The Round-Up – Norfolk 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Five games to begin the New Year in Norfolk on Sunday. A fantastic start to the season for Thorpe United Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One as they defend the league title won last season a perfect 1st half of the campaign ending 2019 with a 100% record 9 wins from 9 to top the table one of three sides making a perfect start to the season. Thorpe United maintaining that record started 2020 as they left off the old year winning away from home again a potential challenger Sprowston Ladies who themselves had lost just twice in the opening half of the season. One of those losses against Thorpe the defending champions have Rebekah Lake leading their attack and their captain has been in fine form in front of goal this season, scoring another hat-trick at the weekend to close in on 30 goals for the season seeing Thorpe seal a 3-1 victory. Calista Tink scoring the goal for Sprowston Ladies.

Keeping the pressure on Thorpe in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies themselves losing just the one game this season that away to Thorpe. In good form scoring plenty of goals Bungay are 6 points behind Thorpe with a game in hand. Were away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the beginning of 2020. A tough first half to the season for Freethorpe without a point on the board always going to be a tough as after being put up to the top division in Norfolk after the leagues were adjusted to accommodate a host of new sides. Nevertheless remain in good spirits and work hard for each other week in week out. Bungay making it 8 wins from 9 played with the goals spread amongst their squad 7-2 the final score. Leanne Smith netting a brace to take her to 11 for the season. Selina Rowland with a goal stays top scorer with 12 their were goals too for Lauren Purling, Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade and Nicola Hazell. Claire Garner and Amy Morris with her first of the season on the scoresheet for Freethorpe.

Another two of the promoted sides meeting at the start of the year as Division Tow champions Taverham United Ladies hosted Tavern Ladies, the Dereham based side with an excellent start to life playing in Division One right at the top with a long standing 100% winning run. Just the one defeat leaving them in fourth spot 9 points behind leaders Thorpe with 2 games in hand. Tavern scoring plenty of goals too, Taverham struggling for results after blazing the way in Division Two in their debut season in women’s football, just the 2 wins this season. Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean amongst the goals for Tavern this season have 23 between them now with both scoring a brace at the weekend to see their match won 4-1. Taverham with just the bare 11 available scoring through Rebecca Sutton.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Two games to start the year in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Newly reformed Stalham Town Ladies with a strong start well clear at the top of the table winning 7 of their opening 9 matches. 9 points clear of 2nd placed Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves side. Stalham Town not in action this weekend a host of sides below all with games in hand on the leaders, Beccles Town Ladies aiming to bounce straight back up to Division One have played just 5 matches so far this season 10 points adrift of Stalham with 4 games in hand were away to Thorpe United this Sunday. Beccles with just the one defeat so far getting 2020 off to the perfect start have Francesca Catchpole back in their squad after a long lay off through injury. Scoring a hat-trick at the weekend has 4 goals now from just two appearances. Top scorer Lola Barber-King also on the scoresheet with her 11th of the season as Beccles ran out 4-0 winners to move above Thorpe into 2nd spot.

In the other game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend new side Waveney Ladies were away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies who ended 2019 on a high with their first win of the season. Just the bare 11 available for Bulldogs in their first game in 2020, Waveney Ladies proved too strong as they opened the scoring in the 10th minute a strong first half seeing them leading 4-0. Two more goals coming in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 6-0 their 4th win in 6 played lifting Waveney up into 4th spot in the Division Two table well placed to mount a promotion push.

The Round-Up – Essex 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Essex Premier Division

Four matches to start the New Year across the two divisions in Essex. A strong 1st half to the season for Collier Row Tigers in the Essex Women’s Premier Division unbeaten winning all but one of their 9 league games to date to end 2019 3 points clear of Silver End United Ladies in 2nd. Scoring plenty of goals too Collier Row Tigers began 2020 where they left off in 2019 recording a large home win to collect another 3 points at home to Southend United Ladies on Sunday. Racing into a 5-0 lead at half-time in control of the game Collier Row Tigers went on t add a further 4 goals without reply in the 2nd half to win the match 9-0. Laura Bunton always amongst the goals well out in front as top scorer for the club hit a hat-trick to celebrate the first game of 2020 taking her tally to 33 for the season. There was also a brace each for Roseanne Shafier now with 14 for the season and Emma Harrison on 8 goals. Ammarah Ali and Sarah Finch with her first goal of the season also on the scoresheet.

Plenty of goals too in the other game played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division at the weekend with Rayleigh Town Ladies and Chelmsford City ladies sharing a 7 goal thriller. Rayleigh Town newly promoted to the Premier Division this season finding life tough at a higher level winning just one match in first half of the season. A series of postponed matches wiping out their fixture list in December Rayleigh were finally back in action starting 2020 at home to Chelmsford in 4th the visitors results up and down in the first half of the season. Errors from Chelmsford seeing Rayleigh capitalise to get themselves into a 3-1 lead at half-time and despite a spirited fightback from Chelmsford in the 2nd period scoring 2 more goals, Rayleigh found the back of the net for one more goal to clinch a 4-3 result and just their 2nd win of the season. Isabelle Wallings scoring plenty of goals last season moving into double figures this campaign striking home a hat-trick for Rayleigh with Louise Lawrence also getting a goal. A brace for Chelmsford’s Georgia James with Shannon Kelly also scoring both moving onto 5 goals for the season.

Essex Women’s Division One

A couple of matches called off in Essex Women’s Division One at the weekend saw 2 games played. Runwell Sports Ladies consolidating their 2nd placed position as they won away from home to early pace setters Aveley Ladies on Sunday. Now 5 points clear of Aveley after recording a 4-1 win to start 2020. Runwell Sports 7th league win of the season coming courtesy of a brace each for Ashley Debnam taking her into double figures for the season and 2 for Karen Whitmarsh her first goals of the season. Hayley Knott with the Aveley goal.

That result good news for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies new Development side as they climb above Aveley into 3rd position on goal difference in Essex Women’s Division One. Finding a bit of form towards the end of 2019 after a poor run of results Bowers & Pitsea got 2020 off to a great start winning at home to another in form side Chigwell Ladies at the weekend. Top scorer Ellie Jones coming off the bench in the 30th minute firing in a brace to give her 8 goals for the season Bowers & Pitsea 2-0, Chigwell with an immediate response Victoria Parker pulling it back to 2-1 That the scoreline going into the 2nd half Bowers & Pitsea battled to keep their narrow lead the 3 points made save in the final minute with a screamer from Kirstie Jackson to see the hosts win the game 3-1.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Suffolk Women’s Division

All change at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division at the start of 2020, a 4 way tie at the top of the league now with 4 sides all on 30 points, Holland Ladies with games on hand on all in 5th hot on their heels. Brettvale Ladies ending 2019 top of the pile ousting Needham Market Women’s new Reserves side, Bury Town Ladies and Woodbridge Town Ladies just 3 points behind.

5 games played on the opening weekend of the year Brightlingsea Regent Ladies awarded the home win against AFC Kesgrave Ladies on 23 points in 7th will be aiming to push their way in amongst the top six.

