Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 17th November

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

 A game from the 2nd Round of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup this Sunday for Women’s Football East, the venue The Walks Stadium to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Wroxham Women.

 Plenty of action across the county to take in this weekend the first official Women’s Football Weekend where fans of all ilks are encouraged to come watch a game of women’s football. A county cup weekend for many with several tasty looking ties thrown up. None more so than today’s fixture between two sides who have ambitions for reaching the final itself.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies reaching the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup last season for the 1st time in their history. An historic day too in that it was the first time the County Cup final had taken place at Norwich City FC’s Carrow Road stadium played in front of a record crowd. A tough draw for King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the 2nd Round of this season’s competition but then the club only needs to look back to there recent successes in the competition and a memorable 2nd Round defeat to Norwich City Ladies (the highest league placed side in the Norfolk) a couple of season’s ago. Playing in ERWFL Division One North this season beginning to find some form are playing higher league opponents once again.

 Wroxham Women a new name to women’s football in Norfolk but a familiar side the new guise for Acle United Women making the switch this season to join  forces with Wroxham FC as the clubs first women’s side, plying their trade in the ERWFL Premier Division, a strong league are amongst the title challengers aiming for promotion to the FAWNL. Like King’s Lynn will fancy their chances in the County Cup finalists two seasons ago, winners as Acle back in the 2014/15 season. The higher league placed sides not seeded in the County Cup meeting they can meet early on sees Wroxham pitted against King’s Lynn this time around but again as Acle faced Norwich City Ladies at this stage last season beating the FAWNL to go on eventually knocked out in the semi-finals by Wymondham Town Ladies. Currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table, Grace Birchall leading the attack with 27 goals already this season.

 Another opportunity for King’s Lynn Town Ladies to showcase their football at The Walks Stadium home of King’s Lynn Town FC, the large stand overlooking the pitch housing the clubs facilities, the cafe open a bar along with the changing rooms. Covered terracing opposite, a large pitch a good nick, the rain dying down earlier in the week to leave the game safe. A dull overcast sky above but any rain should stay away until later.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Chloe Witt, Georgia Freeman, Shanice Burch, Charlee Griffith, Emma Corbyn, Becky Russell (C), Rachel Skinner, Tegan Wheeler, Deva Rawlings & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Lily Porter, Katie Ward & Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Olivia Mungham-Grey, Victoria Pleavin, Chloe Shields, Ciera Flatt, Naomi Cooper Kayleigh Holloway, Mary-Anne Hoy, Lauren Bullard & Grace Birchall. Subs – Kirstie Kindred, Leanne Symonds & Grace Parker.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wroxham to get the 1st half underway wearing their away colours orange shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. King’s Lynn line up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts and shorts with yellow trim and yellow and blue socks. Played back to the defence Wroxham look to play it forwards on the right Grace Birchall looking to get the ball down and take on the King’s Lynn defence, the tackle seeing the ball out for a throw. King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell carrying the ball on through the middle looks to release Rachel Skinner on the right her early ball crossed into the box headed clear back to Skinner to play in another high ball this one caught by goalkeeper Amy Bell.

Grace Birchall bringing the ball on attacking for Wroxham Women

  A pacy start to the game both sides closing the ball down quickly looking to get going. Newly signed Ciera Flatt joining Wroxham last week plays the ball from the middle out to the right Kayleigh Holloway on down the line to cross into the box the ball headed clear of the area, Wroxham regather a strike fired in from distance on the right, caught high by King’s Lynn goalkeeper Bryony Robinson. 

 King’s Lynn get on the attack the ball threaded through to Chloe Witt getting forwards on the right taking defenders on gets in behind squaring a cross into the box the ball just behind striker Tiffany Forshaw, the Wroxham defence clearing at the far post. Wroxham come on the right a throw won deep in the corner put back up the line to Mary-Anne Hoy level with the top of the area fires a ball in central Flatt can’t take in her stride runs on through to Birchall positioned left of the D 20 yards out curls a low shot in, lacking power Robinson down to gather is right behind it. 

Wroxham Women’s Mary-Anne Hoy

  Wroxham settling quickly, Naomi Cooper in the middle with a strong challenge to win the ball her pass aiming for Holloway breaking right comes inside tackled by King’s Lynn defender Georgia Freeman. Forshaw coming high to get hold of the ball strong against the Wroxham centre backs plays the forwards pass out to Emma Corbyn getting away on the right on behind crosses early no one in the box however to met the ball Wroxham able to bring it forwards. Forshaw getting on down the left wing doing well to win a corner. The ball played in to the near side defended.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Georgia Freeman

  Wroxham build through the middle a direct attack Hoy with the ball on almost has Birchall making the run ahead of her through on goal, a great tackle from Shanice Birch at the top of her area to deny her. Very competitive no one settling on the ball passes played quickly both sides looking to exploit the width. Wroxham get numbers forwards as Holloway and Lauren Bullard combine on the right the ball in cleared straight to Cooper tries her luck from distance a powerful shot low races wide across goal. 

Charlee Griffiths heading the ball clear for King’s Lynn

 Russell latching onto Bell’s clearance from 35 yards out central strikes it on the half volley rushed the shot bends away from goal wide past the left post. A lively game both sides up for it a good atmosphere, Charlee Griffiths stepping up to intercept as Cooper tries to send Birchall through on the left. Skinner driving on down the right for King’s Lynn in attack her cross into the middle of the box, Witt furthest forwards to attack it can’t get enough contact headed away at the far post back to Skinner on the right closing in on the area her shot charged down. 

  A respite in the play a Wroxham player down injured. Some strong tackles from both sides two fully committed sides Tegan Wheeler having her ear bent by the referee. (*A case of mistaken indentity Rawlings with her ear bent) Birchall played through the centre in on goal gets a shot away past the rapidly closing Robinson but before it can reach it’s target the whistle blows for offside. Russell taking the ball on down into the right corner gets King’s Lynn a throw in, the further good player brings the hosts a corner the ball in defended near side by Wroxham won back on the left, the visitors defence out well to catch the King’s Lynn attacker offside.

Tiffany Forshaw sliding into the tackle for King’s Lynn

 Forshaw getting on down the left played in on the ball a strong run holds off her marker coming inside to blast in a shot on the angle a fierce drive rising across the goal face cannons down of the upright into the path of the advancing Corbyn coming at her quickly an instinctive slash at the ball, slices it wide, Wroxham scramble the ball clear. Up the other end Hoy shoots over from 22 yards out for Wroxham. The visitors win a free-kick wide right the ball lifted in towards the near post Russell back defending for King’s Lynn heading the ball up into the air put wide of goal Birchall quickest to react latching onto the ball fires it in low a blocking  save by Robinson before her defence gets it away.

Forshaw carrying a threat attacking on the left for King’s Lynn a powerful runner with the ball at her feet aims to put Corbyn in central the ball won and cleared put straight back to Forshaw left of the box shoots firing the ball wide. Russell comes away with the ball right side fires it in on the angle, Bell down low in front of goal pushes it away in front of her straight at the on rushing Skinner, the block coming in as she pulls the trigger the ball cannoning back off her over the bar.

Wroxham’s Hoy challenging King’s Lynn’s Deva Rawlings

  Holloway and Birchall switching flanks the former now on the left wins her side a corner, taking it the ball is cleared back to her, shifts it as she takes it up the line before driving in a shot towards the near post through bodies Robinson is across to cover the angle gathering the ball. On the opposite side Birchall gets her head down pushes on with the ball down the line before whipping in a dangerous ball on the angle, Robinson up at her near post to push the ball behind for the corner. On the right an inswinging delivery headed away by Griffith. Birchall straying clear through the centre shoots early the ball right of the D put wide across goal. Wroxham make a change, Kirstie Kindred on in attack replacing Bullard. Holloway on the attack left for Wroxham lifts a cross into the box Flatt racing forwards can’t quite take it in her stride but deflected the ball runs behind for a corner on the right.

GOAL! 5 minutes left to play in the first half and Wroxham open the scoring players congregating at the near post the ball flighted into the pack is knocked on central comes straight through to Flatt unmarked in the middle of the box, takes a touch before smashing the ball home into the the back of the net Robinson left stranded 0-1.

Wroxham Women’s Ciera Flatt

King’s Lynn look for an immediate response getting a cross into the Wroxham box from the right Forshaw attempting the header close in can’t quite get the required contact. King’s Lynn press the attack left side winning a corner kick in near side headed clear gathered by Russell outside the box turns inside before shooting looks off target heading wide across goal but into the six yard box a dangerous ball almost turned past Bell by her own defender makes a timely grab.

GOAL! Forshaw has already fired one warning shot across the Wroxham bows and injury time fast approaching in the first half fires her side back level receiving a good pass from Birch at the back out to her on the left side all of 30 yards out on the angle strikes the ball hard over the keeper and into the goal beyond to make it 1-1. The Walks letting out a roar of celebration.

Tiffany Forshaw on the ball bringing the scores back level for King’s Lynn late in the 1st half

   A lively end to the half Skinner away on the right for King’s Lynn wins a throw high up the pitch put into Wheeler dragging the ball inside her cross cut out Wroxham break Birchall away with the ball on the right then Kindred racing into the the area, dispossessed, Birchall onto the ball to shoot, Robinson holding onto the ball.  

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-1 Wroxham Women

 A lively first half, between two committed sides fast paced highly entertaining two late goals seeing it level at 1 goal each at half-time. Both sides creating opportunities looking a threat going forwards, no one given much time on the ball, a few strong tackles throw in a great first 45 minutes of football and both sides will fancy their chances of getting the win 2nd half. 

