The Round-Up – FAWNL 25/08/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

  Into the 2nd weekend of the FAWNL season and the attention moves to the League Cup competitions with the now traditional Determining Round, all sides across the six divisions drawn together with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup the losing sides the FAWNL Plate. Always throws up some intriguing ties and some unexpected results. This Sunday played in sweltering temperatures right across the country. 14 ties featuring sides playing in the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One.

Women’s Football East was at one of those ties with a trip to Letchworth and The County Ground home of the Hertfordshire FA and now South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women as they hosted Southern Premier Division side Yeovil Town Women. Last season a fully professional outfit playing in the FAWSL, financial struggles seeing them not only relegated from tier one but no licence given for a place in the Championship. Now though a much brighter outlook for Yeovil as they begin life in the Southern Premier Division, with new ownership hopefully spurring on a resurgence. 

 Incredibly hot Letchworth boasting a brand new 3G playing surface with plenty of rubber underfoot. A few missing for Stevenage as Yeovil quickly got on the front foot, goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis keeping Yeovil at bay until the 20th minute Kelly Aldridge linking with Sarah Wiltshire on the left seeing captain Annie Heatherson set up to blast in a shot from outside the area to make it 1-0. A flowing move from back to front bringing up the 2nd Heatherson long out to Wiltshire left she playing the early ball through the middle as Meesha Dudley-Jones breaks into the area to score. Quickly 3-0 as Aldridge is upended inside the area for a penalty Wiltshire opening up her body with a composed finish. Yeovil dominating the first half leading 3-0.

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

Te’a Oldroyd replacing Vandersluis in the Stevenage goal at half-time, was soon picking the ball up out of the back of her net as Dudley-Jones stole in to win the ball off the defence and take it on into the box to shoot and score 4-0. Dudley-Jones capitalising from a knock down from a corner to smash the ball in a close range to make it 5-0 and complete her hat-trick. The ball in the back of the net as Wiltshire ghosted in between defenders from a free-kick to fire home but was quick to hold her hands up and admit to handling the ball to get into a shooting position. Mattered little as Wiltshire had a 2nd moments later no doubt about this one jinking left and right wide left before sending a long range shot into the top corner. Stevenage forced to go down to 10 with injuries mounting and all subs used Yeovil were on top and Megan Wood put through on goal scored a 7th late on. A convincing result to cap a dominant performance. The full match report can be found below this post.

Elsewhere there was a notable giant killing on Sunday as Cambridge City Ladies newly promoted to the FAWNL South East Division One beat Chichester City Ladies who recorded a 3rd place finish in the Southern Premier Division. A trip down south for Cambridge City knew they would be up against it short on numbers having only the bare 11 available. Working hard on the heat to keep Chichester out Cambridge City scored two quickfire goals on the half hour through Beatrice Fitzsimons and Charlotte Gillies to lead 2-0 at the break. Chichester responding with a triple change at half-time put in an improved 2nd half performance but Cambridge hit them on the counter attack early in the 2nd half and with the keeper off her line Megan Tonks scores to put the visitors 3-0 ahead. Chichester pushed as City held firm a stunning strike from 30 yards from Chichester captain Megan Fox puling a goal back with 10 minutes left on the clock not enough a Cambridge City held out for a memorable win.

An all Southern Premier Division tie saw Watford Ladies travelling down to the South Coast for the 2nd time to face Portsmouth FC Women. A 2-0 away win for the Golden Girls on the opening day. A different story this time around Portsmouth creating opportunities in regular play seeing an effort ruled out for offside, Helen Ward coming close for Watford it remained goalless after 90 minutes the game heading to extra-time. The deadlock broken by the hosts a Tamsin De Bungen fired in a shot from the edge of the area to make it 1-0 in the first period. The lead doubled Rebecca Bath smashing in a shot off the underside of the bar saw Portsmouth progress the the Cup proper winning 2-0.

   Cardiff City Ladies were at South West Division One side Maidenhead United Ladies in this Sunday’s Determining Round. The Southern Premier Division making a great start as Grace Horrell headed them into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A screamer from Chloe Lloyd seeing the lead doubled in the 21st minute. Simone O’Brien scoring for the hosts late in the first half to see Maidenhead trailing 2-1 at half-time. Cardiff restoring their 2 goal lead in the 2nd half with Kelly Issac scoring from long range. The visitors awarded a penalty Cori Williams scoring from the spot made it 4-1 before Lloyd scored another screamer to see the game won 5-1.

 Keynsham Town Ladies newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division were playing their 1st game of the season on Sunday as they hosted Buckland Athletic Women form South West Division One in the Determining Round. The visitors taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes with Sarah Stacey finding the back of the net. Keynsham getting back on level terms just past the half hour with Annys Turner grabbing the goal to make it 1-1. That how it remained deep into the game the winning goal coming in the 84th minute, Libby Piggott celebrating the goal as Keynsham claimed a 2-1 victory.

An 84th minute goal was also enough to clinch victory in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup for Crawley Wasps Ladies as the newly promoted side travelled to fellow Southern Premier Division opponents Oxford United Women who were also playing their first competitive match of the season. 18 goals for their captain Naomi Cole last season on their way to the South East Division One title, Cole scoring late on this Sunday to make it 2 wins from 2.

Another giant killing in the South West as Southern Premier Division side Plymouth Argyle Ladies were beaten in a 7 goal thriller against local rivals Exeter City Women newly promoted to South West Division One. A few missing for Plymouth they fell behind in the 18th minute as Exeter’s Anthea Kaptein fired home to make it 1-0. Plymouth drawing back level on the half hour with Amber Pollock on target. Exeter scoring in the closing moments of the first half to lead 2-1 at the break Kaptein netting her 2nd of the game. Plymouth making a bright start to the 2nd half straight back on level terms Jessie Jones scoring to make it 2-2. The visitors though were to concede almost straight away as Abbie Britton put Exeter back into the lead for the 3rd time in the match. Kaptein completing her hat-trick midway through the 2nd half giving Exeter a valuable 2 goal cushion. Pollock scoring her 2nd of the match making it 4-3, Plymouth couldn’t find another however as Exeter recorded a memorable win.

A positive 3-0 away win to start their season, Milton Keynes Dons Women were on the road once again this Sunday along the M4 to take on Swindon Town Ladies in the Determining Round. Looked to be heading for a goalless scoreline at half-time before Louise Naylor won the ball up the pitch and her cross into the box was nodded in at the far post by Amy Gooderham to make it 1-0 to the Southern Premier Division side. Leah Littlechild then struck twice in the 2nd half to see Milton Keynes in full control of the tie lobbing the keeper in the 60th minute her 2nd a half volley into the top corner to make it 3-0 with 15 minutes left. Mia Chiarizia’s cross in towards goal deflected in to the goal to see the tie won 4-0.

Essex side Billericay Town Ladies were playing host to South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies in Sunday’s Determining Round. Billericay runners-up in South East Division One last season getting off to a fantastic start a brilliant ball from Sophie Vale turned in by Karissa Rodney. More chances came for the hosts, Cheltenham though where to get back on level terms on 22 minutes Sally Butterflied heading home to make it 1-1. The honours even at the break Billericay retaking the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd period winning a penalty, Danica Dougal making no mistake from the spot to put the hosts 2-1 up. The lead extended midway through the 2nd half with Jay Blackie on target to see Billericay to a 3-1 win.

A long trip to the South Coast for South East Division One side, Ipswich Town Women in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday taking on Southampton FC from South West Division One. A strong first half from the hosts setting up victory as Ella Pusey put Southampton into the lead on 16 minutes. Sophie Pharoah doubling the advantage just before the half hour two goals late in the first half from Alisha Ware seeing Southampton lead 4-0 at the break. Phoebe Williams netting a 5th goal 15 minutes into the 2nd half so after Ware brought up her hat-trick to see Southampton win 6-0.

Elsewhere there were a host of tie featuring an all South East Division One line up. The game between Actonians Ladies and AFC Wimbledon Ladies abandoned in the 90th minute with the sides drawing 1-1 due to an injury to an Actonians player an ambulance required. Have no further news will update if I learn more can only wish the player involved well and hope it’s not too serious.

Opening day away wins for both Enfield Town Ladies and Norwich City Ladies in the league they met in the cup this Sunday with Norwich making the trip down to Donkey Lane. Enfield making a bright start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes with Katherine Long firing them into the lead with her 2nd of the season. A narrow advantage at half-time. Enfield doubled the lead in the 57th minute Laura Baker scoring the late winner against Cambridge United last Sunday also on target with her 2nd goal of the season for her new club. Enfield winning 2-0.

Katherine Long scored the opening goal in Enfield’s 2-0 win over Norwich

   Also a 2-0 scoreline as Kent Football United newly promoted to the FAWNL South East Division One played at home for the first time competitively this season against AFC Basildon Women. The victory going to the visitors from Essex as they edged out Kent Football United to progress the the FAWNL Cup proper.

Extra-time and a 7 goal thriller in the final match to bring you from this Sunday’s Determining Round games, Cambridge United WFC heading down to London to play Leyton Orient WFC. Played in sweltering heat it was the visitors who opened the scoring with Kelley Blanchflower finding the back of the net in the 10th minute. Otesha Charles getting Leyton Orient back on level terms in the 19th minute. That remained the scoreline at half-time. Cambridge getting their noses in front early in the 2nd period with Faith Hewitt scrambling the ball home from a corner. The lead though lasting just 3 minutes a stunning half volley from Michelle Young from outside the area making it 2-2. Charles put through to score her 2nd of the game saw Leyton Orient lead 3-2. Cambridge battling away forcing extra-time with a goal at the death of normal time Mollie Coupar with the finish. Late heartbreak for Cambridge last weekend it was another crushing late goal deep into extra-time that saw Leyton Orient clinch victory a corner put in deep Ellie Stanning rising at the back post heading the ball down inside the post to win the game.

A hot weekend some great performances no one out at this stage we await the draws for both competitions.

 

 

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Yeovil Town Women

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 A trip down to Letchworth this Sunday for a match form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women taking on Yeovil Town Women from the Southern Premier Division.

  The Determining Round now a traditional part of the FAWNL calendar the sides from all six divisions drawn against each other with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup itself the losing sides entering the Plate competition. 

  The draw throwing up many intriguing ties right across the country, can be hard to chose one but settled on this one early on. 

  Stevenage have established themselves within the FAWNL, now linking up with the Stevenage FC Foundation the club has changed name from Stevenage Ladies to Stevenage FC Women to reflect the growing trend within the sport. An large influx of new signings for both the 1st and Development team as the club looks to push on. Amongst the newcomers joining are Lisa Nixon from Luton Town Ladies and striker Jenny Nagle from AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A goal conceded in the 88th minute last Sunday saw Stevenage lose their opening day fixture 2-1 to Actonians Ladies.