Extremely close at the top Bury Town Ladies losing just one game so far since reforming this season at home to leaders Brettvale Ladies on Sunday the away side themselves with just the one defeat from their 11 opening matches a strong start Bury Town were strong from the off at the weekend plenty of goals amongst their squad got themselves into a 3-0 half-time lead against a strong Brettvale side keeping their opponents out at the other end for a clean sheet went on to win the match 5-0 to go top on goal difference. Stacey Roper with a brace moves onto 8 for the season. Goals too for Norma Locker, Helen Cryer and Lyndsie Duemmel.

Woodbridge Town Ladies into their 2nd season together acheived their highest league position to date as they followed up a strong first half to the season with a 10th win of the season to start 2020 ending Needham Market Women Reserves 100% winning start. Newly formed following the successful debut of their first team now joining the ERWFL Needham Market Reserves had won all their league games in 2019 scoring plenty of goals along the way. Woodbridge Town are scoring plenty of goals themselves however primarily from strike force Jenna Liverpool and Kiera Hines who have 51 between them heading into 2020. Lucy Eagle recently joining the squad from Leiston St Margarets also wading in with goals 6 in 6 matches. Liverpool on target to score a brace rapidly closing in on 40 goals for the season and another for Eagle seeing Woodbridge move into 2nd spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division table.

Holland Ladies new to the league this season opened their campaign with a defeat have since been hot on the heels to the leading pack going on to win all of their next 8 matches to end 2019 on a high, closing the gap on the sides above with games in hand on all just 3 points behind the leading quartet now as they made it 9 wins in a row at home on Sunday at the start of 2020. Were taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies struggling at the opposite end of the table. Proven goalscorers amongst their squad, Michelle Hodgson leading the way at the weekend 3 from 3 going into the game scored 5 more goals against Chantry Grasshoppers on Sunday to make it 8 from 4 appearances. Charlotte Warren moves onto 12 for Holland with a goal also on the scoresheet Lauren Lucas with her 6th of the campaign and Sophie Blowers in an 8-0 victory.

Back to back wins to end the year for newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies after a poor run of results that had seen them lose 5 in a row after making a promising start since joining the league. Began 2020 on a high as they made it 3 on the bounce on consolidate their mid-table position and look to kick on. Were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday leading 2-0 at half-time Henley Athletic piled on the goals 2nd half to run out 7-2 winners. Top scorer Amy Gilson moving onto 11 for the season netting a hat-trick. Enya Moore not far behind onto 8 scoring a brace. There were goals for for Mollie Frost and captain Claire Bevan. Danielle Harvey pulling it back to 2-1 early in the 2nd half for Brantham with Shannon Giles scoring the visitors 2nd goal.

At the other end of the Suffolk Women’s Division it was a vital 2nd win of the season for Leiston St Margarets Ladies as they look to pull away from the bottom of the table. Just 2 points won since winning back on the opening day a welcome win to start 2020 as they hosted fellow strugglers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies at the weekend. Thalia Cloke on target to score a brace their were goals to for Leanne Morphew and Grace Pemberton in a 5-0 win.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

ERWFL Premier Division

First Round-Up of the New Year beginning the league reviews with the latest action from the ERWFL all three divisions shaping up nicely before the festive break. A strong ERWFL Premier Division. Harlow Town Ladies six points clear of the rest at the top at the end of 2019, looking to push on and win the title. Some strong challengers below as all 12 sides were in action at the weekend.

Harlow Town Ladies hosting 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who have a game in hand. The visitors taking the lead in the game going 1-0 up early in the match. An eventful first half Harlow came back to level, scoring twice more to hold a 3-2 lead at the half-time interval. Harlow pulling further in front in the 2nd period went on to win the match 5-2 at extend their lead at the top of the table to 9 points with 10 left to play. Five different goal scorers for Harlow, Fran Gamble scoring her 7th of the season, a 5th goal of the season for both Abbey Dell and Georgia Box whilst Amy Nash and Hannah Porter were all on target with a 4th goal of the season each. Leah Cudone scoring her 15th of the campaign for Peterborough North Star with Stephanie Gale also celebrating her first goal for the club.

Georgia Box amongst the goal scorers for Harlow Town Ladies on Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)

Remains very tight below Harlow, Luton Town Ladies climbing back up to 3rd in the table after a late goal secured all three points away to Wroxham Women on Sunday. A highly competitive match both sides testing the goalkeeper early on. Tight in midfield both sides battling to find the opening goal proving hard to break down. 0-0 at half-time Luton have the tightest defence in the league conceding just 11 goals so far this season and worked hard in defence to keep another clean sheet clearing the ball off the line late on bodies in to block. The visitors finding the winning goal in the 83rd minute Rebecca Kane joining top scorer Jess McKay on 11 goals for the season as she struck a shot across the keeper. Luton also hitting the post in the closing minutes.

Royston Town Women up there too in the cluster of sides in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division going into their 1st game of 2020 on 20 points alongside Wroxham and Luton were making the trip across to Essex on Sunday to face Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who had enjoyed a solid start to life playing at this level for the first time. An even start to the match Bowers & Pitsea gaining some momentum putting pressure on the Royston defence chances created, Royston goalkeeper Ellie Pickard with two superb saves to keep it at 0-0 midway through the 2nd half the visitors going on to score the opening goal in the 34th minute Rebecca Vass with the through ball to send Emma Salter in on goal to make it 1-0.

Royston leading at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea starting well in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores in the 53rd minute Yasmin Cowley with chances in the first half up highest to head Kiera Adcock’s cross into the bottom corner. two minutes later Bowers & Pitsea were in the lead Ebony Moore at the back post making it 2-1. Royston regrouping getting it back to 2-2 in the 65th minute Danielle Carty scoring from distance. 2-2 with 18 minutes left Courtney Fraser skipping a challenge on the wing sending the ball inside for Sophie Dowman to turn and score to put Bowers & Pitsea back into the lead. The 3 points secured in the final 15 minutes, Fraser and Dowman involved in the build up to see Moore score her 2nd of the game to win it 4-2. All very tight in the middle of the table now as Bowers & Pitsea 9th join Wymondham Town Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies on 18 points, two points behind a trio on 20, including Royston and Wroxham.

Joining Wroxham and Royston on 20 points in 6th place in the table are Bedford Ladies as they won at home against St Ives Town Ladies at the weekend. St Ives promoted as Division One Champions last season in their debut season in the ERWFL finding it tough playing at this level collecting 7 points from their opening 9 matches working hard a steep learning curve held Bedford to a goalless opening half the hosts finding the break through goal in the 2nd period going on to score a further 3 to win the match 4-0.

Tight in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division 5 points between 2nd and 6th a trio of sides queuing up below on 18 now. Bowers & Pitsea as already mentioned the other two met at the weekend with Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. A host of injuries both long and short term for Wymondham to deal with this season are in a decent position coming into the New Year. Colney Heath themselves enjoying good form during the first half of the season both will fancy there chances of pushing into the top half towards the end of the season. Wymondham opening the scoring in the 36th minute Chelsea Clarke setting up top scorer Hannah Waters to fire home her 16th of the season. Olivia Mari equalising for Colney Heath on the stroke of half-time pouncing on the rebound as a well struck free-kick hit the crossbar.