King’s Lynn to get the 2nd half underway don’t think any changes have been made at half-time Rawlings playing the ball from the middle long up to Forshaw, crossed in cleared by Pleavin for Wroxham. King’s Lynn with a strong opening to the 2nd period up on the right Russell on the ball top of the area right can’t find a way through closed down plays it back across to Skinner central gets her foot up to strike the ball the shot 20 yards out bouncing inside the ball caught cleanly by Bell. Forshaw attacking left has support from Wheeler, Shields lunging in makes the tackle for Wroxham before she can get inside to shoot.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tegan Wheeler

  Wroxham captain Anna Larkins at right back kept busy by Forshaw steeping ahead of he King’s Lynn attacker to intercept a diagonal pass put in from midfield. Russell coming on to link up with Forshaw crosses early aiming for Witt making a near post run, Larkins gets across her to defend for Wroxham. King’s Lynn pressing the advantage at the start of the 2nd half the ball worked inside played into Forshaw to strike 20 yards out right of the D put wide of the post.

  Birchall brought down somewhat brutally as she charges forwards with the ball, strong tackling a feature of the game, both sides guilty however but both getting on with it not making a fuss, part of the fast paced nature of the game. King’s Lynn making a change Witt coming off on comes Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. The free-kick taken by Birchall claimed at the near post by Robinson an infringement bringing play back for a free-kick to King’s Lynn. Wroxham with a throw high on the left the ball gathered by Birchall struck on the angle narrowly over the bar.

Kayleigh Holloway bringing the ball under control for Wroxham Women

  Kindred in attack helping the ball on to Holloway getting free on the right into the box a mazy run on the ball blasts a shot in towards goal, Robinson with the parrying save. An open game now the result wide open, Skinner sending the ball on for Rawlings making a central run, Cooper back to defend for Wroxham. Russell right looks to send Forshaw through central, Bell winning the race to intercept the ball. Griffith with a superb tackle to deny Birchall an opportunity to get through into the box. Cooper is covering alot for ground in the middle of the park for Wroxham winning the ball back sends it on for Hoy who in turn threads it in behind for Birchall to chase too much on the pass allows Robinson to get out to claim. 

Wroxham Women’s Naomi Cooper

Kindred bringing the ball on right in attack for Wroxham squares her cross along the top of the area finding Birchall left side 20 yards out stretching as she shoots the ball in lacking the pace to evade the keeper. Cooper with a crunching challenge in the middle to get the ball for Wroxham out to Larkins right down the line for Holloway dribbles into the box one drag back too many as she attempts to get a clear shot Birch with the lunging tackle to take the ball. Lily Porter joins the game for King’s Lynn in place of Skinner. Birchall out to Larkins on the right the full back travelling forwards the give and go attempted with Holloway out wide, Larkins not catching the shot as she looks to hit it first time from distance.

  Changes for both sides, Grace Parker on for Mungham-Grey at the back for Wroxham, Katie Ward on for Corbyn for King’s Lynn. 

  GOAL! King’s Lynn take the lead in the County Cup tie with 15 minutes to play a fantastic strike from the captain too, the ball out left put in on the diagonal towards Forshaw top of the D, controls and lays it back for Russell to hit first time from all of 40 yards out rifled in on target a powerful hit over Bell before she can get anything on it 2-1.

Becky Russell firing King’s Lynn into the lead with a superb strike

 Wroxham make a change straight away with Leanne Symonds on for Hoy. Holloway driving inside from the right is tackled by Freeman, the defender down injured the trainer called on a pause in play can’t continue, hobbles off, Witt sent back on Forshaw now dropping into defend at full back. Tensions starting to rise challenges still robust time starting to run out. Griffith and Flatt tangle a free-kick to Wroxham wide right curled out at the far post put in by Birchall. 

  Wheeler advancing for King’s Lynn moving right with the ball out to Witt keeps with her getting the return pass inside to Russell to hit from distance, the shot held by the keeper. 

  GOAL! From a throw in on the right inside the King’s Lynn half Wroxham get a late equalising goal, Birchall gathering the ball into her feet turning infield heading towards the area sends the cross in central missed by Cooper, met by Flatt beyond her 20 yards out on target parried up into the air in front of her by Robinson, Kindred quickest to pounce close in to knock it past her and over the line 2-2.

  A blow for King’s Lynn conceding late on they respond well unleashing an all out offensive on the Wroxham defence pushing forwards Witt seeing a shot charged down 20 yards out. Larkins putting a clearance straight into the path of an advancing attacking the ball rebounding off her straight into Bell’s gloves. King’s Lynn press the attack Wroxham’s defence stand firm the final whistle blows the tie heading into extra-time.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women

Extra-time

  Light beginning to fade the floodlights coming on at The Walks, Wroxham to get the 1st period of extra play under way two 15 minute halves for either side to try an find a winner or the tie will be settled on penalties nothing to separate the sides so far. Birchall away on the left taking the ball into the area top corner foot through the ball blasts high and wild, goes down with injury looks in alot of pain, trainer and stretcher on after a pause in treatment Birchall denies the latter but can’t continue helped off the pitch Bullard races on to replace her. 

 Symonds with a half chance inside the box for Wroxham a defensive clearance put straight into her struck on the half volley fired wide. Cooper still full of running for Wroxham across to win possession looks to send Holloway through right side, Forshaw defending for King’s Lynn. Kindred bringing the ball on for Wroxham central lifts it forwards for Symonds in behind 20 yards out attempts to lob the advancing keeper the ball over her falls wide of goal. 

  Wroxham getting forwards Cooper winning the ball central passing to Bullard in towards the box the defence forced to clear as Robinson can’t get there coming out from goal. Off the resulting throw right Holloway fires in a cross close to the near post, Griffith in front of Symonds defending for King’s Lynn. Symonds forwards on the left inside to Kindred top of the box helped onto Holloway right side her ball in cut out and cleared struck back in from distance the shot racing wide of target. 

  Ward brought down by Shields sliding in just outside the box as she comes inside from the right. The free-kick in a dangerous position past the wall low narrowly wide of the post. Wroxham with one final attack in the 1st period of extra-time Kindred on for Cooper racing through the middle the King’s Lynn centre backs sliding in together to stop her run the ball deflected out to Symonds getting forwards left side controls and curls in a shot towards goal played straight into Robinson gloves. 

Half-time extra time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women

King’s Lynn to get the 2nd period of extra play underway 15 minutes left for either side to find what they hope will be the winning goal. Penalties looming. Forshaw moving back into an attacking role up top. Flatt on the ball for Wroxham 30 out looking for a position to shoot moving across goal before cutting back to unleash a shot goes wide as Flatt falls injured. Up gingerly is able to continue. Kindred with Flatt on the right attacking for Wroxham, King’s Lynn win the ball attempt to break quickly the ball forwards intercepted by Parker out to Holloway right comes inside tackled by Griffith. 

  Alot of energy expanded players on both sides tiring but no one giving up still a fully committed affair an intriguing game. King’s Lynn attacking left Forshaw taking the ball on towards the corner of the box, the ball loose Shields sliding in to win the brings Forshaw down. A free kick for King’s Lynn put in on the keeper, Bells claiming well, runners either side of her ready to pounce should the ball be spilled. King’s Lynn with a corner on the right flighted in towards the six yard box Parker up at the near post to clear. Hopkins-Duckhouse gathering 35 yards out right takes on the distance strike the ball caught by Bell. 

  Ward’s crossing from the right sees the ball deflected behind for a corner kick to King’s Lynn. The delivery finding its way through to Forshaw central inside the box turns into the shot blazes over. Ward retrieves the ball on the left of the area a Forshaw sees a shot blocked following a strong run on the right side put back in across goal cleared by Cooper. Into the closing minutes both sides tired now, determined not to concede whilst trying find a way through. The final whistle blows however and who advances into the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup will be decided on penalties!

Penalties

 I hate penalties as I’ve told you before a monumental effort from both sides but nothing to separate them after 2 hours of football now 5 spots kicks each and then if necessary sudden death.

  King’s Lynn up for the 1st penalty captain Becky Russell to take taken well a confident penalty high to the keepers left. 1-0.

  Cooper to take Wroxham’s 1st penalty, hit with power low to the keepers right 1-1.

  Hopkins-Duckhouse up next taking King’s Lynn’s 2nd penalty. Missed the ball fired over the bar 1-1.

  Wroxham captain Anna Larkins to take their 2nd penalty Robinson diving the right way the ball placed well into the bottom corner 1-2.

  Forshaw up next for King’s Lynn a confident strike fired low into the bottom right corner 2-2.

  Flatt up next for Wroxham she sends her strike over to see it remain all square after 3 penalties each 2-2.

  King’s Lynn’s 4th penalty taker is Emma Corbyn scores it as she plays it wide of the diving keeper 3-2. 

  Parker up next for Wroxham, again Robinson goes the right way the penalty well hit wide of her dive 3-3.

  Ward with the 5th penalty for King’s Lynn agony as she sees it fly over the crossbar. 3-3.

 A chance for Wroxham to win the shoot-out, Bullard up to take the 5th penalty has to score places it low past the keeper into the corner of the net and wheels around in celebration her teammates racing to join her. 4-3.

 Ecstasy for Wroxham, heartbreak for King’s Lynn at the end of the shootout a cruel way to lose a match but it needs to be decided on the day a huge effort from the hosts a real contest more than matched Wroxham. On top for large spells of the game coming back from a goal down to lead only to concede late on. A fully committed contest. The aim of #WomensFootballWeekend to showcase the women’s’ game and it certainly was at The Walks a great advert for the sport watched in front of a good sized crowd. King’s Lynn Town Ladies love a game at The Walks. It’s Wroxham Women though who advance to the quarter finals.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few contenders as is more often the case and entertaining match. Stand out performers for both sides, Becky Russell with a superb strike to fire King’s Lynn into the lead with a strong performance in midfield. An excellent goal too for Tiffany Forshaw to bring the scores level late in the first half a constant threat in attack on the left strong on and off the ball reading the game well. The award though goes to a Wroxham player thought Naomi Cooper was tremendous operating in midfield today lost count of the number of tackles she won get about the pitch making some well timed runs setting up several attacks.