 A new beginning to of sorts for Yeovil Town too, albeit one they would have preferred to be somewhere else. One of the founding members of an all professional FAWSL the club struggled to find investment and that brought difficulties that impacted upon their season finishing bottom. An application to join the Championship turned down by the FA the club were relegated back to the FAWNL. Since then investment has come in with Adam Murry becoming the clubs new owner. Re-branded too as Yeovil Town Women. A brighter outlook awaits a positive future for a club that has always been a committed force to women’s football in the South West. Always enjoyed my trips down to Somerset to watch them in my FAWSL supporting days. The squad has seen a few departures but experience has been added with the likes of Dan Carlton and Sarah Wiltshire who returns to Yeovil after playing for Tottenham Hotspur Women. Top the Southern Premier Division after the opening fixtures last Sunday winning 9-0 away to the newly created Hounslow Women.

  The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, the home of the Hertfordshire FA, Stevenage’s 1st team will be playing their home matches there this season. The ground undergoing development, first off a brand new 3G playing surface and surround. Alot of rubber laid in it’s construction. A new bar and clubhouse layout too with plenty of potential for more improvements to come. A blisteringly hot August bank Holiday Sunday, 30 plus degrees a blue sky the sun bright, the 3G pitch only adding to the temperature. I’m wearing shorts and I only do that if I absolutely have too! Enjoying it while it lasts however. 

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Kristi Burling, Leah Dunnage, Dominique Godbeer, Amy Notschild, Nicole Dunbar, Cara Breckenridge, Lisa Dixon, Amy Makewell (C), Louise Godden & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Te’a Oldroyd, Hayley Wood-Thompson & Mickie Palfreman.

Yeovil Town Women starting XI – Beth Howard, Harriet Lambe, Rebecca Halford, Thierry-Jo Gauvain, Jodie Chubb, Annie Heatherson (C), Dan Carlton, Kelly Aldridge, Sarah Wiltshire, Megan Wood & Meesha Dudley-Jones. Subs – Elena Pearce, Charlotte Buxton, Alexis Bussell, Maya Ridge & Rosie Kirby.

  It’s Yeovil wearing an all yellow away kit to get the match underway kicking off 1st half. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing white and pale red vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. The hosts with a few players unavailable, 5 new signings in today’s squad with, Lisa Nixon, Nicole Dunbar, Leah Dunnage and Louise Godden all starting, Mickie Palfremian on the bench. Stevenage press straight away forcing Yeovil to play the ball back to their defence, played forwards into Yeovil captain Annie Heatherson on halfway she plays a superb long pass out to Sarah Wiltshire over on the left she sends it on through the middle looking to pick out Kelly Aldridge making a run, Hannah Vandersluis with a good starting position top of her area able to gather the ball first.

   Nixon gets hold of the ball in midfield for Stevenage picks out Dunnage bursting on down the left win looks to take the ball infield his clipped and brought down by Yeovil full back Rebecca Halford  a free-kick awarded just outside the area despite her protests. Nixon over it players forwards she squares it towards Godden in a central position she opens up her body attempting to slip it on for Dunnage, Heatherson having read the move tracking Dunnage back on her to put in the tackle regain possession outside the six yard box.

  Yeovil counter attack rapidly the ball taken out wide right a cross flung into the area headed out for a throw. Dan Carlton picks the ball up from the throw right travels infield 30 yards out a one two made with Heatherson, Carlton strikes the ball runs wide of the Stevenage goal. Yeovil have quickly settled winning the ball high play turned around quickly a pass put into the feet of Megan Wood right of goal strikes a low shot in towards goal Vandersluis diving is beaten the ball cannoning off the base of the post. 

Yeovil’s Rebecca Halford with Stevenage’s Louise Godden

  Dunnage with a heavy impact with the surface as she brings the ball out for defence allows Yeovil in behind, Meesha Dudley-Jones sending a high cross into the area Vandersluis making a confident claim. Yeovil’s attacking players harassing the Stevenage defence keep the pressure on. Space opens up on the right for full back Halford to run into given the ball cuts it into Aldridge top of the box her touch taking the ball on into the area ,Dominique Godbeer stays on her shoulder to clear for Stevenage.

  Twisting and turning on the ball outside the area left of goal Wiltshire sets herself to shoot, Godbeer backing off gives herself time to get into position to block the effort.  The danger not cleared a 2nd shot made left of the D driven in low Vandersluis down low to her right saves pushing the ball behind for a corner. A good delivery from the left in high Aldridge up inside the box towards the back post heading the ball into the ground goes after the loose ball herself a stab with her boot deflecting it goalwards rising a smart save from Vandersluis. 

Kelly Aldridge making the tackle

 Is very hot out there the sun beating down. Yeovil despite that are looking sharp at the start of the game continue to attack another corner won left swept into the area falling invitingly inside the six yard box a Stevenage boot making vital contact to launch clear. Aldridge receiving the ball central 25 yards out from goal attempt to play Wiltshire in behind cutting in from the left, Vandersluis sliding in sending up a cloud of rubber balls doing enough to put the attacker off.

 Stevenage attacks rare Nicole Emmings leading the line having very little to feed on, Godden getting up in support when she can, an attack broken up the ball cleared up to Heatherson sees Dudley-Jones moving away into space on the right the pass on the money taken in her stride Dudley-Jones bares down on goal shooting low near post saved by Vandersluis.

    Godden a willing runner given half a chance for Stevenage, captain Amy Makewell playing the ball on through the middle she goes after it, Jodie Chubb dealing with the threat comfortably for Yeovil in the centre of defence playing it back to goalkeeper Beth Howard, Godden stays alert the kick out striking her inside the six yard box could have gone anywhere, the rebound however favouring Howard coming straight back at her to get hold of. 

Stevenage’s Lisa Nixon

 Harriet Lambe at left back for Yeovil plays the ball up field Wiltshire with support for Dudley-Jones left side outside the box, lays the ball back to Dudley-Jones hits it well enough low in towards goal straight at Vandersluis however. 20 minutes played. Yeovil are getting closer Wiltshire has the ball glued to her feet as she jinks and twists avoiding challenges on the left outside the box eventually making room for a shot her looping ball striking the crossbar. 

  GOAL! The pressure Yeovil have applied eventually tells as they open the scoring. Aldridge linking up with Wiltshire on the left in attack combination play seeing the ball fired into the area blocked Aldridge back to Wiltshire she squares it to Heatherson central her shot flying in past the diving keeper 0-1.

Yeovil Town Women captain, Annie Heatherson with the opening goal

  Time for drinks, a break in play called. Stevenage make a change, Hayley Wood-Thompson on for Dunnage. Stevenage look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball played into the left channel, Godden after it, Thierry-Jo Gauvain going back with her tackling and winning the ball in the corner. Stevenage keep the ball alive in the final third players up a set-piece lifted into the area the ball knocked down to the top of the area, Nixon top of the D gets her foot up over the top of the ball to strike a shot back in Chubb blocking for Yeovil.

   Wiltshire lines up a shot from distance the strike tipped up over the bar by Vandersluis. A corner on the left defended by Dunnage at the near post. Stevenage can’t break Heatherson supported by Carlton winning the midfield battle. Wiltshire drifting into a central position plays a great ball on for Dudley-Jones away on the left she lifts a cross into the far post, Wood getting a toe on it lifts it over, the flag up against her. 

Yeovil Town Women’s Thierry-Jo Gauvain

  Makewell looks to play Godden away down the left in attack for Stevenage Gauvain pacey back to defend against her sets up the counter attack the ball through the middle into the feet of Wiltshire outside the area left side no power behind the shot comfortably caught by Vandersluis. Wood away right side into the box under challenge gets a shot away saved Aldridge central attempts to score, a glove from the keeper puts it wide for a corner. Stevenage struggle to clear their lies Yeovil all over them Carlton gets a shot away from distance lacks power Vandersluis down to gather. The Stevenage keeper very busy making another double save as the ball is struck at close range. 

 GOAL! Yeovil have a 2nd goal and it’s a great move from back to front, Heatherson on the ball deep her pass out long for Wiltshire left her diagonal ball sending Dudley-Jones through on goal, central strikes it early the shot driven n past the diving goalkeeper 0-2.

  GOAL! Two quickly becomes three! Yeovil awarded a penalty as Aldridge pressing into the area left of goal is upended. Wiltshire placing the ball on the spot a well taken penalty opening up her body to lift the ball wide of the keeper to score 0-3. 

Sarah Wiltshire scoring from the penalty spot.

  A hammer blow for Stevenage they get a free-kick up the other end wide left as Burling breaks forwards trying to link with Godden. Nixon to play the ball into the top of the area, Burling attempting to flick on can’t connect as Yeovil see it safely into the gloves of their keeper. Wiltshire remains a threat out wide or cutting inside no one can stay with her, free in behind Vandersluis takes a risk sliding in well outside her box the ball spinning in behind Wiltshire keeps her footing after it the angle against her as she is closed down fires her shot across the empty goal. 

  Burling with another foray forwards for Stevenage cuts inside the ball defended loose Nixon latches onto it 30 yards out sends a high ball in towards goal, Howard needing to keep an eye on it back on her line sees it over. Up the other end Dudley-Jones stealing the ball off the defence sees a shot whip up over the bar. Wood right drives on with the ball for Yeovil squares it into Aldridge top corner of the area runs on  past her for Dudley-Jones behind she curls a shot past the near post.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-3 Yeovil Town Women

  A dominant first half display from Yeovil sees them leading Stevenage 3-0 at the break. Having created a host of chances eventually opened the scoring midway through the first half. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of fantastic saves to keep her side in in 2 quick fire goals late in the half putting Yeovil in the driving seat. Have moved the ball well and runs off it have been superb through the half despite the heat out there in reply thier defence has been little troubled. 

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

  Stevenage making a double change at the start of the 2nd half, Mickie Palfreman on for Notschild in defence and a change of goalkeeper too as Vandersluis is replaced by Te’a Oldroyd, a baseball cap adorning her head as the high sun faces her goal 2nd half. A switch of sides for me too 2nd half need some shade myself. Alot for Stevenage to do if they are to try and get something from the game. The hosts kicking off the 2nd period. Yeovil however are straight into the attack the ball won played wide to Wiltshire left a shot from distance dropping wide across goal. Palfremian in to clear the ball in the heart of defence as another cross is whipped in close to goal form the left.

Stevenage’s Mickie Palfreman

 GOAL! Just what Stevenage would have wanted to avoid as they conceded a fourth goal right at the start of the 2nd half. Caught in possession at the back in front of the D, Dudley-Jones nicks the ball drives on into the box and sends her shot in under the newly arrived keeper 0-4.

  Yeovil starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st get the ball forwards at will, Wiltshire with a diagonal ball left side on for Heatherson moving forwards she crosses into the six yard box Aldridge closing in forcing a save from Oldroyd at pointblank range. Stevenage attempt to counter Breckenridge on for Makewell central on for Emmings in attack, Godden supplying a good run to her left the pass towards her Godden takes it deep before crossing disappointingly into the side netting. A great first touch from Palfreman at the back for Stevenage looks to have put Godden through in behind on the left only for her attack to be thwarted by a raised flag.