1-1 going into the 2nd half Wymondham retaking the lead early on Waters on target with her 2nd of the match scoring from an impossible angle. Wymondham pressing the attack Katie Knights setting up Laura Nicholls her shot hitting the bar coming back down into play Waters on the follow up blocked, Knights pouncing to put Wymondham 3-1 ahead. Laura Nicholls top scorer for Wymondham last season back amongst the goals after a spell out with injury Jennifer Grey playing her in to score her 9th of the season with 15 minutes left to play. Nicholls 10th of the season coming inside the final five minutes a great individual effort to make it 5-1. Colney Heath’s top scorer Samiara Khan pulling it back to 5-2 with 2 minutes left on the clock Wymondham beginning 2020 with a win.

2020 saw the 2nd battle of the season between the basement sides AFC Dunstable Women and Haringey Borough Women a tough 1st half of the season just 3 points between them both without a win on the board. A transitional period for both, AFC Dunstable a new look side rebuild over the summer after almost folding. Both battling week in week out as they look to improve. The points shared in a 1-1 draw when they met at Haringey earlier in the season. Hannah Ring with her 3rd goal of the season putting Dunstable into the lead on Sunday. A great strike from Rosie Missen for Haringey seeing the visitors come back to level the scores and the points shared for the 2nd time.

ERWFL Division One North

A superb first half of the season for Cambridge City Ladies Development as the newly promoted side made their ERWFL debut in Division One North winning 5 of their opening 7 matches with just one loss. That result a 1-0 defeat away to AFC Sudbury Ladies. A vital first win of the season too for Sudbury relegated the season before and rebuilding with a new look young side. Pressure applied by King’s Lynn Town Ladies moving into 2nd a point behind to end 2019, Cambridge City played host to AFC Sudbury at the start of 2020. The visitors taking the lead in the 16th minute held onto their advantage late into the 2nd half. Cambridge City doing everything but score the first time they met at last finding a reply with 20 minutes to go Megan Stow tapping home at the far post to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later the hosts were in front Ellie Cullum poking home a Bella Simmons through ball. A quickfire double in the final 5 minutes securing the 3 points Yasmin Crow and then Stow with her 2nd of the game seeing it end 4-1.

A strong run of 5 straight wins seeing King’s Lynn Town Ladies recover from losing their opening two games to finish up 2nd in the Division One North table a point behind the leaders Cambridge City at the end of 2019. That form continued into the New Year as they extended their winning run away to bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. A tough introduction to the ERWFL for Gorleston finding themselves adrift at the bottom of the Division One North table without a point on the board with 5 games played. Started 2020 with a positive performance that will give them plenty of encouragement going forwards though as they were unlucky not to take anything away from the match at the weekend going down to a 2-1 defeat. Beth Turner getting off the mark for Gorleston levelling the scores in the first half after Katie Ward had put King’s Lynn in front. Emma Corbyn on target for the fourth match in a row scoring the winning goal for the visitors in the 2nd period her 7th of the season.

A local derby too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend too as Suffolk sides Needham Market Women and East Bergholt United Ladies locked horns for the 2nd time time this season. Both promoted to the ERWFL for the first time this season were neck and neck in the race for the Suffolk Women’s Division title last season. East Bergholt United edging it to complete a 2nd successive league and cup double, began life at a higher level well leading early on 2nd for much of 2019 edged into 3rd by King’s Lynn, a 1-0 home win against Needham Market earlier in the season. Needham Market playing in just their 2nd season since forming taking time to find their feet at this level a great result against their local rivals at the weekend. Lois Balfour amongst the goals for both their new Reserves sides and now the first team opening the scoring early making it 1-0 with just 5 minutes played. Amber Sparkes sending Needham Market into a 2-0 midway through the 2nd half. Sparkes adding a 2nd just 4 minutes later chipping the keeper from 30 yards. Balfour adding her 2nd of the game 2 minutes later. Megan Partridge pulling a goal back for East Bergholt before Balfour completed her hat-trick on the stroke of half-time to send Needham Market into the dressing room 5-1 up at the break. A quieter 2nd half Needham Market creating further chances striking the woodwork Balfour on target for her fourth of the game midway through the 2nd half to see the match won 6-1.

Lois Balfour sending the ball into the back of the net for Needham market Women (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)

ERWFL Division One South

Two matches played in ERWFL Division One South at the start of 2020. Millwall Lionesses ending 2019 top of the table after joining the league in the summer after the upheaval at the club. Rebuilding and regrouping a positive outlook and a hungry squad. Began the year away to Lawford Ladies who they had beaten heavily twice this season at home in league and cup. A tough end to 2019 for Lawford a much more positive start to 2020. A bright start from Millwall out of the blocks quickly Lawford though hit them against the run of play to open the scoring captain Daisy Canny pouncing on a goalkeeping error to make it 1-0. Millwall pushed on creating chances Molly Hawkins dancing through to make it 1-1 in the 20th minute. The host continued to dominate first half but it was Lawford who retook the lead on 40 minutes Canny with her 2nd of the game alert to capitalise on a mistake outside the 18 yard box. Lawford 2-1 up at half-time. Shannan Drewe amongst the goals for Millwall towards the back end of the year pulling the visitors level midway through the 2nd half latching onto a ball over the top to score. 5 minutes later Millwall were leading Samantha Middleton newly introduced to the action volleying home from a corner to make it 3-2 with 20 minutes left. Cansu Mentesh firing home from close range off a corner in the final minute. Millwall winning 4-2 to stay 3 points in front at the top of the table.

Shannan Drewe amongst the goalscorers for Millwall Lionesses at the start of 2020 (photo credit Millwall Lionesses)

Leigh Ramblers Ladies keeping the pressure on Millwall in 2nd beaten 4-1 by Millwall at the end of 2019 the Essex side newly promoted to the ERWFL bounced back with an away win against Wodson Park Ladies to begin 2020. Abbi Brown and Rhiana Castle both scoring their first goals of the season to secure the 3 points for Leigh Ramblers as they ran out 2-1 winners over Wodson Park who put in a much improved performance to begin the new year as they look to get themselves away from the bottom of the table. Olivia Worsfold scoring her 2nd goal of the season for the hosts.

Match Report – Ipswich Town Women v Portsmouth FC Women

Sunday 5th January 2020

Women’s FA Cup

First game of the New Year, a new decade in fact a trip down into Suffolk to watch a game from the 3rd Round of the Women’s FA Cup, Ipswich Town Women leading FAWNL South East Division One taking on higher league opponents Portsmouth FC Women.

The winners of today’s tie going on to potentially face FAWSL opposition as the clubs from the top tier and Championship below enter the competition. Ipswich looking to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time in their history.

Having a fine season to date leading the way in FAWNL South East Division One 4 points clear at the top of the table unbeaten winning 8 of their 9 matches played so far. A host of sides in the hunt to chase them down can’t afford to let their foot off the gas. Starting 2020 with a cup tie against higher league opposition will fancy their chances. Ipswich are currently the dominant force in women’s football in Suffolk and that looks unlikely to be contested for some time with manager Jo Sheehan having previously looked after their U21s side bringing in a host of new talent to boost the 1st team and their is plenty of talent coming through as not just I but anyone who has seen them in action will testify.