 What a game was fantastic entertainment at The Walks this afternoon, a fully committed contest that neither sides deserved to lose a great advert for women’d football in Norfolk and beyond, look forwards to the quarter final draw. My thanks to both clubs for all their assistance today.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

The lead changing at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership once more this Sunday Leverington Sports Ladies returning to the top winning at home with Haverhill Rovers Ladies also on 15 points not in action once again. Leverington moving ahead on goal difference securing a 5th league victory against Histon Ladies Reserves at the weekend. A 9-1 win in the reverse fixture for Leverington a month ago. Histon getting their first league win of the season last weekend. A different side to the one Leverington face back on October. Sophie Swinden striking twice early on to put Leverington 2-0 up. Histon creating chances coming back to make it 2-1 kept goalkeeper Kyra Portugal busy, Savanna Plavecz scoring a brace putting Leverington 4-1 up at half-time. Histon getting a goal back to make it 4-2 early in the 2nd half. Sophie Swinden firing home her 13th goal of the season to bring up her hat-trick, Chloe Stanborough with her 8th goal of the season seeing Leverington win the match 6-2. Lucy Watson and Abigail Davies scoring for Histon.

Netherton United Ladies climb up to 5th in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership table winning at home on Sunday. Having lost their opening 2 league fixtures have now collected 7 points from their last 3 matches a run of four games in league and cup now. Began that run with a 5-2 cup victory at home to Ketton Ladies. This Sunday were playing Ketton again in the league. Making a good start goals from Yasmin Green and Katie Barber seeing them into a 2-0 lead. Emily Johnson putting Netherton 3-0 up. Ketton breaching Netherton’s defence to pull a goal back Fran Kavanagh on target Netherton keeping them at bay to win the game 3-1.

 St Ives Town Ladies Development climbing back up to 6th in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership as they got back to winning ways in the league this Sunday away to March Town United Ladies. Starting the season with 4 points from their opening 2 fixtures the newly promoted side going on to suffer back to back defeats in the league goals from Chantelle Abraham, Francesca Worrall & Arianna Andrade helping the club to a 3-1 victory to claim the 3 points.

In the other game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday it was a 7 goal thriller between Peterborough Northern Star Ladies and Cambridge University Women. Back to back win for Peterborough coming into the game on 6 points, Cambridge University the visitors suffering back to back defeats having won their opening fixture. Georgia Clarke striking twice for the hosts with Ella Gavaghan also scoring. Cambridge University edging the game 4-3 to join Peterborough on 6 points. Lidiya Mykhaylechko with a brace. Amanda Wainwright and Beatrice Green also finding the back of the net with a goal apiece. 

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Five matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend. Cambridge Rangers Women continue to dominate at the top of the table leading the way by 7 points now with a 7th straight win to keep their 100% winning start going. Scoring plenty of goals too, were away to new side Cambourne United Women this weekend. Leading the match 3-0 at half-time went on to score a further 2 in the 2nd period to win 5-0.  Daniella Lewis opening the scoring in the 15th minute with her 10th goal of the season. Claire Kyndt and Stephanie Rowan also scoring in the 1st period. Lewis adding a 2nd goal to her name early in the 2nd half with Paris-Rose Brixey making it 5-0 with 10 minutes left.

2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies at home taking on Park Ladies in the Championship this Sunday. An eventful game, Mildenhall taking the lead in the 1st half with Katie Hayes scoring her 7th goal of the season to put the hosts 1-0 up. Park coming back to level the scores Sophie Fenner returning from injury scoring after Sian Holcroft’s shot was spilled by the keeper. The visitors going on to take the lead going in 2-1 up at half-time, Holcroft on target from a corner to score her first of the season. Both sides creating chances in the 2nd half, Mildenhall getting an equalising goal with 10 minutes left to play Lydia Vince scoring her first goal for the club to see the points shared.

  Deeping United Ladies are up to 3rd in the Championship table as they gt back to winning ways in the league at home to Isleham United Ladies this Sunday. 4 wins from their opening 7 matches played since joining the expanded Championship this season. Hannah Chapman scoring the loins share of Deeping United’s goals she was on target yet again this Sunday striking home on 4 occasions to put her onto 14 goals from 7 games. Deeping United winning the match 5-0 with Eleanor Barnes-Brown also on target for her first goal for the club.

Cardea Ladies were away to Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday in the Championship both enjoying a good start to the season, Cardea winning all three of the games they have played so far have games in hand on those above. The pair went goal crazy at the weekend despite Cardea only having 10 available to start the match. The two sides sharing 14… yes 14 goals. Captain Laura Rudd running onto a through ball firing Cardea into the lead inside 2 minutes went on to score a 2nd with 10 minutes gone. Courtney Coles on target for her 7th goal of the season making it 3-0 to the visitors. A good start by Cardea, Burwell responding well firing in 2 quick goals to make it 3-2. Cardea getting it back to 4-2 with Nicola Anderson firing in a free-kick from the edge of the box. Rudd going on to complete a 1st half hat-trick. Burwell getting a 3rd goal to bring it back to 5-3 late in the 1st half. An eventful first 45 the 2nd no less so Burwell with a strong start to the 2nd half scoring 2 goals to make it all square at 5-5. Coles onto a ball over the top of the defence to score her 2nd of the game in the 63rd minute and restore Cardea’s lead. The visitors awarded a penalty kick with 20 minutes left Rudd fouled Anderson stepping up to score. Coles completing her hat-trick in the final 15 minutes to see Cardea 8-5 up, Burwell adding a 6th goal in the dying moments. Cardea keeping up their 100% record. Burwell goals scorers Hannah Dewey who scored a hat-trick. A brace for Charlotte Fogarty plus a goal for Elisa Heinamaa.

  Finally in the Championship Newmarket Town Women secured back to back victories in the league on Sunday to climb up to 8th in the table. On the road again this weekend built on last weekends success against Deeping United with a 4-0 win against Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Leading 3-0 at half-time Newmarket keeping a clean sheet whilst adding a 4th goal in the 2nd period. Leah Harper on target to score her 5th goal of the season with Talia Irvine doubling her tally for the season netting a hat-trick.

 

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

This weekend saw the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup 2nd Round being played 8 ties drawn 6 played with Hitchin Town Ladies and Garston Ladies 1st team progressing awarded away wins. Some big wins along with a couple of upsets.

Division One leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies the current League Cup holders away to Hitchin Belles bottom of the table in the 2nd Round. Hitchin Belles up against it short on numbers Hemel Hempstead in good form at the start of the season, goals from Ella Mercer, Natasha McConville and Anna Wooldridge seeing the visitors leading 3-0 at the break, Hemel Hempstead with 2 quick goals at the start of the 2nd half to go 5 up, Mercer with her 2nd and Jessica Green. Charlene Turturici-Clarke adding a further 2 goals. Hitchin Belles scoring a late consolation goal with Amy Jack on target. Hemel Hempstead safely through to the quarter finals.

Also progressing with a comfortable win were St Albans Ladies the Division One side Hemel Hempstead’s opponents in last season’s League Cup final. At home in the 2nd Round playing Division Two side Sherrardswood Ladies.Eleanor Lovelock with a quick fire brace plus a first goal for Grainne Kellett seeing St Albans leading 3-0, Lovelock going on to complete a 1st half hat-trick in the final minute of the half. St Albans going on to score more goals in the 2nd period early goals for Lovelock then Sophie Hull putting them 6-0 up. Lovelock going on to score a 5th goal in the match before Chloe Hazell fired in her first of the season. Molly Slade and Cally Salter both on the scoresheet with a goal apiece, Georga Knight with her first goal Kellett with her 2nd of the game seeing St Albans win 12-0.

The top 5 sides in Division One all safely through to the quarter finals of the league cup, Hartham United Ladies in 4th playing away to Division Two side Evergreen Ladies in the 2nd Round on Sunday. Janiece Allen a potent threat in front of goal rattling them in for Hartham United so far this season opening the scoring on Sunday going on to complete another hat-trick her 3rd in 3 matches. Allen on target too for Hartham United’s 4th goal and just to add variety Mandy Mercer with a back heeled goal sealing a 5-0 victory.

One Division One side exited the League Cup at the 2nd Round stage are Royston Town Ladies Development after they were beaten at home by Division Three side Biggleswade United Ladies on Sunday. Leeanne Davison with her 15th goal of the season scoring in the 1st half for Biggleswade. Jade Finch with a goal for Royston. Biggleswade scoring twice in the final 10 minutes to win the game and progress in the competition. Angelica Fachechi with a goal in the 81st minute, Zoe Molloy making it 3-1 in the closing minute of the match.

Garston Ladies Vintage Purples from Division Two at home to Division Three leaders Harts Vipers in the 2nd Round of the League Cup on Sunday the hosts knowing they would be facing a tough opponent before kick-off. Herts Vipers scoring plenty of goals this season. Garston looking to keep it tight at the back early on Harts Vipers struck from distance to score in the 13th minute Kesley Millen putting them into the lead. Top scorer Nicole Jancey trying her luck from range making it 2-0 with half an hour gone. Garston pulling a goal back late in the 1st half, the keeper parrying the ball into Ainhoa Beascoechea’s feet the striker lifting it over her the ball bundled in by Caroline Tenebaum. Herts Vipers leading 2-1 at half-time. Jancey extending their lead early in the 2nd half going on to complete yet another hat-trick has 28 goals now from 8 appearances. Rebecca Edge scoring to make it 5-1 to Herts Vipers with 15 minutes left to see them knock out higher league opposition to advance into the quarter finals.