   Palfreman making an impact at the back for Stevenage winning challenges sends the ball up field Godden looking to get after it, Gauvain keeping with her defending for Yeovil in the final third. The visitors break quickly as they have all game Dudley-Jones away on the right, whips a vicious cross in across goal Wiltshire close in attacking the far post doesn’t get the contact she wants heavy allows the Stevenage defence to clear. Halford bursting into space on the right side as Aldridge spots her run the cross delivered near post Wiltshire advanced again to attack it under challenge fires wide.

Yeovil attack shows no relenting Dudley-Jones a threat on the right sending a ball in across the six yard box Aldridge throwing a leg at it can’t connect. Wiltshire is everywhere in attack finding herself free in a central position top of the area hits a rising ball in towards goal, a top class save from Oldroyd gloves it up over the bar. 

  GOAL! From the resulting corner Yeovil extend their lead the ball fired in fast near post deflected down into the ground falls to the feet of Dudley-Jones to strike hard from six yards out through feet giving the keeper no chance and complete her hat-trick 0-5.

A hat-trick for Yeovil Town Women’s Meesha Dudley-Jones

   Has been a frustrating afternoon for Emmings in attack for Stevenage the ball played forwards to the right the striker makes a determined run to get forwards flashing a cross from deep across the face of goal, Halford tracking back with Godden swinging a foot to clear the ball before it can be attacked the corner conceded. The ball in a great one falling into the six yard box Yeovil fail to clear an instinctive header from Emmings close in only succeeds in putting it straight into Howard’s gloves.

Nicole Emmings forcing her way forwards for Stevenage

  Oldroyd with another brilliant save as Yeovil mount an attack on the left Wood crossing square to Aldridge who tees up Heatherson to shoot from 25 yards out the ball in low Oldroyd down t stop it. Yeovil make their first change of the match with Aldridge coming off to be replace by Maya Ridge.

  A free-kick inside the Stevenage half for Yeovil presents a further opportunity to attack the box Carlton on the ball lifting it in towards the top of the area, Wiltshire ghosting in between defenders getting a touch to set it up and shoot across the keeper and score, Stevenage immediately appealing for handball! Nothing given by the officials, a moments hesitation between her first and second touches Wiltshire sportingly admits to handling the ball, an action to be applauded and play resumes with a goal kick.

 GOAL! That said a moment later Wilshire is celebrating a goal scored beautifully with her feet, no question about it a fantastic strike as she gets onto the ball wide left isn’t closed down on the angle strikes it well across the keeper from distance and into the top corner 0-6.

  Wiltshire continues to be a threat played in on goal closing down the keeper left side she manages to avoid her diving challenge in behind, Burling gets back on her to make the tackle before she can craft a shot. Wood has support from Halford getting in the clear right side sends in a cross near post Wiltshire close in smashes a rising shot against the bar as Oldroyd leaps grounded the keeper recovers fantastically getting in the way to save as Dudley-Jones coming in far side smashes the ball against her.

Rebecca Halford looking for options for Yeovil Town Women

  Another drinks break called, an injury to Godbeer is unable to continue leaving Stevenage with just 10 on the field. Yeovil make a change Wiltshire coming off Alexis Bussell. 20 minutes left to play. Play resumes Dudley-Jones is put away right side shooting sees her attempt bounce wide across goal.

  GOAL! Halford bringing the ball on down the right miscues her forwards ball intended for Wood down the line instead goes central into Carlton she reacts well aware of Wood’s run flicks the ball out to her charging into the box Wood takes a touch a smashes it over the keeper into the top corner 0-7.

 Yeovil make their final change with Rosie Kirby coming on to replace Halford at right back. Has all been Yeovil have maintained high energy levels despite the heat their younger players encouraged well by the more experienced. Into the final 6 minutes of the game Stevenage are tired been a tough afternoon. Dudley-Jones has pace to burn in behind blasts another effort wide across goal. Carlton with a break forwards with the ball encouraged to go on attempts to lob the keeper her effort falling wide of goal. 

Yeovil Town Women midfielder, Dan Carlton

  Breckenridge back in defence now blocking at the near post as Wood wide left drives a low cross into the box. Bussell beating the offside trap in the closing moments played in by Carlton in central plays her strike wide of goal. The final whistle blowing soon after and everyone can retreat to the shade.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 0-7 Yeovil Town Women

  A comprehensive result for Yeovil Town Women as they dominated from start to finish to beat Stevenage 7-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. often a strange game as no one actually exits at this point just know what trophy you will be fighting for. That said a huge confidence boost for Yeovil nevertheless 16 goals scored in two matches. A good performance in soaring temperatures, well worked goals further chances created. Great movement on and off the ball bodes well going into the season. On the flip side a day to forget for Stevenage never got going shaky at the back little to offer in attack must go down as a bad day at the office and galvanise them going forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as you might expect today’s contenders are all from Yeovil. I thought Kelly Aldridge was superb and the driving force early on that set the tome for the visitors with some great attacking runs and interplay. Sarah Wiltshire could have had 5 or 6 goals today created numerous opportunities and she’s a nightmare for defenders to track as she drifts in almost unnoticed at times. Great close control with the ball always looking for an opening. Just edging it though is Meesha Dudley-Jones her movement up front and coming in from the right just as superb netting a hat-trick and like Wiltshire should have had more.

  I’m not a hot weather person but I’m not going to knock it, an enjoyable trip to Letchworth today, the Determining Round is always an intriguing fixture in the football calendar. My thanks to both sides with their help today.  

The Round-Up – ERWFL 18/08/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 18th August

ERWFL Premier Division

One more edition of The Round-Up to bring you this week as this Sunday also saw the start of the new ERWFL season, the Premier Division sides beginning their campaigns. Once again featuring 12 sides, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies promoted along with last season’s Division One champions St Ives Town Ladies. AFC Sudbury Ladies are relegated to the new Division One North whilst Luton Town Ladies drop into the league having finished bottom of FAWNL South East Division One last season. Like the FAWNL above the ERWFL has seen a far bit of player movement over the close season.

  All 12 sides in action on the opening day and for a couple their were mouth watering scorelines. Colney Heath Ladies starting the new campaign with a bang. Entering their 3rd season playing in the Premier Division were at home taking on AFC Dunstable Women who having struggled last season were looking forwards to the new season with renewed optimism. New players brought in it proved to be a tough first fixture one to be forgotten as they were soundly beaten by a double figure margin. An ex-player inflicting the most damage as Samaira Khan newly signed by Colney Heath scored 4 goals on her competitive debut. Rianne Townsend-Brown top scorer for Colney Heath last season with 15 goals getting her account opened as she netted a hat-trick. Three more scoring a brace on the opening day with Megan Kelly, Lucy Hancock and Charlene Moreton all getting 2 each Adrienne Milton also celebrating a goal in a 15-1. Bianca Vassell starring for the Development side last season with the consolation goal for Dunstable. 

  A huge goal difference already for Colney Heath, also too for Royston Town Women as they started with a big result at home to Haringey Borough Women on the opening day. A 3rd placed finish for Royston last season, Joanne Rutherford led the goal scoring charts with 19 goals. Hit a hat-trick on the opening day with Ellie Wilkerson, Samantha Edgar and Emma Slater all scoring a brace in a comfortable 9-0 win.

A hat-trick for Royston Town Women’s, Joanne Rutherford on the opening day

  Closer results elsewhere, the two newly promoted sides meeting on the opening day, St Ives Town Ladies travelling to Essex to play Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. The hosts making a great start as Sophie Dowman fired them into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. That remained the score at the break. A sloppy start to the 2nd half allowing St Ives the opportunity to get back on level terms scoring form a free-kick in the 47th minute then taking the lead themselves 5 minutes later with Sasha Smith and Ruth Fox opening their accounts. Bowers & Pitsea rallying late on the game into the final 10 minutes a free-kick won on the edge of the box fired home by Megan Harley 2-2. The 3 points won with 5 minutes left on the clock the Essex side winning a corner the ball delivered far post a bullet header from new signing and captain Donna Fletcher finding the back of the net to win it 3-2.

  Luton Town Ladies began life in the ERWFL with an away trip to the Branch Bros Stadium to play Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. Both sides making several new additions to their squads over the summer with both expecting to be challenging for top spot. Dionne Manning opening the scoring to put Luton into the lead 1st half. Peterborough coming back to level and then score another to lead 2-1 before the break with Emma Pollard scoring both goals. Luton getting back on level terms themselves in the 2nd period with Manning on the scoresheet for her 2nd of the game. A dramatic finish to the match with Manning grabbing a late winner and completing a hat-trick to win the game for Luton 3-2.

   Bedford Ladies were playing hosts on the opening day to a familiar opponent but with a new name this season as Acle United Women become Wroxham Women. Will be aiming for the title regardless once again in their new colours a new beginning they found themselves trailing at the break to a first half penalty with Priya Bhatti scoring for Bedford. Emily Leach joining late last season adds presence and a goal threat in Wroxham’s final third and she was on target to get the visitors back on level terms at 1-1 before Kayleigh Holloway newly signed from local rivals and Premier Division counterparts Wymondham Town scored a rocket on her debut to see the game won 2-1. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies themselves were hosting Essex side Harlow Town Ladies on the opening day. Both promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division last season were impressive in their debut season at this level will be looking to kick on further, both making several changes and additions to their squads over the close season. Harlow taking the lead in the 22nd minute hitting Wymondham on the break Bethany Chambers putting the ball home. Wymondham coming back to level just past the half hour new signing Mia Etheridge arriving from Sudbury scoring from a crossed ball on her debut. 1-1 at the break Wymondham pressed hard for another goal 2nd half Harlow keeping them out the sides sharing the points.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 18/08/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 18th August

 Here we are again the start of another new football season, another exciting few month ahead across the East and beyond in the case of the FAWNL where Women’s Football East will once again be covering the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One. The quality of both leagues increasing year upon year. Plenty of transfers made over the close season several catching the eye and a good number making their mark on the opening Sunday of the season as you shall read below. 

  Feeling far from prepared for the season ahead behind with the website updates but had my reasons as most of you will have seen if not refer to the post further down the page for more details. Will get there just a little later than I’d like to be. Got to plough on however.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A 12 strong Southern Premier Division once again, and hope that will remain the case a postponement on the opening day seeing Keynsham Town Ladies newly promoted to the league unable to play Oxford United Women. Crawley Wasps Ladies the other side promoted to the league storming to the South East Division One table following promotion last season and see no reason why they will not be amongst those at the top end of the Southern Premier Division this time around. A name change as QPR Women move to join forces with Hounslow Women to create a new side. Not a total split from QPR itself as the team and name are retained within the regional set-up below.

  Another newcomer to the league albeit not by their choice former FAWSL 1 side Yeovil Town Women. Often punching above their weight a popular club amongst many a neutral were unable to obtain a license for the Championship. That saw the club appeal for new investment and since then a new owner has come in whilst the commitment to women’s football within Somerset and beyond remains as strong and committed as it ever was. 

