton Athletic and Tottenham Hotspur. Ella Rutherford another joining from Charlton. Isabella Fisher is duel signed to Ipswich from Arsenal. Charlotte Fleming the new captain, joins having been in the Championship with Watford last season. Grace Garrad likewise with Lewes in the Championship last campaign. Shauna Guyant and goalkeeper, Natalia Negri playing for Crystal Palace last season as the club won promotion to the FAWSL for the 1st time. Showed they will be up at the top competing again with two wins from their opening two games both against sides who would consider themselves title contenders too, 1-3 away to Oxford United on the opening day and a 2-0 victory at home to Hashtag United Women this Sunday. Sophie Peskett on target to score 3 goals across both matches.

Carrow Road

Norwich City Women getting used to the atmosphere at Carrow Road having gotten the opportunity to play a number of fixtures at the Championship ground in recent seasons hoping for another large turn out with Ipswich themselves bringing 750 fans to Norfolk. Have met once since that night at Plantation Park, Ipswich beating Norwich 3-1 at The Nest in the FA Women’s Cup late in 2020. The first time the pair have gotten the opportunity to go head to head at Carrow Road, the pitch a carpet to play on, the fans close to the action the South Stand being used for this evenings game. Activities outside the ground and a DJ providing pre match entertainment to help build the atmosphere. A lovely evening warm and dry after a pleasant warm day. 

Norwich City Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill (C), Izzy Moore, Tamsin Medd-Gill, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss, Eloise Morran, Lauren Hailes, Freya Symonds, Holly Kennard, Ellie Smith & Natasha Snelling.  Subs – Amber Locker, Chardonnay Johnston, Ella Powell, Lara Densley Shannon Shaw, Olivia Cook & Sienna Booty.

Norwich City Women

Ipswich Town Women starting XI – Natalia Negri, Shauna Guyant, Megan Wearing, Evie Williams. Leah Mitchell, Charlotte Fleming (C), Lucy O’Brien, Issy Bryant, Maisy Barker, Angela Addison & Isabella Fisher. Subs – Laura Hartley, Maria Boswell, Summer Hughes, Natasha Thomas, Eloise King & Sophie Peskett.

Ipswich Town Women

 The DJ getting the crowd pumped up before the match as the teams are led out onto the pitch, the Ipswich fans in good voice too occupying the away section. The teams lining up opposite the spectators. Norwich without new captain Megan Todd at the start of the season, full back Lauren Tomlinson too who suffered a broken wrist in Norwich’s last match.  Ipswich with six of their new signings in the starting line-up including new captain, Charlotte Fleming. The game attracting plenty of media interest, including being broadcast live on BBC Radio Norfolk.

  It’s the visitors, Ipswich to get the Determining Round tie underway kicking off the 1st half, wearing blue coloured shirts with white shorts and blue socks, Norwich lined up opposite in their traditional yellow coloured shirts with yellow socks and green shorts. The ball played back to the defence Ipswich allowed time on the ball patient moving it across the back line from left to right before sending a probing pass up the right for Issy Bryant to attack, Freya Symonds stretching out a leg to intercept for Norwich, turns and makes a powerful run up the wing in front of the cheering fans, Shauna Guyant in to play the ball off Symonds for a throw in.

  Norwich getting everyone behind the ball inside their own half allowing Ipswich possession at the back the visitors with a slow build up happy to keep possession, Fleming central clipping the ball out to the right wing with Bryant bursting forwards, Izzy Moore at left back for Norwich going with her as she looks to see the ball out of play, not happening with Bryant hustling Moore instead gets her foot on the ball to control and clears up field. 

 Both wide players lively at the start for Ipswich, with Maisy Barker breaking down the left the full backs coming on with the ball as Norwich concede ground, Fleming again to lift a diagonal pass out to the right looking for Bryant, Moore getting head head on the ball to cancel the threat for Norwich. Ellie Smith looking to get hold of the ball central for Norwich drive the attack, gives away a foul in the circle on Fleming. The set-piece taken quickly lifted on down the left for Barker breaking into space in behind to turn cross into the area, Ceri Flye heading the ball clear at the back for Norwich.

 Ipswich quick to retain possession getting players up around the edge of the box, Norwich dropping back no space to thread a ball in behind, likewise getting it out to attack the opposition tough with both Smith and Natasha Snelling picking up the ball inside their own half soon running into traffic. Guyant up with Bryant on the right for Ipswich the ball slid into the area snatched up safely by Sara Quantrill in the Norwich goal. Snelling linking up with Symonds on the left an opportunity to attack with the ball down the line, wins a throw in, gives the attackers a chance to cause an issue up the other end, Smith harrying the defence in possession top of the area, Megan Wearing getting it way for Ipswich.

Ipswich’s Megan Wearing

  Evie Williams sending the ball on for Barker down Ipswich’s left side races on down the line before cutting the ball back into the top of the area looking for Angela Addison Eloise Morran tracking back for Norwich, stealing the ball off the attacker to clear. Norwich launch a counter attack through the middle, Snelling on the drive with the ball at her feet played out to Symonds on the left sends an angled cross in long towards the far post, Ipswich goalkeeper Natalia Negri getting up to pluck the ball down, keeping hold of it as Smith comes rushing in on her, a free-kick on the keeper awarded by the referee. 

 Ipswich with possession calm at the back stroking the ball about advancing as a unit the ball into the middle for Lucy O’Brien with Fleming taking it out to the right played into Fisher pulling wide the striker sending the ball inside to Bryant top of the area, Flye putting in the blocking tackle the ball coming back to Fisher outside, darts inside to send a cross in on the angle wide across the top of the six yard box.

Isabella Fisher

  Norwich soaking up alot of pressure look determined in defence as Ipswich playing the ball across the back launch an attack on their left Williams on for Barker her cross into the top of the area, Flye quickly in to block the resulting strike from Addison. Moore closed down at the back for Norwich under pressure squeezes the ball inside for her keeper to clear, Quantrill forced into a hasty clearance with Addison moving to close her down.

 Ipswich able to get players into advanced positions, Leah Mitchell up inside the D as the ball runs into her path rifles in a powerful strike towards goal the ball smashing down off the cross bar Quantrill dropping to the ground in an attempt to get something on it reacts quickly as Addison latches onto the loose ball six yards out to the left of go, the keeper throwing herself up to bat the follow up shot pushed away to the left, Barker getting it back to send a cross into the mix, Hope Strauss heading it away for Norwich as they see out the threat.

  Flye picking up a knock in the melee, down needing treatment, both sides coming over to their respective benches for instruction. The defender okay to continue Norwich limited in their opportunities to attack, both Snelling and Smith often receiving the ball inside their own half, quickly closed down as they attempt to carry the ball on. Lauren Hailes winning the ball for Norwich sending it on for Holly Kennard attacking on the right taking the ball on looks to turn inside Williams, the full back coming back at her to tackle regain possession for Ipswich send her team forward played through to Fisher making a run into the right channel turns it wide to Guyant in the right as she arrives in the box, Guyant sending a shot racing wide across the face of goal from the angle.

Ipswich’s Shauna Guyant

  Ipswich pressing look a threat, Barker from the left firing a cross into the top of the area, Guyant latching onto the ball right of the D, driven in low, Quantrill down smartly to make the save turn the ball behind for a corner kick. Curled into the near post from the right the corner headed clear, Norwich look for the break the ball sent long up to Kennard breaking on down the right, tracks inside before Fleming covers the ground to challenge and turn play around Ipswich on the attack, Kennard down off the ball play stopped with the winger appearing to be in trouble. A pause in play and after assessment, Kennard is allowed to play on. 

  Guyant getting on well down the right for Ipswich up with Bryant her cross into the area cut out by Hailes for Norwich. No break on for Norwich, Ipswich come back winning a free-kick 25 plus yards out to the right, slid down the line for Guyant to fire in a low cross, Flye stepping in to block the ball for Norwich. A dogged effort from Norwich at the back, little for the attackers to feed on Smith releasing Symonds on the left wing powers her way forwards, the ball turned out of play, Symonds feeding off the crowds energy looking to pump them up. 

  Smith bringing the ball inside running across the top of the Ipswich D looking for an opening instead sends it on for Kennard out wide she turns it back into the area, looking for the run of Hailes the midfielder, not quite able to take it in her stride, Mitchell clearing for Ipswich.

Norwich’s Lauren Hailes

  Mitchell part of the next Ipswich attack bringing the ball on before firing it on into the area for Fisher pulling off the defence right of goal, gets a shot away on the angle but straight at Quantrill who drops to make the save. Fisher advancing down the left channel played on by Addison surges forwards knocking the ball on towards the top of the area, Flye comes to close her down managing to nick the ball away from the attacker, hurt as Fisher catches her foot on the follow through. The defender taking the knock able to shake it off.

   Fleming doing well in the middle getting about to win the ball keep her side on the front foot, dominant in possession. Smith into Hailes, picks out Kennard on the right takes the ball forwards inside for Smith, looks to turn off Williams the full back on close getting her toe on the ball to take it off the attacker. O’Brien sends the ball on for Barker left for Ipswich closing in on the by-line cuts the cross into the area charged down by Flye turned behind for a corner kick. Curled into the near post headed clear by Smith for Norwich. 

 Ipswich turning the screw barker in again on their left closing in on the by-line cut back up to Addison on the box looks to fire her shot in across goal, Strauss in the way blocking to turn it out past the far post for a corner kick. Swung into the six yard box, Quantrill comes in amongst bodies to punch the ball clear. Ipswich with all the attacking play, Norwich though putting in a determined effort in defence. Symonds down needing treatment as she stretches out a leg to prevent Fisher driving on with the ball. 

  Barker seeing another low cross from the left cut out by Flye, Ipswich pushed up quick to regain the ball swung out to the right, Bryant’s attempted cross deflected off Morran into the side netting for a corner kick. Players up the ball curled into the six yard box, attacking it an Ipswich player goes down falls to Fisher six yards out gets the ball in on target but can only find Quantrill back on her line. 

Ipswich captain, Charlotte Fleming

 Fisher reacting quickly to nip in on the ball as Morran plays it short at the back to the left of the area, looks to strike the ball across the goal can’t get it wide enough of Quantrill. Addison in the left channel has Barker ahead of her as Ipswich press forwards in the closing stages of the first half the ball, looking to pick her out, Hailes and Morran both put in challenges to half the attack play switched to the right with Mitchell bombing forwards her cross on the run struck over the bar.  

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-0 Ipswich Town Women

  Goalless at the break, somehow! Ipswich having the lions share of possession able to play the ball across the back push up, creating numerous opportunities, Quantrill by far the busier of the two goalkeepers producing a couple of top draw saves. Norwich have set there stall out to defend and have for the large part done well soaking up pressure dropping back inviting their opponents on has limited their own opportunities going the other way with their attackers often deep having alot of work to do. Ipswich comfortable at the back. A question now of whether Norwich can keep their opponents out for another 45 minutes, Ipswich will fancy their chances of breaking the deadlock if the balance of play remains the same.

  No changes for either side at the break, Norwich to get the tie underway 2nd half, extra-time and penalties should they be required. Played out to the left, Bryant in to close the left back down as Ipswich look to get straight on the attack. From the right the ball pushed inside to Fisher who in turn finds Addison to her left, drives forwards, Flye into win the ball back for Norwich. 

  Ipswich attack left Williams on for Barker attacks down line evading Medd-Gill’s challenge tracking to the by-line the Norwich full back coming back at her to charge the cross down, the ball played back up the line, Williams cross in from deep cleared by Strauss at the top of the Norwich area. Strauss with the outstretched leg to get in ahead of Addison inside the box as Bryant looks to pick her out from the right.

  The pattern pretty much as you were in the first half Ipswich pushed up on half way knocking the ball about at the back probing the Norwich flanks. The hosts soaking up the pressure well mind an assured defensive performance so far. The cross-field pass coming to Bryant out on the right, looks to take the ball on, held up by Moore, looks to put it back up the line for Mitchell, Symonds getting back to support Moore and break up play. 

 Fleming with the diagonal pass out to Bryant on the right clips it back across the top of the area into Fisher back to goal 20 out, turns and twists looking to get a half yard pick out Guyant in the area ahead of her, Strauss in to close her down for Norwich. Both sets of supporters finding their voice looking to encourage their teams a great atmosphere as Ipswich force a corner on the left. Curled into the middle of goal, Quantrill with the reactive save knocking the ball up into the air, dropping for Addison top of the six yard box looks to place a deft header back in on target looping up but caught safely by the Norwich keeper back on her line.

Norwich defender, Ceri Flye

Norwich barely out of their half in the opening 10 minutes of the 2nd half, Ipswich continue to knock on the door. Smith getting Kennard on the move on the right is cleaned out as she breaks away, no foul a throw in to Norwich put inside to Hailes making a run 25 yards from goal, can’t get a shot away before she is closed down. Barker running the ball to the by-line left for Ipswich held up cuts it back up the line for Williams to fire a diagonal ball in to the top of the area, Fisher the target, Flye nips in ahead of her to win it for the hosts.

An hour played Ipswich preparing a triple substitution Summer Hughes, Natasha Thomas and Sophie Peskett coming on to replace, Barker, Fisher and Bryant up top. Quickly into the action Thomas linking up with Guyant and Mitchell advanced on the right to win a corner. Played into the top of the area before being put back wide to the corner taker the cross intercepted by Strauss. Peskett operating on the right for Ipswich with a forceful run in behind flashes a dangerous ball in along the face of the Norwich goal.

GOAL! Hughes with the ball at her feet bursts infield from the left driving across the D sends it on for Peskett to the right, top of the area, lifts her cross into the middle, Flye up with Thomas the ball deflected down off the Ipswich attack falls straight to Hughes positioned left of the D, drills a low shot in towards goal racing past the diving Quantrill into the bottom corner to open the scoring and her Ipswich account for the season. 0-1.

Summer Hughes fresh to the action firing Ipswich into the lead

  The deadlock broken at last, an inspired triple change from manger Joe Sheehan with all three substitutes involved in the goal. Play resumes Ipswich straight on the attack winning a corner on the right.

GOAL! Have played in some inviting in swingers from their corners a this one is on the money from Guyant, put in central Thomas inside the six yard box rising the highest to power her header into the top corner to double the lead 0-2. Thomas getting her account up and running for the season.

Natasha Thomas heading home Ipswich’s 2nd goal.

The substitutes tuning the game on it’s head, Norwich having defended stoutly for an hour quickly falling 2 goals behind will have to change strategy now to get themselves back into the tie. Ipswich not willing to let them out however as they press the advantage getting bodies forwards. Peskett coming back from a long injury lay off towards the end of last season looking hungry on the ball as she drives at the defence, Strauss coming across to help out Moore. Peskett retrieving the ball to turn and lift a vicious cross in to the far post, Thomas trying her best to get on the end of it can’t keep the ball in play.

  Smith looking to get something going for Norwich in attack stealing on on Wearing to have a run at the opposition box coming inside Wearing gets back at her Smith giving the foul away. Mitchell defending well against Smith as the Norwich attacker battles to get into the box.

Ellie Smith attacking for Norwich

  Norwich making a change bringing on an additional attacker with Shannon Shaw on to replace Medd-Gill.

GOAL! The substitutes continue to cause havoc for Ipswich Peskett fed the ball out on the right pushes on into the area lifting the ball inside towards Addison positioned on the penalty spot, meets it superbly turning the ball past the keeper into the top corner off the bar to score her 1st Ipswich goal and fire her side into a 3 goal lead in the 73rd minute. 0-3.

Angela Addison with her first goal for Ipswich

Ipswich on top getting hold of the ball in the middle Fleming into Peskett right channel, looks to burst on towards the area, Flye getting across the attacker to shield the ball play it back for Quantrill to launch clear. The Ipswich fans in full voice. Peskett seeing the ball into her feet right side rolling her marker to turn in behind races on into the box, Flye across to stand her up the winger flashing her cross/shot up over the bar.

 A double change for Ipswich as they bring off Mitchell and O’Brien, on come Maria Boswell and Eloise King. Thomas gets the ball from Flye outside the area left of goal but drags the resulting shot wide. Norwich making a double switch with Symonds and Kennard coming off, Lara Densley and Olivia Cook sent on. Norwich getting players up now to support the attackers apply a bit of pressure to the Ipswich defence, on their right almost pays off as Snelling forces a loose pass into the box, Negri coming racing out to try and get their before the attacker, Snelling goes down off her challenge, the keeper though appearing to just get her foot on the ball ahead of Snelling.

Megan Wearing holding off Norwich’s Natasha Snelling

GOAL! Ipswich get up the other end to fire in a 4th goal and this one is all about Sophie Peskett as fantastic effort as the winger picks the ball up on the right shifts inside and turns on the after burners to surge into the area and arrows her strike into the top right corner, 4 goals for Peskett from their opening 3 fixtures 0-4.

Sophie Peskett with a superb solo effort to put Ipswich into a 4 goal lead

  Norwich hit for four make another change with less than 10 minutes to play Moore coming off with Ella Powell joining the game. Morran with a swing at the ball from all of 30 yards out running wide of the Ipswich goal. King with a robust challenge giving the foul away on Smith. 25 yards out players up from the back swung into the area turned behind for a corner at the near post. Curled in from the right a sharp save from Negri back on her line to see the ball run out past the left post for another corner. Fleming defending for Ipswich.

Eloise King battling with Ellie Smith for the ball

  Smith coming off for Norwich with Sienna Booty coming on. Densley snapping on to steal the ball outside the box left of goal sends the ball into the middle. to close to Negri the keeper with the claim. The game moving into stoppage time. Opening up in the closing stages but Ipswich settled comfortable to keep the ball moving stretch Norwich, Peskett their outlet up top on the right forcing an attack n the drive Flye getting across to put in the challenge send the ball into the stands for a throw. The final whistle blows and Ipswich advance to the league cup proper with a memorable win at Carrow Road.

Full time Norwich City Women 0-4 Ipswich Town Women

  Ipswich look the business I have to say a strong performance this evening with the lions share of the possession. Creating numerous chances in the first half. Norwich set out to defend and would have been pleased that determined effort saw them head in goalless at the break. More of the same 2nd half, Norwich soaking up alot of pressure holding out, then the triple substitution on the hour changing the game the new players impacting the game straight away, Summer Hughes firing in the opener, quickly followed by Natasha Thomas from a corner. In front Ipswich kept up the attacking player Peskett a threat on the right setting up Angela Addison for the 3nd goal before adding a superb solo effort to make it 4-0. A good start in the league and into the league cup will certainly fancy their chances in both competitions. Norwich fought well in defence but ultimately inviting Ipswich on for so long couldn’t hold out had little by way of attacks a performance to be proud of nonetheless and into the League Plate have what it takes to go all the way.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, one contender putting herself forwards in the finish. Although their are some performances of note to mention. Firstly for Norwich it was a gritty and determined effort at the back, soaking up the pressure, for the large part dealt with it well, Ceri Flye in particular with a number of vital challenges and interceptions. Lauren Hailes getting back to help the defence looking to break up play. Sarah Quantrill with some important save in the first half to kept it goalless. For Ipswich Charlotte Fleming was strong in the middle getting about to win the ball back keep her side in the opposition half, Issy Bryant and Maisy Barker getting on well down the flanks putting several inviting balls into the box. The substitutes on the hour proving the difference, none more so that Sophie Peskett back to her best taking the ball on turning her opponents involved in the opening and 3rd goals as well as adding to her tally with a brilliant solo effort.