Completing the quarter final line-up are AFC Dunstable Women Blues from Division Two, hosts this Sunday to Division Three side Kempston Rovers Ladies in the 2nd Round. Kempston Rovers doing well in their league knowing they were in for a stern test Dunstable another side amongst the goals this season. Nicola Hollick scoring a brae moving into double figure for the season for Dunstable. Five more players on target for a goal each as Dunstable ran out 7-0 winners. Top scorer Bianca Vassell taking her tally so far to 16. Emily Mitchell with her 9th of the campaign with Courtney McNamara, Laura Brooker and Gemma Williams also on the scoresheet.

The dates for the quarter finals to be announced the draw looks like this:-

Herts Vipers v Hitchin Town Ladies

St Albans Ladies v AFC Dunstable Women Blues

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies v Hartham United Ladies

Biggleswade United Ladies v Garston Ladies 1st team

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

A handful of league fixtures taking place this Sunday, 2 games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies moving 3 points clear at the top of the table over fellow promoted side Langford Ladies as they recorded a 5th straight win to keep their 100% record intact at the beginning of the season away to bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies. Zara Garrard registering her 1st goals of the season getting off the mark with a hat-trick. The visitors winning the game 7-0 with 4 more players all celebrating a goal each, Rachael Mumford, Natasha Wing, Danielle Cherry & Chloe Urbanowicz. 

Langford Ladies setting the early pace in Division Two following promotion winning 4 in a row to start the season. Began with a 1-0 at home to fellow promoted side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses not in league action again until the end of October have since gone on to win back to back games. The pair meeting again in the reverse fixture this weekend with Langford the visitors. A close match between the sides a single goal once again settling it coming late in the match, Woburn & Wavendon crediting Holly Venn with the goal that sees them make it 3 straight wins to close the gap on the leading sides and end Langford’s 100% winning start in the process.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this weekend too. The top four involved in the League Cup, Bedwell Rangers Ladies were at home taking on 5th placed Stotfold Juniors Ladies who had won their last 3 league games to climb above them in the table. Bedwell Rangers picking up some good results this season notching up another this weekend a convincing result too as they ran out 9-1 winners to move above Stotfold into 5th place in the Division Three table themselves. Rachel Young finding the back of the net for 5 goals to take her onto 8 for the season, Jessica Sullivan not far behind as she scored 4 in the match. 

Also climbing above Stotfold in the table are Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves as they beat bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies at home on Sunday in Division Three. April Spang opening the scoring on 16 minutes with her 6th goal of the season. Sophie Clarke with a brace her first goals of the season helping Hitchin Town to a 3-0 lead at half-time. Spang going on to score twice more either end of the 2nd half to complete her hat-trick.

The Round-Up – Essex 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Essex Women’s Premier Division

The top 2 meeting for the 2nd time this season with leaders Silver End United Ladies 3 points clear at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division travelling to play 2nd placed Collier Row Tigers who have a game in hand. A 2-2 draw when the sides met in the reverse fixture back in September. The only points both have dropped so far. Both in great form, Collier Row Tigers getting into a 2-0 lead at half-time went on to score a 3rd without reply 2nd half to win 3-0 and in the process move to the top of the Premier Division table on goal difference. The goals keep coming for Laura Bunton, scoring twice against Silver End takes her to 23 for the season so far. Roseanne Shafier also on target with a goal moves onto 9 for the campaign.

Collier Row Tigers go top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division (photo credit Collier Row Tigers)

 Third placed Chelmsford City Ladies at home taking on bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies this Sunday in the Premier Division. Chelmsford making a great start ahead inside the opening 5 minutes, Ciara Meeking with a glancing header from a cross to make it 1-0. Abigail Woollvin brought down in the box to see Chelmsford awarded a penalty. Amelia Murphy stepping up to make it 2-0 from the spot. Gaby Freedman with her first goal of the season scoring from a corner to see Chelmsford leading 3-0 at half-time. Molly Butcher making it 4-0 soon after the restart racing onto a through ball to put the ball into the top corner. Shannon Kelly scoring to make it 5-0 to Chelmsford. Amelia Murphy with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper to put Chelmsford into a 6-0 lead the final score 7-0 with Woollvin smashing the ball into the back of the net.

Match action from Chelmsford City Ladies v Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies (photo credit Ian Kendle)

The two promoted sides met for the 2nd time this season on Sunday with Billericay Town Ladies Development hosting Rayleigh Town Ladies. The reverse fixture early in the season seeing Rayleigh Town win 8-2 and claim their 1st and only win so far in the Premier Division. 4 points from their opening 2 matches have since lost 5 in a row. Billericay having lost their opening 2 league games found their feet in the league despite being docked 3 points. A comfortable win for Billericay on Sunday their 3rd of the season top scorer Sophie Nyiro scoring 4 goals has 12 in total. Rebecca Gallagher also amongst the goals netting a brace has 8 now for the season. Rachel Armstrong-Morris making her 1st appearance of the season also getting on the scoresheet in a 7-1 victory. Isabelle Wallings with the goal for Rayleigh.

The points shared between Frontiers Ladies and Southend United Ladies in the Premier Division both goals coming in the 1st half. Emma Parker scoring her first goal for Frontiers, Harriet Hiskett with her 5th of the season ensuring a point for Southend chances to win the game for both sides Danielle Summer making her debut in goal for Southend the visitors Player of the Match.

Essex Women’s Division One

 Corringham Cosmos Women leading Essex Women’s Division One three points clear of 2nd placed Aveley Ladies with a 100% winning start 6 wins from 6 played. Dropped points for the first time this season as they were held to a 2-2 draw away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Rebecca Corcoran scoring early in the game for Corringham Cosmos, Kimberly Lyall with her first goal for the club scoring late in the 1st half. Points dropped for the 1st time this season as they look to bounce back to the Premier Division, Corringham still manage to extend their lead at the top.

  That because Aveley Ladies in 2nd lose a 3rd league game in a row after making a brilliant start winning their opening 5 games in Division One. At home this Sunday were beaten by Chigwell Ladies who themselves make it back to back wins after claiming their 1st victory of the season last weekend at home to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Chigwell having just the 10 players available finishing with just 9 making the win more impressive. Amy beadle and Megan Murrell with their first goals for Aveley the hosts losing the match 4-2 as Chigwell’s Leah Mills netted a hat-trick. Moves onto 4 goals for the season level with Jessica MacNab who was also on target for Chigwell’s other goal.

 A win on the opening day of the season away to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves, new side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development hadn’t won since losing their next five to plummet down the Division One table. At home to Chelmsford City once again this Sunday a battle of the bottom two with the hosts without a point from 5 games played so far this season. Bowers & Pitsea making a blistering start dominating the 1st half to lead 7-0 at the break. Ebony Moore making her 1st start scoring a brace. Two goals too for Ellie Jones. Lily Wilding also on the scoresheet with a goal along with first Bowers & Pitsea goals for Sophie Thomas and Jessica Stafford. Chelmsford City with a much improved 2nd half performance battling to keep Bowers & Pitsea from adding to their tally despite having a player sent off.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Suffolk Women’s Division

Brettvale Ladies move 6 points clear at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division taking advantage of 2nd placed Needham Market Women Reserves no being in action. Keeping their 100% winning start going now up to 9 wins as they secured the 3 points at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. The visitors without a point so far this season making Brettvale work for the win with a well organised and spirited display, Brettvale not at their best coming away with a 3-0 victory to keep their run going. Sheryl Nokes scoring her first goal of the season for Brettvale with Rachel White also on target for a goal along with Abbie Fisher finding the back of the net for her 7th goal of the campaign.

Bunching up behind the leaders, a chance for Alresford Colne Rangers to move clear of Needham Market Women Reserves in 2nd spot as they hosted new side Holland Ladies. Both sides in great form 5 straight league wins for Alresford they were brought down to earth with a bump on Sunday as Holland Ladies racked up their 5th straight league win scoring double figures in the process, beating Alresford 11-1. Charlotte Warren netting a hat-trick to move her onto 7 for the season challenging top scorers Lauren Bourne who claimed a brace to move onto 8 goals and Jasmine Cox now on 9 after too celebrating a brace. Lauren Lucas the 3rd Holland player to bag a brace in the match moving onto 5 for the season their were goals too for Elise Purser and Alisha Blake. Georgia Egner with the goal for Alresford. Holland up to 5th in the Suffolk Women’s Division still have a games in hand on the leading sides.

 Bury Town Women 4th in the Suffolk Women’s Division table closing the gap to the 2nd and 3rd placed sides to just 3 points after a 4-0 win away to Henley Athletic Ladies on Sunday, just 1 defeat in 7 played so far in the league the 3 points won on Sunday thanks to goals from Julie Brind who has 16 for the season. A goal for Kristen Hutchings taking her into double figures for the campaign. along with first Bury Town goals for Sophie Hemming and Hayley Turner.

Woodbridge Town Ladies climbing up to 6th in the Suffolk Women’s Division table winning for the 5th time this season away to Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday. Back to back wins on the road Woodbridge securing a 3-1 victory. Samantha Butcher with her first goal of the season. With top scorer Jenna Liverpool moving onto 13 goals for the season scoring a brace. 