  It was to Hounslow that Yeovil travelled on the opening day of the season and hit the ground running back in the 3rd tier of women’s football. Anne-Marie Heatherson getting Yeovil off to a flying start with an early opening goal. Meesha Dudley-Jones on target to make it 2-0 to the visitors with Heatherson finding the top corner to make it 3-0. Kelly Aldridge scoring her first of the season too to see Yeovil leading 4-0 at half-time. Aldridge quickly adding to the scoreline with her 2nd of the match after the restart. Sarah Wiltshire returning to Yeovil after playing for Tottenham Hotspur Women will be a strong addition at this level struck the post before opening her account from a free-kick to make it 6-0. Aldridge completing an opening day hat-trick to see Yeovil in 7th heaven. The goals kept coming as Wiltshire matched Aldridge with 2 more goals to also claim a hat-trick on the opening day to see Yeovil top the Southern Premier Division table.

   Moving into 2nd spot in the Southern Premier Division table after the opening Sunday results are Milton Keynes Dons Women. Promoted to this level for the first time in their history last season took a little time to settle but were comfortable in the finish securing a 9th placed finish. Have made a number of additions to their squad this time around as they look to push on. Were away on the opening day playing last season’s 3rd placed finishers Chichester City Ladies who for a good portion of the season were up their with eventual champions Coventry United Ladies. A tough start to the season this time around as Milton Keynes made a fine start. Rebecca McShane, Vicky Neal, Dominika Netschova and Jessica Driscoll amongst those joining the squad. Two of those scoring the winning goals. McShane joining from Watford putting Milton Keynes it the lead inside the opening quarter hour. Netschova scoring on her competitive debut too making it 2-0 in the 35th minute. The 3 points secured 2nd half as Netschova found the back of the net in the 65th minute to seal a 3-0 away win.

  Crawley Wasps Ladies have once again added to their squad as they prepare to take another step up the women’s football pyramid this just their 2nd season in the FAWNL. Just one league defeat last time around started this season with a 2-0 home win over Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Samantha Pittuck joining Crawley after a season with their South East Division One rivals Billericay Town Ladies that saw her score 18 goals in 19 appearances. Was quickly off the mark with her new side putting Crawley into the lead midway through the 1st half. The hosts doubling the lead with 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half sending a looping ball in from the top of the box. Megan Stow shown a straight red card saw Crawley down to 10 with 25 minutes left to play, held onto a clean sheet however to begin the season with a home victory.

  Watford FC Ladies began their Southern Premier Division campaign with a trip to the South Coast to play Portsmouth FC Women. A number of new additions to the Golden Girls squad over the summer. Two starting on Sunday midfielder Megan Chandler and goalkeeper Nina Wilson with Ocean Rolandsen making the move form London Bees and Emma Beckett who was at Tottenham Hotspur Women last season named on the bench. It was a familiar name however that got the first goal of the season, Helen Ward netting 18 goals last time around, getting her account opened in the 15th minute to fire Watford into the lead, another coming for Ward in the closing moments of the first half as she struck to make it 2-0. A clean sheet kept intact in the 2nd period seeing Watford journey home with 3 points on the back.

  Cardiff City Ladies announcing before their opening fixture that the rules had changed to allow them to compete within the FAWSL/Championship should they win promotion. A runners-up finish last time around the Welsh side often amongst those challenging at the top of the Southern Premier Division were hosting Kent side, Gillingham Ladies. 9 new signings made by Gillingham manager Jack Wheeler over the summer including the return of former captain Jade Keogh, she along with Hannah Wheeler who spent last season with Championship side London Bee and ex-Charlton player Jess Carpinini all starting Sunday’s game with two further additions both ex-Charlton, Ellie Jeffkins and Georgia Pearch named on the bench. Gillingham enjoying their long trip to Wales as they opened the scoring with a fantastic goal finished by Grace Harrison. A slender lead Cardiff had an opportunity to level on 58 minutes awarded a penalty Cori Williams seeing her shot  saved by Gillingham goalkeeper Cara Davies as she helped them to secure and opening day victory.

FAWNL South East Division One

  Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies were the two sides gaining promotion to the FAWNL last season both making their debut at this level and taking the league by storm both strengthening their squads were neck and neck for a time at the top before Crawley losing just one game all season that against Billericay going on to finish champions and gain promotion. Will Billericay be as strong again this season or will the others catch up? Has been alot of player movement in the league and several sides have made notable additions was very competitive below the top two and expect that to be the case this time around. Cambridge City Ladies and Kent Football United the promoted sides this time around both again making their bow at this level a tough act for the newly promoted pair to follow. A new era begins for AFC Basildon Women formerly C&K Basildon relegated from the Southern Premier Division. Amongst those making several new additions to their squad are buoyant going into the new season with renewed optimism.

The FAWNL South East Division One is where the season begins for Women’s Football East, the first of many match reports that shall be produced over the season across all 15 leagues under the umbrella. A new era too for Cambridge United WFC as they move to a new home after spending 3 seasons playing at Mildenhall Town FC. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium their new base for home games and training closer to Cambridge. Their opponents familiar as they took on Enfield Town Ladies. A great season for the visitors last time around finishing 3rd. Ex-Cambridge player Laura Baker amongst their new signings as they started the game strongly taking the game to Cambridge creating much of the early chances opened the scoring in the 20th minute, new signing Beth Lumsden with a brilliant flick in the middle to release striker Katherine Long in behind the Cambridge defence caught high, goalkeeper Savannah Smith well off her line Long struck early sending the ball angling past the keeper and one into the empty net to open the scoring. Cambridge gaining in little momentum late in the first half won a corner in the final minute the ball cleared out to midfielder Charlotte Crisp her touch and shot were excellent from range as she sent the ball in towards goal dipping in front of the diving keeper to sneak in inside the post to see the sides drawing at the break. 

A better start to the 2nd half saw Cambridge apply pressure to Enfield higher up the pitch and chances were fashioned. Enfield making changes to counter the home side coped with the threat a physical and competitive game as it always is between the pair the game could have gone either way 2nd half, Enfield finding a bit more late on as Cambridge tired breaking in the closing moments a cross from the left deep kept alive by Anna Re sent back in across the six yard box the Cambridge defence stretched, Laura Baker was well positioned central to apply the touch and score the winning goal. The full report from the game can be found in the post below.

Tough away trips for both the newly promoted sides on the opening day of the season with Cambridge City Ladies, ERWFL Champions last season travelling to London to play last season’s 5th placed finishers Leyton Orient WFC. An early goal for the hosts with Hayley Barton setting Leyton Orient on their way in the 3rd minute. Cambridge City coming back to level in the 15th minute with a goal for Karly Tolentino on her debut. Leyton Orient were back in front 10 minutes later with Egle Trezzi opening her account to see the hosts 2-1 up at the break. Leyton Orient having the better of the 2nd half with captain Danielle Griffiths putting them 3-0 up on the hour. Sophie Le Marchand adding a 4th goal with 15 minutes to go, 2nd half substitute Belen Ripoll Douton making it 5-1 to Leyton Orient with 2 minutes left on the clock, enough to see them top the league after the opening day results.

   A short trip up into Essex for Kent Football United as they made their FAWNL bow taking on last season’s runners-up, Billericay Town Ladies. Plenty of experience within the Billericay squad the host opened the scoring on 20 minutes, 15 goals to her name last season Jay Blackie getting the Essex sides opening goal of the season. Danica Dougal scoring with 5 minutes left of the first half to see Billericay leading 2-0 at half-time. 32 goals for Zoe Rushen last season she got her account up and running 12 minutes into the 2nd half lobbing the keeper to make it 3-0. Billericay’s captain Lindsey Morgan scoring soon after to bring up the Essex sides 4th. Kent Football United had chances themselves were awarded a penalty with 20 minutes left on the clock Amy Russ coolly sending the ball into the bottom corner to score their first goal in the FAWNL. Blackie on target with her 2nd of the game restoring Billericay’s 4 goal cushion. Kent Football United capitalising scoring a scrambled goal in the 88th minute with Shannon Burke the scorer.

Greg Dimsey the new manager in charge of Norwich City Women’s (newly renamed) first team this season as they started the season with a trip down to Essex to take on AFC Basildon Women. A new era beginning for both looking to make their mark on the league. Basildon bringing in a host of new players, with experience at this level and young emerging talent alike. Ex-Ipswich players Cassie Craddock and Harriet Petley along with Cerys Adams and Poppy Binding making their Basildon debuts. The visitors from Norfolk opening the scoring with Aimee Durrant heading in to make it 1-0 within the opening minute. Chelsea Garrett top scoring with 14 goals last season on target to see Norwich go 2 nil in front. Sophie Spencer-Webb pulling a goal back for Basildon before half-time. The hosts then getting back on level terms at the start of the 2nd period with Binding scoring. Norwich added to their attacking threat late last season bringing in Megan Todd and she has the potential to make a huge impact in South East Division One, scoring twice she helped Norwich secure a 4-2 win to go 3rd in the table.

   Two more sides that will be expecting good campaigns this time around too met on the opening day with Stevenage Women (also newly renamed) taking on Actonians Ladies, both making new additions to their squads, both featured an ex-AFC Wimbledon attacker. Jenny Nagle amongst the starters for Stevenage, Caroline Bisson was a starter for Actonians. Amy Makewell captaining Stevenage getting the hosts opening goal of the season to see them leading at the break. Bisson scoring for Actonians drawing them back on level terms 15 minutes into the 2nd half, then just as it was between Cambridge and Enfield it was late heartbreak for the hosts too as Bisson struck again in the closing moments to win the game 2-1 for Actonians.

   A dominant display at home for Ipswich Town Women however they had to settle for a point n the opening day as they took on AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A number of their talented U21s featuring in their starting line-up they found themselves trailing inside the opening quarter hour as new signing Helen Ogle fired Wimbledon into the lead with her first competitive goal for the club. Ipswich pressing hard for a reply before the break finding the back of the net to make it 1-1 with Abbie Lafayette scoring. Ipswich creating chances in the 2nd period as Wimbledon worked hard to keep them out to earn themselves a point.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

Sunday 18th August

  The new season is here and I’m as excited as ever to bring you coverage of football across the East at all levels. Beginning with a game from the opening day of the FAWNL from South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies.

 Both sides stalwarts of an FAWNL South East Division One league that has undergone many changes in recent seasons as the women’s game continues to grow across the country. Increasingly more competitive the standards raised season upon season this campaign looks certain to be no different. The newly promoted sides dominating last season with Crawley Wasps Ladies storming to the title and promotion to the Southern Premier Division whilst Billericay Town Ladies finished as runners-up. Cambridge City Ladies and Kent Football United the sides promoted this time around both playing at this level for the first time.

A new era begins for Cambridge United WFC as they move to The Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC after spending 3 season playing at Mildenhall Town FC. A move that brings them closer to Cambridge and a centralised base for training and playing. Excellent facilities at their disposal. Whilst the promoted pair were running away with it at the top below it was highly competitive last season a late run of form putting Cambridge within a shout of breaking into the top half tailed off to finish 8th overall, Mollie Coupar top scoring with 13 goals. A few departures over the close season to the squad and coaching staff, Ben Yeomans assisting manager Kevin Hoover this season. Gemma Croucher joining the squad from Royston Town Women with Faith Hewitt also back with the squad.