  Another enjoyable evening at Carrow Road, great to finally see the Norwich and Ipswich woman getting to contest an East Anglian derby at the ground. A fantastic crowd of 4751 in attendance in good voice creating a great atmosphere. My thanks to Norwich City for the media opportunity.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 25th August

ERWFL Premier Division

Bank holiday weekend and a trip over to The Nest this Sunday for my first taste of football action from the ERWFL Premier Division, an all Norfolk affair with newly promoted Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women taking on Wroxham Women.

The ERWFL representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England, up to full strength with two Division One’s North and South featured 12 sides apiece all vying for a place in the 12 strong Premier Division. Looks the strongest it ever has been with the talent pool growing in depth and quality throughout the game. Tier 5 onwards and the step up in quality becomes ever steeper.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women one of a number of county league sides applying for promotion to the ERWFL the season before last. Made sure thing’s were in place behind the scenes before making the move and it certainly paid off with a young talented squad more or less at the top of Division One North all season, enjoyed a tight race for the title with another newly promoted side, Hertfordshire’s Harpenden Town Women. Edging them to the title by a single point. From county football to step 5 in two season’s, have always said this is a huge jump up.

A baptism of fire for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on the opening day, doesn’t come much tougher than a away trip to play Haringey Borough Women who are amongst the favourites for the Premier Division title this season. Proved to be a tough game with Haringey powering into a 6 goal lead at half-time. A goal back for Dussindale & Hellesdon in the 2nd half eventually going down 8-1. Now with their first home fixture of the campaign will be looking to put thing’s right albeit with another challenge from Wroxham. Have brought in a number of new faces to bolster the squad ahead of the Premier Division season. 8 in all including, Ellen Piggott, Kyla Langan, Ella Kruez. Holly Walker comes into the club having played for Wroxham previously. Jess Harper joins having previously played for Norwich City Women. Defender Rachel Jermy joins after an impressive debut season with Mulbarton Wanderers Women along with twins Lily-Ann and Anais Winney who gained valuable experience with then FAWNL side Cambridge City Women.

Wroxham Women are a long established side within the ERWFL Premier Division, keen to push on an challenge for the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL above, but with one place up for grabs winning the league is far from easy. Adam Race begins his second season in charge off the back of a 5th placed finish along with reaching the finals of both the County and League Cup.

The squad trimmed down with a few departures over the summer including striker Luci Middleton retiring from the game and Lara Densley going back to Norwich after an impressive season playing for Wroxham. However retain a strong core of experienced players and have added 5 new faces to the bring depth to the squad. Midfielder, Chloe Shipman played a vital role in Dussindale & Hellesdon’s promotion last season, comes into Wroxham off the back of those performances. Leilah Gooding previously with Norwich, joins having had a spell at fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Needham Market Women. Also joining from Needham Market attacker, Hayley Kindred. Poppy Loveland from Mulbarton and Rio Dobbie form North Walsham, two young players with lots of potential.

The Nest, a community footballing facility newly built in Horsford on the outskirts of Norwich home to both Norwich City Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. An ever growing site close to the airport to the north of the city. With Norwich also at home today, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women are playing Wroxham on the new Lauren Hemp Community 3G pitch before the main pitch. Opened by Lauren Hemp herself just last month. The pitch offering viewing along one side and goal end. Supporters able to visit the café for hot and cold food and drinks. After a rain filled day on Saturday, the weather much more pleasant today bright albeit with some dark clouds around but no rain forecast a strong breeze blowing across the pitch likely to cause issues during the game.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Ellen Piggott, Jess Harper (C), Addi Gregory, Lily-Ann Winney, Kari Kowalcyzk, Holly Walker, Rosie George, Alisha Juby & Anais Winney. Subs – Siesha Humphries, Izzy Noakes, Ella Kreuz, Shanice Sutton & Sofia Odell.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Gambell, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson (C), Breanna Rudd, Chloe Shipman, Rachel Cossey, Lily Alexander, Rio Dobbie, Hayley Kindred & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Lucy Eagle & Poppy Loveland.

Wroxham Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Today’s captain’s Jess Harper and Tigi Robson with the match officials

  Both sides missing several key players through unavailability and injury. Dussindale & Hellesdon without their 1st choice centre backs captain, Calista Tink and Jess Barnes. Wroxham with a few out with longer term injuries including their captain, Becky Russell and defender Albany Hodgson. Midfielder Jennifer Drummie out since March though is close to making her return. The wind is certainly stronger a kick-off approaches, Wroxham to take the kick-off 1st half will attack with the wind at their back wearing their away colours, mint coloured shirts with black sleeve and shoulders with black shorts and socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon wearing their all claret home kit. The ball rolled back to Lily Alexander in midfield plays it into her right back, Ella Gambell, the visitors patient keeping the ball at the back, captain Tigi Robson threading a pass into Chloe Shipman in the middle looks to drive forwards, tackled by captain, Jess Harper at the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Wroxham quick to regain possession lift the ball out to the right with Hayley Kindred on the move, takes the ball down the line whipping a cross in on the angle the ball inches over the crossbar. Chelsea Clarke coming on from left back for Wroxham tracking inside before laying the ball on for striker Hannah Fuller pulling wide into the left channel, her cross put back in along the top of the area cut out by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s, Addi Gregory.

The hosts look to launch their first attack, Harper into Kari Kowalcyzk with Lily-Ann Winney pushing on through the middle, Rachel Cossey getting her foot on the ball to get Wroxham back on the offensive. A little congested in the middle, not alot of room to get hold of the ball both sides snapping at each other. Wroxham winning a throw on the left as Rachel Bussey steps in to take the ball away from Rio Dobbie. Played inside Alexander turns powering her way infield 25 yards out puts her foot through the ball her effort wind assisted flying up over the bar.  Wroxham looking to impose themselves on the game early on getting forwards with the ball.

Wroxham’s Lily Alexander

Attacking down the left Clarke on for Dobbie on the in sends the pass forwards into Fuller turning on the by-line to fire a cross in along the face of goal, cut out at the far post, turned into the top of the six yard box, Kindred is looking to latch onto the ball, getting taken out by an outstretched foot as she does, the referee pointing to the spot Penalty!

GOAL! Kindred picking herself up to take the penalty kick. Hits it well low and hard to race into the bottom left corner giving the keeper no chance as she celebrates her first Wroxham goal. 0-1. Wroxham with the lead inside 6 minutes.

Hayley Kindred sends Wroxham into an early lead from the spot

GOAL! No sooner have Wroxham taken the lead they double their advantage getting down the other end to win a corner kick on the left, Kindred coming over to play the ball into the area curled into the six yard box a mix up in the middle seeing the ball go all the way in at the far post 0-2.

Hayley Kindred is congratulated as she doubles Wroxham’s lead

Two goals for Hayley Kindred

Two goals in 3 minutes to see Wroxham gain control of the match. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking for at outlet up top play the ball over the top into space on the left, Rosie George bursting forwards, Clarke coming across brings her down outside the area top corner earning herself the first booking of the game. Harper coming up from the back to take the free-kick, strikes the ball in towards the near post, Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams right behind it taking the ball low into her body as she drops forwards.

Anais Winney closing down Robson at the back on the right side, steals possession to run in behind attack the area, goes early with her angled shot 20 yards out , looping doesn’t have the height to trouble the keeper, Williams with the easy catch. Gambell into Cossey, played right for Kindred to attack, charging down the wing drives into the box, Ellen Piggott timing her tackle well to deny the shooting chance the ball behind for a corner kick.

The delivery floated into the six yard box, cleared out to the top of the area straight to Alexander left of the D, puts her foot throw the ball her strike racing wide through the crowd behind past the far post. Clarke left putting the ball on into Fuller up to left channel, has Alexander making an overlapping run lays the ball on for her, the cross flung into the near post cleared by Harper for a throw in.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women captain, Jess Harper

The wind definitely favouring Wroxham n the 1st half, particularly from corners, see another inviting curled delivery from the left fall narrowly wide of the far post. The next opportunity swung in towards goal crashing out off the crossbar. Gambell  bringing the ball on down the right, tackled by Piggott, Shipman quickly regaining possession putting it cross-field into Dobbie, has Clarke racing past her on the overlap wanting the ball closing in on the by-line her cross caught in the wind flying to the far post, Fuller rising can’t quite get her head on the ball. George having picked up a knock for Dussindale & Hellesdon is replaced by Izzy Noakes.

Lily-Ann Winney with Chloe Shipman

Alisha Juby with the ball at her feet on the drive through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon attempts to thread the pass in behind for Walker, intercepted by centre back Breanna Rudd for Wroxham. Wroxham comfortable at the ball, Dussindale & Hellesdon moving the ball quickly but cramped up for space, with Alexander, Cossey and Shipman closing it down in the middle for Wroxham. Is space in behind with Wroxham pushing up it’s a case of whether Dussindale & Hellesdon can pick out the pass, they do with a good diagonal ball out to the left for Walker to run onto the winger on the move taking they ball on into the area rapidly closing down the six yard box, goes to pull the trigger, Robson diving in to charge the attempt down force it behind for a corner kick.

Tigi Robson moving across to close down Holly Walker as she bears down on goal

The corner from the left swung in towards the near post over everyone attacking that side drops to Robson beyond to clear safely at the far post.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

GOAL! Just as Dussindale & Hellesdon get an opportunity at one end they are hit on the counter attack the ball cleared into midfield played forwards into the box right post side cut out, Fuller nipping in to get hold of the ball lashes it home from six yard out to make it 3! 0-3.

Hannah Fuller latching onto the ball inside the box to turn and score

Almost a half hour played in the 1st half Wroxham with a 3 goal advantage, work for Dussindale & Hellesdon to do, Lily-Ann Winney finding Noakes on the right wing pushes on has good support from Anais Winney, look to play a one two expose Clarke as they turn the full back, Clarke though is one on the best full backs in the league and reads the pass to halt the attack.

Chelsea Clarke

Kindred has Fuller up with her on the right feeding the striker the ball, Fuller gets down the line to win a corner kick. Curled in across the six yard box comes all the way through to Robson at the far post her stooping header put back in towards goal, Cole right behind it to save for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Another change for Dussindale with Siesha Humphries on at the back in place of Piggott.

Wroxham’s Rachel Cossey

Fuller brought down on halfway winning Wroxham a free-kick. Clarke over the ball sends it long into Kindred attacking the right post, Cole with a sharp save down to get a glove on the ball turn it away from goal. Harper playing the ball out to Noakes on the right, Anais Winney making a run into the right channel ahead of her wanting the past played in behind, Noakes attempted through ball cut out by Robson. Dobbie seeing the ball into her feet on Wroxham’s left comes inside, Bussey coming back at her to put in the challenge, wins the free-kick as Dobbie comes back after the ball.

Alexander travels out to the left with the ball, Dobbie racing on down to the by-line wanting the pass, Bussey tracking back with her to win the tackle, the ball away for a throw in. Wroxham pressing late in the first half, Fuller 30 yards out right of the D, has Dobbie in ahead of her lays the ball forwards Dobbie striking the ball low and hard from outside the box, Cole with a fantastic save, getting down to glove the ball behind for a corner kick.

Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

Curled into the mix from the right, dropping down outside the six yard box, Kowalcyzk looks to bring it away for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Wroxham quick to get the ball back find Kindred out on the right pressing forwards stopped by Humphries. Kindred receiving the ball from the resulting throw in spinning inside from the right striking the ball on the angle the effort crashing into the side netting. The visitors pushing hard for a 4th goal late on attacking through the middle Cossey with Shipman forwards for Alexander to the right of the D, 25 yards out unleashes a strike, Cole with another vital save diving to her left to push the ball away from her goal.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 0-3 Wroxham Women

  Wroxham end the first half in a strong position leading 3-0. Have been strong on the ball right from the off, the wind at their backs aiding their play at times, taking an early lead from the penalty spot quickly adding a 2nd goal to put Dussindale & Hellesdon on the back foot. Play often congested in the middle of the park Wroxham pressing pushing their opponents back the hosts have struggled to get the ball into their attackers impose any pressure of their own. Alot of work to do if they are to find a way back into the game, will have the win advantage 2nd half will be interesting to see if they can make it count.

Dussindale & Hellesdon making a double switch at the start of the 2nd half bringing on Ella Kreuz and Sofia Odell in place of Kowalcyzk and Williams. The hosts getting the 2nd period underway the ball put back into midfield, Wroxham move in to press, play stifled in the middle of the park. The ball eventually clipped long out to the right for Noakes, Clarke seeing it safely out of play. 

Izzy Noakes

  Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to be positive winning a free-kick inside the Wroxham half from deep Harper floats the ball up into the box seen behind by the Wroxham defence for a corner. Curled in across the six yard box from the left, through everyone out beyond the far post for a goal kick. 

 Shipman bombs on from midfield to the left looking to combine with Kindred the ball knocked forwards, Humphries in with a firm challenge to slow the ball down, Harper coming across to hold it up and launch clear. Humphries bringing some energy onto the pitch on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting stuck in and taking the ball forwards, running into a challenge wins her side a free-kick, 30 yards out to the left of the box. Harper on it lifts the set-piece high in towards goal. Williams back on her line keeping her eye on it claims cleanly.

  Wroxham press the attack the ball cleared at the back, Clarke latches onto it 25 yards out in a central position striking the ball is over the bar. not by much as it lands on the roof of the net. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to be more competitive getting stuck in trying to regain possession both sides giving fouls away. Robson breaking from the back with the ball at her feet for the visitors moving into the right channel prods it wide for Dobbie, Bussey winning the challenge for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Rio Dobbie and Rachel Bussey

Alexander bringing the ball left combines with Clarke and Dobbie as they move up the wing, Alexander with the ball again to send a cross in low towards Fuller poised on the penalty spot, Gregory covering though the defender in front of the attacker to cut the ball out and clear. Gambell breaking away on the right for Wroxham receiving the ball the middle as she runs inside from 25 yards out, a wild swing at the ball sees her screw her effort wide.

Lily Alexander

  Wroxham making a double switch as they prepare to bring on Poppy Loveland and Lucy Eagle, Alexander and Dobbie the players coming off. Shipman playing the ball to Fuller up top outside the box knocks it down off her head to Kindred running on down the right wing whips her cross into the box, across the top of the six yard box just over Eagle as she runs in to attack it.

 Gambell sending the ball up the right for Loveland plays it forwards looking to release Kindred in behind, Harper racing across to lunge in win the ball out behind for a corner kick. Harper on hand to block as shot from outside the box by Clarke as the full back receive the cut back from Kindred on her right 25 yards out. 

  Little for Anais Winney to feed on up top, hasn’t stopped her trying to get after the ball, forces an error at the back as she charges down the keeper as Williams goes to kick the ball clear top of her box, striking Winney it rebounds behind, however his cleared behind for a corner before she can capitalise. Swung in low from the left the ball is defended at the near post. 

 Wroxham launch a quick counter Shipman bringing the ball on lifted up towards the top of the box, Dussindale & Hellesdon stretched as Fuller breaks in behind stretching to get her foot on the ball, falling forwards even as Cole saves with her legs the ball loose rebounding back towards the attacker Fuller lunges forwards trying to get to the ball brushes her head even as Humphries comes diving in herself to try and clear the pair colliding heads, in the immediate aftermath with both players down their is a little confusion however it’s another penalty!

 Before it can be taken though both players are in some discomfort and their treatment is the priority, Fuller slowly back up the first to her feet, Humphries has come off the worse an icepack strapped to her head she can’t continue and is helped off the pitch with Piggott back on.

  GOAL! A long pause between the penalty award and play resuming it’s Gambell placing the ball down on the spot. No fuss a low hard strike into the bottom left corner sending the keeper the wrong way to extend the advantage 0-4.

Ella Gambell firing home Wroxham’s 2nd penalty to make it 4-0

 The 4th goal coming midway through the 2nd half Wroxham with possession attacking on the left Eagle after ball Bussey closing her down the pair com together, Bussey coming off the worse appears to come down hard hurting her back in the process. Play stopped immediately the physio on, alot of concern. So much so an off duty paramedic is found inside the ground and calls an ambulance for the stricken player. Unable to be move until medics arrive the decision and it is the correct one is taken to abandon the match with 69 minutes played.

Game abandoned in the 69th minute 

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 0-4 Wroxham Women at the time.

 Player safety is of paramount importance at the end of the day. You go out there to play and enjoy the game the last thing anyone wants to see is a serious injury occur, but it will sadly from time to time. Wish Rachel Bussey all the very best hoping the injury is not as serious as it appears and for a full and speedy recovery.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  No Player of the Match award this Sunday, just a few performances to highlight. Some fantastic saves from Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole. Jess Harper making some vital challenges and clearances at the back. Rachel Bussey too dealt with the threat on Wroxham’s left well with Chelsea Clarke supporting Rio Dobbie. For Wroxham, Clarke was superb in defence and getting forwards supporting and encouraging Dobbie. Lily Alexander made some fantastic runs created opportunities too. Tigi Robson solid at the back winning the ball and timing her tackles.

 My thanks to both sides for their assistance today. A challenging day in the finish on a sad ending. Chances are the game will have to be replayed but that is for a committee to decide. Credit to everyone at The Nest for the support and help in dealing with the incident and let’s hope for good news.

*UPDATE* Pleased to say Rachel has suffered no lasting damage and after a short period of rest and recovery will be back playing football.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Actonians Ladies

Sunday 18th August

FAWNL South East Division One

  And just like that the new football season is here! Feels like that nut in truth I have enjoyed a good break away from the game over the close season. Needed it as I celebrated covering women’s football across the East for a decade. Has been alot of changes in that time, while quite a bit remains the same. The game continues to grow and with the new season beginning across tiers 3-6, national and regional level looks to be the most competitive it has ever been. Looking forward to the season ahead.

Beginning the football coverage with a game from FAWNL South East Division One, a trip to St Neots Town FC home of Cambridge United WFC as they take on Actonians Ladies in their opening match of the season. Representing tier 4 in the women’s football pyramid, South East Division One looks to be very strong this season. Norwich City Women finishing runners-up last season behind AFC Wimbledon Women are the favourites to clinch the title this time around. Who will be the other challenges remains to be seen, Worthing FC Women pushing the top two last campaign now moved across to South West Division One. Chatham Town Women relegated last season will be looking to bounce straight back, while London Bees have rebuild with a new squad following their relegation from tier 3. Real Bedford Ladies and Dulwich Hamlet Women the promoted sides, know little about the latter, however the former are ambitious with a new coach and new squad set to compete at a higher level. Others will fancy their chances and certainly today’s opponents are capable of competing amongst the clubs in the top half of the table.