  Brantham Athletic Ladies the latest side to rack up a high scoreline against the depleted ranks of University of Suffolk Women, the visitors bottom of the table short on numbers battling on coming up against a Brantham side finding its form in recent weeks. leading 7-0 at half-time added a further 10 in the 2nd period to win 17-0. Rebecca Prime netting a double hat-trick. There were braces for Lucy Dunnett, Merlin Watson and Lucy Elmes. With a further 5 players getting a goal each, a first for Carra Marie Seeley with Maddie Hubbard, Jessica Ryan, Shannon Giles and Charlotte Archer all scoring.

The points shared in the final game to bring you this week in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Brightlingsea Regent Ladies travelling to play AFC Kesgrave Ladies. The visitors with the bare 11 available. Hannah Goldsmith scoring her 12th goal of the season to make it 1-1 with Abigail Eley netting her 5th goal of the season for Kesgrave.

 

The Round-Up – Norfolk 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 Remains highly competitive at the top of Norfolk Division One with 3 teams beginning the weekend at the top still with 100% winning starts, Bungay Town Ladies winning 6 from 6 at the start of the season 3 points ahead of both Thorpe United Ladies and newly promoted Tavern Ladies who had 5 win from 5 so far. Two of the three meeting for the first time this season as Thorpe United Ladies played host to Bungay Town Ladies. Women’s Football East along to see the action unfold. Both sides recruiting well over the summer.

  Light rain before kick-off an overcast sky it was Thorpe who started the brighter getting hold of the ball in the middle and taking the game to Bungay using the width of the pitch forcing the defence back. Bungay’s defence on the back foot but coping well on the whole Thorpe creating openings whilst preventing Bungay from attacking up the other end. For all their 1st half dominance Thorpe didn’t take the lead until late in the half a driving run into the box from wide from captain Rebekah Lake seeing her cross the ball into substitute Millie Cursons inside the six yard box she scored from close range the ball squirming through as goalkeeper Joanne Pipe attempted to save.

Thorpe defender Tash Levesley challenging for the ball with Bungay’s Porsha Renwick

  Thorpe 1-0 up at the break starting the 2nd half in similar fashion, without finding an early 2nd goal. Bungay frustrated getting more joy now players forwards growing in confidence as Thorpe began to retreat a little the game opening up. Bungay looking for a reply risked being hit on the counter, had Pipe to thank for keeping it down to 1-0 pulling off a couple of fantastic saves, Cara Anderson up the other end doing well too as Bungay tried their luck from distance. Bungay couldn’t find that all important equalising goal as Thorpe held out for the win to keep their 100% and join Bungay on 18 points who lose for the 1st time this season. The full match report can be found further down the page.

For all their effort Thorpe ironically fall a place in the league down to 3rd in Division One as the other 100% winning side take over at the top of the table. Tavern Ladies also on 18 points now making it 6 wins from 6 with a double figure win at home to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies. Both promoted to the league this season Tavern scoring plenty of goals whilst keeping it tight at the back. Lucy Kean leading the goal scoring charts scoring 4 at the weekend to move into double figures for the season. 4 goals too for Atlanta Griffith who moves onto 9 goals for the campaign. Katie Hart-Copsey also amongst the goals for Tavern last season’s top scorers doubling her tally for this campaign netting a hat-trick. Tavern beating a spirited Freethorpe 11-0.

  Sprowston Ladies remain well placed in 4th place to capitalise on any slip ups from the top 3 just 3 points behind on 15 points winning for the 5th time this season coming out on top in the 2nd Sprowston derby of the season. At home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies this Sunday. A 6-1 away win in the reverse fixture 3 weeks ago. Top scorer Victoria Leyer netting 4 goals in that game was on target for 2 this time around to move onto 20 goals for the season. Leading 2-0 at half-time Sprowston went on to add a 3rd goal in the 2nd half to win the match 3-0 captain Calista Tink also on target with a goal.

  5th placed Long Stratton Women were away to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend both sides ending the game with a player send off a straight red for both Taverham’s Hannah Artis and Long Stratton’s Samantha Walker. Long Stratton securing the 3 points to move into double figures following promotion from Division Two last season. Charlie Head scoring a brace with Katie Ransome finding the back of the net for her first goal for the club. Long Stratton winning 3-1, Rebecca Sutton with the strike for Taverham.

Two more newly promoted sides meeting in Division One at the weekend saw Fakenham Town Ladies on the road to take on Thetford Town Ladies. A tough start for Thetford losing their opening five games. Signs they were improving however and earned their first point of the season against Fakenham who weren’t at their best. Clemence Achour with her first Fakenham goal for the club. Thetford Town drawing the game 1-1 getting their first point on the board thanks to a first goal of the season for Rebecca White.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

The battle for the title in Norfolk Women’s Division Two now beginning to heat up with the chasing sides all closing the gap on early leaders Stalham Town Ladies who lost for the 1st time in the league this Sunday. With so many new sides entering the league it was always going to take some time to settle down see which sides would emerge as potential challengers Stalham Town Ladies setting the early pace undefeated in 5 played away this Sunday playing Beccles Town Ladies in 3rd spot. Beccles with a strong performance to win the 3 points and move up to 2nd just a point behind Stalham. Lola Barber-King scoring plenty of goals for Beccles early in netting a brace to put her on 9 for the season. Two more players joining her with two goals each on Sunday with Lucy Robbens and Ellie Hills on target for a brace. Bethan Owen also getting her name on the scoresheet with her first goal of the season Beccles winning the match 7-2. Amber Mayhew with her 8th goal of the season and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor with the goals for Stalham Town.

 Thorpe United Ladies Reserves side up there at the top of Division Two pressing for top spot in the table were away to fellow newcomers, Waveney Ladies at the weekend. Thorpe undefeated in thier last 5 games with 4 wins and a draw in both league and cup Waveney making a late start to the league winning their opening 2 fixtures suffering defeat last time out to leaders Stalham Town bounced back well to beat Thorpe United 2-0 to win their 3rd game of the season to move onto 9 points 4 behind the leaders with games in hand on all the sides above them.

An end to end thriller between Hockering Ladies and Mulbarton Belles at the weekend both sides amongst those to potentially mount a title challenge, Hockering recruiting well bringing in players to strengthen their squad, Mulbarton’s still very new and continuing to build. 7 goals between the sides it was Mulbarton who would emerge the winners taking it 4-3 to win the 3 points and make it 3 successive wins to climb up to 3rd in the Division Two table level on points with 2nd placed Beccles a point behind leaders Stalham Town. Gemma Hamilton-Rout with her first 2 goals for the club scoring on debut. A goal too on her debut for Iris Morton-Smith along with one for Harriet Husbands. Cerys Nicholas scoring a brace has 5 goals now for Hockering, with Shelley Woods scoring her 7th since joining the club.

Tight at the top of the Division Two table there was also an important match at the other end with the bottom two meeting on Sunday, Bulldogs Ladies hosting newcomers Red Rose Ladies both with a tough start to the season losing their opening 4 games respectfully. Without a point something had to give at the weekend. Bulldogs scoring 3 goals with Rachel Hardy getting a hat-trick. Red Rose having scored a goal in each of their previous 4 league matches more than doubling their tally for the season up the other end as they hit 7 into the Bulldogs net to win the game 7-3 to claim their 1st 3 points of the season.

 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 10/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

ERWFL Premier Division

A highly competitive ERWFL Premier Division this season with the sides all the way down to 8th in a good position to challenge what is an ever changing picture at the top of the table, whether one side can get a grip on top spot and go on to dominate remains to be seen right now it’s wide open. The lead changing once again. Wroxham Women going top last weekend at home this Sunday facing Bedford Ladies. Always a competitive tussle between the sides (and yes I am referring to when Wroxham were Acle United Women) no less so in their new colours chances for both in the first half Wroxham seeing a shot in added time bounce down off the bar and over the line before being plucked back by the keeper but despite their protests the sides heading in goalless. Bedford awarded a penalty on the hour to take the lead added a 2nd 5 minutes later. Wroxham making a couple of good comebacks already this season fighting back once again Kirstie Kindred firing home to bring it back to 2-1 with 15 minutes left top scorer Grace Birchall getting the equalling goal, clear cut chances for both sides to win the game missed, the points shared.

That result sees previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies return to the top of the table, although they themselves very nearly let it slip at home at the weekend, the Essex side hosting Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow getting into an early lead Wymondham failing to clear from a corner the ball put over the line. Proved to be the difference between the sides. A 1-0 lead for Harlow at half-time when 2-0 early in the 2nd half capitalising on a mix-up at the back to make it 2-0. Wymondham with a quick response getting it back to 2-1 in the 48th minute Jac Ball shooting across the keeper to get her 1st goal for the club. Harlow straight back with a 3rd goal 3-1 up made it 4-1 with less than 15 to play, Becky Shephard with a brace, along with goals for Frances Gamble and Chloe Bassett. Wymondham with a late fight back scoring twice in the closing minutes to get it back to 4-3 setting up a tense finish, Mia Etheridge crossing for Katie Knights to score and Sarah Payne flicking on a goal kick to put Laura Nicholls in to score her first of the season (hard to believe it’s taken until November to say that although she has only featured in 4 games so far this season.) Harlow with the 3 points maintaining their unbeaten start to the season top on goal difference.

Colney Heath Ladies amongst the early season front runners too back up to 3rd on the ERWFL Premier Division table winning away to AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. A 15-1 for Colney Heat in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. Ex-Dunstable player Samaira Khan with a hat-trick that day repeated the feat this time around, to put her on 14 goals for the season, scoring twice in the first half after Lucy Hancock had opened the scoring in the 12th minute for the visitors. Colney Heath 3-0 up at half-time Hancock on target for her 2nd of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Rianne Townsend-Brown making it 5-0 on the hour. Hannah Ring making her first start for Dunstable with a goal to prevent a clean sheet for Colney Heath before Khan added her 3rd late on to see the game won 6-1.