Enfield Town Ladies long established at this level enjoying a fantastic campaign in the league last season strong all season emerging top of the competitive tussle in the middle of the table to record a 3rd placed finish. Helped in part to 16 goals for Molly Peters the ex-West Ham player moving to Championship side Lewes this season. Enfield have added to their squad bringing in the likes of Anna Re and Beth Lumsden along with Rachel Koskey from Luton Town Ladies and Laura Baker who spent last season with Watford Ladies after having previously played for Cambridge United WFC. Formerly the A10 derby the two sides always enjoy a competitive and hard fought game.

Cambridge initially moving to Mildenhall to take advantage of the excellent playing surface on offer, and the move to St Neots offers another superb playing surface, albeit flatter than the slope they’ve become used too. Perfect for the passing game no excuses to play the ball along the ground and want to. Lush and green at the start of the season offering good with, a main seated stand on one side of the ground, covered terracing at each end, a bar open for hot and cold drinks. The weather bright and sunny although a fair amount of dark cloud around, both sun cream and umbrella in the rucksack. A strong breeze blowing too but all in all perfect weather to begin the season.

The Premier Plus Stadium, the new home of Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abigail Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Jemma Moore, Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Faith Hewitt, Emma Jenkins, Kelley Blanchflower & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Claire Kilmartin, Albany Hodgson & Gemma Croucher.

Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Brooks, Sheryce Slater, Danielle Smith, Claire Ford, Robyn Reardon, Nuala McKevitt (C), Anna Re, Beth Lumsden, Jodie Southby, Laura Baker & Katherine Long. Subs – Tia Bailey, Ayse Mustafa & Rachel Koskey.

Cambridge to get the first half underway sporting their brand new kit, amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Enfield lined up opposite wearing white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Enfield quick to press in the middle Beth Lumsden getting hold of the ball and driving on through the middle passing out wide left for Laura Baker she shoots the ball deflected behind at the near post for an early corner. A crowd of players on top of Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith inside her six yard box as the ball comes in the keeper doing well amongst bodies to get the ball away.

Former teammates Laura Baker and Kayleigh-Anne Burt go head to head

Doesn’t go far cleared up to the left a high ball lifted back in Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt heading in behind for another corner. Early pressure from the visitors Cambridge eventually clearing their lines. Pressing right Enfield have a throw in Sheryce Slater sending it down the line for striker Katherine Long, she wins her side another corner kick. A great delivery sent in finding defender Claire Ford rising high at the far post 10 yards out her attempt dropping wide.

  Enfield have made a strong start to the match winning the ball high up the pitch to apply pressure to the Cambridge defence, Long receiving the ball wide left sends in a cross from deep that lands on the roof of the net. Amber Cantwell nipping in to win the ball looks to get things going for the hosts playing the ball up the left for Faith Hewitt her intended through ball cut out the Enfield defence tracking back to save a corner being conceded. A frantic opening to the match both sides beginning to settle into it.

Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett with Enfield’s Beth Lumsden

  Lumsden seeing alot of the ball in the opening 15 minutes sends it on for Slater breaking in behind on the right closing in on the byline gets her foot around the ball to swing in a cross towards the top of the box central Baker sees it into her feet back to goal lays it off for Long behind, she takes on the strike the ball rising Smith diving to her right making a comfortable save. Burt makes a timely intercept in the middle of the Cambridge defence as they are caught with a high line Enfield attempting to break.

   A throw in inside the Enfield half left side played into Kelley Blanchflower the Cambridge striker bringing it infield spots Emma Jenkins making a run wide right plays the diagonal ball, Enfield’s Danielle Smith able to get to it first in defence. The game played at a rapid tempo both sides snapping to win the ball back get it moving. Blanchflower getting hold of the ball 25 yards out turning it left for Hewitt down the wing she sends in a high cross safely collected high in her six yards box by Enfield goalkeeper Grace Brooks. 

 Brooks setting up a quick counter attack the ball left side the shot taken early, Smith making an excellent save down low to her right pushing the ball away to concede a corner. The delivery from the left towards the top of the box dealt with by Cantwell. Enfield come forwards, Cambridge playing a high line at times the visitors working the ball well across the middle to find a way in behind Long in particular moving left then right. Slater breaking clear on the right lifting the ball into the area Smith taking it high.

 GOAL! Cambridge are caught with their defence high as Lumsden flicks the ball on for Long peeling away the the right, a good way out from goal so too is Smith from her area Long striking the ball early to send it past the keeper and on target into the empty net beyond to see Enfield take the lead in the 21st minute 0-1.

Katherine Long opens the scoring for Enfield Town Ladies

Long continuing to be a threat in attack moving to the right once again as Nuala McKevitt captaining the side breaks up a Cambridge attack, the striker getting in beyond fullback Carrie Bennett races towards the area with the ball centre back Jemma Moore getting back on her to clear the ball for the hosts. A free-kick won wide right for Enfield Slater to play the ball, a good delivery into the the area McKevitt on the penalty spot rising gets a glancing header, Smith down sharp to her right to push the ball away, Burt putting it behind for the corner. Enfield a danger from set-pieces the ball in from the left McKevitt heading it up into the air drops for Long outside the area her shot blocked by Moore the danger not gone as the ball is reclaimed on the left a shot driven it, the ball smashing against the crossbar, falls to the right inside the six yard box Baker after it, closed down by defender and keeper puts the ball into the side netting.

Jenkins bringing the ball up the right wing has support from her full back Abigail Davies the cross flung in towards the near post Mollie Coupar arriving, Enfield get it clear. Coupar catching Enfield playing a loose ball across their defence nipping in wins the ball shifting to shoot from 25 yards out Brooks down low makes the save. Coupar in the thick of the action as she sees a pass from midfield into her body turns into the right channel looking to get in behind Ford into the area manages to squeeze a shot away Brooks down to stop it, scrambles it into her gloves with Blanchflower on top of her.

Enfield defender Robyn Reardon tackling Cambridge’s Mollie Coupar

   Cambridge doing alot better now Crisp with Cantwell in the middle winning the ball the latter fouled on halfway, on the free-kick herself  sends it long towards the far post with Blanchflower and Hewitt making runs  ball bouncing through behind at the far post for a goalkick. Jodie Southby back to defend dealing with a cross inside the ball fired in by Coupar as the attacker makes ground on the right. Cambridge are almost undone for a 2nd time as Slater gets away in behind with Smith positioned high, the ball put past her running along the ground towards an empty goal, runs away across the six yards box to strike the base of the far post.

  GOAL! Right on the stroke of half-time Cambridge get themselves back on level terms. Coupar with the ball down in the right corner doing well to win a corner kick the delivery in defended by Enfield put back to the corner taker a 2nd attempt cleared by the defence central Crisp onto it 30 yards out for Cambridge  shifts it before putting her foot through the ball striking it beautifully racing back into the penalty area the ball bouncing before it arrives at the diving keeper finding its way inside the post and into the back of the net 1-1.

Charlotte Crisp with a superb strike levelling the scores for Cambridge late in the first half

 Having rode their luck at times Cambridge find themselves back on level terms strong in the closing moments on the attack a shot taken from distance dropping wide of goal.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Enfield Town Ladies

  Well that was an exciting first 45 minutes and bodes well for the season ahead, as if there was any doubt. The sides drawing 1-1 at the break. Cambridge equalising late on back on level terms might well have found themselves 2 down instead. Enfield were the better side for the majority of the half pressing the ball well in the middle and getting players in behind, a real threat from set-pieces and great movement shown by their attacking players. Cambridge slowly building momentum to create opportunities up the other end beautifully poised for the 2nd half.

  Enfield getting the 2nd period underway attack up the right the ball played out to Long into space the cross put back across the top of the area Lumsden getting hold of it, Cantwell back with her preventing a shooting opportunity. Cambridge bring the ball on rolled into Coupar’s path left channel has Blanchflower ahead of her central Cantwell getting forwards on her right her initial cross blocked has a 2nd go the ball defended by Ford as Blanchflower goes to shoot.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell

 Cambridge positive in attack in the 2nd half come forwards Coupar on the ball left towards the area played inside the Blanchflower central sees Jenkins clear on her right she hesitates for a moment half expecting a flag to go up against her before realising she is in the clear to shoot the ball rising turned behind by Brooks. The corner left side defended at the near post by Reardon cleared back out to the left crossed straight back in Jenkins in to head the ball down Brooks with a fantastic save at close range somehow getting a glove on the ball to keep it out.

Enfield Town Ladies, Robyn Reardon

 Cambridge enjoying a strong spell winning the ball higher up the pitch getting into attacking positions earlier, it’s from a perfectly weighed clearance at the back from Burt that sets up the next attack Blanchflower released away on the right on for Jenkins ahead of her the cross played in high Enfield’s defence heading over for the corner. Baker is all action whatever position she is deployed in an attacking role this afternoon, hard to shake off the ball, Moore does well against her as she looks to force her way into the box the Cambridge defender preventing a cross. 

Abigail Davies bringing the ball forwards for Cambridge United WFC

  Enfield with the first change of the game Rachel Koskey coming on to join the defence replacing Slater. The visitors finding it harder to break in the 2nd period as Cambridge close them down well. A few tasty challenges coming in as a result, Cantwell prevented from getting away on several occasions. The first booking of the game goes to Ford as she throws out a leg catching Coupar as she looks to spin in behind on halfway. Enfield’s number 10 Lumsden on the receiving end of a few tackles herself breaks right linking up with Long and Baker the attack breaking down.

Enfield Town Ladies captain, Nuala McKevitt

  Long’s last action of the game as she is the next to be substituted with Ayse Mustafa joining the game. McKevitt turning on the ball from all of 30 yards out lets fly with a shot her effort flying over the bar. Coupar brought down wide left in attack Cambridge with a free-kick bring players forwards Cantwell to take. If she meant to play it low across the six yard box she disguised it well nevertheless catches defence and attack out alike as legs lunge for the ball none making contact. Southby combining with Re as Enfield make ground on the right challenges flying in from both sides Cantwell fouled, Baker finds herself in the referees book. 

 Bennett has taken a knock and Cambridge make a change with new signing Gemma Croucher coming on, that sees Jenkins drop to a familiar right back role with Davies switching to the left. Having dealt with the pressure Cambridge applied and their opponents starting to tire Enfield are coming back into it their changes making a difference McKevitt seeing more of the ball supported by Re and Lumsden. Smith takes the ball on into space on the left attempts to slide the through ball in for Baker, Burt intercepting for Cambridge at the back. Re attacking with the ball right twists and turns before sending a shot in the ball wide of the near post a corner signalled. The delivery long Koskey jumping beyond the far post up well sends her attempt over.

Claire Ford defending against Coupar for Enfield

  The game has the potential to go either way both sides getting players forwards in the latter stages. Coupar full of running in attack keeping the Enfield defence on their toes. Moore across to clear the ball as Lumsden moving left gets past Jenkins. From the resulting throw a cross finds its way into the area Burt heading it away drops for Mustafa 25 yards out, Smith keeps her eyes on the ball takes it cleanly despite Southby closing in. 