Cambridge United WFC  have been a stalwart in South East Division One all through the FAWNL years and the Combination league before. Finishing 7th last season, a little disappointed with that finish nevertheless enjoyed a successful season the high being reaching the League Plate Final, and that despite suffering an injury hit campaign missing key players throughout the season. Into the new season Cambridge will use that cup run to galvanise the squad as they look to build on that run. A few players departing with a new crop of players joining the side.

  Welcomed back striker, Sarah Wiltshire towards the back end of the season after missing much of the season pregnant with her 3rd child. A prolific goal scorer leading Cambridge’s attack. Amongst those joining Cambridge this season, Eva Hubbard with rivals Cambridge City, after spells with Needham Market and Ipswich Town is a versatile player, experienced an a natural leader. Also coming in from Cambridge City, midfielder Rosy Wodhams another strong addition who has featured in a few Women’s Football East – Player of the Match summaries in the past. Defender, Ellie Finneran joins the club from London Seaward as does full back Kelsey Smith. Goalkeeper, Sophie Shults added from Ashford Town providing strong competition and cover that position. Emma Wallis another defensive addition joining from Middlesbrough. 

 Actonians Ladies like Cambridge have been a competitive force in South East Division One for a while now, often finishing in the top half of the table, punching above their weight at times capable of causing an upset. Have a strong set-up from youth level through to first team with a women’s Reserves and Development side competing too. Finishing in the top half of the table last campaign clinching 6th spot. 

 Actonians Ladies begin the new season under a new head coach with a host of new faces joining the club. Oliver Yazdi leading the 1st team coaching team this season has alot of experience coaching girls and women’s football leading into his new role at Actonians. Takes on a squad that sees 10 new signings tis season. Added to the attacking line up are strikers, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Defender, Olianna Bishop. Prudie Todd Warmoth can operate in both defence and midfield. New to the midfield are Hana Lalani, Dulcie Gray and Megan Page. Khyri Mackenzie, Merle Redhead Ling and Amanda Reimer complete the new additions.

 Cambridge United WFC winning all three encounters between the sides last season 2-1 twice at home in the league and away in the cup. With a 5-1 victory at Actonians in the reverse league encounter. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the home for Cambridge United WFC these days. Situated in an ever growing residential are on the outskirts of the town. A grass pitched main facility with a 3G pitch beyond. The pitch in great shape as it always is. Offering good width the main stand housing the changing rooms and bar on one side with small covered terracing behind each goal with viewing all round. A bright sunny day with no rain forecast early twenties a good day to start the new season.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis, Kelsey Smith, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Sammy Edgar, Rosy Wodhams, Eva Hubbard (C), Alysha Stojko-Down & Bella Simmons. Subs :- Abbie Jackson, Charlotte Gillies, Marta Rodriguez & Holly Plummer.

Cambridge United WFC

 Actonians Ladies starting XI – Elisa Dogor, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Amber Dredge, Mara Bramwell (C), Jennie Brereton, Naomi Graham, Hana Lalani, Amina Hanif, Merle Redhead Ling, Dior Knorr & Abigail Igbavboa. Subs :- Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Khyri Mackenzie, Dulcie Gray & Keishia-Farah Luboya.

Actonians Ladies

  A blow for Cambridge in there final pre-season game last weekend with Sarah Wiltshire breaking her arm seeing her out of action for a little while. Four of Cambridge’s new signings debuting in the starting line-up, defenders Kelsey Smith and Emma Wallis with Rosy Wodhams in the midfield alongside new captain Eva Hubbard. Five of Actonians new faces in their starting line-up, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Merle Redhead Ling, Hana Lalani, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Along with Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Dulcie Gray and Khyri Mackenzie on the subs bench. 

Captains Mara Bramwell and Eva Hubbard with todays match officials

  It’s Cambridge to get the new campaign under way kicking off the 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Actonians line-up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle clipped long out to the right wing with Kelsey Smith looknig to get up the line, Prudie Todd Warmoth covering that side at the back for Actonians defending to see the ball out of play for a throw in. From the resulting throw Cambridge gain a free-kick presenting them with an early opportunity to get players up into their opponents box, the ball swept in with pace at a decent high, Mara Bramwell captaining Actonians the centre back meeting the ball with a firm headed clearance.

  Actonians look to counter with pace midfielder Amina Hanif bringing the ball into her feet looking up to play the ball over the Cambridge defence with Merle Redhead Ling providing a left channel run in behind, Cambridge goalkeeper Lauren Webb positioned at the top of her area out to the ball quickly to deal with the threat. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris providing the width for Cambridge on the left looking to get up the pitch with pace run onto any long pass out of the defence, Jennie Brereton coming across to close her down winning the ball back for the visitors.

  Cambridge with a positive start looking to move the ball forwards quickly use the flanks keep Actonians pinned back. Eva Hubbard onto the ball in the middle for Cambridge has Rosy Wodhams to her right picks her out with the pass Wodhams in turn sending it out to the wing with Wallis bombing on sends a looping ball into the Actonians box dropping far post six yards out Alysha Stojko-Down attacking it, Brereton gets across her to make the challenge deny her the shot. 

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

 Gisela Otten with the ball under her control at the back for Cambridge plays a delightful long pass up the left flank for Cheal-Ferris to run onto to taking it on whips a cross into the six yard box, Actonians goalkeeper, Elisa Dogor getting her gloves behind it on the bounce, snatches it up in the nick of time with Stojko-Down stealing in. A competitive collective of players operating in the midfield, little quarter given, Amina Hanif bringing Wodhams down 30 yards out as she looks to get away with the ball on the right.

  Abigail Igbavboa and Dior Knorr look to combine in attack on the left side for Actonians the former sending the ball on for Knorr, Lauren Rouse getting in the headed clearance before the attacker can take the ball in behind her into the box. Dogor coming out to the left of her area to deal with the ball is closed down by Bella Simmons charging the ball down steals it away from the keeper playing in across the top of the area looking for Stojko-Down, can’t get it out from under her feet as Dogor recover diving in front of her to lay claim to the ball.

   Sammy regaining the ball in the middle for Cambridge on for Hubbard into Simmons has Stojko-Down moving right receiving the pass, Hanif getting a leg out to win the ball back for Actonians 20 yards out. A lively opening 15 minutes, Kelsey Smith’s turn to play the pass up the line for Cheal-Ferris left side, Brereton again across to support, Redhead Ling in defence. Naomi Graham battling for possession in midfield looking to hold of Edgar, ends up fouling the Cambridge midfielder 30 plus yards out in a central position, Stojko-Down has a crack at goal lifts her shot over the crossbar.

Actonians, Hana Lalani battling for possession with Cambridge’s Sammy Edgar

  Actonians defending their box pushed back inviting Cambridge on still look a threat on the counter attack and are ready to pounce at any opportunity, Knorr coming to the left to receive the ball from Amber Dredge turns, fouled by Wallis winning a free-kick out wide, the delivery fired in with pace towards the near post through everyone, Webb though is right behind it takes the ball into her midriff as she falls forwards. Cambridge’s turn to break with pace the ball played out to Smith left side sends a fantastic ball into the left channel for Simmons to take into her path running into the area strikes the shot on the angle across the face of the Actonians goal wide at the far post.

Bella Simmons holding off Actonians, Prudie Todd Warmoth

  Igbavboa receiving the ball from Lalani in the middle attacks on the right strong on the ball turns inside to play the ball into the mix top of the Cambridge area, half cleared comes onto Graham 25 yards out strikes the ball her effort blocked. Hanif sending the ball out to the left for Actonians, Dredge on for Knorr the cross lifted into the box, Redhead Ling on the penalty spot, Smith in front of her winning the ball heading behind for Cambridge to concede the corner. On the left taken short as Hanif comes towards the taker payed back up the line for the cross to come in from deep, Webb taking it cleanly at the near post.

  Tempers flaring a decision going against Actonians, Dredge show a yellow card and sent to the sin bin for apparently throwing the ball away. The visitors to play the next 10 minutes with a player disadvantage. Knorr strong with the ball for Actonians turns well in attack looking to get in behind the defence, Otten recovering well diving in to win the ball with a well timed tackle. 25 minutes played a drinks break called.

  Cambridge struggling to make their player advantage count as Actonians get everyone behind the ball, Edgar upended top of the central circle winning the hosts a free-kick. Played into the box, finds its way through to the keeper. Hubbard with the ball central plays it on for Stojko-Down right channel has Wodhams advancing past her on the overlaps rolls the ball into her her strike from outside the box charged down the deflection taking it behind for a Cambridge corner. 

Rosy Wodhams

 Cheal-Ferris to curl the ball in from the right dropping beyond the far post Simmons stooping to attack it with her head drives the ball down into the ground at the post, Dogor across her line to knock the ball away for a corner on the left. Again the delivery is long beyond the far post attacked by two Cambridge players, a clash of heads as the ball is cleared outside the box, Wodhams looking to latch onto the shot, Hanif out quickly to making the blocking tackle before play is stopped to access the injured players.

Actonians midfielder, Amina Hanif

 Cambridge pressing looking for a goal getting on with the ball, Actonians marshalling their box well, remains a tussle in the middle, Edgar carded for a foul on Lalani. The game a little scrappy as Actonians defend looking to get Dredge back on the pitch with her 10 minutes up. Cambridge seeing the ball into Simmons off a throw high on the left looks to take take the cross down beyond the far post and take the shot on the turn from the angle places the ball wide as she sends the shot across the goal.

Bella Simmons with Hana Lalani

  Cheal-Ferris seeing a shot blocked from 30 yards out as she receives the past in a central position from the right. The hosts looking the most likely to open the scoring Igbavboa and Knorr though patient up top ready to attack should the opportunity arise for the visitors. A flowing move from Cambridge through the middle Hubbard up to Stojko-Down has Simmons out to the right lays the ball into her Simmons in turn looking to play the return ball into Stojko-Down as she runs into the D, Brereton lunging in to make the challenge before a shot can be unleashed.

  Cambridge winning another set-piece out wide on the left Hubbard to play the ball into the box and a good pace and height towards the far post Wodhams getting up well to header the ball back towards goal turned behind a corner signalled. Bramwell defending the corner for Actonians look to counter Lalani with Hanif, can’t quite get the ball into Igbavboa. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the 1st half.

 GOAL! Cambridge pressing for a goal at the end of the half Actonians hit their opponents on the counter, Knorr looking a threat he ball played into her in the middle takes it down of her chest well knocking it on and bursting into space on the right acing in behind heading for the box, Webb coming out to close her down one and one with the keeper, Knorr with a composed strike sending the shot past the diving keeper, and on into the goal beyond, letting out a roar in celebration as she opens her account for Actonians putting them into the lead! 0-1.

Dior Knorr bringing the ball down setting up her chance to score the opening goal for Actonians

Dior Knorr opens her Actonians Ladies account

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

  That the final action of the first half, Actonians jubilant as they head into the changing rooms in the lead the goal coming on the stroke of half-time. Have looked dangerous on the counter throughout many of their attacks coming from such moves as they defended deep inviting Cambridge on at times. The hosts arguably creating the better chances with out being clinical, but that’s football for you. Actonians have worked hard at the back and in the middle to break up Cambridge’s attacks the hosts using the width looking to get players on through the middle a positive first half without the reward. Actonians with a vital lead with something hold onto 2nd half and with that advantage can use their counter attacks wisely.

  The players out for the 2nd half, neither making any changes as Actonians get the 2nd 45 underway. Hanif sending the ball up to Igbavboa in attack, Hubbard in to win the ball back for Cambridge. On for Wodhams the midfielder fouled as she looks to take the ball forwards. Hanif winning the ball back for Actonians plays a diagonal ball from deep on the left into the area, Rouse heading the ball back into the middle or Cambridge, Igbavboa looking to run onto the ball, shoot, Wodhams diving in to make a good blocking tackle. 

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris ringing the ball on for Cambridge

  Cambridge moving the ball into the right channel, Simmons pulling away getting onto the ball sweeping a cross in towards the top of the area. Cheal-Ferris looking to see it down of her chest at the far post, slips as she goes to take the shot, Actonians scrambling the ball away. Todd Warmoth holding Simmons up in the right corner as Wallis plays the ball on down the flank for Cambridge, Bramwell coming across to help her teammate out. 

Actonians Naomi Graham

 

 Wodhams in to win the ball high for Cambridge sends the pass into Simmons right takes on the early cross blocked inside the box, Cambridge appealing for a handball, nothing doing. Remains as competitive in the middle as ever Igbavboa back to defend fouling Wodhams top of the circle. The free-kick clipped up into the area Cheal-Ferris up on the six yard line to head the ball up over the advancing keeper, towards goal however, Bramwell is back on the cover to head the ball off the line. 

Actonians captain, Mara Bramwell

 Actonians with an attack Redhead Ling released out on the right powering forwards cuts the ball back inside for Hanif to strike on the angle, blasts her strike into the side netting. Cambridge continue to press the attack passes forwards rushed at times Actonians solid in defence deep not allowing any gaps in behind. The visitors clear the ball at the back Graham up to Redhead Ling on the right driving forwards is on her own does well to win her side a corner. Lifted into the near side Hanif gets up well to head the ball turning it down into the mix, blocked Actonians turn to appeal and this time the referee points to the spot for a handball despite Cambridge’s protests.

Lalani placing the ball on the spot for Actonians an opportunity to double their advantage takes the run up and sends the spot kick up over the cross bar much to her dismay.

Hana Lalani with her head in her hands as she sends the penalty over

  The game more scrappy in the 2nd half, Cambridge with a desire to get the ball forwards quickly, Actonians determined to stop it at every opportunity, Hanif covering alot of ground across the park getting after the ball the most likely to free up her attackers. Cambridge making a change bringing off Otten at the back bringing on Marta Rodriguez to join the attack, the switch seeing Cambridge go to a back 4. Simmons putting the ball on for Wodhams as she breaks forwards into the right channel her cross into the area taking a deflection of Graham to see it safely claimed by Dogor in goal beyond. 

  Hanif winning the ball in the middle for Actonians as usual looking to release the attackers, Knorr central just straying offside as she breaks in behind. Knorr seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right channel has Redhead Ling moving up the wing the ball rolled into her her cross blocked by Smith for Cambridge. Lively as Edgar puts the ball into Stojko-Down 25 yards out hooks it on looking for Simmons, Brereton getting her head on the ball to clear Actonians with the counter attack Redhead Ling racing away with the ball on the right sweeping a cross into the near post claimed high by Webb.

  Actonians break up another Cambridge attack turn play around Hanif with a great diagonal ball into Knorr bursting away on the right channel running towards the top of the area, clear Webb comes rushing out to meet her sliding in at her feet to make the save turn the ball away for a corner kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Comes to nothing as a 2nd drinks break is called. Hot out there and both sides are working hard Actonians resilient in defence frustrating their opponents. Play resumes Cambridge getting the ball on the left on for Rodriguez has Wodhams breaking on to get into the box ahead of her the ball lifted forwards, Bramwell getting to it first to head clear for Actonians. Gaps at the back with Cambridge pushing on Knorr looking to exploit it as the ball runs into her path driving on down the right Webb comes rushing out once again can’t get there the ball played across the area, Lalani closing in at the far post, Rouse manages to find the extra yard to dive in take the ball away from her.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse with the last ditch tackle

  Wodhams taking the ball on right for Cambridge on for Simmons the cross into the area won by Bramwell. Cambridge with a throw on the left knocked on into the D falling to Wodhams goes to strike the ball inside the D, Todd Warmoth charging it down for Actonians. Cambridge pushing hard for an equaliser, Edgar in the middle with a neat past into Wallis on the right 30 out takes on the shot a low drive, Dogor on her line right behind it to make the stop.

Cambridge midfielder Sammy Edgar

  Actonians with a double change bringing on Olianna Bishop and Khyri Mackenzie for their debuts off come Todd Warmoth and Igbavboa. The substitutes linking up straight away Bishop forwards for Mackenzie the latter strong on the ball holding off a challenge sending the cross-field ball into Knorr right side, Webb seeing the threat out sharply to the edge of her area to slide in lay claim to the ball.

  Knorr receiving the ball from Hanif on the attack left channel surging into the box, closing in on the near post Webb stands up to her making the blocking save. Actonians remain compact difficult to break down Bramwell leading the defence well deep but winning crosses. Hubbard fires over from all of 25 yards out for Cambridge as she links up with Edgar through the middle. The game moving into the final 10 minutes. Edgar out to Wallis advancing on the right, turns inside her marker to deliver the cross into the area, Bramwell winning the header for Actonians.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

  Cambridge pressing hard Bishop tackling Simmons on the right conceding the throw. Simmons 25 yards out seeing the ball into her feet strikes it on the turn the low effort put straight at the keeper. Knorr strong with the ball at her feet powering on down the right fires a vicious cross into the Cambridge six yard box, Wallis with the last ditch tackle to prevent the ball being turned into the back of the net. 

 The clock ticking down Cambridge bringing the ball on Simmons central out to Wodhams moving right down the line plays it back up to Wallis to play into the top of the area Stojko-Down meeting it her looping header dropping wide taking a deflection the corner awarded. Frantic defending in the box as the ball comes in Bramwell with 3 blocks in quick succession twice with her head as Cambridge look to turn the ball home inside the six yard box, then blocks with her feet as Hubbard gets a shot away from the penalty spot turned out to the left post off the keeper for another corner. 

 Cambridge sending on Charlotte Gillies to join the attack in the closing stages Wallis with a slight knock coming off. Actonians determined with the ball looking to run it into the corner. Tired legs out there as Cambridge get the ball back up the right for Gillies plays it across the top of the area looking for Rodriguez on the opposite side, Redhead Ling finding the energy to get past the attacker to get hold of the ball inside the box. Actonians fighting till the end get their campaign off to a winning start, Knorr’s finish late in the first half the difference.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

  Actonians with a determined and resilient performance at the back seeing them win the 3 points to get their season up and running. Kept it compact throughout soaking up alot of pressure breaking away to score the all important winner in the first half, that gave them vital confidence and belief to go onto defend their goal in the 2nd period and hopefully take another chance if it fell their way. A competitive tussle throughout Cambridge with a positive start taking the game to Actonians using the pitch well getting players forwards came up against a opponent prepared to drop deep not relinquish any space in behind. For all there attacks never had clinical edge to unlock the door, Actonians mostly attacking on the counter taking the chance when they had it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season and as is often the case is another tough call. I certainly had a contender in mind leaving the ground and haven’t changed my mind despite a couple of other players putting themselves in contention as the notes from the report unfolded (I write too many notes I know, but it’s the players fault they create the drama, and it’s great drama!) A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge a strong debut for Rosy Wodhams in the middle of the park winning the ball and looking to make attacking runs. Bella Simmons in attack coming for the ball created an number of opportunities. Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis and Lauren Rouse all making vital tackles at the back. Actonians with a goal and a clean sheet put in a strong defensive performance kept it compact at the back with good back up from their midfield. Mara Bramwell strong in defence winning the ball throughout. Dior Knorr in attack took her goal well patient up top making some dangerous runs on the counter. Today’s award goes to midfielder, Amina Hanif covered alot of ground getting about the pitch to win and close the ball down and more often than not it was her vision and passes that led to Actonians launching their counter attacks with such venom.