Royston Town Women climb to 4th in the Premier Division table, 3 points behind leaders Harlow with games in hand on Wroxham and Colney Heath. The Hertfordshire side away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. The game looked to heading for a goalless opening 45 minutes. Royston with a corner late on the ball hooked in by Emma Slater. Royston adding to their lead early in the 2nd half Joanne Rutherford onto a through ball to make it 2-0 a 3rd goal coming quickly after Danielle Carty with a great strike on 58 minutes to make it 3-0. A devastating spell from Royston going 4-0 up 2 minutes later Rutherford from a free-kick scoring her 2nd of the match. Haringey getting a quick reply to bring it back to 4-1 but that would be as good as it got as Royston went on to win the 3 points comfortably.

 The game between newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies falling foul to the weather.

ERWFL Division One North

The weather playing it’s part in both ERWFL Division One North & South this Sunday to. King’s Lynn Town Ladies home game against Histon postponed whilst in the South, Millwall Lionesses match away to leader Hutton Ladies also suffered.

 Two games played in Division One North on Sunday, league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development away to Newmarket Town Women. A 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture just 3 weeks ago, Newmarket keen to close the gap on the leading side after making a slow start. It was Cambridge who would make a fast start this Sunday taking the lead just 3 minutes into the game Bella Simmons on target for her 11th goal of the season Newmarket coming back to level the scores inside 20 minutes with Annabel Cuthbert getting her 12th goal of the season. All square at the break Cambridge retaking the lead with 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half after not capitalising on early chances, Ellie Cullum rifling the ball into the roof of the net from 25 yards out. Her 5th of the season proving to be the winning goal.

A Suffolk derby saw newcomers Needham Market Women at home playing AFC Sudbury Ladies. Sudbury starting the game well creating opportunities, Needham Market still looking for their first league win at this level growing into the game with chances as the 1st half wore on, the visitors taking the lead from a free-kick late in stoppage time the ball finding it’s way in. 1-0 Needham Market goalkeeper Amber Leeks injured unable to continue, outfield player Milly Carter donning the gloves. Needham Market starting the 2nd half well getting a goal back within 3 minutes of the restart Jodie Sharp crossing for Amber Sparkes to tap home. Needham getting forwards well further opportunities created taking the lead just past the hour Sparkes with a good run jinking into the box opening up her body to shoot high into the net. Carter with a fine save to tip the ball over at the other end saw her defence concede a penalty moments later a chance for Sudbury to level from the spot a superb top draw save from the substitute keeper going left getting a firm hand on the ball to turn it out. The win secured in the final 10 minutes Lois Balfour deadly for the Reserves this season striking from distance her shot in off the post.

ERWFL Division One South

Two games in Division One South on Sunday and with the leading pair not playing it was a chance for Stevenage FC Women Development to close the gap as they travelled to play Wodson Park Ladies who were still looking for their first points of the season. Stevenage unbeaten in the league winning the game 4-0 to join 2nd placed Millwall on 10 points, the goal scored by Hannah Marshall, Sofia Carpenter, Katherine Taylor and Emily Schofield.

Stevenage FC Women Development pictured before thier game with Wodson park on Sunday (photo credit Stevenage FC Women)

Also without a point on the board in Division One South were Lawford Ladies a difficult start to the season short on numbers so are hosting newcomers Leigh Ramblers Ladies. A full side available this weekend it was a much needed point earned as the sides finished 1-1 at the final whistle. daisy Canny with her 5th goal of the season on target for Lawford.

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 10//11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

Women’s FA Cup

The Women’s FA Cup reaches the 1st Round Proper, 12 ties drawn with the remaining regional and FAWNL Division One sides vying for a place in the next round where the FAWNL Northern & Southern Premier Division side enter the competition. 5 of those ties featuring sides playing in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East, reduced to 3 in the finish with the games between Woodlands FC Ladies & Billericay Town Ladies and Cheltenham Town Ladies & Leyton Orient WFC falling foul to the weather, both games scheduled to take place this coming Sunday. 

Onto the ties played, a trip to the West Midlands for ERWFL Premier Division side, Luton Town Ladies as they looked to continue thier fine run in the competition away to FAWNL Midlands Division One side, Wolverhampton Wanderers Women. A tough test for Luton amongst the title challengers in a competitive league, Wolves leading the Midlands Division One table by five points losing just once this season back in early September. Shannie Jennings firing Wolves into an early lead scoring in the 7th minute with a strike from outside the box. Wolves strong pressing for a 2nd goal doubling their lead on 22 minutes Lowri Walker making it 2-0. Rebecca Ferris keeping Wolves from adding a 3rd goal before half-time the FAWNL side 2-0 up at the break. Luton coming out fighting at the start of the 2nd half looking for an early reply it was Wolves however who would go on to take a 3-0 on the hour Lyndsey Glover with the goal. Into the final 20 minutes Wolves taking a 4-0 lead Sophie Bamford firing home. Luton pulling a goal back quickly Jess McKay heading in after Zara Carroll’s free-kick strikes the crossbar. 4-1 the final score Wolves advancing Luton’s fine run coming to an end in this season Women’s FA Cup.

Two all FAWNL South East Division One ties in the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup, Ipswich Town Women leading the table at home taking on Essex side AFC Basildon Women. The hosts with early chances taking the lead in the 16th minute a free-kick outside the area put away beautifully by Paige Peake. Half an hour gone and Ipswich doubled their lead Sophie Peskett in to steal the ball at the back and race on through into the area to score. Natasha Thomas making it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time meeting a cross inside the six yard box. Further chances to extend the lead for the Suffolk side in the 2nd period a 4th goal eventually coming with 7 minutes left a corner put in from the right a knock on controlled by Abbie Lafayette beyond the far post and struck low into the back of the net. Zoe Cossey rifling home from the edge of the box with 2 minutes left to see Ipswich advance to the 2nd Round Proper with a 5-0 victory.

Sophie Peskett in on goal to make it 2-0 to Ipswich (photo credit Ross Media UK)

  Actonians Ladies hosting AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the 1st Round Proper. A full blooded match between the pair, Actonians Ladies the only side to beat Wimbledon so far this season beating the 3rd placed side 2-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca putting Actonians into the lead inside the opening 20 minutes with her 9th goal of the season. Wimbledon with a quick reply to equalise winning a corner on the left the inswinging ball missed by the keeper bundled in by defender Hannah Billingham at the far post. The visitors pressing the referee needing to have a word on occasion, Actonians retaking the lead with 5 minutes left in the 1st half Jessica Byrne through seeing her initial effort blocked by the keeper taking the ball around her to score her first goal of the season. Actonians leading 2-1 at half-time. The 2nd half no less competitive Wimbledon battling looking for a reply, Actonians defending robustly keeping them at bay keeping their lead at celebrating victory at the final whistle reaching the 2nd Round Proper.

 The draw for the 2nd Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup drawn live on Talksport radio the ties to be played Sunday 1st December with the winners receiving £1000 those ties involving sides from the Southern Premier & South East Division One listed below:-

Hounslow Women v Cardiff City Ladies

Keynsham Town Ladies v Watford Ladies

Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women Portsmouth FC Women v Cheltenham Town Ladies or Leyton Orient WFC

Southampton Women’s FC v Milton Keynes Dons Women

Oxford United Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies

Chichester City Ladies v Ipswich Town Women

Woodlands FC Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies v Gillingham Ladies

Actonians Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

The Round-Up – FAWNL 10/11/12

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th November

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier League this Sunday. Moving 3 points clear of Watford Ladies who weren’t in action. 4 matches played in the league this weekend Crawley Wasps were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs back in after serving a suspension, Emma Plewa back in the squad after a spell out with injury. Portsmouth back in action after 3 weeks following a couple of postponed fixtures. 

  Crawley Wasps taking the lead soon after the opening quarter hour, Natasha Stephens running in on goal heading in close on goal as a left wing cross drops to her. Portsmouth coming back to equalise 10 minutes later a long range shot tipped onto the bar by Gibbs, Jade Widdows quickest to react latching onto the ball to make it 1-1. Crawley Wasps coming straight back to retake the lead, Plewa running into the left channel taking the ball into the box and finishing clinically for her first goal of the season. The visitors reduced to 10 on the half hour, Katie Jones shown a straight red. A player down Portsmouth battled on 2nd half Crawley Wasps eventually extending their lead in the final 15 minutes Plewa racing through onto a long ball forwards travelling into the box and slotting the ball under the keeper to see the match won 3-1.

 Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue to apply pressure to the top two in the Southern Premier Division extending their winning run to 9 matches now in all competitions. A 7th straight league win coming this Sunday on their travels against bottom side Chichester City Ladies. An even start to the game Plymouth growing stronger as the 1st half progressed the dead lock broken late in the half Amber Pollock 40 yards out hitting a rocket on the half volley to make it 1-0. Plymouth with a 1 goal lead going into the 2nd half have been scoring plenty of goals this season. Mollie Taylor making her 150th appearance for the club this Sunday making it 2-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half, heading in from a corner kick. Chances for both sides before Plymouth made it 3-0 from another corner in the 71st minute, captain Katie Middleton heading in at the near post. Into the final 10 minutes and a quickfire double from top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing Plymouth wrap up a 5-0 win.