 Enfield gaining momentum as the game enters the closing stages win a corner on the right players come forwards Smith under pressure near post prevents a shot Ford keeping the ball alive getting it back out to Southby her cross drilled long across goal. Into the final 5 minutes Koskey brings the ball on from the back into the Cambridge half is a goal threat not closed down shoots from distance her strike falling wide of goal. Cambridge’s turn the bring the ball on played forwards early into Croucher right she puts Blanchflower in on the right ahead of her Ford going with her into the area Blanchflower squeezing a shot in across the six yard box Brooks down grabs it into her body with Coupar closing in. 

 GOAL! A late winner! And it’s Enfield celebrating the goal. Come forwards on the left Smith with time on the ball runs clear unchallenged up the line sends in a cross long and high Smith coming attempts to put it out of harms way doesn’t get enough on it the ball dropping far side of the box Re running in late slides in to send it back in across goal Baker central there to met it with her right foot smashing the ball home 1-2.

Laura Baker on target to score the winning goal for Enfield Town Ladies

  Not much time left in the game a hammer blow to Cambridge at the death Enfield come on, energy levels recharged, the ball rolled on for Baker peeling away to the right of the D outside the box is off balance as she puts her foot through the shot screws the attempt wide.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Enfield Town Ladies

  Enfield scored a dramatic late winner to take all three points in a match that looked to be heading for a draw. A strong first half performance from Enfield getting themselves into a 1 nil lead could well have and perhaps should have scored another. Cambridge getting back into it with a wonderful strike late in the half, came out fighting 2nd half attacking and creating chances Enfield coping with the pressure their substitutions bringing them back into it, could have gone either way, a point apiece a far reflection Enfield finishing strong themselves however stretched the Cambridge defence late on to find a late winner.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this season’s first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, and it’s a tough one. The rules remain the same however there can only be one. Narrowing it down is hard good performers on both sides, Amber Cantwell in midfield for Cambridge along with Mollie Coupar in attack. For Enfield, Beth Lumsden caught my eye early on and showed great movement, running and vision throughout. Katherine Long a real threat in attack great movement across the line opened the scoring with a great flick on from Lumsden. Just edging it though is Laura Baker have seen her play in a number of positions over the seasons today in an attacking role read the game well, able to bring others into attacking positions and leading the line at the end herself scoring the winning goal.

The first report of the season done and although 3000+ words later it doesn’t feel like it I was feeling strangely nervous about writing this one, perhaps just the events over the past few months affecting me but those nerves were soon gone after the game kicked off. Enjoy it an exciting and well fought game to start the season promising for the rest of the season. My thanks to both sides for the team sheets. Great to get the season started.

Getting there – slowly!

An update long overdue

  Has been a while since I’ve updated the website and King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Histon Ladies have gotten to hog all the action with my last match report of the season. A new season fast approaching less than a week away now! Feel far from prepared and still lots to do.

 Therefore perhaps an explanation for my lack of progress although I suspect most of you are aware have seen it via other social media channels the news that my father, David sadly passed away in June a real blow was extremely close to him and coming so soon after the loss of his partner of 25 years, Rita at the start of the year too. 

  Time needed to grieve and sort his affairs the football put on the back burner for a while had to be done I’m sure you will understand. My health suffering in that time too, but thankfully taking a turn for the better. Back now though and despite being well behind the pace I am slowly getting my mojo back a few pre season friendlies to wet the appetite helping. The match reports will return fast approaching 400 and I am as nervous about writing the next one as I was my first. Love them however and can’t wait to get around the leagues helping to promote the game once again.

  Am part of an extraordinary and wonderful community and proud of the role I have within it. Excited for the new season more new sides the game continuing to grow, perhaps too fast in some areas but on the whole in the right direction. Some very interesting and exciting transfers this summer will be intriguing watching it all unfold.

 Wishing everyone all the best for the new season and hope to see as many of you play as I can throughout. 

Darren

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

Sunday 26th May

ERWFL Division One

One more game to end the season a long campaign finally drawing to a close 99% of teams already finished for the season today’s game the only competitive fixture left in the East of England as King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Histon Ladies meet for their final game of the season in ERWFL Division One.

  Far from a meaningless game for both as they can both gain a position with a positive result, Histon Ladies up into 7th spot and King’s Lynn Town Ladies can achieve a 3 placed finish with a win.

  ERWFL Division One highly competitive this season, newcomers St Ives Town Ladies winning the title in their debut season nearly a faultless campaign too, King’s Lynn Town Ladies the side ending their long standing unbeaten league record standing since 2017 with a 4-3 win last weekend to set up a shot at clinching 3rd in the league. A strong 2nd half to the season with 6 straight league wins before today seeing the Norfolk side climb up from 8th in the Division One.

  Histon Ladies likewise with a strong 2nd half to the season just 2 losses in their last 11 games, several battling draws in that run too level on points with 7th place Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies travelling to King’s Lynn in their final fixture of the season. Postponements and a cup run for both sides seeing their season’s go the distance.

  Both sides reaching a cup final in that period too. King’s Lynn Town Ladies reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final played at Carrow Road for the first time. Despite losing to Wymondham Town Ladies a day to remember for the club. Histon Ladies reaching the ERWFL Plate Final where they were narrowly beaten by Newmarket Town Ladies.

  Riverlane Playing Fields the venue for today’s match, boasting several pitches the grass cover still good for the time of year a lack of rain… well before this afternoon making the ground hard underfoot. Clouds overheard the wind picking up rain forecast for Sunday afternoon it had arrived early raining when I arrived at the ground the wind picking up too would cause issues during the game, not the weather you want to see on the final day of the season.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Ellie Prentice, Lisa Wilson, Chloe Burch, Albany Hodgson, Georgia Freeman, Becky Russell (C), Annie Rooks, Oksana Imanalijeva, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Tiffany Forshaw & Olivia Baker. Subs – Chloe Witt, Natalie Wright & Emma Corbyn.

Histon Ladies starting XI – Jennifer Jamieson, Lucy Julian, Kaya Haq, Georgina Huse, Tessa Shaw, Alison Wright, Georgia Day, Katie Seagrave, Annalisa Player, Rebekah Finch & Sophie Lanham (C). Subs – Amanda Binge & Bethany Fisher.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A bank holiday weekend and the start of half-term both sides missing a few players, Histon in particular travelling with a small squad a few reserves amongst them. King’s Lynn to get the 1st half underway kicking-off wearing blue shirts with yellow shorts and socks. Histon opposite wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. The visitors press the ball for the off forcing King’s Lynn to play it all the way back to goalkeeper Ellie Prentice to clear up field. That presents an opportunity for Oksana Imanalijeva to break down the left side for King’s Lynn squares a across in along the top of the Histon box, defender Tessa Shaw getting her head on it sending it on, Rebekah Finch too ball put into the path of Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse coming on from the right for King’s Lynn she shoots from 20 yards out her strike over the bar.

Lucy Julian at right back for Histon does well defensively as King’s Lynn striker Tiffany Forshaw receiving the ball into her feet 25 yards out looks to turn get in behind. King’s Lynn press the attack a corner won on the left the delivery inswinging central punched on by Histon goalkeeper Jennifer Jamieson her defence clearing at the far post. The rain falling at kick-off beginning to fade a swirling wind taking it’s place dark clouds all around. Finch getting on the ball inside the King’s Lynn half looks to drive forwards through the middle eventually stopped by Georgia Freeman.

King’s Lynn’s Annie Rooks looking to get the ball, challenged by Histon’s Rebekah Finch and Alison Wright

Alison Wright strong as she gets hold of the ball on the right holding off King’s Lynn’s Annie Rooks wins a throw high up the pitch, Julian up puts in a cross towards the near post a runner for Histon looking to get there, Freeman wins the race for King’s Lynn. Histon enjoying a spell of possession inside the King’s Lynn half attack right Julian up with play getting a cross in along the top of the area, met by Finch central first time her attempt racing wide of the near post.

Imanalijeva with plenty of pace bursts forwards left bringing the ball over halfway for King’s Lynn an early diagonal ball into the top of the area looking for Olivia Baker central, Jamieson out well off her line to close Baker down doing enough to put her off getting the ball away to the left. Kaya Haq at left back for Histon doing well as Hopkins-Duckhouse sends the ball on for Chloe Burch heading past her on the overlap.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Oksana Imanalijeva

Hopkins-Duckhouse attacking right the ball crossed inside to Forshaw outside the box she looks to tee up captain Becky Russell whose shot from 25 yards out is over the crossbar. Histon doing well in the early part of the game to close the ball down high up the pitch and disrupt King’s Lynn as they look to play it out through the middle. Julian with a vital interception a Forshaw attempts to play Imanalijeva in behind on the left. Katie Seagrave taking the ball on down the right wing fouled on the corner of the box a free kick awarded. Haq forwards to take it. Goes for goal her attempt skimming the top of the King’s Lynn crossbar on it’s way over.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies defender, Albany Hodgson

Histon launch a rapid counter attack the ball won back as King’s Lynn attack left numbers committed forwards the ball fired up central into the run of captain Sophie Lanham strikes it on the run early outside the area before she can be challenged the ball racing wide of the right post a touch off a King’s Lynn player spotted somewhere a corner given. Haq to take it a great ball in inswinging evades everyone at the near post, Hodgson beyond not expecting it low clearing the ball off her goal line for another corner, this one long Wright getting her head to it a good distance out the ball dropping wide of goal.

Katie Seagrave attacking for Histon Ladies

Lisa Wilson bringing the ball on for King’s Lynn plays it forwards for Imanalijeva her pace taking her in behind to cross the ball cut out by Seagrave, back with Imanalijeva she wins a throw deep in the corner. Histon regain possession the ball at the back a mis-kick form Julian presents the ball to Imanalijeva to steal in behind on the left and fire a cross into the six yard box, Haq in to close Baker down as she looks to attack it the ball running onto Hopkins-Duckhouse free beyond she shoots wide a nick off a Histon body spotted a corner awarded. Georgia Day central for Histon sliding in to win the ball as Russell attempts to play Baker in through the middle.

GOAL! The game moving past the opening half hour and the dead lock is broken, King’s Lynn attacking Forshaw making a run to the left receiving the ball taking it into the box closing in on goal fires a shot in near post, Jamieson instinctively putting a leg out to block can’t keep it out 1-0.

King’s Lynn push forwards Hopkins-Duckhouse on for Baker central lays the ball off for Forshaw left as she turns in behind, Forshaw putting the cross back in along the top of the area cleared by Shaw. The rain falling heavily once more the umbrella up the notes in even more disarray than usual. King’s Lynn on the left Russell forwards to support Imanalijeva the cross in from deep over Hopkins-Duckhouse central falls to Baker beyond she shoots wide back across goal.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Olivia Baker

Wright with a good ball on up the right for Seagrave to take on, Wilson sliding in to tackle the ball out for the throw. Wright tries her luck from a long way out just in front of the centre circle the Histon midfielders shot bouncing wide of goal.

GOAL! Late in the first half and a blow for Histon as they concede a 2nd goal. Comes from a free-kick, King’s Lynn’s Rooks fouled in front of the centre circle players forwards to line up along the top of the area as Russell stands over the ball, flighted in the ball attacked the header sending it on past the keeper into the back of the net, Chloe Burch the player running away in celebration scoring, her first of the season 2-0.