A well organised and committed media team established to promote the women’s side the Tractor Girls are building a solid fan base with numbers in attendance up. Their local derby with Norwich City Women seeing over 700 in attendance earlier in the season. A good crowd building before today’s match have played 3 games in the Women’s FA Cup to date entering in 2nd Round Qualifying, beating ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women 7-0. A 6-1 home win against Norwich followed, with another home win 5-0 agianst fellow league side AFC Basildon Women following in the 1st Round Proper. A trip to the South Coast to face Southern Premier Division basement side Chichester City Ladies in the 2nd Round came home with a 6-0 to set up today’s home clash with Portsmouth.

Portsmouth FC Women a long established side in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. A side capable of beating anyone on their day. Their form up and down this season with just 7 league games played so far have games in hand on everyone in the league 4 wins and 3 losses so far. Have saved their best form for the cup reaching the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup including a couple of extra-time wins. The Southern Premier Division sides entering the competition in the 2nd Round, Portsmouth were at home to FAWNL South East Division One opposition a tricky tie on paper with Leyton Orient WFC on the pitch Portsmouth were comfortable running out 6-1 winners.

Felixstowe & Walton FC’s Goldstar Ground the home of Ipswich Town Women a newly build clubhouse and changing room facility leading out to the pitch beyond. A bar and kitchen serving hot food and drinks available. The pitch a good side well used fairly bobbly in places. Offers good width. An overcast day with some light rain in the air prior to kick-off none forecast.

Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Paige Peake, Lindsey Cooper, Lucy Egan, Anna Grey, Sophie Peskett, Blue Wilson, Amanda Crump (C), Abbie Lafayette, Eloise King & Natasha Thomas. Subs – Lucy Williamson, Nicole Pannifer, Eva Hubbard, Maddie Biggs, Zoe Cossey, Ellie Rossiter & Molly Sutherland.

Portsmouth FC Women starting XI – Hannah Haughton, Rebekah Tonks, Laura Ingram, Jazz Younger, Danielle Rowe, Jade Bradley (C), Mia Adaway, Katie James, Hayley Bridge & Charmaine True. Subs – Mel Burns, Amelia Southgate, Tamsin De Bunsen & Molly Clark.

Mia Adaway making her full debut for Portsmouth this afternoon wearing their all purple away kit as they switch ends at the coin toss, Ipswich to kick-off the first half wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Referee Stacey Fullicks leading an all female officiating team this afternoon. Portsmouth pressing in midfield the ball put on down the right progress made before Lucy Egan puts her foot in to win the ball back for Ipswich the hosts playing the ball up to Natasha Thomas leading the attack for Ipswich on halfway her header under challenge seeing the ball knocked on for captain Amanda Crump to chase, Laura Ingram defending that side for Portsmouth putting the ball out for a throw.

A lively start from both sides neither settling on the ball passes rushed, Charmaine True in attack for Portsmouth playing the ball out to Eilidh Currie breaking into space on the left to the byline whips a high ball into the box comfortably taken above her head by Ipswich goalkeeper, Nikita Runnacles. Currie getting some joy out wide left for Portsmouth finding space again puts a squared ball across the top of the Ipswich area the ball cleared by Lindsey Cooper.

The visitors pushing forwards joy on the flanks, Ipswich winning it back unable to get an attack going Jazz Younger stopping their advance on halfway keeping Portsmouth inside their opponents half. True coming out to the right flicks the ball inside for her captain Jade Bradley, a superb crossfield ball to send Ingram away with the ball on the left taking it on, Crump with the sliding tackle to halt her advance for Ipswich the ball out for a throw.

Laura Ingram carrying the ball forwards for Portsmouth FC Women

Ingram with the ball at her feet on the attack for Portsmouth down the left sends it on for True back to goal 25 yards out looks to spin in behind her marker, Paige Peake in close challenges to prevent the attacker getting into the box beyond. Ipswich taking longer to settle have seen little of the attack in the opening quarter hour standing firm at the back as Portsmouth come on. Crump is brought down on the right giving Ipswich a chance to put players forwards as they are awarded the free-kick. Peake over the ball plays it in towards the crowd at the top of the box far post running in, headed goalwards but high onto the roof of the net.

Natasha Thomas and Jazz Younger challenge for the ball

Portsmouth giving free-kicks away their bench unhappy as decisions go against them. Peake over another set-piece out wide the ball played long into the box, controlled well and cleared by Younger for Portsmouth. Ipswich finding a bit of momentum going forwards Abbie Lafayette going out to the left taking the ball on pace before sending in a dangerous ball across the face of goal Sophie Peskett running in far post pressure on the defender who slices the ball behind for a corner kick. An inviting delivery from the corner players up no one can get a telling touch.

Blue Wilson bringing the ball down for Ipswich

Portsmouth launch a rapid counter attack True deep on the right into the box with the back heel out Currie making a central run 20 out has support coming from Bradley on the overlap to her left rolls the ball into her path, Peskett running back sliding into the tackle for Ipswich before Bradley can unleash a shot. All action, challenges coming in from both sides pace can’ take your eyes off it for a second. Causing both sides to rush their passes a little no one taking their time on the ball. Currie coming back to defend for Portsmouth as Crump with support from Peskett and Thomas looks to make ground on the right. Crump brought down again another free-kick awarded Peake to play the ball in towards the top of the area the ball knocked down runs wide for a goal-kick.

Portsmouth captain Jade Bradley shielding the ball

Adaway races forwards for Portsmouth on the left into space as Currie finds her with the pass taking it into the corner cuts back to cross the ball finding the side netting. Hayley Bridge on the ball right for Portsmouth over halfway puts the pass infield for Bradley 30 yards out pulls the trigger her shot falling wide of the far post. Peskett picks up the ball for Ipswich right taking players on skips past one into space turning inside is closed down before she can get a cross away.

Sophie Peskett on the attack for Ipswich Town Women

An even contest both side cancelling each other out somewhat, Portsmouth taking the ball on down the right wing, James with support from Bridge getting a corner kick. The ball put into the box played back to the taker her 2nd cross in cleared by Crump central. Portsmouth keep coming another corner the ball cleared straight to Bridge passed into Rowe inside the D she sends in a curling shot the ball confidently caught by Runnacles. Half and hour played. Thomas for the majority of the match so far has been close guarded by the Portsmouth defence, moving out to the left as Ipswich build in attack the ball rolled into her turns well to get inside attack the box shooting the ball flying wide across goal. The fouls mounting up Anna Grey the first player to go into the referees book with 36 minutes played.

GOAL! Ipswich send players forwards as they win a free-kick wide on the left inside the Portsmouth half. Peake coming over to take plays in a fantastic delivery racing through the six yards box players running to try and meet it, Thomas closest, the ball finding it’s way through everyone into the bottom corner. No doubt about the scorer as the Ipswich players race over to congratulate Peake the defender with her 7th goal of the season.

Paige Peake opens the scoring for Ipswich Town Women

Portsmouth frustrated pressing the attack Ipswich battling well to close the ball down Adaway seeing an effort charged down, Currie’s left wing cross long at the far post with James racing in. Currie again on the ball a driving run into the final third Ipswich coming back on her to crowd her off the ball. Would talk about someone else but Currie dominates the notes right now a determined run with the ball central is finally brought to a halt by Ipswich’s Blue Wilson 25 yards from goal. Currie with a crack from distance moments later 30 yards out the shot held by Runnacles.