 Great to be back and a fantastic game from the FAWNL to start the season promises to be a great campaign ahead. More teams to see in action than there are weekends to cover them. Doesn’t matter how many off these reports I write I still get nervous but once the notes start flowing it all falls into place. My thanks to both clubs for the help with the team details today as ever much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Colney Heath Ladies v Stevenage FC Women Development

Sunday 24th March

Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy Final

Heading over to Hertfordshire today to watch the rearranged final of a new competition with the counties FA introducing a secondary competition to run along side the County Cup the Women’s Trophy. The inaugural final to be contested by Colney Heath Ladies and Stevenage FC Women Development.

  The original final, was to be my first of the season, the game had to be abandoned however with Stevenage FC Women Development player, Sophie Jones collapsing on the pitch. An ambulance called the decision taken and rightly so to call off the game, rearrange a new date. Sophie his since recovered and is well. The new competition seeing the women’s football clubs competing at various levels through the women’s football pyramid divided into two with those clubs playing in the national and regional leagues drawn together to play in the County Cup while the club largely from the county league (tier 7) playing in the new Women’s Trophy. 

 It’s a sensible format, other county FA’s running 2 county cup competitions having all sides compete in the county cup before those losing in the early round go onto play the secondary competition. Some with seeding some without. In theory it should limit some of the eye-watering score-lines you can see in the county cups while giving all clubs a realistic opportunity to challenge for silverware. Should also help with fixture congestion too.

Who will be the first name on the new trophy?

 Colney Heath Ladies had been a long established name playing within the ERWFL rising up into the Premier Division before a split within the club last season that saw first team moving to another club taking that ERWFL status with them. However despite the set back Colney Heath have kept going rebuilding with their reserves side stepping up to carry their mantel forwards. Already a successful club with the Beds & Herts Women’s Football league playing in the Premier Division reaching the League Cup final last season. Is one of two cup finals they have reached this season, the other Beds & Herts, Chris Renshaw Cup, beat St Margaretsbury Women to lift the cup and make it a double, also clinching the Premier Division title a league and cup double a massive achievement have a chance to make it a treble and amazingly we have see two of these already across the East. Mia Simmonds top scorer with 14 goals to her name with Cally Salter netting 11. Goals throughout the side with 15 of the squad on the score sheet this season.

 Stevenage FC Women Development (U23s) are the only side outside of the Beds & Herts County leagues playing in the Women’s Trophy, joining the ERWFL Division One North this season having spent a period in the FAWNL reserves section. Stevenage’s young side finding it tough going to begin with taking just 4 points from their opening 8 matches and looked in danger of being cut adrift at the bottom of the table. However the 2nd half to the season has been much improved with an 3 successive wins and a draw against Harpenden one of the title chasers seeing the club put itself right back into the midst, eventually finishing 8th in the table, that good form continuing into the cup competitions, where they have not only reached today’s Trophy Final but also the ERWFL League Plate. That final, played last Sunday, Stevenage were to lose the game 3-0 to Wormley Rovers Ladies. Still need to pick themselves up and go again a chance to lift silverware in what is now their final game of the season following the earlier abandonment. Have plenty of players coming through with 46 used so far this season, Ella Mercer top scorer with 11 goals with Stephanie Fausse one behind on 10. 

Road to the Final

   I said the competition format should help to reduce eye watering score-lines but not end them entirely as was the case with a couple of ties in the first round of the Women’s Trophy, one of those scores featuring Colney Heath with the premier Division side drawn away to Division One side Everett Ladies. Cally Salter firing in a hat-trick with a brace each for Mia Simmonds and Olivia Corbett helping Colney Heath to an 11-0 win. Lucy Kavanagh-Blake, Amy Phillips and Laura Gifford also amongst the goals. Stevenage FC Women Development receiving a bye in the first round.

  Onto the 2nd Round, Colney Heath drawn away to fellow Premier Division side Hartham United Ladies. Won 2-0 to safely reach the quarter finals. Stevenage also away in the 2nd round up against Division Three side Bedwell Rangers Ladies, Ella Mercer on target for a hat-trick, plus a goal a piece for Stephanie Fausse, Sophie Jones and Amy Reeves o secure a 6-1 win.

 Colney Heath at home in the quarter finals up against another Premier Division side, Hitchin Belles Women Blues. Mia Simmonds once again amongst the goals netting a hat-trick with Jael Muzzi and Bora Cela also scoring in a 5-0 win. Stevenage a home too in the last 8 taking on Division One side Garston Ladies Mets Chloe Gregory and Anaise Corrigan the scorers in a 2-0 win to send them into the last 4 of the competition. 

 Home turf for both in the semi-finals with Colney Heath up against Division Two side Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Mia Simonds with her 2nd successive hat-trick in the competition helping to send Colney Heath into the final along with goals from Amy Phillips, Sherrie Oliver and Holly Jury in a 6-0 victory. Drama in the other semi-final with Stevenage taking on Premier Division newcomers St Margaretsbury Women. Amana Oguntuga scoring twice for Stevenage, but goals from Billie Curtis and Sherrie Evans for St Margaretsbury saw the match finish 2-2 and settled on penalties! Stevenage clinching the tense shoot-out 6-5 to advance to the final.

  The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for this afternoon’s Women’s Trophy Final. Home to Hertfordshire’s FA the stadium recently redeveloped featuring an all weather pitch with a seated stand one one side housing the café and function room beneath. Serving hot food and drink. Terraced viewing on the opposite side with standing viewing all round, is a good sized pitch, well used. Home to Stevenage’s women’s sides know the facility well. The weather best described a changeable, a few showers around, with cloud in the sky, warm and sunny when the sun breaks through (is a bank holiday weekend after all).

  Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Rachel Sherlow, Anna Simou (C),Sophie Joseph, Abbey Williams, Madison Gorton, Molly Slade, Sheree Oliver, Holly Jury, Amy Phillips, Cally Salter & Mia Simmonds. Subs – Laura Gifford, Bora Cela, Olivia Corbett, Lacey Kavanagh-Blake & Caz Pennifold. 

Colney Heath Ladies

 Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Mia O’Brien, Holly Southam, Tabitha Goodall, Neave Wilson (C), Amana Oguntuga, Remi Martin, Isobel Matfield, Chloe Gregory, Ella Mercer, Stephanie Fausse & Anaise Corrigan.  Subs – Lucy Fox, Ellie Merkis & Ella Hayes. 

Stevenage FC Women Development

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Anna Simou (Colney Heath) and Neave Wilson (Stevenage) with today’s match officials

 The teams walking out to pouring rain, lining up opposite the main stand, it’s Stevenage who will get today’s final underway kick off in the first half wearing their away colours and all purple strip with red trim. Colney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black short and socks. The ball played back to Ella Mercer in the middle, clips a long pass out to the right players rushing forwards, Sophie Joseph playing at left back for Colney Heath getting her head on the ball to clear. 

  Stevenage goalkeeper, Mia O’Brien comes racing out of her box to clear the ball as Colney Heath forced the ball on through the middle with Mia Simmonds looking to run in behind the Stevenage defence left channel. Amana Oguntuga at left back for Stevenage driving up the pitch lays a diagonal ball in towards the top of the box looking to pick out Anaise Corrigan in attack, Abbey Williams getting their first to head the ball away for Colney Heath. 

Abbey Williams getting to the ball ahead of Stevenage’s Anaise Corrigan

  Stevenage feed the ball out to Stephanie Fausse pulling onto the left wing knocks it inside for Corrigan central, plays the ball on into the area with Mercer making the run to get into the box right of goal, Colney Heath keeper, Rachel Sherlow out quickly to close her down getting her foot on the ball sliced behind for a corner kick. Mercer to curl the ball into the box attacked at the near post over everyone falls to Corrigan central, snatches her shot over the crossbar. The rain falling steadily, Isobel Matfield looking to travel with the ball brought down, Stevenage winning a free-kick. 

 GOAL! Mercer over the free-kick all of 40 yards out central putting her foot through the ball gets plenty of pace behind it whipped in on target head height, Sherlow behind it beating the ball down into the six yard box at her left post, attacked comes on loose into the centre, Matfield stood there unmarked, firing the ball into the back of the net to open the scoring. 0-1. 

Ella Mercer’s free-kick knocked down at the at the left post, knocked in central with Isobel Mansfield ready to pounce

Isobel Matfield firing Stevenage into the lead

 A goal for Stevenage in the opening 5 minutes of the final. Colney Heath getting the ball down the right as they restart the gamer, Cally Salter on the move driving on delivering a rising ball into the near post on the angle, O’Brien calling for it a making the claim. 

Stevenage goalkeeper, Mia O’Brien claiming the ball at her near post

  Stevenage break up a Colney Heath attack play the ball up to the attackers, Corrigan 25 yards out back to goal central controlling the ball off her chest turning it into Fausse left of the D, her shot fired in wide of the far post. Chloe Gregory tackling for Stevenage to win the ball from Colney Heath captain, Anna Simou as she looks to bring the ball out from the back on the right. 

Stephanie Fausse with Colney Heath captain, Anna Simou

  Molly Slade gathering the ball into her feet central for Colney Heath, drives forwards making ground before attempting to thread Simmonds in behind the challenge coming in a Simmonds breaks into the box the ball away for a corner kick on the left. An in swinging delivery high to the near post, Mercer up well to put her head on it and clear for Stevenage.

  The rain has stopped for now the sun breaking through the clouds. Sheree Oliver strong to win the ball for Colney Heath in the final 3rd turns looking to play Amy Philips on down the left as the winger strides in behind, getting a cross in from the by-line however her progress halted by an offside flag. A lively contest both sides looking to get the ball moving forwards. Oliver central on for Simmonds up top back to goal, looks to play the lay off back to Oliver spin into the box left of goal looking for the return pass, O’Brien reading the threat rushing out to close the attackers down sliding in to make a blocking save at her feet. 

Mia Simmonds

 Mercer with a powerful run on the ball driving inside from the right for Stevenage pulling the trigger from distance the ball arrowing in on goal, coming straight at Sherlow high the keeper does well to make the save get her glove up to knock the ball up over the crossbar. The corner swung into the six yard box from the left, cleared by Colney Heath. 

 The ball put long into the left wing for Holly Jury to get under control shifts it inside looking to play a diagonal pass into Simmonds up top, Oguntuga with the attacker to get her foot on the ball clear for Stevenage. Both sides willing to get the ball down drive at the defence, Fausse receiving the pass from Matfield on the left moving inside looking to play the ball into Corrigan as she moves across the top of the D, Abbey Williams getting the tackle in to clear for Colney Heath at the back.

Colney Heath giving away another free-kick wide on the right players up into the area as Mercer prepares to take her strike hitting the ball, Colney Heath looking to counter, Stevenage captain, Neave Wilson halting their advance. Matfield carrying the ball on through the middle for Stevenage lifts it forwards with Corrigan on the move up top across the D, wrong footing the defence, almost escapes through clear into the box, except Joseph has come round on the cover to put her foot through the ball.

Colney Heath’s Mia Simmonds with Stevenage captain, Neave Wilson

  Lively Stevenage attacking right winning a throw high up the pitch lopped up into the box, Madison Gorton heading it away for Colney Heath. Pushing on through the middle, Slade with Oliver looking to pick out Jury as she makes a left channel run, Wilson lunging in with her leg to take the ball from her. 

Molly Slade

  Gregory going down inside the Colney Heath box as she looks to force her way through the middle, off Gorton’s challenge, half hearted appeals as the ball goes behind for a corner on the right. Mercer sending the delivery in at the near post attacked minimal contact drops for Corrigan top of the box back to goal, looks to get the ball under control, turn, the shot denied as Slade moves in to close the striker down.

  Colney Heath with a throw on the right played down into Salters feet 25 yards out right of the D, looks to clips it into the area on the half volley, O’Brien racing off her line to throw herself down onto the ball. Bright and sunny now. The ball up the right for Corrigan pulling wide for Stevenage powering her way to into the box, at the by-line cuts the ball back up to the top of the six yard box for Fausse, Gorton intercepting for Colney Heath to clear the ball. 

Colney Heath defender, Madison Gorton

  Oguntuga getting up the right for Stevenage a strong run on the ball delivering a cross into the near post too close to the keeper, Sherlow down to get behind it with Corrigan running in. Wilson cutting the pass out at the back for Stevenage as Oliver sends the pass on for Simmonds up top. A change for Colney Heath in the middle, Slade coming off, Caz Pennifold on. 

Remi Martin

Fausse and Corrigan look to combine through the middle 25 yards out, Gorton getting in between the pair to win the ball for Colney Heath. Sherlow called into action rushing out to slide in make the blocking save as Corrigan is fed onto the ball by Mercer from the right.

Rachel Sherlow sliding in to save against Anaise Corrigan

  Colney Heath immediately on the counter Phillips left lifting a cross the ball played off Simmonds a goal kick won. Jury taking the ball into the left channel for Colney Heath pushing forwards, Holly Southam closing her down to win the challenge for Stevenage at the back. Simou running into space on the right for Colney Heath as the cross-field pass from the left picks her out delivers a cross into the top of the area, Salter the target looks to see it onto her boot turn the shot goal wards, O’Brien moving forwards to collect it on the bounce.

  A competitive tussle, Colney Heath coming back into the game getting after Stevenage through the middle, Oliver getting about to put in the tackles. A drinks break called with a couple of players needing attention, both okay play resumes Pennifold getting back at Mercer tackling to win the ball in the middle as the Stevenage player looks to get on with the ball. Wilson with a clattering challenge on Jury as she comes to close her down the ball out to the right for Mercer to play forwards into Corrigan right channel, Sherlow needing to come racing out of her box to kick the ball away.

Tabitha Goodall with the acrobatic clearance for Stevenage

  Goodall defends on Simou as the Colney Heath captain look to push on down the right wing, Goodall getting her foot on the ball to play it out for a throw. 40 minutes played both sides making a change. Lacey Kavanagh-Blake on for Colney Heath replacing Jury goes to the left side with Phillips moving to the right. Ella Hayes coming on for Stevenage to replace, Martin.

  The game flowing fairly even both sides coming on well, Stevenage advancing on the right Joseph tackling Mercer the ball out for a throw. Corrigan seeing it down outside the box, turns straight into Williams ready with the challenge. Back up the line to Oguntuga plays it into the box from the angle, Gorton racing back with Gregory at the near post cutting the ball out

 GOAL! 2 minutes of regular play in the first half and Colney Heath get themselves back into the game with a superb move, Pennifold central feeding it into Salter, spins of her marker to make a run to the top of the area as she lays the ball out to Simou advancing on the right, plays Phillips in down the line cutting into the box on the by-line sends the ball into Salter positioned on the penalty spot and she sends her 1st time shot up over the keeper to fly in under the cross bar 1-1.

Cally Salter about to hit the equaliser for Colney Heath

Cally Salter equalises for Colney Heath

 GOAL! Colney Heath literally turning the game on it’s head in a matter of minutes the ball cleared out to Simou moving forwards on the right lays it into the path of Phillips racing down the wing turns into the box closing in on the near post and pulls the trigger, her shot wrong footing the keeper, O’Brien can’t adjust the ball off her into the back of the net to hand Colney Heath the lead 2-1.

Amy Phillips celebrates as she sees Colney Heath into the lead.

  Stevenage making a change as the game moves into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Ellie Merkis coming on for Goodall. Pennifold, Salter and Oliver combining through the middle for Colney Heath, Oliver’s ball threaded into the area claimed by O’Brien. Colney Heath finishing the first half strong Kavanagh-Blake fouled on the left deep as she tries to pick out Simmonds no advantage played brought back. Gorton to play the set-piece into the area, won by Mercer heading the ball over for a corner kick. 

 Mercer again defending the corner up at the near post to head the ball back left for a throw in. Colney Heath pressing Oliver in to steal the ball central 20 yards out turns inside, not getting a strong connection with her shot runs safely through to the keeper. 

Half-time Colney Heath Ladies 2-1 Stevenage FC Women Development

  A strong end to the first half from Colney Heath sees them turn the game on it’s head to go into the changing rooms leading 2-1 at the break. That after a strong opening from Stevenage scoring in the opening 5 minutes throw Isobel Matfield created some good opportunities after that both sides looking to get forwards quickly, move the ball around has been a competitive game, Colney Heath making a few adjustments applying pressure late in the first half to build momentum and score a well worked equaliser in the 43rd minute, Amy Phillips driving into the box from the right for the 2nd time in as many minutes to put Colney Heath into the lead. Set’s it up nicely for the 2nd half.

  The rain staying away for now, pleasant out there as the teams return for the 2nd half Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway, now extra-time today should the scores be level after 90 minutes it goes straight to penalties. The ball back to Gorton in defence lifted on for Phillips on the right, won by Stevenage defender, Merkis. Colney Heath quick to regain possession, Pennifold into Phillips right shifts inside looking for Simmonds 25 yards out, Matfield cutting the pass out for Stevenage. 

  Oguntuga pushing up on the right now for Stevenage getting on down the line held up plays the ball back for Mercer, Kavanagh-Blake tracking back to close her down. Oliver opening up her body to play the pass into Phillips’ feet on the right. lifts the angled cross into the area, the ball just behind Slater central looks to shield the ball, dig it out from under her feet, Wilson close in pressing can’t find a teammate as Gregory gets hold of the ball for Stevenage. 

 Kavanagh-Blake taking the ball on down Colney Heath’s left sending in into Simmonds skips inside driving into the D, runs into a Stevenage road block eased off the ball. Stevenage attack down the left Fausse down the line lifting a high ball into the area, Gorton heading it out of the area, Matfield getting hold of the ball central pushed on into Gregory back to goal, tries to turning behind, Williams stretching out as leg to win the ball inside the D.

Oguntuga tackling Kavanagh-Blake turns to angle a deep cross into the area from the right, Gorton again under it to clear for Colney Heath. Stevenage getting hold of the ball high up the pitch looking to up the tempo, the ball fed into Corrigan left of the D, spins in behind getting into the box closing in on the keeper, shoots low, Sherlow down to make the save pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left.

Lacey Kavanagh-Blake carrying the ball forwards for Colney Heath

  The corner curled in under the bar, central Sherlow getting her gloves on the ball knocking it down into the ground and collecting on the bounce well. Mercer picking up the ball 40 yards out left moves inside a strong run, Gorton coming out from defence to close her down even as Oliver slides in from behind, only succeeds in taking Gorton out Mercer staying on her feet stepping inside to unleash a shot from range, placed straight at the keeper.  

Ella Mercer

  Matfield taking the ball inside from the left 20 yards out takes on the shot, Gorton in the way blocking for Colney Heath. Joseph playing the ball on for Kavanagh-Blake attacking on the left, looks to turn inside as Hayes steps in to challenge, the defender getting back at her with a well timed tackle to halt the attack. 

Ella Hayes

 Oguntuga driving on with the ball at her feet on the right for Stevenage, Joseph in to close her down conceding the corner. The corner whipped in across the six yard box falling beyond the far post Stevenage getting hold of the ball the shot charged down. 