Chloe Burch with the goal to put King’s Lynn into a 2-0 lead

King’s Lynn with a strong end to the first half Russell getting ahead of Forshaw who heads the ball on throw the middle, the shot sent over from 20 yards out. Forshaw then peeling away to the left into space as Imanalijeva plays the ball into her feet strikes on the angle the shot running wide across the face of goal. Prentice has to get there rushing out of her area to get to the ball as Seagraves takes off after it played forwards on the right a throw bringing a corner. Freeman up to head it away to the left, fired back in central Hodgson this time heading the ball over her crossbar for another corner.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-0 Histon Ladies

  King’s Lynn head into the changing room at half-time leading the game 2-0 the goals coming late in the half, have created the better opportunities without being clinical. Histon though staying out will feel unlucky to be 2 goals down after a battling performance first half working hard to close King’s Lynn down, disrupting their build up play early and strong in the middle the defence making some important tackles. 

Histon’s Rebekah Finch with King’s Lynn’s Annie Rooks

  The rain has stopped for a while dark clouds remain, as the players gather for the 2nd half the wind still strong. A double change for King’s Lynn with both full backs off at the start of the 2nd half Wilson and Burch off, Chloe Witt on at right back, Natalie Wright on too taking up a midfield role in front of the defence with Rooks moving to left back. Histon to get the 2nd half underway. King’s Lynn press the ball won central on for Hopkins-Duckhouse she sends a diagonal ball long out to the left for Imanalijeva bringing it down well goes for the cross/shot the ball put over.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse

  King’s Lynn begin the 2nd half strong pushing forwards a corner won on the right Russell to play the ball in defended by Lanham. Histon look to get on through the middle Wright breaking up the attack on to Russell taking the ball on, Georgina Huse in to tackle for Histon. Wright winning the ball once more on for Hopkins-Duckhouse is brought down central caught in the back is in alot of pain needing treatment. Not at all comfortable as she comes off a change thought about before she is allowed back on to see if it can be run off. 

  GOAL! King’s Lynn’s positive start to the 2nd half brings them an early 3rd goal. Wright making in impact having come on getting hold of the ball in the middle playing it forwards to Baker she slides it on through to Forshaw peeling away in behind into the area left of goal she pulls her foot back to strike firing the ball across goal into the bottom corner 3-0. 

Tiffany Forshaw puts King’s Lynn into a 3 goal lead

   A change made Burch is back on for Hopkins-Duckhouse who can’t continue the substitution seeing Witt move further forwards on the right. Russell getting forwards more for King’s Lynn shoots from 20 yards out, caught by Jamieson as it dips in front of her. 

 GOAL! Forshaw like Russell getting forwards more at the start of the 2nd half finding space in behind having scored her 2nd of the game goes on to complete her hat-trick to put King’s Lynn into a 4 goal lead. The ball played on to her left side from a throw in up the line, she takes the ball in close to the area firing in a shot the ball across the face of goal striking the far post and deflected back in over the line 4-0. 33 goals for the season now for Forshaw. 

  A further blow to Histon who have been sluggish at the start of the 2nd half. The ball gathered by Seagrave she drives on coming inside, looking to play in Lanham, Hodgson in to make the challenge. The wind strong blowing the clouds over the ball standing up in the air. Forshaw almost has a 4th goal as she shes a shot central 20 yards out cannon back off the post as she is played in by Russell on the right.

Becky Russell looking to get past Histon defender Kaya Haq

  GOAL! Histon get forwards a promising attack bringing them a goal attacking with pace on the right Seagrave putting the ball in towards the top of the area Wright bursting forwards to receive, Russell back with her lunging in to tackle the ball loose carries on central Lanham there to meet it strikes the ball past the keeper into the back of the net 4-1. 

Sophie Lanham pulling a goal back for Histon Ladies

  King’s Lynn make a change bringing off Baker in attack on in her place Emma Corbyn. Finch central fouled by Hodgson a free-kick for Histon Julian to play the ball into the area sent out to the left post area a good delivery no one on the end of it however as it runs out for a goal-kick. Witt playing the ball into the area right for Corbyn looking to control with her head bring it down to shoot Huse coming to close her down doing well in defence for Histon. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Chloe Witt

  Amanda Binge comes on for Histon replacing Player on the left wing. Prentice saving well pushing the ball wide for a corner as Wright stealing in on the ball left side fires a shot in. The corner cleared, Histon regain possession in the middle looking better now Day combining with Finch, Wright played into the area right of goal sending a shot wide across goal. Forshaw looks to dink a ball over the top of the Histon defence for Corbyn, Jamieson can lay claim to it first. Jamieson saving with her legs moments later as Forshaw fires a shot in as Burch crosses from the right. 

Histon Ladies, Alison Wright

  Imanalijeva out wide left bringing the ball on for King’s Lynn fires a cross in central, Corbyn and Witt making the same run evades both, Huse in to launch clear. Jamieson out to the edge of her area claiming the ball well as she slides in at the feet of Witt as she gives chase to an over the top ball. Binge needs to come off for Histon having picked up a knocking going in for a 50/50 ball with Burch earlier, Bethany Fisher joining the game. 

Jennifer Jamieson out to claim the ball for Histon

  The game has an open feel to it Histon better now pressing on trying to find a further goal risking more space to run into at the back, Forshaw and Russell both looking to exploit it for King’s Lynn Russell with a fierce shot from 25 yards out held by Jamieson at the 2nd attempt as it stings her gloves. The Histon keeper then holding onto a long range pop form Corbyn. 

  Histon with a free-kick won 30 yards out central Lanham over the ball, strikes it well going for goal on target, Prentice moving across her goal face saving well pushing the ball wide for the corner. The corner defended the header putting it back wide to the taker crossed back into the six yard box gathered by Prentice. Black clouds ominous now a heavy shower arrives as the game enters the closing moments into stoppage time.  Play turned around quickly by Histon Lanham up to win the header on for Wright on behind central to run at goal, Prentice out at the top of her area puts her in a good starting position to close the angle as Wright opts to shoot early send the ball past her the keeper flashing put a glove making the save deflecting the ball wide of her goal. 

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

  A heavy shower at the end of the game the final whistle blows and King’s Lynn have the win that sees them secure a 3rd placed finish in the league as they make it 7 straight wins to end the season. Winning 4-1 score twice in the 1st half having finally breached a stubborn Histon defence late on, capitalised on that with a strong start to the 2nd half to race into a 4 goal lead. Histon doing well 1st half unlucky to find themselves 2 goals down paid for a sluggish start to the 2nd half before getting a goal back and getting back into the match. The season over now for both plenty of positives to take into the new season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

For the final time this season to choose the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Although Oksana Imanalijeva and Becky Russell performed well along with Natalie Wright making an instant impact introduced 2nd half their was really only on contender today that being Tiffany Forshaw the King’s Lynn striker showing great running and movement through out setting up chances for other is more often than not clinical in front of goal when she is the one receiving the ball, scoring a hat-trick.

  That’s it then another season almost to a close the last game watched the last report written. Has been another enjoyable campaign albeit without a doubt the most challenging I’ve had to date. Not covered as many games as I would have liked, family issues, illnesses and my own health all playing a part. The football keeps me going however love it, a pleasure to do what I do. My thanks as ever to the clubs for the help with the teams today. We all need a rest. Enjoy.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 19th May

Essex Women’s League Cup Final

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies Development

 One more final before the season draws to a close a trip down to Essex this Sunday to watch Leigh Ramblers Ladies play Harlow Town Ladies Development for the League Cup.

   Finishing one two in the Essex Women’s Premier Division the pair going head to head in their final game of the season. A strong campaign for both, Leigh Ramblers Ladies winning the Premier Division title in just their 2nd season playing women’s football following promotion from Division One as runners-up the previous year. A very young squad too, with just 3 players over 18, thier Reserves side joining Division One this season.

 Starting life in the higher division with a defeat Leigh Ramblers Ladies never looked back after that going on a run of 10 straight league wins before suffering just their 2nd defeat, top of the table for most of the way along with Frontiers Ladies emerged as clear leaders winning their last 5 league games to clinch the Premier Division title. Have applied for promotion to the ERWFL no doubt encouraged by beating higher league Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in the opening round of the FA Women’s Cup. Kate Newton leading their goal scoring charts with 31 goals to her name this season. A hard run to the League Cup Final too taking top half Premier Division sides all the way.

  The last time I was able to attend the Essex Women’s League Cup Final was when Harlow Town Ladies 1st team were a fast emerging force within the women’s game, beating Runwell Sports (Hospital) Ladies as they were then at the end of the 2015/16 Harlow have risen through the pyramid rapidly, a solid top half finish in their debut season in ERWFL Premier Division the first season they have not tasted promotion. Are now well backed up by a fast improving Development side although they are as often referred to as the Reserves, I’ll stick with Development.

  Like Leigh Ramblers Ladies, another very young side, a solid start to the season in the Premier Division the side to beat Leigh Ramblers on the opening day were long unbeaten themselves amongst the top three. Table adjustments along the way saw them lose ground a strong run however towards the tail end of the season sees them coming into this Sunday’s final in strong form winning 6 in a row and scoring 42 goals along the way. Hannah Smith top scorer with 44 goals to her name, Ellie Nicholls wading in with 24 goals herself, most of the squad contributing with goals over the season with 21 of the 30 used on the scoresheet. 

Road to the Final

  A tough draw for both sides in the 1st Round of the League Cup. Leigh Ramblers were drawn at home to play fellow Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies a 2nd half goal from Chloe Gilligan enough to see Leigh Ramblers into the 2nd Round. Harlow away to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves who were amongst the title challengers and eventual winners of Division One. A 2-0 lead for Harlow at half-time went on to win 4-2.

   Leigh Ramblers taking on their title rivals Frontiers Ladies at home in the 2nd Round of the competition. Goals from Aimee Skinner, Kate Newton and Amy Jacobs securing a 3-0 victory. Harlow at home to fellow Premier Division side, Silver End United Ladies, Hannah Smith amongst the goals netting a brace in a 4-0 win.

   A trip to play Collier Row Tigers for Leigh Ramblers in the quarter finals. The 2016/17 League Cup finalists capable of beating anyone on their day and it was a high scoring encounter between the sides drawing 3-3 after 90 minutes the game heading into extra-time Collier Row Tigers scoring a 4th goal but so to Leigh Ramblers and another to reach the last 4 with a 5-4 extra-time win. Harlow away to Leigh Ramblers Reserves in their quarter final, Hannah Smith and Ellie Nicholls both scoring 4 each the the game with Jazi Davidson also scoring in a 9-1 win to put Harlow into the semi-finals.

   Leigh Ramblers having home advantage in the semi-finals taking on another top half Premier Division side, Southend United Ladies, a first half brace for Kate Newton seeing them reach their first League Cup Final. Harlow away to Division One side Runwell Sports Ladies in the last 4.Hannah Smith again top scoring in the game netting 4 goals once again as Harlow’s young guns won 8-1 to reach their first ever League Cup Final too, that win at the beginning of their winning run.