Eilidh Currie on the ball for Portsmouth FC Women

Portsmouth coming on at the end of the first period Currie pulling up in frustration as she is caught offside, just, as Rowe plays a great through ball in behind the Ipswich defence. The visitors seeing the woodwork struck in injury time True having latched onto a misplaced goalkick sending in a looping strike from 20 yards out the ball cannoned off the bar.

Half-time Ipswich Town Women 1-0 Portsmouth FC Women

A fast paced first half comes to an end with Ipswich holding a narrow advantage, Paige Peake’s 37th minute goal the difference between the sides. Both sides slow to settle Portsmouth finding momentum in attack getting forwards, space out wide Currie in particular finding joy in the left, Nikita Runnacles hardly tested however. Likewise Hannah Haughton up the other end for Portsmouth. Ipswich taking longer to settle hardly had any attack early on defended well, closing down free-kicks given away eventually taking advantage of one to score. Competitive, Portsmouth frustrated just a single goal in it however all to play for 2nd half. Extra-time and penalties if required.

No changes for either side at the break the Portsmouth getting the game restarted on the attack, Adaway getting forwards on the left to support Currie, Peskett back to help Peake the pair preventing a cross coming in. Currie comes again on the left sending in a low cross the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Put in high the ball cleared Eloise King aiming to send Lafayette away Portsmouth recovering to prevent the break.

Ipswich’s Abbie Lafayette looking to close down Portsmouth’s Jade Bradley

Ipswich build through the middle Wilson the Crump out to Lafayette she releases Grey bursting away into space on the left, Younger coming across puts in the challenge for Portsmouth the ball sent out for a throw. Ipswich from the throw the ball to King’s feet plays it central for Crump a brilliant chip over the top sees Thomas in behind left into the box fires in a vicious ball across the six yard box attacked far post, a corner the result despite Portsmouth protests for a foul on their defender. The corner swung into the box headed clear.

Ipswich Town Women’s Natasha Thomas

Ipswich lively at the start of the 2nd half have Portsmouth on the back foot pressing the attack looking for a 2nd goal, Grey, Lafayette and Crump all making good runs. Run the risk of being caught out the other end, Rowe working hard on the ball in the middle for Portsmouth sending it forwards for True making the run, Cooper reading it at the back giving herself room to intercept and clear for Ipswich. Peskett’s turn to get on the attack for Ipswich a surging run with the ball on the left runs into traffic.

Anna Grey looking to turn in behind for Ipswich

King links up with Thomas in attack for Ipswich rolling the ball on for Thomas to take on into the box makes a run towards the far post Thomas left putting a pacey cross through the six yard box defended at the far post Ipswich quick to retrieve Crump putting it inside with King free, her shot charged down. Ipswich winning a corner on the right the ball pinging around inside the box Portsmouth struggling to get it clear Ipswich unable to latch onto a shot. The hour fast approaching and Ipswich make the first change of the match King the player coming off in attack to be replaced by Maddie Biggs.

Eloise King racing after the ball for as Ipswich break

Haughton with a fantastic save for Portsmouth, as Peskett right robs the ball from Currie and charges in behind to shoot on the angle her low driven shot deflected wide across goal as Haughton gets down to it at her near post a corner awarded. Ipswich on top Portsmouth respond with their first change of the match, Molly Clark on for Adaway. Lafayette plays the ball up to Biggs and Thomas in attack for Ipswich 20 yards out the pair combine Thomas with the lay off, Biggs with the turn left of the D screws her shot wide.

Danielle Rowe in the thick of the action for Portsmouth FC Women

Peake winning the header at the back for Ipswich as Bradley getting room in the middle plays it up to for Currie left side. Thomas on the ball central for Ipswich turns playing it on for Biggs to run in on goal one on one with the keeper, commits Haughton to the dive takes the ball around her to the right as players race back to cover the goal, the angle tight Biggs sets herself to strike, Tonks on the line making a superb block for Portsmouth, Thomas closing in on the loose ball, is scrambled away.

Rebekah Tonks saving on the line for Portsmouth

Into the final 20 minutes play getting a little stretched, both sides needing a goal Ipswich to give themselves breathing room albeit a little and Portsmouth to get back on level terms, despite being frustrated throughout the match confident they will come back. Amelia Southgate entering the game for Portsmouth in place of Bridge. A minute later Tasmin De Bunsen comes on for the visitors replacing James. Wilson goes into the book for Ipswich. Clark with a shot from all of 40 yards out drops wide of the Ipswich goal.

Currie a constant threat out left for Portsmouth gets away on the ball taking it on towards the box preparing to pull the trigger Peake gets back on her to make a brilliant last ditch tackle to put the ball out for a throw. The game into the final 8 minutes. Ingram pushing on for Portsmouth in the latter stages Lafayette back to help in defence for Ipswich the pace of the match showing no let up. Ipswich determined as Portsmouth commit more players forwards Bradley on for De Bunsen has support with Ingram right her cross into the box just over the jumping Clark in the middle.

True left side gathering the ball turns to run at goal shooting on the angle an comfortable save at her near post for Runnacles. The visitors on the attack in the closing minutes, Ipswich making a change in the 89th minute Zoe Cossey on for Thomas. Ipswich with a free-kick in stoppage time Peake with the ball in Lafayette central inside the box almost clear to nod home, Haughton with the ball firmly in her grasp. Younger sent up top in attack at the death Ipswich though keeping the ball up the other end the final whistle blows and the hosts celebrate wildly as they make history reaching the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time in their history.

Ipswich celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Ipswich Town Women 1-0 Portsmouth FC Women

A fantastic result for Ipswich Town Women beating Portsmouth 1-0 to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time. Paige Peake’s 37th minute goal proving the difference over a tough 90 minutes. Portsmouth for their part never at any moment out of the game just couldn’t find that telling goal that could have sent the tie into extra-time. despite soaking up alot of Ipswich pressure early in the 2nd half as the hosts looked to build on their narrow lead. Well contested fast paced, little time to settle on the ball, lots of free-kicks given away but no malice shown through out. A great advert for the game. A fantastic crowd of 368 there to watch the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few contenders as always and a difficult decision. For Portsmouth, Danielle Rowe was outstanding in the middle covering plenty of ground to win and keep hold of the ball set up attacks, out of the left Eilidh Currie a constant threat, Jazz Younger and Rebekah Tonks in defence. A great all round team performance from Ipswich battled at times got forwards well, Amanda Crump in the middle with some good challenges and runs. Anna Grey too getting forwards in attack. The award though goes to Paige Peake scoring the winning goal of course but some fantastic ball in from her set-pieces aswell as several fantastic challenges in defence.

Congratulation to Ipswich Town Women on their historic win all ears now on the draw for the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup live on Talksport radio tomorrow at 5pm. A great game to start the decade many more to come thanks to everyone for their help today.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

One more Round-Up for 2019 then I will be enjoying the festive period along with the rest of you. Not that I don’t enjoy writing these because I do fascinating reporting on the league and cup action across the East of England each weekend. The Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and Championship both expanded this season offering plenty of action and drama the Premiership title race in particular wide open going into the New Year the Championship may well be closer than it looks come the end of the season.