Sophie Joseph moving on on Amana Oguntuga

 Colney Heath making a change up top bringing off Simmonds, Bola Cela sent into the action. Involved straight away as Pennifold carries the ball away to the right top of the area cuts the pass back to Cela top corner, is quickly closed down, can’t get her shot away. Kavanagh-Blake with the ball at her feet turns infield from the left as Salter makes a run across her wanting the ball fed into her path on the left channel, Southam getting back on her to tackle on the by-line for Stevenage.

Holly Southam winning the ball for Stevenage

  A lively contest, Stevenage competing for the ball turning play around quickly. Hayes on for Oguntuga up the right wing for Stevenage lifts the cross into the box looking for Corrigan coming near side, Williams getting her foot on the ball to clear for Colney Heath. Stevenage looking sharp in attack the diagonal ball clipped into the box left side sees Corrigan race in behind to shoot on the angle driven in low at the near post Sherlow down save the ball up off the goal keeper over the bar for a corner kick.

  Stevenage making a change before the corner comes in Goodall back on to replace, Merkis. The corner from the left angled in low at the near post stabbed away to safety. An hour played Stevenage looking to press in the final 3rd apply pressure. Another corner on the left put in high at the near post, Mercer looking to attack it, Sherlow up with her fist to punch it away. Williams throwing her body in to block a shot from Gregory from 20 yards out. 

  Oliver sending the ball out to Phillips now back out on the left wrapping her foot around the ball whips a cross into the six yard box, Cela can’t reach it before O’Brien can take it into her gloves. Hayes and Oguntuga linking up on the right for Stevenage, Oguntuga strong on the ball, lifting the cross into the box, won by Colney Heath’s Gorton. Stevenage looking to turn the screw pushing on well 2nd half a throw high on the right dropped into Corrigan right inside the area turns for goal near post sees her initial effort blocked coming back to her snatches another shot away Sherlow with a strong hand behind the ball to save knocking it down, the ball eventually scrambled behind for a goal kick. 

  Mercer winning Stevenage a corner the left dropped into the mix headed clear Colney Heath looking to counter lifted up to Kavanagh-Blake left feeds the ball on for Cela, lays it to the right for Phillips looking to spin into the area wanting the return ball, Phillips threading it into the box, O’Brien sharp out snatch it up into her gloves before Cela can pounce,

Caz Pennifold

  Simou, slows Fausse down as she attacks on the left back for Mercer a free-kick won, Stevenage with players up into the box, Mercer strikes the ball in towards goal, Sherlow punching the ball up and behind for a corner kick. A double change for Colney Heath, Williams and Salter coming on, on come Laura Gifford and Olivia Corbett. 

 Colney Heath finding Phillips out on the right 20 yards out sends the ball into the area for Corbett inside the box, tangles with Oguntuga, going down appeals but nothing doing. Gifford picking up a yellow card for Colney Heath the free-kick to Stevenage in the centre circle the ball launched forwards bouncing through to the keeper. 

Olivia Corbett with Ella Hayes

  Oliver throwing herself in to block as Gregory lines up a strike from 25 yards out. Southam picking out Mercer as she comes right to take the ball on forwards into Oguntuga, her cross to strong for Corrigan and Fausse making runs into six yard box. The game moving into the final 12 minutes Stevenage looking the most likely to score winning the ball high turning play around putting Colney Heath on the back foot. 

 Wilson and Corbett in a race for the ball as it’s played on down the right channel, Wilson throwing out a leg to play the ball off Corbett behind for a goal kick. Corrigan fouling Simou as she goes to clear the ball. Wilson again winning the ball up to Mercer left side plays Fausse down the line, the cross cut out Colney Heath look to play it up to Cela right.

 GOAL! Stevenage snapping back to win the ball back send it inside for Gregory, lifts it forwards into Corrigan top of the area a great take down to get in behind into the area moving towards the right post across the six yard box cuts her shot back across, to evade the keeper and roll into the back of the net to score the equaliser! 2-2!

Anaise Corrigan with the equaliser for Stevenage

 Stevenage coming back to level the scores in the 82nd minute set up a frantic finish to the game. Colney Heath taking off Phillips bringing Slade back on. Stevenage lively Matfield into Gregory lifted into the area right of goal Corrigan racing to attack, Sherlow putting her foot through the ball strikes the onrushing attacker the rebounding ball could have gone anywhere, however a raised flag sees the threat neutralised.

  Mercer with a shot from 20 yards out left of the D, put straight at the keeper. Southam winning the ball at the back clearing to Mercer on the right puts it on for Oguntuga wide right her cross flashed in beyond the far post, Fausse latching onto it firing her strike into the side netting, Stevenage looking dangerous as the game heads into the closing minutes. 

 Colney Heath with some relief as they get on down the right win a free-kick level with the top of the area played into the box central Gifford getting her head on the ball, plants her attempt straight into the keepers gloves. Gifford with another effort moments later as a diagonal ball from midfield drops to her in the box left side, falling as she goes to strike the ball pulls her shot into the keeper.

Laura Gifford

  Merkis coming back on to replace Fausse with 3 minutes of regular time left to play. Oliver across to halt Mercer’s progress as she looks to carry the ball away on the right. Salter back on for Colney Heath replacing Kavanagh-Blake. Sherlow up to claim a high ball played into her box from the left. Simmonds returning to the pitch replacing Joseph. Penalties moments away, 4 minutes to be added on.

 Southam putting the ball into Corrigan top of the D, Simou in with and outstretched leg to take the ball from her. Stevenage press to win a corner on the right, curled in Mercer up heading the ball on across the six yard box. Colney Heath getting the ball up to Simmonds left side comes inside, Merkis back across to support Hayes in defence get the ball clear for a corner left. Into the area cleared by Wilson, Stevenage look to counter up the left Mercer racing away with the ball, Gifford easing her off the ball.

 GOAL! Southam with the clearance on half way for Stevenage turns into a brilliant assist and it’s launched high dropping into the box, Corrigan looking to attack it as it drops near post, she and Simou coming together left grounded as the ball bounces loose to the left of goal, Oguntuga quickest to it turning to attack and fires her shot in low and fast into the bottom corner to surely score the winning goal for Stevenage 3-2! 

Holly Southam clearing the ball on halfway up into the area in the build up to the goal

Amana Oguntuga first to the ball after Anaise Corrigan and Anna Simou collide

Amana Oguntuga celebrates as she wins the game for Stevenage!

  Oguntuga called into the action up the other end to hook a ball clear from the top of her box as Colney Heath launch it forwards. Little time left to find a reply Corbett strong to win Colney Heath a corner on the right, push players up, put in to the top of the area comes to Corbett inside left of the D, a difficult ball to get under control, hasn’t time to bring in down, lifts her shot over the bar. The final whistle blows and Stevenage come back with a last gasp winning goal to win the inaugural Herts FA Women’s Trophy. 

Full time Colney Heath Ladies 2-3 Stevenage FC Women Development

  A strong 2nd half performance from Stevenage in the finish the better side in the 2nd period getting after the ball in the final 3rd applying good pressure to the Colney Heath back line winning the ball back moving it across the pitch creating chances. One eventually counting in the 82nd minute. Stevenage with the momentum didn’t sit back kept pressing the game into stoppage time penalties moments away and they took there chance to win the game at the death. A tough on for Colney Heath to take the treble just 10 minutes away they played well first half to get themselves into the lead. Found the chances harder to come by 2nd half and couldn’t hold on, still double winners have had a fantastic season nonetheless.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the final Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. Wasn’t quite sure who to award it too leaving the ground but as the report unfolded from my notes a clear winner emerged. Several performances of note to mention first, for Colney Heath, Madison Gorton and Abbey Williams made a number of vital tackles at the back, winning the ball getting it forwards. Amy Phillips strong on the flanks running with the ball setting up Cally Salter for the first goal, scoring the 2nd. Sheree Oliver got about the centre of the park to win the ball, defend and link up with the attackers. For Stevenage, again the centre backs were strong Holly Southam and Neave Wilson won the ball well helped get play turned around quickly 2nd half. Ella Mercer strong on the ball with some great runs and link up play. Amana Oguntuga strong in defence in the first half adding to Stevenage’s attacking threat on the right in the 2nd half strong on the ball on hand to score the winning goal. The award though goes to Anaise Corrigan. Was a threat up top throughout looking to get the ball down and turn to attack created a number of opportunities in front of goal, never gave the Colney Heath defence a break and fired home the vital equalising goal giving her side the belief to go on and win the game.

Stevenage FC Women Development 2023/24 Herts FA Women’s Trophy winners

 Congratulations to Stevenage FC Women Development on winning the inaugural Herts FA Women’s Trophy.

 A highly entertaining cup final to end the 2023/24. A competitive tussle full of drama, us neutrals loved it. My thanks to both club for the team details and Hertfordshire FA for their assistance today. That’s the 10th season done and dusted, well almost. Have loved almost every minute of it couldn’t do it without all the support from the players, their clubs, league volunteers and FA staff alike. All of it has been greatly appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Sprowston FC Women v Bungay Town Ladies

Wednesday 22nd May

Norfolk Women’s Division One 

After a run of 9 cup finals, a brief pause this Wednesday evening for a spot of league action in my penultimate game of the season, a trip into Norwich, to watch a potential title winning clash between the top two in Norfolk Women’s Division One, Sprowston FC Women 2nd a point behind the visitors, leaders Bungay Town Ladies. 

 Bungay Town Ladies climbing to the top of the table having finally caught up with their games in hand a point clear knowing a point or better this evening will see them crowned champions. Sprowston’s last game of the season have to win to keep their own title hopes alive and then hope Caister FC Ladies can do them a favour by beating Bungay in their final game on Sunday. Bungay keen for that scenario not to arise, both sides bringing in the big guns for the game with their dual signings available with their parent clubs season’s having concluded. Whatever the outcome of this evenings match the pair have guaranteed a top two finish. A great season for both.

 Sprowston amongst the chasing pack all season picking up some great results developing a squad of young players, Sprowston FC with a strong youth policy. Lost just one of their opening 12 league matches pushing the leaders all they way and when Caister FC Ladies were deducted 12 point for playing a banned player the Division One picture changed with themselves and Bungay emerging as the title contenders. Reaching the last 4 of the League Cup too will b aiming to end the campaign on a high. Mollie O’Callaghan the top scorer for Sprowston scoring 17 goals in 17 appearances. With Rosie Milligan on 13 goals Bailey Duffield with 12 and Holly Whayman and Lois Wright both on 9.

  Bungay Town Ladies emerging as the Division One leaders late in the season having been playing catch up with their fixtures all campaign. Never an easy task to have the games in hand and fulfil the potential they offer by getting the points on the board but have achieved it to put themselves within touching distance of winning another Division One title, albeit quite a while back. Have long been established in the league have build up a strong squad full of experience and a spattering of exciting young talent. A double within their grasp too, missing out in the final of this seasons League Cup. Mia Rose the clubs top scorer with 14 goals. Lauren Goulder has since moved on with 12. Brooke Osborne signed at the start of the season with 8 to her name.

  Blue Boar Lane the venue for this evenings league clash the Sprowston Sports and Social Club, home of Sprowston FC men and women. The social club leading to the main grass pitch. Surrounded by trees in a residential area. Viewing behind railings all round. The pitch certainly a contrast to the pitch at evening but unfair to compare it to Portman Road. Is uneven in  place the grass a little long, but with all the rain we’ve had in the past 24 hours hardly surprising good growing weather. A little slope to it too from one goal mouth to another a decent crowd too with a few keen observers to see how things will pan out. After that heavy rain yesterday that saw the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final suspended for 1hr 20 minutes it didn’t hit Norwich too bad and the threat to the game being on passed. A few spots of rain in the air clouds around but as the teams kicked off the sun broke through the cloud low setting behind the trees behind one goal.

Sprowston FC Women starting XI – Jade Knight, Courtney Leggett, Bailey Curtis, Holly Whayman, Brianna Rudd (C), Olivia Leggett, Chloe Shipman, Mollie O’Callaghan, Anais Winney, Phoebe Green and Bailey Duffield. Subs – Rosie Milligan, Lois Wright, Lola Hallam & Aimee Dickson.

Sprowston FC Women

 Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Grace Storey, Marcie Prettyman, Chloe Ellis, Ruby Roos, Charnelle Riggall (C), Selina Rowland, Brooke Osborne, Lily Alexander, Lauren Bullard & Mia Rose. Subs – Naomi Cooper, Kate Pasque, Lauren Purling, Abigail Bell & Zoe Cossey.

Bungay Town Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Charnelle Riggall and Briana Rudd with this evening’s referee, Norwich’s, Alice Parker.

Sprowston having midfielder Chloe Shipman available with Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women historic title winning season in EWFL Division One North finished. Played a big part for the club collecting both the Players players and Managers player of the year awards. So too Anais Winney, she and twin sister Lily-Ann joining now relegated FAWNL side Cambridge City Women both having played for the first team. Bungay have midfielder Ciera Flatt out injured but have some of their dual signings available too to this evenings crucial game, Lauren Bullard recently signed on in the starting line up along side fellow Wroxham player, Lily Alexander who netted a goal in Wroxham league cup final defeat at the weekend. Naomi Cooper on the bench. Norwich’s, Alice Parker, refereeing this evenings game.

Sprowston opting to switch ends at the coin toss with the sun appearing low behind one goal. Bungay to kick -off the game wearing light blue shirts with black shorts and socks. Sprowston wearing orange shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball played into midfield comes out to the left captain, Charnelle Riggall looking to get forwards on the flank lays the pass inside into Mia Rose up top, Bailey Curtis closing in holding the attackers up inside the D, Rose getting room to turn putting the ball into the far post collected by goalkeeper, Jade Knight.

Bungay looking to make a positive start, Selina Rowland winning the ball in the middle, putting the pass out to Riggall wide left, 30 yards out unleashes a shot the ball brushing the side netting as it runs wide of the near post. Rose winning a throw for Bungay up on the left, Grace Storey putting it into Rose’s feet, wide spins inside to cross, the ball headed clear by Sprowston captain, Briana Rudd.

Bungay’s, Selina Rowland

Riggall pushing on well up the left for Bungay as side win another throw in the corner played into Riggall, sends a crossed arrowing into the far post, players closing in, Marcie Prettyman up with Brooke Osborne, the header turned wide. The game being played at a frantic pace the ball won back and put forwards quickly. Bungay pushing players on, Sprowston clearing into Mollie O’Callaghan in the middle puts a diagonal ball into the right channel for striker, Bailey Duffield to attack Bungay goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce out of her area quickly to put her foot through the ball to clear.

Osborne laying the ball into Rose’s feet as the attacker pulls out to the right 20 yards out spins in behind to flash a cross in along the face of the Sprowston goal, Bullard can’t quite reach it to turn home. Chloe Shipman carrying the ball out to the right lifts it on for Duffield to attack on the flank, Grace Storey back on her as the pair reach the by-line the defender seeing Duffield place her attempted cross behind for a goal kick.

Chloe Shipman

A frantic opening 5 minutes if anything both sides need to settle. Chloe Ellis playing the ball out from the back up to Osborne inside for Bullard, challenged by Sprowston’s Holly Whayman, cleared to the left, Sprowston’s Anais Winney sending the ball into the box for Duffield to attack, Bungay defender Ruby Roos getting across her to shield the ball back to her keep, Pearce picking it up Sprowston claiming Roos touched the ball implying a back pass but nothing doing.

Rowland giving the ball to Riggall getting on up the left flank looks to play Bullard in behind the flag though going up, halting her run. Winney taking the ball on right for Sprowston winning a throw as Ellis comes across to tackle. Off the throw Phoebe Green sees the ball into her feet right corner of the area and turning to shot sends the ball wide past the far post. O’Callaghan with time on the ball 40 yards out lines up a strike a good effort racing wide of the right post.

Rowland bringing the ball under control in the middle, laying it out to Riggall getting forwards on the left pushed into Bullard 20 yards out left of the D, has Osborne making a run across her going ide plays the ball into her, Osborne’s angled cross, claimed by Sprowston goalkeeper, Knight. A free-kick won on half-way to Sprowston, Olivia Leggett to play the ball up into the area, Roos heading it clear for Bungay.

Bungay captain, Charnelle Riggall looking to get in behind Chloe Shipman

Rowland up ended in the middle, gets back to her feet quickly to take it spotting Riggall in space on the left, going forwards Sprowston out to close her down put the ball out for a throw. Alexander receiving the throw do onto her feet, spins in behind to cross the ball blocked by Whayman. Leggett heading the ball away from danger as Riggall whips a cross in towards the top of the area. Bungay pressing getting forwards well. Prettyman on the move right into Osborne racing on her cross/shot taken by Knight down low at her near post.

Knight has a good kick on her the ball launched up to the right has Duffield turning to attack up the line, is brought down as she reaches the corner of the area, winning her side a free-kick. O’Callaghan over it players up goes for the shot fires the ball over the crossbar. Duffield closing Roos down as the defender looks to see the ball out of play on the left forces the corner. Curled in to the far post knocked down drops to Green out beyond the post, sees her shot charged down.

Sprowston’s Bailey Duffield

Bungay look to break from the corner get away on the right, Sprowston snapping back to turn play around, Shipman on for Green her cross over everyone from the left, Duffield right looking to keep the pressure on, winning another corner. A dangerous delivery curled in under the bar by O’Callaghan, Pearce getting a fist on the ball to punch it away.

Bungay goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce

Duffield attacking the ball on the right as Knight boots it upfield, Riggall tracking back to help Storey at the back getting a challenge in on Duffield to see Storey clear. Both sides calling for a little calm passes rushed at times. Alexander bringing the ball on for Bungay played into Riggall wide left, spins in behind looknig to get down the line, Curtis back at her to challenge, clears the ball. Sprowston making a change, Duffield coming off in attack, Rosie Milligan coming on.

The ball put inside from the left into Rose inside the D, the Bungay attacker holding the ball up, looking to spin off Whayman marking her to get a shot away, Whayman ready lunging in with her leg to block the ball runs wide to the right of the D, Rowland running on looking to shoot first time blasts her 20 yard attempt wide. Osborne taking the ball on down the right seeing her low cross turned behind by Leggett.

The corner lifted in at the near post Roos up to head the ball twisting her body to angle the ball in down towards goal, blocked on the line, dropping down to the floor and hastily scrambled away, Bungay appealing that the ball had crossed the line but don’t get the decision. VAR not used if it wasn’t over there was only a fraction in it.

Bungay’s Ruby Roos

Good contest. lively, Bungay getting on quickly looking to force the tempo, too quickly at times players not ready for passes, Leggett winning it at the back up to Winney left has Green pulling wide picks her out, the attacker on the angle sending a shot wide across the six yard box.

GOAL! The deadlock broken Bungay bringing the ball on right side played into Rose form a goal kick, 20 yards out right corner of the box back to goal takes it to her left to spin away down the line lifting a cross into the box, over Bullard, dropping on the penalty spot, Alexander charging in unmarked hitting it on the volley driving the ball past the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

Lily Alexander celebrates as she fires Bungay into the lead

Bungay taking the lead with just under half an hour played. Winney gets the ball up to Green pressing on the left sends a cross into the area, Milligan making a central run, Roos intercepting to head the ball clear. O’Callaghan looking to line up another rocket from 30 yards out, Rowland throwing her self in to block the ball at close range. Rose moving across the Sprowston back line to receive the ball, Rowland taking the ball out to the left rolling her in down the line, Rose and Whayman tangling on the edge of the area, the Bungay attacker winning a free-kick, Whayman shown a yellow card.