 Yeovil Town Women climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after a a 3rd straight league win. Playing at home this weekend taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women who themselves have now suffered 6 straight defeats in the league. Jamie Sherwood returning to Yeovil as manager in his first game in charge. An even start Yeovil taking the lead with Annie Heatherson moving out wide delivering the cross for Kelly Aldridge to score. The hosts reduced to 10 with half an hour played attacker Sarah Wiltshire receiving a straight red card. Yeovil with a narrow lead at the break. Despite being a player short creating chances, Aldridge coming close early on rattling the crossbar. A crucial 2nd goal coming as Meesha Dudley-Jones drives on to the corner of the 18 yard box and unleashes a shot into the top corner. Goalkeeper Beth Howard keeping Milton Keynes out at the other end with a double goal line save from a corner. The visitors pulling it back to 2-1 from another corner late in the game 10 player Yeovil holding on to win the 3 points.

 Keynsham Town Ladies getting a good result on the road on Sunday in the Southern Premier Division away to Oxford United Women to see their good run of results continue 7 points from their last 3 matches now after losing all of their opening 6 games following promotion to the league join Milton Keynes Dons Women on 7 points. Justine Lorton’s 16th minute goal proving the difference between the sides. Oxford creating numerous chances with a host of corners unable to get a reply, Keynsham goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes making a number of fine saves to ensure the 3 points.

FAWNL South East Division One

 One match played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend with Stevenage FC Women travelling up to Cambridgeshire to face Cambridge City Ladies. The hosts opening the scoring in the 20th minute Sofia Castiglione netting from a free-kick. Stevenage coming straight back to level the scores Ashleigh Deacon heading in at the back post. Cambridge City retaking the lead before half-time Charlotte Gillies racing through on the right her shot across the keeper parried into the path of Laura Mills to turn into the back of the net. 2-1 up at the break, Stevenage pressing for a 2nd goal in the on the counter attack Erin Pope’s crossed ball in looping over the keeper into the net beyond to make it 2-2. Cambridge City with a penalty shout late on not given the sides sharing the points both moving up a place in the table.

Sofia Castiglione with the opening goal of the match for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)

Match Report – Thorpe United Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday 10th November

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 A top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday on Women’s Football East, two sides defending a 100% winning start meeting for the 1st time this season as defending champions, Thorpe United Ladies host Bungay Town Ladies.

  Bungay themselves Division One champions the season before, leading the way with 6 wins from 6 so far, Thorpe keeping pace in the defence of their title with 5 wins from 5. Aren’t the only side with a 100% winning start with newly promoted Tavern Ladies in the mix too.

 Division One expanded in size this season up to 11 sides following an influx of new sides and a new to even up the two divisions. A strong start with 3 sides all with 100% records, Sprowston Ladies with 12 points from their opening 6 games well placed to capitalise should anyone slip up. One of those 100% records will fall this afternoon.

 Thorpe United Ladies finding their form once again last season a force in women’s football since entering the league a strong youth set up seeing a new crop of young players join the squad last season. The squad bolstered going on to win the league title along with reaching the semi-finals of both the County and League Cup. More young players coming in this season, new signing too, Megan and Melissa Belsey from Sprowston Athletic joining the club along with Alice Ladbrooke returning from Wymondham Town Ladies. A new Reserves side formed this season to add to playing opportunities within the club has made a good start to life in Division Two  amongst the front runners early on.

  A League and Cup double for Bungay Town Ladies the season before last, like Thorpe an established side within the league. A transitional season last time around, losing players took a while to get going bringing new faces in young talent results improving as the season wore on. More new face coming in during the close season experience at a higher level, a fantastic pre-season, winning all their games the momentum carried on into the season itself. 6 wins out 6 to top the league early on, know it will be a competitive campaign with Thorpe and Tavern Ladies matching them so far. Saw Bungay earlier in the season in the Women’s FA Cup in a 15-0 demolition of Riverside Ladies, am not expecting anything like that this afternoon.

  The Thorpe Recreation Ground the venue for today’s game, home of Thorpe United Girls & Ladies. A large playing field boasting a number of full-size pitches, a couple of youth matches taking place too on an adjoining pitch. The new clubhouse with a bar and kitchen serving hot and cold drinks. The pitch well used a good size, had hoped to get away with no rain this afternoon but as the teams warmed up it started to fall, light but persistent rain would disappear around 20 minutes into the game itself, thankfully no wind so juggling an umbrella, camera and notepad not as difficult as it could have been.

 The players gathering around the centre circle before kick-off, today Remembrance Sunday a minutes silence observed for those who have fought and fallen in armed conflict around the world. Lest We Forget.

Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Morgan Devine, Tash Levesley, Megan Belsey, Holly Peck, Laura Hedtke, Alice Ladbrooke, Melissa Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Molly Howes, Bryony Knights & Millie Cursons.

 Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Kelly Collins (C), Hannah Jones, Charlotte Power, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Nicola Hazell, Grace Storey, Samantha Penman & Leanne Smith. Subs – Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade & Erin Galer.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Bungay to get today’s top of the table clash underway wearing their new kit, blue coloured shirts with a light green sash across the front, blue shirts and socks with green and white trim. Thorpe in their traditional pink coloured shirts, black shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defence, midfielder Selina Rowland picking it up carrying the ball forwards over halfway sending it up the line for Samantha Penman to chase, Tash Levesley going with her for Thorpe the full back defending the ball put out for a throw. 

Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake looking for a shooting opportunity early in the game.

 Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake a constant goal threat has 12 goals already this season from 5 appearances, the ball played through the middle as she peels off the shoulder of the last defender, Hannah Jones doing well to get back against her shoulder to shoulder into the box right of goal, Bungay goalkeeper Joanne Pipe coming to close the gap sliding in both collide the ball spinning out to the left into the path of Thorpe’s Ellie Hunter she brings the ball under control before striking towards goal, Kelly Collins captaining Bungay round on the cover to intercept the ball and clear. 

Bungay Town Ladies captain, Kelly Collins

Bungay get up the other end the ball into the area, no shot on as Holly Pack wins it for Thorpe played out to the left wing Thorpe launch a rapid counter Hunter keeping the ball in play sending it on for Lake who has broken into space on the left plays it inside for the advancing Laura Hedtke through the middle, lines up a 25 yards strike, low in towards goal not troubling Pipe back on her goal line. Thorpe lively at the start of the match getting players forwards quickly when they have possession using the width of the pitch the ball on the right crossed in dangerously towards the near post, Pipe throwing herself up to keep the ball from creeping in pushing it behind for a corner.

   The high ball in from the right defended by Rowland, Bungay can’t get an attack going, Thorpe winning the ball back high up the pitch, keep the pressure on out to Melissa Belsey on the right wing another vicious cross whipped in near post, Pipe doing well to get herself in front of Sophie Jermy running in that side to punch the ball to safety. Bungay not settling well passes rushed no one taking time on the ball, Thorpe able to turn it around, competitive in the middle of the park, Alice Ladbrooke backed up by Hedtke not giving much away. Hunter on the left playing a one two with Jermy as she gets on down the wing, receiving the ball coming inside 20 yards out looking to go across the top of the box, dips her shoulder taking the ball inside to shot the ball narrowly wide of the left post.

Ellie Hunter getting on down the left for Thorpe United Ladies

  Jermy moving left with Hunter combining again,supported by full back Levesley the ball played back to her 35 yard out goes for goal, the ball on target dipping in front of Pipe, traps it well with her legs to bring it under control and claim on the bounce. Light raining falling up until now making it slick on top has finally stopped. Ladbrooke sliding in to regain possession inside the Bungay half setting up an attack out to Hunter taking it on down the left a cross fizzed in along the top of the area, Charlotte Power getting hold of it for Bungay. 

Charlotte power in ahead of Rebekah Lake to win the ball for Bungay

 The visitors have got little going in the way of attack so far in the match, kept on the back foot by Thorpe’s bright start, Rowland bringing the ball on a good threaded pass to find Grace Storey free on the right lifts it on into the box for Penman, Megan Belsey across putting in the challenge defending well for Thorpe the ball out for a throw. The ball continues to ping around, no one wants a 2nd touch it seems a little rushed at time passes not finding their mark. Melissa Belsey able to travel with it wide right inside for Jermy breaking forwards shoots early doesn’t get a clean strike the ball across the face of goal wide collected easily by Pipe. 

  Thorpe have the Bungay defence pushed back, the midfield needing to back up making it difficult when they regain the ball to get anyone up to support Leanne Smith and Penman in attack. The attackers combine as Smith takes the ball on with a marauding run on the left cutting the cross back inside to Penman inside the area her 1st touch seeing her beat her marker knock the ball on towards goal, but as the turns to give chase too much to do as goalkeeper Cara Anderson comes to gather for Thorpe. 

Samantha Penman bringing the ball out from the back for Bungay Town Ladies

  From a Bungay attacking opportunity off a throw on the left Thorpe win the ball and launch a fast counter attack, Jermy bringing the ball out playing it long for Lake always looking for an opening up top in space, bringing the ball inside closed down in front of the area, opts to cross instead of shot picking out Melissa Belsey far side on the right off the area, her 1st time effort blazed over. Thorpe coming on strong Hunter inside to Ladbrooke the ball knocked on through the middle into the box, Jermy looking to get onto the end of it, Bungay defending desperately, Lake getting a shot away from six yards out, Pipe down to make the save.

   Thorpe are using the width of the pitch well Hunter and Melissa Belsey staying close to the touchline the ball worked from left to right well, Jermy central finding pockets of space. with Lake always ready to burst forwards with the ball or to receive it, Lindsey Adams out to intercept on two occasions in quick succession for Bungay. Hunter from the left byline sending in a cross Lake running in far post unable to reach it, Pipe with an outstretched arm plucking the ball down a vital save with Jermy rushing in behind. 