The weather unfortunately playing it’s part once again with just 6 games surviving. Two from the Premiership. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves going top on goal difference last weekend joining Leverington Sports Ladies and Haverhill Rovers Ladies on 15 points off the back of 3 straight wins. A 3-0 win at home to ICA Sports Ladies then the pair meeting in the reverse fixture this weekend. A different story this time around as ICA Sports Ladies put themselves firmly back in the title race. Leading Peterborough 2-0 at half-time a strong 2nd half saw them add a further 5 without reply to win 7-0 and in doing so close the gap to the leading trio to a point. Eleanor Scotland making just her 2nd appearance for ICA Sports scoring her first goals for the side netting a hat-trick. Carmen Herridge scoring a brace along with a goal each for Lorna Hart making her first appearance of the season and a first too for Aimee Exposito.

A great start to the season for Leverington Sports Ladies following promotion to the Premiership (as Wisbech Town Ladies) in a 3 way lead at the top of the table a point won at the weekend seeing them end the year top of the pile in Cambridgeshire. Looking to bounce back from last weekend loss at home to Cambridge University Women were hosting Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The pair ending up sharing 10 goals, Fulbourn involved in several high scoring encounters this season. The visitors enjoying a fantastic start to the match racing into a 3-0 lead. Leverington taking a while to settle coming back into the match Vicky Lines making her debut for the club pulling it back to 3-1 set up by Sophie Swinden. Chloe Stanborough adding a 2nd as Leverington slowly build momentum Fulbourn though hitting a 4th goal in late in the first half to see them leading 4-2 at the break. Leverington captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a brilliant goal on the volley to get it back to 3-4. Fulbourn always a threat going forwards Marie Stubbings through to score her 3rd of the game and 18th overall to put Fulbourn 5-3 up the game heading into the final quarter hour. Stanborough driving a shot home to pull it back to 5-4. 9 goals cored so far and Sophie Swinden didn’t have any of them, Leverington’s top scorer not going to be left out firing in her 18th goal of the season to level it up at 5-5, Lines very nearly winning it for Leverington her shot smashing off the crossbar late on the sides sharing the points Lisa Grimes with her first of the season and Ebony Rule the other goal scorers for Fulbourn.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Four matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend and Cambridge Rangers Women end a fantastic 2019 top of the 14 strong league with a 100% record winning 10 in a row. Were at home to Cambourne United Women this Sunday. A strong first half seeing them leading 5-0 went onto add a further 2 in the 2nd half whilst keeping a clean sheet up the other end. Another brace for Daniella Lewis 15 goals now for the clubs top scorer. The other five goals shared amongst the squad with Stephanie Rowan and Erica Balskute scoring their 7th goals of the campaign, Claire Kyndt her 5th and first goals of the season for Ruth Telfer and Lisa Wears. Cambridge Rangers 7 points clear at the top.

Also ending the year with a 100% winning record are Pinchbeck United Ladies albeit from just the 6 played, alot of football to be played in the New Year. Pinchbeck continuing their 100% winning start at the expense of another as they travelled to played Cardea Ladies who themselves have played just 5 so far this season. Another high scoring encounter the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. Cardea having the better of the 2nd half leading the game 4-2 Pinchbeck fought back in the 2nd half to score 3 times to nick the win 5-4. Libby Friel making just her 2nd appearance for Pinchbeck scoring on her debut netting a hat-trick this time around. Courtney Walker with a brace taking over as top scorer with 9. Pinchbeck up to 3rd on 18 points

A strong end to 2019 for Newmarket Town Women Development sees them climb up into 5th spot in the Championship table unbeaten now in 5 games with 4 won they were hosting Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday. Striker Sarah O’Rourke scoring 4 goals in the match Newmarket building on a good 3-0 half-time lead to win the game 8-0. There were braces too for Brooke Wickens and Leah Harper.

A positive end to 2019 too for Park Ladies as they make it back to back wins to move up to 7th in the Championship table coming into this Sunday’s match off an 8-0 win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies were at home taking on Deeping United Ladies. Late pressure paying off for Park as they clinched a 2-1 victory. Onto 14 points in mid-table well placed to kick on in the New Year.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

Another quarter final tie played in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup this Sunday and a huge test for young side Herts Vipers top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three as they played host to FAWNL South east Division One side Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. Herts Vipers though full of confidence a 100% winning start to the league. A competitive tussle Herts Vipers fighting all the way taking their higher league opponents all the way to extra-time. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute awarded a free-kick 35 yards out Tamsyn Sibanda lifting it in over the keeper. Nicole Jancey firing in the goals for Herts Vipers getting them back on level terms just past the half hour with her 34th goal of the season. Stevenage coming straight back to retake the lead Amy Josland firing home her first of the season to give Stevenage a 2-1 lead at the break. Further opportunities for Stevenage to extend their lead 2nd half Herts Vipers though coming back to level the scores with 15 minutes left to play Jancey with her 2nd of the game completed a hat-tick a minute later to put Herts Vipers 3-2 ahead. Stevenage fighting back to level it up at 3-3 with 6 minutes left to play Josland setting up Katie Knell to send the tie into extra-time. A mix-up at the back for Herts Vipers seeing an own goal scored, Stevenage advancing to the last four of the Challenge Cup. Watford Ladies Development also through awarded the win against Sherrardswood Ladies. Colney Heath Ladies already through just one semi-final spot to be decided between Garston Ladies 1st team and holders Watford Ladies U23s.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A limited programme to end the year across the 3 divisions in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League. Two matches in Division One on Sunday and 2019 ends on a positive note for Hitchin Belles as they secured their first point in the league on Sunday away to Houghton Athletic Ladies. Amy Jack’s 60th minute goal seeing them draw 1-1 with Houghton Athletic whose goal was scored by Bethany Phillips.

Northwood Ladies climb up a place to 3rd in the Division One table to within a point of 2nd placed St Albans Ladies as they recorded a 5th straight league win at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles at the weekend. Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick for Northwood, their was also a brace each for Emma Marshall and top scorer Emma Steele who now has 12 for the season along with a goal for Danielle Tyler her first of the season. Northwood winning the match 8-1. Tayla Murray with the goal for Letchworth.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

It was an intense battle at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three last season between, AFC Dunstable Women Blues, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and Langford Ladies last season all four going up to Division Two, the battle at the top is no less furious this time around with all 4 firmly in contention just 3 points between them. Three of the four in action this weekend in the two matches played in the league.

AFC Dunstable Women Blues defending a 100% winning start travelling to play Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses who themselves have lost just the once this season. Nicola Hollick with her 20th goal of the season firing Dunstable into the lead inside 7 minutes. Woburn & Wavendon back level before the opening quarter hour Giselle Randell with her 10th of the season making it 1-1. Charlie Bedford with her first goal of the season putting Woburn & Wavendon in front just 3 minutes later. Laura Taylor adding a 3rd for the hosts late in the first half to see them 3-1 up at the break. Dunstable pulling it back to 3-2 in the 63rd minute with Courtney McNamara getting her name on the scoresheet. Pushing for an equaliser Woburn & Wavendon get up the other end to score a 4th goal with 10 minutes left. Randall securing a 5-2 victory for Woburn & Wavendon with 2 minutes left. Join Dunstable on 15 points 3rd and 4th in the table.