Mollie O’Callaghan

 

 Osborne over the set-piece on the left just outside the box, flighted in towards the far post Roos jumping to nod the ball down into the six yard box, the shot is taken, the ball gratefully grabbed up by Knight put straight into the keeper. O’Callaghan with Shipman bring the ball on through the middle for Sprowston, Shipman sending it up the right wing with Milligan racing in behind the full back firing a cross into the area, won by Riggall over on the other side of the pitch now. A few uneven bounces on the pitch wrong footing plays, there are definitely a few nerves out there the senior plays trying to get everyone to relax.

  Riggall over on the right attacking the ball on for Osborne releases Bullard down to the by-line cuts her cross back up into the box, Leggett snatching it back for Sprowston to clear. Roos comes over to support Riggall as she holds up Green’s progress on the left wing, sends the ball upfield, Rose looking to get it under control, has the ball taken off her feet by Rudd. Bungay pressing on the right, Riggall up with Osborne and Bullard the cross put into the area, Curtis going to clear it, Rose charging the ball down behind for a goal kick. 

  Rowland playing the ball into Rose over on the left 20 yards out controls the ball and shifts it inside to open up the angle to shoot, the ball fired straight at the keeper, back on her line. O’Callaghan angling a 30 yard pass into the right side of the Bungay six yard box, Green attacking it sends the ball over. Sprowston winning a free-kick wide on the left in the closing moments of the first half, O’Callaghan over the ball sends the ball into the area over everyone and out at the far post.

Half-time Sprowston FC Women 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

  Bungay with the narrow advantage at the break, the teams staying out on the field with a short interval before the 2nd half. The game has been played at a frantic pace, Bungay keen to get the job done this evening. Neither side has settled, a nervous edge to proceedings. A few rash challenges but played in good spirits for the majority. Bungay creating chances getting players on well down the flanks. Sprowston limited in their attacks but proving a real danger on the counter and keeping Bungay on their toes a single goal in it all to play for 2nd half.

  Both sides making changes, Zoe Cossey and Abigail Bell on for Bungay in place of Osborne and Storey off. Duffield back on for Sprowston along with Lola Hallam, Green and Winney off. Sprowston getting the 2nd half underway, Bungay immediately in to close the ball down, get the ball up the right crossed into the box, drops for Rose stabs the ball over the goal. Bell closing the ball down in the final 3rd for Bungay out to the right, Courtney Leggett defending sending it out for a throw. 

 Sprowston up on the right getting a throw, played into Duffield top of the area lays it down the line for Hallam to lift a cross into the area, Pearce claiming the ball at the near post. Shipman tackling Rowland in the middle to bring the ball away right, for Hallam, Riggall challenging for Bungay to stop the attack. Courtney Leggett getting on with the ball left for Sprowston fires it forwards up into the box with Duffield the target, Roos goes with her foot instead of her head to clear the ball, slices the ball in behind gets away with it as it runs straight into the keepers gloves.

Sprowston’s Lola Hallam

  Bungay queuing up inside the box as Rose on the right looks to wriggle her was past three defenders, the cross coming in, Whayman winning it for Sprowston to clear. Rowland booked as she is late with her tackle, then clears the ball inside the box from the resulting free-kick. The game remains lively Cossey carrying the ball up through the middle for Bungay sending it on for Rose up the right flank, Courtney Leggett getting a foot on the ball, brings it on setting off a Sprowston counter attack, rolls into Milligan, pulls the trigger from 30 yards out her shot only succeeds in finding the keeper.

  Cossey getting up to the top of the D, laying the ball off to the left for the onrushing, Alexander to take on Curtis making the blocking tackle for Sprowston. Milligan with another attempt from distance 25 yards out on the right places the ball over the crossbar. Shipman wins Pearce’s goal-kick for Sprowston seeing the ball down lays it forwards looking to play Hallam through on goal right side, the pass a little too strong gives Pearce the opportunity to get the ball safely back into her gloves.

  Bungay defending their six yard box heading the ball clear as Sprowston pushing on the right win a corner. Bungay come on through the middle Rowland on for Cossey left of the D, 25 out looks to thread the ball into the path of Bullard ahead of her, not quite as Whayman clears, the ball going straight to Prettyman 25 yards out right of the D, shoots the ball racing wide of the far post. 

Marcie Prettyman tackling Rosie Milligan

 Curtis putting the tackle in on Rose as the Bungay attacker drives forwards with the ball at her feet in the left channel. Alexander on the move right plays the ball on for Rose bursting to the by-lie stabs her cross up into the near post, Curtis with a timely tackle on Bullard as she looks to attack it. Bungay upping the ante pushing on Roos lifting a pass into Bullard moving right back to Prettyman, inside for Rowland looks to turn, Milligan nips in to win the ball for Sprowston, they look to counter Milligan finding Shipman looks to release Hallam on the right, Riggall defending for Bungay. 

  Changes from both sides, Shipman coming off for Sprowston, Green coming back on. Bungay bringing off Rose, sending on Lauren Purling. Leggett needing to defend for Sprowston does well as Alexander picking up the ball 25 yards out drives on towards the box, left side of the D. Bungay giving the ball away in the middle, O’Callaghan snapping onto the ball letting fly from 30 yards out, the shot grabbed down by Pearce. 25 minutes left to play the score remains 1-0 to Bungay, the ball not sticking on the middle, but Sprowston can’t get it into their attackers. 

Bungay’s Zoe Cossey

 Cossey with a chance to double the lead as she breaks into the area central, riding a challenge stays on her feet moving to the left, taking the shot, not enough on it to evade the keeper, Knight down to make the save. Bungay pressing, Alexander on the drive with the ball at her feet central feeding the pass out to Purling on the right 20 yards out ends the ball arrowing into the box central, for Bell looking to attack it on the half volley, places the shot straight at the keeper. Cossey coming inside from the left to try her luck on the angle too can only pick out Knight in the Sprowston goal. 

Bungay’s Abigail Bell

Bungay looking to turn the screw, O’Callaghan nipping back in on Purling as the Bungay winger looks to get away on the right, out for a throw, Prettyman putting the ball up the line for Purling to attack driving to the by-line, Rudd going with her holding her up well eventually conceding the throw in the corner. Prettyman putting it long into Alexander inside the box, Olivia Leggett challenging to clear the threat. 

 Rowland bringing the ball down puts it into the path of Bells 25 yards out right of the D, unleashing a shot whips past the near post. Bungay with a free-kick on halfway lifted into the right side of the six yard box headed down into the mix, scrambled away to safety.

GOAL! Bungay having created a series of good chances make one count as the ball from the left is clipped into the top of the area, Purling seeing it down beyond the defence knocks it right heading for the six yard box and from the angle strikes the ball in across goal over the line at the far post 0-2.

Lauren Purling about to send Bungay into a 2 goal lead.

 Bungay getting a precious 2nd goal make a change bringing off Rowland with Naomi Cooper coming on. Bungay full of running in the latter stages of the game, one hand on the league title Alexander laying the ball on for Bullard, Curtis closing the attacker down top of the area. Bullard on the ball right side up to Purling inside the box, Rudd stepping in to win the ball back runs back out to Bullard places her shot into the side netting.

Lauren Bullard

  A triple switch for Sprowston as they bring O’Callaghan, Duffield and Whayman off, on come, Lois Wright, Aimee Dickson and Winney. The light starting to fade Bungay with a throw on the right make a change Prettyman having pulled up with cramp replaced by Storey. Cooper looking to play the ball into Bullard moving right, the pass cut out by Curtis. 

 Cossey looking to play a one two with Purling as she makes a central run towards the box, can’t quite get control of the return pass. Sprowston look to bring the ball away launch a counter long for Winney, Ellis defending for Bungay. The game stretched as Sprowston look to throw players forwards. Cossey hooking the ball forwards for Bullard on the right, Curtis going with her lunging in to play the ball out for a throw. The cross from the throw long to the back stick, Cooper rising to get her head on the ball nods it down into the keeper.

  Milligan strikes the shot from distance the ball swerving in towards goals caught by Pearce. The game moving into the final minute, Bungay working hard to limit Sprowston in possession a free-kick won lifted up to Purling on the right takes into the corner before winning a corner. Curled into the area and headed clear, the final whistle blows and Bungay have done it, are CHAMPIONS winning the Division One title.

Fulltime Sprowston FC Women 0-2 Bungay Town Ladies

  Lauren Purling has been with Bungay for a long time, her father Graham managing the side for a long period too, great to see her score the goal in the 2nd half to help secure the league title. Please for the club, great to see them win the league, know they have done it before but not in the WF East era. Have always been very supportive of my efforts to help promote the game. Leading 1-0 at half-time found an extra gear in the 2nd half to push on create good chances eventually making one count. Sprowston beaten by the better side on the night, have nevertheless secured runners-up spot. haven’t seen them this season until now, but have heard them talked about in high regards and have done fabulous to be in the title race right up until their final game of the season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the penultimate Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. Have to say this is a difficult one but the notes paint a picture of who done what help alot on occasion. A few performances of note, for Sprowston, Bailey Curtis made a number of crucial tackles at the back. Olivia Leggett in front of the defence getting across the pitch to win the ball. Chloe Shipman in the middle with some useful passes. For Bungay, Lily Alexander with some fantastic runs on hand to volley home the opening goal. Mia Rose got about the top of the area to receive the ball with some great link up play. Selina Rowland strong on the ball in the middle got Bungay moving forwards. Zoe Cossey and Abigail Bell coming on 2nd half pushed on to keep Bungay up the pitch to create attacking opportunities. The award though goes to their captain, Charnelle Riggall worked hard to win the ball down the left in the first half getting it on down the line linking up with her attackers then in defence 2nd half limited Sprowston’s attacks down the right well.

 Congratulations to Bungay Town Ladies on winning Norfolk Women’s Division One.

Bungay Town Ladies, 2023/24 Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions (photo credit Darrell Allen)

 An exciting game to end the Division One title race, and already you know it’s going to be just as good next season. My thanks to both teams for the team details. Great to see so many taking an interested in the outcome across the footballing community in Norfolk. One more game to go then the season’s done.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – AFC Sudbury Women v Stowupland Falcons Women

Tuesday 21st May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

  sponsored by MH Goals Ltd

Heading down into Suffolk this Tuesday evening for my penultimate cup final of the season. The Suffolk Women’s County Cup contest sponsored by MH Goals Ltd being played at Ipswich Town FC’s, Portman Road Stadium. AFC Sudbury Women playing Stowupland Falcons Women.

  The fabulous occasion for both clubs with the county cup final returning to Portman Road, the town on a high following Ipswich’s back to back promotions returning them to the Premiership. Many within both clubs huge fans and a dream for the players to get to play in the stadium. The competition dominated by Ipswich Town Women for a long spell before they bowed out of the competition, since then a rivalry has developed for the county cup between the next highest league placed sides in the county AFC Sudbury Women and Needham Market Women. But the final has also seen a good proportion of sides from tier 7 make it to the final, Bungay Town Ladies last season, now Stowupland Falcons Women into their first ever county cup final.

This evenings prize

  AFC Sudbury Women themselves enjoying back to back promotions to reach the FAWNL (tier 4) last season. A huge step up for their young players many coming through the ranks of their academy. However they rose to the challenge and despite struggling for results got the crucial wins against the sides around them at the bottom of the table to pull clear of the bottom two and retain their league status for a 2nd season. Winning the county cup back in 2022 beating Needham Market in the final were knocked out early on previous season by their rivals but went on to secure the ERWFL Premier Division. Returning the favour this time around they are overwhelming favourites to lift the cup once again. Jess Allen top scorer this season closely followed by Sophie Jeffery.

  Stowupland Falcons Women have grown as a side since 1st entering a women’s side into the league in Suffolk 4 years ago. A club with a strong youth setup the woman’s side adding Clare Bevan and Amy Gilson from Henley Athletic Ladies to squad last season went on to win the Suffolk Women’s Premiership. As defending champions this season Stowupland enjoyed a good rivalry with a newly rejuvenated Brantham Athletic Ladies. Stowupland with games in hand always chasing, just missing out to finish as runners-up. The two going head to head on both the semi-finals of the league and county cup, the score 1-1 their too with Stowupland’s players reaching the final for the first time and getting the opportunity to play at Portman Road. Clare Bevan captaining the side top scorer this campaign with over 23 goals, Amy Gilson also into the 20’s with her goals with 18 of the 22 players used this season all getting on the scoresheet. Know they face a tough test this evening against a side 4 league higher

  Road to the Final

  Unlike some of the other county cups in the East, Suffolk don’t have a seeding system in place all sides entering in the 1st round the big guns potentially drawn together. Sudbury beginning their county cup campaign on the road taking on the newly formed, Bury Town Community Women. The gulf between the sides soon apparent as Sudbury racked up a huge double figure score-line, Keira Harms on target for 5 goals. Evie Creaton hitting 4 into the back of the net Their were braces too for Sophie Jeffery and Phoebe Guiver. Kate Edwards, Kaylee Dodd and Holly Kennard all scoring too, final tally 16-0. Stowupland also away taking on another need side and can say they beat Sudbury in the cup no matter what, this the newly formed Sudbury Sports Women, Laura Brame scoring a hat-trick with goals from Clare Bevan, Emily Bates, Millie Gant and Lydia Denny securing a 7-1 win.

  Onto the 2nd Round, Sudbury at home taking on Premiership side, AFC Kesgrave Ladies, was to be another goal rout with Jasmine Drake putting away a hat-trick, Chloe Brame with a brace and five other scorers in a 10-0 win, Jess Allen, Maisie Goodwin Keira Harms, Kaylee Dodd and Amber Provan. Stowupland also winning by a double figure margin as they took on early Championship pacesetters, Ipswich Valley Rangers from the league below. Clare Bevan finding the back of the net for 4 goals. Emily Bates and Amy Gilson both netting a hat-trick each with Ellis Rabey also scoring. 

 Into the last eight, Sudbury at home taking on another Premiership side, Woodbridge Town Ladies. Progressed to the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-0 victory with 5 different scorers, Jess Allen, Eva Frazzoni, Maisie Goodwin, Sophie Jeffery and Alex Penny. Stowupland taking on fellow Premiership side Needham Market Women Development at home in the quarter finals, Amy Gilson scoring in the first half the sides level at the break, the hosts going on to in it by a single goal in the 2nd half with Enya Moore on target for the winning goal.

  The semi-finals played at neutral venues, the big guns drawn together in the last 4, the holders, Needham Market Women, Sudbury’s opponents. Knocking Sudbury out in the 2nd Round last season, Sudbury were in no mood to repeat the feat this time around and a brace for both Jasmine Drake and Jess Allen ensuring the win, 4-0. Stowupland up against their league rival, Brantham Athletic Ladies in their semi-final clash Amy Gilson firing home a brace as Stowupland ran out 3-1 winners, Ellis Rabey also scoring to send the club to Portman Road.

 The County Cup Final held at Colchester United FC in recent season’s making a welcome return to Portman Road home of Ipswich Town FC a dream for both sets of players and their manger’s too to get the opportunity to play at the stadium The Cobbold Stand open for the final, the fans allocated a section each opposite the dugouts. Suffolk FA looking to make it a special occasion for the players, which is great to see as these are the opportunities they dream of. The weather was going to have a large say in the final, with the forecast heavy rain beginning to fall… more about that later. For once undercover I didn’t have to worry about getting wet.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Ronni Harrison (C), Kaylee Dodd, Amber Provan, Aliyat Lambe, Leonnie Bezant, Maisie Goodwin, Jess Allen, Sophie Jeffery, Eva Frazzoni & Yasmine Drake. Subs – Jessica Egan, Amy Jarvis, Ava Jouvenel, Ella Edwards & Alex Penny.

AFC Sudbury Women

 Stowupland Falcons Women starting XI – Emily Huggins, Eloise Flack, Lucy Daly, Anya Williams, Ebonie Calvert, Ellis Rabey, Millie Gant, Laura Brame, Clare Bevan (C) Mollie Frost & Amy Gilson. Subs – Porscha Rampley, Caitlin Jackson, Millie Bloom, Lydia Denny & Enya Moore.

Stowupland Falcons Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Ronni Harrison and Clare Bevan with this evenings officials

  AFC Sudbury wearing pink for this evenings final, their shirts and socks with black shorts, traditionally in yellow and blue, so too are their opponents colours, Stowupland wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shots and socks. The rain getting stronger as the captains meet with this evenings official led by Isobel Chaplin. Stowupland to kick-off the first half the ball rolled back into the middle lifted out to the left, captain Clare Bevan racing on looking to pressure, Sudbury’s Aliyat Lambe as the defender looks to clear the ball, forces Sudbury into conceding the throw high up the pitch.

  A positive start from Stowupland looking to close the ball down on the left get a cross into the area, cleared by Sudbury’s Amber Provan the ball runs out to Stowupland midfielder, Ellis Rabey all of 25 yards puts her foot through the ball her shot racing wide of the left post. Bevan attacking left for Stowupland, with Millie Gant the cross fired into the area, just behind Amy Gilson on the penalty spot. 

 GOAL! Sudbury playing the ball out with pace fired up to Sophie Jeffery on the left getting the ball into her feet drives down the wing firing a diagonal ball into the box, Stowupland’s Anya Williams getting it clear to the right, latched onto by Sudbury’s Bermudan International, Eva Frazzoni out wide flashed  dangerous ball in across the face of the Stowupland goal, Jeffery having run in at the far post turning it over the line to put Sudbury into the lead inside 2 minutes 1-0.

Sophie Jeffery putting Sudbury into an early lead

 Jess Allen played in on the right for Sudbury, bursts forwards with the ball checking her run to lay it into the middle for Maisie Goodwin who carries the ball out to the left 25 yards out fires and angled ball in towards, Yasmine Drake at the near post, looking to hit the shot as the ball runs across her sends the ball wide of the post. 

Sudbury’s Jasmine Drake with Stowupland defender, Ebonie Calvert

  Sudbury moving the ball about quickly using the whole of the pitch, Allen and Jeffery outlets on the flanks. Leonnie Bezant with the ball in the middle, looks to thread it through the Stowupland defence, playing a high line, Frazzoni looking to run in behind, goes a fraction too soon, flagged offside.

 Gilson after the ball played into the left channel, tires to fight her way in behind Lambe the defender getting her body in between the ball and attacker to play it upfield. Ronni Harrison wearing the captain’s armband for Sudbury lifting a cross-field ball out to Allen on the right, cuts the ball back in towards the top of the box right side, Frazzoni looking to strike the ball, Ebonie Calvert lunging in to block the ball striking the referee, play halted resuming with a drop ball.

  Sudbury lively nipping in to win the ball, Stowupland snapping back to try and win it back, their opponents getting it moving quickly stretching them. Goalkeeper, Emily Huggins having to come racing out of her area to clear the ball as Frazzoni looks to pick out Allen with a diagonal ball on the right. The rain pouring down now with 10 minutes played. 