Sophie Jermy bringing the ball under control for Thorpe United Ladies

  Adams once again across to head the ball clear from the box a Lake drives on down the right flank before attempting the cross. Hedtke up for a throw on the left high up the pitch for Thorpe swinging a dangerous ball low into the box, Power sticking a leg out to deflect it out of Lake’s path central before being cleared. Hunter put in clear on the left from a long ball out of defence races on before crossing a dipping ball into the six yard box, Adams cutting it out and launching clear for Bungay. 

Bungay Town Ladies, Lyndsey Adams

Bungay make a change a frustrating afternoon so far for Smith she is replaced by Porsha Renwick. Pipe sharp off her line out to win the race to claim the ball as Lake is put in behind from a lofted pass from Ladbrooke central. Bungay’s defence on the back foot, battling well Jones getting in front of Jermy to intercept a cross put in from the right. Thorpe make a change, Melissa Belsey coming off, on comes Millie Cursons, she goes out to the left side with Hunter coming right. 

  GOAL! 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half and all the pressure Thorpe have exerted brings them a goal. Lake hard to shake off the ball once she gets hold off it draws players towards her as Thorpe overload the right skipping inside into the area drives on towards the six yard box firing a cross in towards Cursons positioned central inside it, she shoots, close on Pipe manages to get something on the ball as she throws herself down by not enough to keep it out 1-0.

Ladbrooke fouled by Rowland top of the centre circle a free kick to the hosts players come forwards Hedtke to take lifted into the top of the area Riggall winning the header for Bungay, Rowland clears. Bungay make a 2nd change Erin Galer on for Storey on the right, Jones pushed forwards. Thorpe break Hunter right passing inside to Hedtke forwards into Lake she aims to thread it through into the box for the breaking Jermy, Pipe able to claim it. 

Thorpe ending the half strong a corner won on the right played up the line short for crossed in near post, Ladbrooke jumping can’t get a touch Rowland back on the post defending to clear for Bungay. A free-kick wide on the right to Thorpe, Hedtke to play into the area cleared by Riggall, the visitors attempt to break, Thorpe in well to break in down as they have all half. Levesley left on for Cursons to cross it caught by Pipe.

Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies

  A dominant 1st half display from Thorpe sees them leading at the break, just the 1 goal to show for all that dominance however, Pipe with some excellent stops to keep the score down, other chances not taken. Have hardly been troubled by Bungay in attack. Despite that Bungay battling have defended well often on the back foot struggling to get anything going forwards often starting from deep unable to get support up to their attackers. At 1-0 however they are far from out of the game and half-time a chance to regroup ad reorganise.

As well as serving the community as a sports ground, Thorpe Recreation Ground is a haven for dog walkers. Those attending the match and out for a stroll. The half-time entertainment provided by tiny jacket wearing Chihuahua with probably the squeakiest bark on the planet, not deterred by his size his little legs pumping after a much larger dog, his opponent unsure what to make of his cat sized attacker… it all ended peacefully.

Tash Levesley and Porsha Renwick battling for the ball

The overcast skies seeing the light fading fast as the teams entered the pitch for the 2nd half. Smith back on for Bungay Penman off. Thorpe to get the 2nd half underway attacking left, Power conceding an early corner. Thorpe take it short up the line the cross in from deep almost finds its way through near post. Bungay look to bring it out, Hedtke central in to win it back for Thorpe lifts it up towards the top of the area for Lake, the bounce not favouring the Thorpe captain she plays it instead out to Cursons free left side, her shot put over the bar. 

Thorpe United Ladies, Holly Peck

Thorpe beginning where they left off 1st half, Hunter attacking right putting it back central for Hedtke 20 yards out she plays it though to Lake left side of the area, Galer winning the challenge for Bungay a corner conceded. The ball cleared, comes straight back on Devine with a good ball forwards Lake with the opportunity won;t come down as she knocks it to the right, Pipe blocking as she slides in on the ball. Lake gathering the ball on the right played inside for Hedtke 25 yards out shoots over.

Morgan Devine looking for options after winning the ball back for Thorpe

Hunter gets hold of the ball on the right drives on down the line for Thorpe, Collins though stays on her well keeping pace and preventing the cross coming in eventually winning a goalkick. Bungay getting frustrated are far from done battling to find an opening Hazell left side has Smith running into space ahead of her the pass picking her down Smith looks to get on, Megan Belsey coming across to tackle the ball taken off Smith, Peck backing up as Renwick looks to pounce take it on into the area. The game starting to open up a little Thorpe need that 2nd goal. The hosts make a change Bryony Knights coming on to replace Hunter. 

Charnelle Riggall

Bungay starting to find a bit of rhythm Rowland and Riggall getting more joy through the middle. Rowland in to win it playing it up to Renwick, Peck preventing her turning in behind. Hazell left turns her marker well off a throw in plays it on to Rowland inside the box flashes a dangerous cross into the six yard box the ball cleared. Another throw won on the corner left side Smith gathering turning pushing on into the area, players closing her down it skips up for Renwick with her in the left to clip in towards goal with the outside of her boot, Anderson well placed to catch. 

Selina Rowland on the ball for Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay creating opportunities of their own taking more risks going forwards are further at risk of being hit on the break and Thorpe a quick to turn play around the ball long up to Lake already on the move left channel running with the ball into the area pulls the trigger, a brilliant save from Pipe throwing up a glove to tip the ball over the bar. The resulting corner in from the left knocked down inside the box a scuffed shot in on goal the ball trapped on the line and cleared.

Rowland looking to bring the ball forwards making a couple of strong runs without finding the final pass, the Thorpe defence under some pressure now Bungay fired up sensing they can get something from the game. Rowland on the left after the ball crossing from the byline, Smith sliding in near post, Anderson getting it away down to block. Thorpe bring off Devine to be replaced by Molly Howes with 25 minutes left to play. Smith sends a shot over from outside the ball as a ball is deflected into her path by Jones. 

  Smith off a quickly taken throw on the left puts it inside to Rowland top of the area, turns attempting to get inside to shoot, a lunging tackle from Ladbrooke denies her. Hazell out wide left takes on a shot from distance in on target Anderson back peddling getting her arms up to tip it away to the right. Bungay keep possession a low driven ball fired back in Anderson down to make another save the ball pushed away for the corner. In from the left inswinging Anderson in a crowded six yard box punching it away. 

Nicola Hazell gathering the ball for Bungay

Despite their earlier dominance Thorpe defending a 1 goal lead aren’t comfortable battling themselves now to keep their advantage intact. Lake strong on the ball bringing it forwards left side travelling at pace, Adams defending well for Bungay. Bungay bring on Shannon Dade for Riggall in the middle. Power intercepting a Thorpe through ball, looks to get Hazell away on the left, Ladbrooke regaining possession for Thorpe. Players committed forwards Thorpe counter played up to Cursons central 30 yards out her first touch pass setting up the advancing Lake moving across her into the area right side to shoot across goal, Pipe with another fantastic saving diving to her left arm out to push the ball behind. 

 The game end to end now the clock running down Bungay can’t clear from the resulting corner Thorpe put it back in Knights near side can’t fashion a shot forced to put it back out to the left the cross long this time Jermy up at the far post her header put cross goal. Bungay get the ball on through the middle Rowland forcing her way in behind clear for a moment looks to have the beating on the advancing Anderson as both slide in Rowland knocking it past the keeper but the power lost on the ball it rolls on to be safely cleared by the recovering Thorpe defence.

 Cursons into the Bungay box receiving a long diagonal ball from the left cuts across her shot firing the ball back across the keeper, Pipe with more acrobatics diving full stretch the push the ball behind her goal. A substitution for Thorpe before the corner is taken, Jermy off with Melissa Belsey back on. Lake remains a constant threat peeling away into the channels left this time racing on to shoot on the angle the ball held by Pipe low at her near post. Adams off late on for Bungay, Penman back into the action. 

  Into the closing minutes the light has almost gone very gloomy, Thorpe battling late on to hold onto their lead, keeping the ball well the youngsters encouraged to run it into the corner. A free-kick won slowing thing’s down Hedtke to play it into the box, headed up high by the Bungay defence play stopped a foul spotted. The ball played out the final whistle blows and Thorpe United Ladies end Bungay’s 100% winning start make it 6 wins out of 6 themselves.. ironically drop a place to 3rd in the table as the other 100% winning side Tavern Ladies go top win a big win against bottom side Freethorpe to claim top spot, all three sides on 18 points now, an intriguing title race that’s far from over.

Full time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies

 A 1-0 win for Thorpe in the finish Millie Cursons goal late in the first half proving the difference. Thorpe dominant in the 1st half having just the one goal to show for it could and perhaps should have been leading by more. Started the 2nd half well, Bungay frustrated fired up coming strong with opportunities of their own to level the scores as Thorpe grew nervous uneasy will just a single goal lead. Dangerous on the counter though as the game opened up, Bungay had Joanne Pipe to thank producing some fantastic saves to keep it to 1-0. Couldn’t find an equalising goal in the finish and that would have been harsh on Thorpe who in the end had to earn the win. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders, for Bungay huge credit to Joanne Pipe produced some quality saves to keep her side in the match throughout. For Thorpe, Rebekah Lake has had a few of these and rightly so a constant threat hard to shake off the ball and making great runs to get into scoring position setting up the winning goal. Sophie Jermy too early on especially finding pockets of space between defence and midfield, where Thorpe were strong, the notes will often help towards picking someone out and that is the case today, Laura Hedtke close but just beating her to the award Alice Ladbrooke. Won alot of challenges, breaking up play and setting up attacks.

Always a good rivalry between the two sides and had no doubt today would be a close fought game. 1 goal in it should have been more but kept the intrigue going to the end an entertaining fast paced contest, a good advert for women’s football in Norfolk. Thanks to both teams for the team details always appreciated.