18 points for 2nd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies again losing just the once this season a matching record for Langford Ladies who take over the lead on goal difference with a double figure home win against bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Two players celebrating hat-tricks for Langford, top scorer Amber Clark who now has 12 for the season and the first of the season for Chloe Scott who scored 21 herself last season. 10-0 the final score their was also a brace each for Rebecca Reeve and Leah Holmes.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies a high scoring match between the sides a good first half from Flitwick saw them leading 3-1 at the break thanks to goals from Sammy Beharry and Anna Bright plus a first of the campaign for Casey Tutt. Bedwell Rangers picking up their game in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores adding a further two goals to win 5-3 to end the year back up to 5th spot in the table.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Suffolk Women’s Division

Needham Market Women Reserves return to the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division as they extend their 100% winning start to the season to 10 matches going back above Brettvale Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Needham market were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Isabel Chapman scoring her first of the season to see Needham Market leading 1-0 at half-time. Further chances coming 2nd half Sasha Diston hitting the post before Jemma Wessels doubled the advantage with her first goal of the season with 20 minutes left to play, Wessels on the scoresheet again with 10 minutes to go to ensure the 100% winning record continued.

Action from Needham Market Women Reserves v Brantham Athletic Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)

Hot on the heels of the leading pair are Bury Town Ladies, just 3 points back losing just one of their opening 10 matches of the season to date. Were at home this Sunday in the league hosting, the team starting the day in 3rd spot Alresford Colne Rangers. Norma Locker firing Bury into an early lead, Alresford coming straight back to level the scores with Abigail Chambers scoring her first goal of the season. Bury are scoring plenty of goals this season with scorers spread amongst the squad, Mia Banbury putting Bury 2-1 up with her 9th of the season Hayley Turner then scoring to put the hosts 3-1 ahead. Alresford pulling a goal back from the penalty spot with Jasmine Turner firing home to see the visitors trailing 3-2 at the break. A strong 2nd half from Bury seeing them score a further 4 goals to win the game 7-2. Locker and Turner both scoring again with Stacey Roper adding her name to the scoresheet plus an own goal, Bury climbing above Alresford into 3rd spot.

Another side looking to threaten the leaders are Holland Ladies climbing up another place move into fifth like Bury losing just the one league game so far this season. Were hosting Woodbridge Town Ladies who occupied fifth spot at the start of the day, in good form themselves coming into the match. A good spread of goalscorers amongst their squad, Holland found the back of the net for six goals on Sunday to beat Woodbridge 6-1. Becky McDougall top scoring in the game completing a hat-trick to take her into double figures for the season. Top scorer Jasmine Cox once again amongst the goals, one enough to take her onto 20 for the season. Lauren Bourne also into double figures with a goal has 10 for the campaign with Michelle Hodgson also celebrating a goal. 6 points between the top 6 sides now.

Just as competitive below, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies continue to enjoy a strong season, hold onto 7th spot with their 6th victory of the season at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Hannah Goldsmith firing Brightlingsea into a 4th minute lead. Chantry Grasshoppers coming back to level in the 20th minute. Brightlingsea responding straight away to retake the lead Paige Knight on target with her 12th of the season, Lucy Tilbury with her 13th of the season soon adding a 3rd goal for the hosts Goldsmith with her 2nd of the game seeing Brightlingsea race into a 4-1 lead with just half an hour played, Goldsmith completing a first half hat-trick late on her 19th goal of the season seeing Brightlingsea 5-1 up at the break. A less eventful 2nd half, Chantry Grasshoppers pulling a goal back midway through the 2nd period Brightlingsea securing the win. Bernice Corney and Sam Elliot scoring the goals for Chantry Grasshoppers.

Henley Athletic Ladies came into Sundays home match against AFC Kesgrave Ladies off the back of 5 straight defeats in the league that run coming to an end at last as they clinched their first win since the end of October. Emma Long scoring a hat-trick to move onto 8 for the season and a brace from Megan Tucker sealing victory. 5-0 the final score.

Has been a very difficult start to the season for University of Suffolk Women tough all round since joining the league last season, often not having the numbers available on match days suffering so eye watering defeats. Despite that have remained in good spirits and recieved plenty of plaudits from their fellow league clubs. 11 straight losses, University of Suffolk Women tasted victory for the first time this season as they collected their first 3 points at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies at the weekend. University of Suffolk capitalising on a slow start by their opponents to get themselves into a 2 goal lead Sarah Nash scoring her first goals for the club. Ramsey & Mistley pushing them hard to find a reply, University of Suffolk held them off going on to score a 3rd goal to win 3-0, Nash going to to wrap up a hat-trick.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A busy Sunday of fixtures to end the year in the Norfolk Women’s County League’s, just the one fixture called off, Tavern Ladies home match against Sprowston Athletic Ladies in Division One. 4 matches were played in Division One however at the weekend and a big win for Thorpe United Ladies sees them stay six points clear at the top of the table with their 100% winning start now extended to 9 matches. Were taking on Long Stratton Women at home, scoring plenty of goals none more so than captain Rebekah Lake smashing home a double hat-trick to take her onto 26 goals for the season, a strong 2nd half in particular seeing Thorpe finish 10-2 winners, also on the scoresheet, midfielders Laura Hedtke and Alice Ladbrooke with their 6th and 5th goals respectfully, Millie Cursons and Aneliese Smith with her first goal of the season. Ellie Sostman with her first of the season and captain Samantha Walker scoring for Long Stratton who finish 2019 on 10 points 8th in Division One following promotion last season.

A double hat-trick for Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake at the weekend

Thorpe with the only unbeaten record in Division One now after Sprowston Ladies ended Tavern Ladies 100% winning start last time out to move into 2nd spot in the league. Travelled down to Thetford on Sunday to play another promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts finding some form playing at a higher level in recent weeks. Sprowston though like Thorpe have a goalscorer piling them in this season, Victoria Leyer going toe to toe with Rebekah Lake scoring 4 at the weekend to give her 27 goals so far this campaign. Abby Hutchin also scoring a goal at the weekend to see Sprowston wrap up a 5-0 win.

27 goals so far this season for Sprowston’s Victoria Leyer

Keeping pace with Sprowston in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies matching their tally of 21 points 3rd on goal difference have lost just the once this season that to Thorpe, were at home this Sunday taking on another of the promoted sides Fakenham Town Ladies who they beat heavily 10-0 on the opening day of the season back in September. Fakenham finding their feet in the league since then fighting their way up to 5th spot in the league. An improvement upon the first game of the season despite their keeper travelling and being unable to play due to an issue with her glasses. Fakenham nevertheless battling managing to restric Bungay to 3 goals this time around. Lauren Purling scoring a brace her first goals of the season for Bungay and Selina Rowland with her 11th of the season securing the 3 points.