 Sudbury with the early goal settling quickly into a rhythm continue to spray the ball about the pitch, Goodwin linking up with Bezant in the centre the pass out to Allen powering on down the right wing to the by-line her cross turned behind for a corner by Stowupland’s Lucy Daly.

Leonnie Bezant holding off, Stowupland’s, Ellis Rabey

 GOAL! Jeffery to take the corner from the right a threatening delivery curled in towards goal at the far post the defender covering it trying to keep it out with Frazzoni pressuring the ball as it falls forced over the line, Sudbury double their lead, difficult to tell who got the final touch, Frazzoni or an OG, Jeffery’s corner may even have already been over the line either way it’s 2-0.

 The rain falling heavily, water already beginning to lay on the pitch. Sudbury undeterred press Stowupland for possession, Bezant in on Bevan as she looks to drive central, launched up field, Calvert looking to get it down, play it forwards for Rabey. 

  GOAL! Sudbury are awarded a free-kick out wide on the left, about level with the corner of the Stowupland area, Jeffery over the ball looks to float the ball in central, Lambe up from the back rising highest to get her head on the ball and drill her header down into the back of the net, Huggins throwing herself at the ball instinctively getting a faint touch but too much power on the ball 3-0.

Aliyat heading home for Sudbury

 Sudbury powering into a 3 goal lead inside the opening 20 minutes. conditions horrendous torrential rain now. Jeffery splashing up water as she sprints out to the left with the ball angling a diagonal ball back into the box targeting Drake making a near post run, the ball into her path turns her shot wide past the far post.

 GOAL! Coming out to the right Allen squares the ball into Drake right of the D, goes to strike the ball charged down by Calvert the rebound come into Frazzoni’s feet 22 yards out central, unleashes a powerful shot rising, crashes down off the underside of the crossbar to bounce down over the line, no mistake about the scorer of this one, fabulous strike 4-0!

Eva Frazzoni firing home Sudbury’s 4th goal

 Stowupland shipping in goals undeterred in their effort to try and get the ball up the pitch attacking on the right win themselves a corner. Players up lifted in near side, it’s Jeffery to head the ball clear for Sudbury midway through the first half. Goodwin rolling the ball on through the middle with Allen making a central run, can’t quite take it into her strike as Williams comes to close her down.

 GOAL! There’s no one else involved in Sudbury’s 5th goal as Kayleigh Dodd scores a superb solo effort. Picking up the ball on the wing the right back drives forwards checking back to turn inside a defender get into the box and smash her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner 5-0.

Kayleigh Dodd with a superb solo effort to put Sudbury 5 up

  All this and the rain is still raging down, players and officials alike, like drowned rats, “run the line in a cup final at Portman Road, yeah I’ll be up for that.” 

 Good for the sliding tackle mind, if you’re not planning to stop. Stowupland making a change Daly coming off, Caitlin Jackson coming on with half an hour played. Sudbury playing the ball from left to right at the back, Dodd getting on the move up the wing putting the ball on for Allen who surges towards the by-line, Gant looking to close her down doing enough to see the attacker turn her cross behind.

 Sudbury ringing the changes, as they often do, this time a quintuple substitution, Jessica Egan, Ella Edwards, Amy Jarvis, Ava Jouvenel and Alex Penny coming on. Jeffery, Allen, Goodwin, Dodd and Harrison the players off, Bezant now wearing the captains armband. Stowupland with a rare attack get the ball out to the right Mollie Frost with Gilson coming to support, turns inside on the by-line the ball laid back to the top of the area, Gant striking the ball, the shot blocked.

 Bezant bringing the ball on for Sudbury central looks to lay it out to Egan attacking on the right, Huggins again out of her box sharply to kick the ball clear. Alot of water on the pitch, players slipping over the ball holding up. Drake taking the ball on down the left flank, powers on before being up ended Sudbury awarded the free kick  out wide of the corner of the area, Penny stood in the pouring rain eying up a shot on goal. Fires in pacy strike towards goal, cutting through the spray, evades the keepers gloves to find the back of the net 6-0.

Probably not the image Alex Penny had in her head when she dreamed of scoring at Portman Road, but a great strike nonetheless

  Sudbury 6 goals up with nearly 40 minutes played doesn’t look good however rain pouring down off the stadium roof, water splashing up players falling, referee Isobel Chaplin calling over the captains, player safety the number one concern… they walk off play suspended.

Referee, Isobel Chaplin calling over the captains as the decision is made to suspend play

 Doesn’t look good the pitch having adsorbed alot of water in a short space of time the rain still falling an inspection to take place at 8:45pm. Headed downstairs to hospitality to take advantage of the buffet generously laid on by Suffolk FA. Some concern, will the final have to be abandoned, the only chink of light the rain has started to ease. A further inspection at 9:05 water still visible on the surface the ball not moving freely but no rain can it drain enough… the crowd patient a healthy number 920 in attendance a further inspection and discussions and play will resume at 9:35pm a delay of 1hr 20 minutes, the two sides back on for a short warm-up. 5 minutes left in the first half then a 5 minute turn around for the 2nd half.

 Play getting underway with a Sudbury throw on the right. Water still kicking up but the pitch is holding up well. Egan on the right putting a ball into the Stowupland box, Drake looking to head the ball down her effort charged down. 

 GOAL! Sudbury feed the ball out to Penny on the left on the move her cross lifted into the box, turned behind, a handball spotted, Chaplin pointing to the spot Penalty! Drake placing the ball on the spot opts for power drills the ball in central giving the keeper no chance 7-0.

Jasmine Drake putting Sudbury 7 up from the penalty spot.

  Pretty much one way traffic, Stowupland can’t make the ball stick Sudbury’s players lively snapping in to claim the 2nd ball. Bevan attempting to feed the ball into Gilson up top, Jarvis in close to challenge get Sudbury back on the ball. Egan putting the ball on for Penny as the pair attack on the right, Jackson getting back on Penny defending for Stowupland.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 7-0 Stowupland Falcons Women

  An extended first half draws to a close the teams staying out on the pitch with a brief turn around for the 2nd half. Sudbury adding a 7th goal to their tally before play was suspended. A commanding 7-0 at the break. Got off the the perfect start scoring early in the game settling quickly and moving the ball about well have steadily built up their lead. Stowupland working hard but can’t get the ball to stick, the conditions no doubt playing a part but Sudbury lively nipping in to win the 2nd ball. All they can do is continue to work hard and hope they get an opportunity to score a goal.

  The 2nd half kicking off at 9:47pm Sudbury to get the game restarted the ball played left down the line, Ella Edward pushing on, Flack clearing for a throw. Sudbury pressing get on down the left an early ball slid into the box for Drake to attack, Flack sliding in to get the ball out of the box. Sudbury keep it on the left Jouvenel up with Edwards, Frost back to help Flack in defence the ball turned behind for a goal kick.

  The left flank being over used in the opening minutes of the 2nd half the ball rolled into Drake wide looks to turn in towards the area, Flack getting her body across the attacker to shield the ball knocks it into Williams to hook the ball clear. Provan at left back since the changes for Sudbury pushing on down the wing sends it on for Jouvenel but the flag goes up against her offside. 

 Bezant gives the ball to Penny moving inside in the right channel drives for the area, Calvert standing in her path to close the ball down. Sudbury winning a free-kick 30 yards out on the right lifted into the area headed clear back to the right falls to Penny’s feet, latches a shot back in on the angle, the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the crossbar. Penny carrying the ball down to the right corner, Gant up with her Calvert coming across, the ball put out for a corner kick.

  Played into the near post, turned behind for a 2nd corner. Curled in to the near post again, Drake looking to attack it, scrambled behind for another corner. This delivery in high before the near post, Frazzoni looks to turn her header in towards goal sends the ball over the bar. Lambe stepping in to block, Brame’s pass as she attempts to play Gilson in behind. 

Stowupland’s Millie Gant

 Frost with a strong tackle to wrestle the ball away on the right, turn and has an opportunity to run forwards coming inside sends the ball into the area for Jackson central holding off a challenge gets her shot away low to the left side of goal, Sudbury goalkeeper untroubled till that point getting down with a smart dive to her left to stop the ball. The Stowupland fans at that end of the ground giving a loud cheer of encouragement.

Stowupland’s Mollie Frost

 Frost and Edwards again in a tussle of possession on the right both going to ground, the Stowupland player eventually pulled up for a foul. Egan playing the ball on for Penny on the right pushing into the corner, Gant over to defend sees the ball out for a throw in. A busy start to the 2nd half, Jouvenel turns on the afterburners she she brings the ball forwards through the middle for Sudbury attempting to lay Drake on in behind, Calvert reads it and steps in to cut the pass out.

  Stowupland giving it their best looking to press, Frost getting about on the flank. Edwards racing on left wing looking to get inside Flack, the full back under pressure does well to see the ball back to her keeper to clear. An hour played, Sudbury once again ringing the changes, Harrison, Dodd, Allen, Jeffery and Goodwin back on. Frazzoni, Bezant, Drake, Lambe and Provan coming off. 

 GOAL! The changes breaking an immediate effect as Allen gets hold of the ball on the right and moves inside twisting and turning as the keeper come rushing out gets inside her to rifle her strike into the empty net 8-0.

Jess Allen firing home Sudbury’s 8th goal

 Stowupland making a double change, Rabey and Frost coming off, on come Millie Bloom and Enya Moore. Jeffery finding Penny inside the box forced wide to the left by Flack the ball cleared for a throw in the corner. Jeffery looking to find a way into the box, Brame back to defend for Stowupland. Sudbury full of running Allen playing a one two with Jeffery on the right running onto the box looking for the return pass, Flack sliding in with the challenge to clear.

  Huggins is drawn out of her goal to come out to try and close Allen down as the attacker gets in behind on the right, into the box, rounds the keeper, looking to fire the ball on the angle into the goal beyond the Stowupland defence back covering, Flack intercepting the shot. Gant blocks as Allen right lays the ball back to Jeffery top of the area. 

 GOAL! Jouvenel sees the ball into her feet central and turns to attack racing forwards into the box right of goal letting fly with her shot as putting it past the advancing keeper to score before running over to the Sudbury fans and knee sliding in celebration 9-0.

Eva Jouvenel with Sudbury’s 9th goal

 72 minutes played Jouvenel on the drive with the ball rom the left is knocked off the ball, hooked behind for a corner on the left, taken short is blasted into a Stowupland defender going to block. Allen is dispossessed on the right the ball fed on up the wing for Denny to chase, Egan getting back on her to clear the ball for a throw. 

Stowupland’s Laura Brame

Stowupland with a chance to get players up into the box as they win a free-kick wide on the left the ball angled in is behind everyone, Allen far side latching onto it races away on the counter attack surging up the flank comes inside bursting into the D before pulling the trigger, sending her shot racing wide of the far post. Gant coming off for Stowupland, Daly back on going into the left back position. 

 GOAL! Sudbury getting a corner on the right, curled in towards goal, Huggins getting her fist on the ball to knock it away from her goal drops straight to Penny running in top of the area puts her foot thought the ball rifling it through the crowd into the goal beyond to bring up Sudbury’s 10th 10-0.

Alex Penny racing onto the ball to score Sudbury’s 10th soon followed by her hat-trick

 GOAL! Moments later Penny has her hat-trick getting onto the ball from the right powering her way on into the area, evading a couple to challenges gets inside to blast the pall past the keeper 11-0.

  Into the final 5 minutes, Sudbury intent on getting forwards Dodd dinking the ball inside into Penny central inside the D goes to shoot, the ball caught by Huggins. 

 

 GOAL! Stowupland have been up against it all gave but never lost their spirit working hard to find an opportunity to threaten it comes a Moore up top nips in to steal the ball top of the area and moving inside keeps her composure to send her shot under Carter to score, the loudest cheer of the night coming from the Stowupland end as Moore runs over to celebrate with her teammates 11-1.

Enya Moore scoring for Stowupland at Portman Road

 Rabey sent back on for Stowupland replacing Williams at the back as they look to see out the close stages of the match, Penny into Allen wide right her cross scooped up into the area, caught well by Huggins at her near post. The final whistle blow at it’s Sudbury’s fans to roar out a cheer as they win this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup. 

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 11-1 Stowupland Falcons Women

 Never looked in doubt from the word go. An early goal is always going to settle any nerves and dampen the underdogs spirit. Sudbury moving the ball quickly using the pitch breaking down the flanks soon getting a 2nd and a 3rd despite the horrendous conditions play suspended with them 6 up after 40 minutes. The long delay thankfully seeing the rain ease and the pitch drain enough for the game to resume a penalty seeing Sudbury 7 up at the break. Stowupland continued to work hard keep the score down and try to find an opportunity of their own eventually forcing Carter into a save before Sudbury rang the changes again and extended the lead eventually reaching double figures, but not a clean sheet as Stowupland grabbed themselves a goal at the finish. The win probably never in doubt Stowupland nevertheless enjoying the occasion at Portman Road.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Glad I didn’t have to call this one at the game as I knew it was a tough one. Also know my notes can help immensely in that regards. A few performances of note to mention of course. For Stowupland the defence was under the cosh throughout nut still gave it there al, Ebonie Calvert and Eloise Flack with some good challenges. Clare Bevan running through the middle trying to unlock the defence for the attackers. Mollie Frost when she could making her presence felt. Sudbury were lively throughout using the whole squad moved the ball well creating numerous chances. Jess Allen with some great movement on the right setting up chances getting on the score sheet. Sophie Jeffery opening the scoring getting on well down the opposite wing. Eva Frazzoni with some great link up play and movement into the channels scoring a quality goal. The award though goes to the hat-trick scorer Alex Penny coming on to score a brilliant free kick. Ran constantly at the Stowupland back line creating chances and took her 2nd and 3rd goals well.

AFC Sudbury Women 2023/24 Suffolk Women’s County Cup winners

 Congratulations to AFC Sudbury Women on winning this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup.

  A late one in the finish but got the game finished 10.45 when I left the stadium the celebrations still going on The rain holding off or the 2nd half coming back with a vengeance for the drive back to Norfolk. Full credit to Suffolk Fa and Ipswich Town FC for coping with the atrocious conditions, play having to be suspended the fans patient the pitch drained enough to get the final finished. A night to remember no doubt. A great occasion and experience for the players and managers of both clubs. Thanks to everyone for their assistance tonight, and the hospitality. Good to catch up with Darrell Allen too, despite our shared interest in the game haven’t crossed paths much this season, but will hopefully do it again on Wednesday with a top of the table clash in Norfolk Division One possibly seeing the title won.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Real Bedford Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 19th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Onto the 2nd final of the day from Newmarket Town FC’s, Tristal Stadium, hosting this season ERWFL finals day, an all Premier Division clash for the League Cup, Wroxham Women taking on champions, Real Bedford Ladies, looking to win an impressive treble in their first season playing under their new banner.

The League Cup contested by all the clubs across the 3 divisions in the ERWFL, a Division One North and South (tier 6) feeding into a 12 strong Premier Division (tier 5). Often featuring some highly competitive matches with alot of talent on display, The League Cup Final itself no less so.

This afternoon’s prize

Real Bedford FC owned by Peter McCormack, bringing the Bedford Ladies side already competing in the ERWFL Premier Division in to the club becoming Real Bedford Ladies this season retaining their league status, Dean Perrett initially brought in as first team manager the club signing on a host of ne players with experience playing in the ERWFL and the FAWNL above. Indeed hit the ground running winning to go top of the Premier Division and stay there all season 15 straight wins in the league. Perrett moving on, with assistant Georgia Clarke heading up the side for the rest of the season. Their first defeat coming at home to FAWNL side Billericay Town Women in the FA Cup. Haringey Borough Women finally ending their 100% record with a strong 1st half performance (happened to be the two games I attended).

That did little to dent the charge to the Premier Division title secured with a 3-2 win against local rivals Luton Town Ladies, the league title secured and with it promotion to the FAWNL. Soon becoming a league and cup double as Real Bedford continued where Bedford Ladies has previously been on several occasions winning the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup. League results tailing away at the end of the season, the job done however have one more game to play to achieve a historic treble. Natasha Fensome always prolific in front of goal for Bedford, once again top scorer netting 33 goals so far this campaign with new signings, Francesca Partridge and Gemma Croucher on 23 an 19 respectfully with 16 different scorers amongst the squad.

Wroxham Women securing a 5th placed finish in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, the first in charge for new manager, Adam Race, joining the club from Long Stratton Women. The Norfolk club under going another small period of transition have brought in players with plenty of ERWFL experience to build up a squad with a good blend of talent as they look to challenge at the top of the league. Success too in the cup competition’s not only reaching the League Cup final, but the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the first time.

That at the start of a busy week for the club on Monday evening the squad getting to play under the lights at Norwich City’s, Carrow Road Stadium. Losing in the end to a strong Norwich City Women’s side. Injuries not helping to key players at the business end of the season, need to regroup and focus on today’s game. One of those injured out for the County Cup final striker Hannah Fuller one of the leading scorers in the county often top scorer wherever she’s been and so too this season netting 25 goals. Lara Densley enjoying a good campaign with 10 goals to her name as does Luci Middleton the attacker joining Race from Long Stratton where she was the top scorer in Division One last season with 35 goals.

Road to the Final

 A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Real Bedford at home in the 2nd Round taking on Division One North and fellow Bedfordshire side, Wootton Blue cross Lionesses. Starting the season strong that form continuing into the League Cup, Neve Mayes and Natasha Fensome both scoring a brace, with goal each for Chloe Martin and Erin Price in a 6-1 win. Wroxham making the long trip down to South Essex to play Division One South newcomers, Southend United Ladies, amongst the goals too with Holly Connell bagging herself a brace there were goals too for Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Hannah Fuller and Keela Olive the score 6-1.

Into the 3rd Round, Real Bedford staying in Bedfordshire away to fellow Premier Division side, AFC Dunstable Ladies. Goals from Fensome and Gemma Croucher securing a 2-0 to send them into the quarter finals. Wroxham at home taking on fellow Norfolk side and Division One North leaders, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women, their opponents showing great form, Wroxham taking their chances however to secure a comfortable 5-1 win. Hannah Fuller bagging a hat-trick with a goal apiece for Ella Gambell and captain, Becky Russell.

Real Bedford at home in the last 8, Watford Ladies Development leading Division One South, like Real Bedford with a 100% start to the season. The gulf between the sides soon apparent and Real Bedford raced into a commanding lead racking up a double figure score line. Fensome netting 4 goals with Francesca Partridge firing home a hat-trick. There were braces too for Mayes and Croucher the final score 11-2. Wroxham staying in Norfolk a trip to Mulberry Park to play Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL. A tricky opponent, Wroxham getting the only goal of the game in the 2nd half, vice captain, Tigi Robson’s goal sending them into the semi-finals.

Real Bedford coming up against their Bedfordshire rivals all the way through their League Cup run drawn away to fellow Premier Division side and potential league rivals, Luton Town Ladies. Looked to be a close game on the cards and proved so on the day, Andie Dickens scoring for Luton, but a goal in each half for Fensome and Chloe Martin was enough to send Real Bedford into the League Cup final. Wroxham having home advantage in their semi final tie, taking on Hertfordshire side Stevenage FC Women, Stevenage scoring twice, Hannah Fuller with 2 goals for Wroxham seeing the sides all square after 90 minutes to head into extra-time, Fuller going on to complete her hat-trick to send Wroxham through to today’s final.