A tough start to the season for Freethorpe Ladies promoted up to Division One never going to be easy no points on the board after 8 played spirits have kept high, their final match of 2019 at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves whom they played on the opening day of the season Wymondham winning 2-0 then. Claire Garner captaining Freethorpe scoring a brace her first goals of the season. Samantha Shaw also saving from the penalty spot, were edged out by the odd goal to lose 3-2. A brace for captain Rebecca Carver and a goal for Alexandra Denes seeing Wymondham end a poor run their last win coming back in October climb up to 7th in the Division One table.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Stalham Town Ladies running away with the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two end 2019 9 points clear of the rest of the pack. Losing just the one so far from 9 played 7 wins and a draw their latest 3 points coming at home to Hockering Ladies on Sunday. Sarah-Jayne O’Connor scoring a hat-trick at the weekend to double her tally for the season for Stalham with top scorer Amber Mayhew striking home a brace to give her 14 for the season. Stalham winning the game 5-1.

A positive result for Mulbarton away to North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday could have seen them end the year in 2nd spot in Division Two. Mixed fortunes so far though for a club born in the summer and rapidly growing. North Walsham reentering a side into women’s football in Norfolk this season, young finding their feet 2 wins so far this season, picked up their 3rd to end the year on a high as they narrowly beat Mulbarton 2-1 to climb up onto 9 points joining a cluster of sides well placed to kick on in the New Year. Keira Brown and Rhiannon Holt with her 7th goal of the season helping North Walsham to the win. Amy Coaker scoring her 5th goal of the season for Mulbarton.

Also joining the cluster of sides in the middle of the table on 9 points are Horsford Women made it back to back wins in fact after victory over North Walsham last weekend, 2-1 then a much bigger scoreline this time around at home to Red Rose Ladies. Leading 2-1 at half-time Horsford went on to dominate the 2nd half to win the match 9-1. Natalie Roope top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. A brace each for Ella Wright and Sophie Nabarro, the latter’s first goals for Horsford. A first goal too for Nicola Fordham and one from Amanda Vincent.

Everyone of the mark at last in Division Two as Bulldogs Ladies celebrate their first win of the season and a convincing one too away to newcomers Waveney Ladies on Sunday. Has been a tough season and a half for the club so far with some heavy defeats along the way. A different story this weekend. Leading Waveney 2-0 at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals without reply 2nd half to win 5-0. Hannah Etcitty making just her third appearance for Bulldogs scoring a hat-trick her first goals for the club. Rachel Hardy with a brace too has 7 so far this season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

ERWFL Premier Division

The final weekend of fixtures for 2019 in the ERWFL this weekend, the weather unfortunately playing it’s part with 4 of the 6 fixtures scheduled in the Premier Division falling by the way side. A healthy lead at the top for Harlow Town Ladies would ensure they go into the festive period top of the pile no mater what. A close battle behind the Essex side with the top half tightly congested. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies climbing into 2nd last weekend were aiming to close the gap to Harlow as they took on Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at the weekend. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Jessica Driscoll put through on goal from the left to score. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores in the 21st minute Sade Waters with the through ball for Yasmin Cowley to round the keeper and make it 1-1. The sides drawing at the interval. Bowers & Pitsea having opportunities in front of goal denied by Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Peterborough retaking the lead with 20 minutes left Chanade Henderson with the goal to make it 2-1. Top scorer Leah Cudone on target for her 14th strike of the season five minutes later to see Peterborough win the game 3-1 and open up a 5 point gap in the sides below.

Jessica Driscoll looking to take on the Bowers & Pitsea defence (photo credit James Cox Photos)

Wroxham Women made the long journey down to North London on Sunday to play bottom side Haringey Borough Women in the Premier Division a win would put them back up into 3rd spot, as it was they left it late to salvage a point, the sides goalless at the break despite Wroxham having numerous opportunities to score whilst goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook prevented Haringey from finding the opener. The hosts breaking the deadlock in the 2nd period came very close to getting their first win of the season the game a minute into stoppage time Kirstie Kindred struck to find the back of the net to score her 5th goal of the season and see Wroxham take home a point. Move into 4th level with 3rd placed Royston and 5th placed Luton on 20 points.

ERWFL Division One North

One match affected by the weather in ERWFL Division One North this weekend, top of the table Cambridge City Ladies Development home match against Needham Market Women off. An opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap one again. East Bergholt United Ladies 2nd in the table drawing 0-0 at home to Newmarket Town Women last weekend made the trip to Norfolk this Sunday to play in form King’s Lynn Town Ladies, moving up the table fast into 3rd winning their last 4 league matches in a row a run that began away to East Bergholt back in October. A close 2-1 result then, nothing close about it this time around a King’s Lynn’s winning streak moved to 5 matches, scoring 6 without reply, 3 players all celebrating a brace, captain and top scorer Becky Russell into double figures for the season, 8 goals now for Tiffany Forshaw with Emma Corbyn on 6. The result takes King’s Lynn 2nd in the table now just a point behind Cambridge City.

A big home win at the weekend too for Newmarket Town Ladies, soon to be under new management. Craig Boneham coming in during the summer stepping down from the role. Newmarket moving swiftly to appoint Kevin Parsons taking over as first team manager. Looking on this weekend with Eddie Cuthbert looking after the team as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. A brace from top scorer Annabel Cuthbert and a long range strike from Katie Webb seeing Newmarket lead 3-0 at half-time. Cuthbert completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half her first of the afternoon would go on to score 3 more goals to give her 22 for the season, Sarah O’Rourke with her first goal for the first team also as Newmarket ran out 8-0 winners. Up to 4th in the table despite an indifferent start to the season. Congratulations too t Newmarket midfielder and dead ball specialist, Jess Linger as at just 20-years-old she made her 100th appearance for the club at the weekend.

A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women's striker Annabel Cuthbert

A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women striker Annabel Cuthbert (photo credit Gary Reed)

Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One North it was a clash between two sides showing recent good form in the league Histon Ladies travelling to play AFC Sudbury Ladies, the Suffolk side coming into the game off back to back victories, Histon winning their last 3 league matches. The sides contesting a goalless draw after 90 minutes to share the points. Histon in 5th on 11 points now with Sudbury a place and point behind both well positioned to push on in the New Year.

ERWFL Division One South

Millwall Lionesses end 2019 top of the pile in ERWFL Division One South moving ahead of Hutton Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Millwall were at home taking on Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Unbeaten in the league Millwall level on points with Leigh Ramblers heading into the game the visitors showing good from with 3 straight wins in league and cup themselves. Hannah Cheeseman opening the scoring for Millwall in the 10th minute, putting away Shannan Drewe’s left wing cross. Few chances in the first half Leigh Ramblers with a strong finish Millwall holding onto their 1-0 advantage. Drewe amongst the goals in recent games for Millwall firing in a worldie early in the 2nd half to put the hosts 2-0 up. A strong start to the 2nd half Millwall adding a 3rd on the hour with Cheeseman putting away her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later Leigh Ramblers given a penalty pulling it back to 3-1. Drewe put in behind the defence to fire in across the goal to put Millwall 4-1 up and see them win the game and climb to the top of the table dropping just 2 points so far this season.

At the other end of the ERWFL Division One South table it was a much welcomed first 3 points of the season for Wodson Park Ladies as they travelled to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies at the weekend. The hosts with just the one win themselves Wodson Park losing their opening 6 matches. Leah Dunnage and Sam Garner with their first goals of the season for Hoddesdon. A brace for Christie Seakins her first goals of the season for Wodson Park and a 4th of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay seeing the visitors edge the win 3-2, takes them off the bottom on goal difference.