In need of food during the break between game, headed to the kitchen hatch to order a double cheeseburger. As you know I do like a cheeseburger and know a good one when I taste one have to say Newmarket’s offering is right up there with the best. Fuelled up and ready to go for the 2nd game, a walk round the pitch the sun bright the temperature in the early twenties. Great weather for the final, the crowd building nicely.

Real Bedford Ladies

Real Bedford Ladies starting XI – Destiny Pap, Amy Reed, Lisa Milliken, Gemma Franklin, Sophie Mulvihill, Georgie Giddings, Gemma Croucher, Erin Price, Amber Smith, Francesca Partridge & Natasha Fensome (C). Subs – Sophie Billing, Neve Mayes, Chloe Martin, Izzy Crooks & Lauren Coppin.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Albany Hodgson, Lauren Kett, Rachel Cossey, Becky Russell (C), Lily Alexander, Ella Gamble, Lara Densley & Luci Middleton. Subs – Tigi Robson, Lauren Bullard, Lucy Eagle and Hannah Fuller.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 

Captain’s Natasha Fensome and Becky Russell with today’s match officials

 Players out for both sides, captain Zara Carroll missing for Real Bedford, her set plays offering another dynamic to their play. Without goalkeeper Sarah Hudson too, Destiny Pap usually an attacking winger by trade has 5 goals for the Reserves this season keeping goal in recent games. Wroxham with injury problems late in the season missing midfielder Jennifer Drummie, Hannah Fuller out for the County Cup final on Monday makes the bench this time around. Both with attacking options to bring on from the bench.

  Wroxham with the kick-off in the first half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Real Bedford lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. Played back to Chelsea Clarke, lifted across field to the right, Lara Densley looking to attack, Lisa Milliken in to challenge for Real Bedford, played into Natasha Fensome captaining the side today, gets on the move, Lily Alexander across to close her down.

  Wroxham pick out Ella Gambell coming inside from the right up with Luci Middleton in attack linking up the ball rolled out to Densley on the right plays it back inside to Gambell 25 yards out, she shot blocked by Real Bedford’s Gemma Franklin. Fensome making a positive start to the game looking to run into the channels take on the Wroxham defence coming left drives on with the ball checking inside into the top corner of the box unleashes a shot rising for the top corner Bryony Williams covering her near post throwing a glove up to push the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

  GOAL! Players up into the box as Lisa Milliken prepares to fire in the corner, curled into the six yard box, Wroxham look to head it clear, only to see the ball driven into the back of their own net, to concede an own goal inside the opening 3 minutes 0-3.

  Real Bedford lively at the start Georgie Giddings getting stuck in in the middle to win the ball on for Gemma Croucher played through to Fensome up top looks to angle her pass right into the path of Amber Smith racing on down the flanks, Wroxham holding their line catching her offside. Amy Reed closing down Gambell as she attacks on the left the ball put into the middle for Erin Price who is fouled the free-kick on halfway launched up towards the area, headed clear by Wroxham defender, Albany Hodgson.

Amy Reed

   Real Bedford find Fensome central, clips the ball on into the box giving chase left of goal, Williams out smartly to slide in grab the ball into her body. A lively opening 5 minutes Real Bedford pressing well, Fensome’s runs causing issues. Leah Newcombe at right back for Wroxham sending the ball on for Densley attacks on the wing putting it inside to Middleton, turns looking to fight her way through into the box, Sophie Mulvihill in to close her down for Real Bedford. 

  Milliken playing the ball on for Fensome to gather on the left makes a surging run forwards, getting inside the box, Hodgson on her shoulder looking to hold her off, Fensome gets a shot away sending the ball across the goal wide past the far post. 

Real Bedford captain, Natasha Fensome

  Rachel Cossey with the ball for Wroxham in the middle out to Gambell left sprays the ball long out to the right for Newcombe making her way forwards, sends it down the line for Middleton pulling wide to receive, Milliken getting across the attacker to see the ball out for a goal kick. Fensome a threat whenever she has the ball at her feet driving forwards prepared to take on players, Wroxham forced to drop back to defend. Francesca Partridge turning on the ball sweeps the pass out to Fensome on the left, Newcombe doing enough to put the attacker off see the ball run out of play. 

  Wroxham finding Densley up on the right, Middleton coming to offer support, Franklin doubling up with Milliken prevents the cross coming in. Wroxham regain possession central flighted on down the right with Densley still forwards fires the cross into the box, Reed tackling, Gambell on the penalty spot to deny her the shooting chance.

Real Bedford clearing the ball up to the left, Partridge looking to cause havoc get control of the bouncing ball inside Kett turns in field, Hodgson holds her ground turning to shield the ball Partridge clattering into her shoulder, left in a heap on the ground. Needs lengthy treatment a head injury, has to come off, will be sporting a nasty looking black eye later on. Real Bedford sending on Sophie Billing to join the attack on the left. Fensome looking to attack the resulting free-kick wins Real Bedford a corner on the left, the delivery curled in over the cross bar.  

  GOAL! 20 minutes played Real Bedford in possession central Giddings out to Smith right put back inside for Croucher to lift out to the left with Billing attacking on the wing sends her cross in blocked by Newcombe at close range, appeals for handball and the referee points to the spot! Penalty! Croucher lacing the ball on the spot and makes no mistakes sending the keeper the wrong way drilling it into the left side of goal to double the lead 2-0.

Gemma Croucher doubling Real Bedford’s lead from the penalty spot.

Wroxham get the ball up the right, Middleton up with Densley winning their side a corner kick. The ball put in close to the near post defended by Price put out for a 2nd corner. This delivery curled in central Pap on her line reacting instinctively knocking the ball up into the air, her defence scrambling it away to the right a high ball put back into the mix dropping to Alexander beyond the far post looks to head it back in across the penalty spot just over Middleton, the Real Bedford defence clearing the danger.

Ella Gambell looking to take the ball on for Wroxham

  Midway through the first half a drinks break called. Gambell seeing the ball into her feet left coming infield looking for Middleton up top, Franklin nipping in ahead of her to steal the ball. Middleton working hard up top to get across the back line supporting Densley on the right Real Bedford working just as hard to prevent the cross. 

 Clarke sending the ball into the middle for Russell, Wroxham’s captain playing the pass into Middleton up top has Alexander up with her central lays the ball into her then out to Gambell wide left her cross launched into the box too close to the keeper, Pap claiming the ball. 

 Real Bedford played on Fensome plays in cross the pitch to Smith on the right who in turn drops it into the middle for Price free 25 yards out top of the D, goes to put her foot through the ball, misses her kick, Cossey snatching it away to safety. Reed bombing on right side goes past Smith on the over lap bursting into the box, Gambell tracking back with her getting a toe on the ball to prod it back to her keeper, Williams kicking it clear.

  Fensome tricky to pick up as she’s constantly pulling of one defender or another, think you’ve got her then she’s gone. linking up well with Smith looking to get on down the right her cross lifted into the box, over Fensome making a central run. Croucher onto the ball central releases a shot from all of 30 yards out her effort straight at the keeper. Newcombe the furthest forwards for Wroxham on the right flagged offside as Densley plays the ball into Gambell 25 yards out looks to put the full back away down the line.

  GOAL! Real Bedford turn play around quickly lifted out to Fensome on the move up the left wing drives on pace, whips a dangerous ball in across the face of the Wroxham goal, Smith running in unchecked at the far post burying her header into the roof of the net 3-0.

Amber Smith roars in celebration as she heads Real Bedford into a 3 goal lead.

  Real Bedford scoring at regular intervals, making Wroxham’s efforts look laboured as a response, Fensome’s runs causing problems, 12 minutes left to play in the first half. Real Bedford winning the ball at the back Price up to Croucher shoots 25 yards out, on target but lacking the pace to trouble Williams as she moves across her goal to catch the ball. Wroxham feeling aggrieved decisions not going their way, Middleton brought down having a word with the referee.

Gemma Franklin

 GOAL! Real Bedford through the middle Giddings on for Croucher up to Fensome in attack drops her shoulder to break into the box central in behind, Williams racing out to close her down goes to ground, Fensome knocking the ball out of the keepers path to the left to round her and slot the ball into the back of the empty net 4-0.

Natasha Fensome getting her goal to put Real Bedford 4 up

  Wroxham pushing on getting the ball on central Gambell coming inside up to Middleton back to Alexander who shoots from range her effort not troubling Pap. The referee stopping play wanting to talk with Gambell and her captain, as the wide player vocally complains about the decision making. 

 

  Russell on the ball for Wroxham out to Densley right, Franklin sliding in playing the ball off Densley for a free kick. Price playing the ball to Billing on the left, Milliken going past her on the overlap the ball rolled into her path crosses into the box, Hodgson clearing at the near post. The ball back with Real Bedford on the left, Fensome coming to receive the ball lifted into the area, Kett the defender under it for Wroxham this time.

Wroxham’s Lauren Kett

 Into first half stoppage time Wroxham vexed as they concede another free-kick on half way to the left, launched up into the top of the area, Williams comes for it gloves up eyes on the ball, Fensome looking to run in see it over her shoulder, clattering into the keeper, unintentional, Williams going down does well to keep hold of the ball as play is stopped immediately so she can receive treatment A blow to the chest looks to be winded more than anything else need a few minutes to recover. Clarke getting on up the left with Gambell for Wroxham but Real Bedford close in leaving no way through as the whistle blows to bring the half to an end.

 Half-time Real Bedford Ladies 4-0 Wroxham Women

 Real Bedford head into the changing rooms, in control of the game with a healthy 4 goal lead. Scoring early and at regularly slots during the first half have looked a constant threat going forwards while limiting Wroxham’s opportunities up the other end. Wroxham stay out on the field gather on the pitch have a mountain to climb if they are to get back into the match. Hannah Fuller warming up hard before the break looks to be coming on. Clarke the player taken off. Tigi Robson on too for Cossey.

 Real Bedford to get the 2nd half underway, put out to the left, Wroxham see the ball out of play. The throw played inside to Giddings, Russell stepping in to steal the ball rolls it back into the defence for Kett to clear. 

Georgie Giddings

  Fuller seeing the ball into her feet turns inside looking to release Newcombe as she attacks down the right, Billing stretching out a leg t intercept the ball puts it into Milliken’s path the defender fouled as she looks to carry the ball forwards. 

 

  A competitive start to the second half Wroxham looking to close the ball down, win a free-kick on half way. Hodgson over the ball floated up into the box, Franklin under it knocking the ball up into the air, dropping right post Pap under it to make the catch. Fuller bringing a different dimension to Wroxham’s play straight away her presence alone giving her side confidence as she takes the ball into the box right side squares it central looking for Middleton closed down squeezes it out to Gambell on the left, Real Bedford shielding the ball out for a throw.

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller.

  Fensome ready to make her move whenever Real Bedford have possession, the ball rolled into her turns it to the left for Billing, drives on stopped by Hodgson. Gambell determined on the ball pushing inside from the left fires the ball into Densley, Milliken challenging to in the ball back for Real Bedford. 

Lisa Milliken

 Smith racing away down the right wing for Real Bedford in behind to send a cross into the box, Fensome overcooking her far post run the ball whipping behind her then cleared. Real Bedford defending a 4 goal lead can sit back a little pick their moments to break forwards the ball with Giddings in the middle played on for Croucher outside the box makes a run across the D, cutting her shot back in towards goal, Williams down low to push the ball behind for a corner kick. Put long to the far post Wroxham dealing with it Gambell fouled as she looks to bring the ball out.

Ella Gambell

  GOAL! Gambell fouled again in a much more dangerous are as she drives inside from the left, taken out outside the area 25/30 yards from goal. Standing over the ball with Russell, as the whistle blows Russell runs in to strike the ball angled in on target fizzed in at Pap back on her line hitting her looping up Pap can’t get hold of it as it loops up over her into the back of the net beyond 4-1. A goal back for Wroxham.

Wroxham scoring from the free-kick

Wroxham captain Becky Russell

The game restarts in the middle but is soon stopped with Pap down inside her box, Russell’s strike looking to have struck her in the face is a long pause in play but thankfully she is up back on her feet and able to continue. Wroxham putting the Real Bedford defence under pressure winning a corner on the left played in across the six yard line nocked back across goal to the left side falls straight to Kett who lifts her attempt on goal over the bar.

  GOAL! Wroxham pushing on down the left Fuller taking the ball to the by-line check back up the line turning into the box left corner to flash a cross into the middle, Middleton up with a defender near side making minimal contact, enough to deflect it on into the path of Alexander free to the right to rifle her shot past the keeper into the back of the net and score. 4-2.

Lily Alexander scoring Wroxham’s 2nd goal

  Two goal in 7 minutes Wroxham looking to get themselves back into the game ask Real Bedford a few questions. Wroxham finding an extra gear getting forwards well Fuller making the ball stick up top, Mulvihill getting a foot in to take the ball off the striker as she looks to drop her shoulder inside the D. 

Real Bedford’s Sophie Mulvihill

  Real Bedford still carrying plenty of threat in attack the ball played out to Billing on the left powers forward her cross claimed at the near post by Williams. Some of the decisions continue to vex Wroxham, Kett pulling up with a knock another pause while she receives treatment. Smith attacking down the right her cross blocked back to her puts it inside for Croucher out to Billing on the left her high ball into the box has Fensome interested, however Williams keeps her eye on the ball taking it cleanly above her head. 

Real Bedford attacker, Sophie Billing

  Middleton coming off for Wroxham with 20 minutes of regular play left, Lauren Bullard on to join the attack. Reed clearing the ball at the back for Real Bedford as Kett’s clearance has Fuller running to attack on the left. Gambell off a throw in the left inside to Russell, Alexander taking on the ball, looking to thread it into Fuller, cut out by Franklin. Russell taking the ball inside off of another throw on the left her shot on the angle straight at Pap.

  Russell laying the ball on for Densley out on the right, Newcombe bursting on to support her on the flank, Milliken isolated does well to get in between the pair to win the ball lift it forwards, Fensome looking it down knock to the left, Hodgson throwing out a leg to turn the ball away from her. 

Albany Hodgson

 Alexander up with Gambell central forwards to Russell inside the D her shot blocked by Mulvihill. Real Bedford spring the counter attack Price to Fensome releasing Billing on the left her cross cleared by Kett. A drinks break called alot of energy expanded out there. Play resuming Gambell taking the ball inside from the left laying it on for Densley top of the area, Franklin tackling, Gambell going down pulling up in alot of pain needs to come off Lucy Eagle joining the action with 10 plus stoppages to play.

  Eagle linking with Bullard on the left the ball clipped into the box, Mulvihill heads clear. Real Bedford dropping back intent on protecting their lead. Wroxham with a throw in the corner into Densley her cross cut out by Croucher inside the box, stays with Wroxham right up the line into Newcombe inside for Russell right corner digs the ball out from under her feet to cross too close to the keeper, Pap seeing the catch into her body. 

Wroxham’s Lucy Eagle

  Real Bedford with a rapid counter move getting the ball up to Fensome drifting left plays the one two with Billing wide getting the return pass inside the box to shoot on the angle, her strike fired in straight at the keeper. Billing taken off as Real Bedford send on Chloe Martin. One end to the other Eagles seeing Williams goal kick down left side, putting the defence under pressure the cross into the six yard box headed over for a corner. 

 Densley to take on the right dropping invitingly into the six yard box, think Russell gets her head on the ball drives the ball onto the crossbar, before a free-kick is called awarded Real Bedford’s way. 12 minutes of stoppage time in total. Real Bedford clear Price up to Fensome dinks the pass into Martin on the move left side her cross angled into the side netting, a Wroxham touch spotted, the corner awarded much to the annoyance of the fans. 

Erin Price

 Dropped into the six yard box from the left the ball headed down towards goal at close range, Williams with the sharp save little time to react straight at her knocks it up into the air dropping far post and dives down amongst legs to push the ball away to the right a goal kick awarded. 

Bryony Williams with a superb double save for Wroxham

  Real Bedford get on the attack Martin pushing inside with the ball at her feet from the left, played in central, Kett stopping it, knocked down, Fensome ready to pounce latching onto it inside the D pulling her shot wide of the right post. Eagle sees the ball into her feet lays it in to Bullard 20 yards out, Franklin out to close the attacker down. Eagle pulling up then taking a blow Wroxham take her off send Middleton back on for the final minutes of the game as Real Bedford look to get the ball forwards into the channels.

 

  Fensome breaking away still full of running coming in from the right across the top of the area her shot narrowly over from 20 yards. Fuller central looks to send the ball on turn and attack, Franklin sliding in to take the ball away from a throw in. A frantic finish to the game however Real Bedford see it out to celebrate winning the League Cup and completing a history making treble in just their first season.

Full time Real Bedford Ladies 4-2 Wroxham Women

  Treble wins aren’t common so to see two clubs do it in as many days is impressive, Real Bedford matching Whittlesey Athletic in that regards. Impressive. A strong first half seeing them race into a 4 goal lead. The damage done, it was nevertheless a spirited fight back from Wroxham in the 2nd half two goals in 7 minutes putting a different complexion on the game. Had further chances but Real Bedford were determined in defence not to concede again and remained a threat going forwards on the counter throughout William with a brilliant double save to deny them extending the lead. A treble won and FAWNL football to look forwards to next season, under a new manager. Georgia Clarke leaving her role, a treble winner in her first managerial role. Wroxham can be pleased with their 2nd half performance but will be disappointed to lose two cup finals. Nevertheless a great achievement to get there in the first place and a good platform to carry into next season. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Again there was a clear contender early on although as the game wore on a few other get themselves into the mix with some good performances on both side. Firstly for Wroxham, goalkeeper Bryony Williams pulling off a superb double save with some brave goalkeeping to keep Wroxham in the hunt. Hannah Fuller came on 2nd half lifted the whole team got hold of the ball allowing other to get forwards creating chances. Ella Gambell frustrated in the first half used that positively in the 2nd half getting hold of the ball and linking up well with the forwards with some useful runs. Real Bedford out of the blocks well in the first half taking the game to Wroxham, Lisa Milliken, Gemma Franklin and Sophie Mulvihill all making good tackles at the back. Gemma Croucher linking up the midfield and attack well. Sophie Billing and Amber Smith lively down the wings. That drive coming from their captain Natasha Fensome wins the award got hold of the ball and drove at the Wroxham defence creating chances got into some great positions and was always ready to receive the ball.

Real Bedford Ladies 2023/24 ERWFL League Cup winners

Completing a historic treble in the process

 Congratulations to Real Bedford Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Cup and winning the treble.

  Look forward to seeing Real Bedford in the FAWNL, another huge step up and I hope the club can sort out their ground issues with Bedford council before then. A busy but enjoyable day at Newmarket for the ERWFL Finals Day two entertaining matches. my thanks to both clubs for the help with the teams today and the ERWFL committee and staff at Newmarket for their hospitality. Into the final week of the season 3 more games to go…

by Darren Gilham