The Runwell Sports & Social Club once again hosting the Essex Women’s League Cup final. A new road layout leading up to it easy to find. The large clubhouse serving hot and cold drinks along with food leading onto the playing pitches themselves a large playing field beyond sporting a number of full sized pitches amongst other sporting activities. Goo grass cover on the pitch, like most pitches currently very dry uneven could all do with some moisture the ground hard. The weather muggy, warm, clouds around overcast still the odd spot of rain but nothing more.

 Leigh Ramblers Ladies starting XI – Emily Mackler (C), Megan Thomas, Jordan Castle, Rebecca Dalgarno, Megan Downes, |Cassie Mashford, Sasha Vail, Maddie Archer, Paige White, Amber Denton & Amy Jacobs. Subs – Emily Diwell, Molly Giles, Lucy Dalgarno, Abbi Brown & Aimee Skinner.

Harlow Town Ladies Development starting XI – Josie Burke, Jazi Davidson, Kaydee King, Evie Anderson, Nicole Storey, Savannah Japal, Maisy Wyer (C), Ronni Harrison, Poppy Binding, Ellie Nicholls & Hannah Smith. Subs – Harriet Douglas, Tamsin Turner, Maisie Ryan, Amelia Hall & Ciara Purdue.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Leigh Ramblers without their top scorer for the game Kate Newton unavailable, a couple of others carrying knocks. Harlow the opposite getting back to full strength players returning from injury sustained earlier in the season. A minutes silence held before kick-off as a mark of respect for Daniel Webster one of the league referees who passed away suddenly on 2nd April. Harlow to kick-off the 1st half wearing red shirts with white sleeves and vertical pencil stripes, red and white shorts with red socks. Leigh Ramblers lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The ball pressed early Leigh Ramblers closing Harlow down in midfield.

Rebecca Dalgarno and Savannah Japal going in for the tackle

  Harlow’s Poppy Binding moves out to the right combines with Savannah Japal on the wing getting forwards the pass inside Binding attempting to get into the box, Leigh Ramblers in to defend the clearance long up top, Amy Jacobs after it, Evie Anderson doing the defending for Harlow. Sasha Vail getting hold of the ball for Leigh Ramblers on the right wing drives on space in front of her, Kaydee King coming across from the centre of defence to make the challenge win the ball. Jacobs chasing another long ball put forwards from the back the Leigh Ramblers attack moving right to the byline flashing a cross back across goal just evading the runners from midfield.

Hannah Smith looking for a midfield runner for Harlow out wide

   Harlow come forwards in numbers Binding moving right combining with Japal forced back but possession kept the ball with captain Maisy Wyer central options ahead of her plays the diagonal ball looking to spread play, Maddie Archer intercepts for Leigh Ramblers. A bright start from Harlow getting players forwards with attacking intent. Hannah Smith pushing on left side sliding a ball through for Binding in attack, chasing it left side, Leigh Ramblers Jordan Castle going with her defending the ball out for a  throw. From the throw in Smith looks to turn top of the area and shoot, Rebecca Dalgarno putting in the blocking tackle for Leigh Ramblers. 

Amber Denton bringing the ball on for Leigh Ramblers

  Binding moving all over the place in the final 3rd in the early stages for Harlow drags a shot wide from 20 yards out as she turns her marker 20 yards out on the right. Leigh Ramblers pushed back by Harlow are struggling to get the ball into their attackers, Jacobs leading the line chasing after long ball as the defence clears, plenty of pace from Jacobs, Harlow goalkeeper Josie Burke able to get there first. Nicole Storey bringing the ball on from the back for Harlow pushed onto Ellie Nicholls ahead of her sends it on for Binding up top, Dalgarno cutting the pass out at the back for Leigh Ramblers.

Harlow Town Ladies Nicole Storey

  Binding put through to attack the goal inside the six yard box right, goalkeeper and captain Emily Mackler making the blocking save at close range, the ball deflected wide across goal, Binding after it retrieves and turning puts the ball back central. Leigh Ramblers clear. Coming left the ball seen into her feet by Jacobs turns in behind left side driving on into the box, tackled by King. Paige White on the ball for Leigh Ramblers takes it forwards 20 yards out sending it on for Jacobs left inside the area moving across to the right, Storey staying with her putting in the blocking tackle as Jacobs goes to shoot. Play stopped as Jacobs is down injured a knee bandaged before the game comes off for further treatment before being allowed back on.

Leigh Ramblers, Maddie Archer

   Nicholls fouled by Megan Thomas outside the box as Binding looks to play the ball into her run central. Nicholls over the set-piece goes for it for a moment looked like it was in certainly the Harlow fans surrounding me thought so but no the ball over the bar. Leigh Ramblers the busier in defence, Castle and Dalgarno with several blocks as they are pushed back into their box. Wyer lining up a shot from distance lacking the power to trouble Mackler. Harlow pressuring the ball well lively showing plenty of energy a throw won left Binding inside to Smith top of the area, drags her shot wide of the near post.

Ellie Nicholls sees her shot fly narrowly over

   Half an hour played Leigh Ramblers all back inside their half, Jacobs breaks after a ball hooked clear by Connie Mashford. Takes the ball all the way into the area, King doing well to get back on her Jacobs hesitating before shooting giving the defender the chance she needs to put the tackle in regain possession. Binding charging down Castle at the back top of the area steals into the box after the deflected ball left of goal looks to come inside her intent to smash it low round the keeper, Mackler doing well however lunging forwards to snatch the ball from the strikers feet. 

  GOAL! Leigh Ramblers counter and somewhat against the run of play find themselves taking the lead, the ball headed on through the middle up to Jacobs in attack shoulder to shoulder with King as they look to control the bouncing ball, Jacobs winning the header the ball struck as it falls sent low past the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

Amy Jacobs with the opening goal for Leigh Ramblers

  Jacobs is substituted straight after putting Leigh Ramblers into the lead, Emily Diwell coming on. Vail taking the ball on down the right wing covering ground but no cross in as Harlow close her down. A 2nd change for Leigh Ramblers with Downes coming off Abbi Brown coming on. 

 GOAL! Harlow are soon back on level terms just 2 minutes after falling a goal behind get up the other end and equalise Binding on the scoresheet racing onto the ball inside the box central shoots wide of the advancing keeper low to her left shes her effort strike the base of the post the rebound back across goal favouring the attack she meets it in the air to volley home 1-1.

  Leigh Ramblers press forwards from the restart White out to Vail on the right up the line her cross fired into the area met by Diwell her headed ball straight at Burke. Binding shown a yellow card for throwing the ball away after a decision goes against her team. Harlow com on numbers forwards the play with Smith on the left into the area coming across the top of the box goes to shot, Castle putting in the blocking tackle a painful one goes down immediately play stopped much to Harlow’s chagrin, but a serious injury for Castle cannot continue helped off the pitch Lucy Dalgarno comes on in her place. 

  GOAL! Penalty! Leigh Ramblers are awarded the spot kick after Diwell is upended inside the area looking to get in behind as she comes towards Lucy Dalgarno’s cross from the right. Molly Giles on for Leigh Ramblers to take the spot kick a composed finish sending the ball to the keepers left wide into the back of the net to put them back into the lead 2-1.

Molly Giles restoring Leigh Ramblers lead from the spot

   Leigh Ramblers press the attack lead in the first half a throw won on the right the ball into the area for Diwell no shooting option brings it back for White who screws her shot from 25 yards out away from goal. Moments left a free-kick on halfway for Harlow Nicholls to play the ball forwards into the box, Binding can’t bring it down to shoot as she drifts into a gap, Leigh Ramblers clear as the whistle blows.

Half-time Leigh Ramblers Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies Development

 A narrow lead for Leigh Ramblers at half-time and they would be the first to agree somewhat against the run of play. A lively start from Harlow pushing their opponents back, creating opportunities Leigh Ramblers battling in defence however keeping them out Jacobs up the other end a threat whenever they did get the ball forwards into her taking the opening goal well. Harlow coming straight back into it to level the scores through Binding only to concede a late penalty to see Leigh Ramblers back in front. Alot of energy expanded first half Leigh Ramblers losing Castle to injury a blow.

    Leigh Ramblers to get the 2nd half underway, Harrison in to win it straight away for Harlow playing the ball on for Binding, Thomas intercepting at the back for Leigh Ramblers. The 2nd half starting at the same pace as the first half. Denton pushing on with the ball at her feet for Leigh Ramblers right side getting a throw in, the ball put inside defended by Davidson. 

Maisy Wyer with Molly Giles

  A RED CARD! Harlow’s goalkeeper Burke shown a straight red card for handling the ball outside the area! Leigh Rambler’s Denton sending the ball on through the middle Burke coming  to the top of her area looking to claim, drifts over the line, is extremely unfortunate however, have a picture that clearly shows her outside the box but also shows her slipping as she goes to back peddle her studs sticking in the turf. The decision incensing Harlow but the decision is clear ball handled outside the box Harlow down to 10.

  A free-kick for Leigh Ramblers outside the box a substitute goalkeeper needing to be sorted for Harlow, initially Storey dons the shirt but a change see her come off with Harriet Douglas coming on to go between the sticks. Rebecca Dalgarno over the free-kick her shot taking a deflection off the wall behind for a corner, in from the left across the six yard box over the keeper to the far post no one there however Harlow clear. 

Leigh Ramblers Ladies, Megan Downes

  Harlow attack Smith on the left driving forwards cutting inside to cross central Binding fouled by Rebecca Dalgarno a free-kick to Harlow just outside the box. King forwards to take it curls a shot low and wide. Harlow fired up by the loss of their goalkeeper, pro-active spurred on by King continue their attacking play. Binding coming back into the middle to regain possession out to Smith left up the line wins a corner against Denton. 

Harlow Town Ladies, Hannah Smith

  Leigh Ramblers Diwell running onto a central pass pushing forwards, King staying with her sliding in to take the ball. Harlow quick t turn play around Smith on the left cutting inside lifting a shot over the bar. Archer doing well in defence tackling Smith on the left as she receives the ball from Wyer. Anderson across to block as Diwell and Denton combine in attack for Leigh Ramblers on the right. Thomas coming off for Leigh Ramblers, Downes rejoining the action. Diwell off too with Jacobs back on. 

  King determined at the back for Harlow winning the header the ball on for Smith left support from Nicholls central closed down by Rebecca Dalgarno. Binding put through into the box left of goal rides the challenge staying on her feet as Mackler slides in to try and save at her feet the ball beyond her Binding unable to get a shot away. Brown getting forwards on the right for Leigh Ramblers attempts to play the pass inside for Jacobs the flag up against her. 

Jazi Davidson bringing the ball on for Harlow Town Ladies

  A corner for Leigh Ramblers on the right changes for Harlow before it with Maisie Ryan and Amelia Hall coming on. The delivery flashing in across the face of goal dropping wide at the far post. Harlow push forwards in attack Nicholls away left side shooting from outside the box, Mackler with the save down to push the ball wide. Japal getting into the area right for Harlow sees a shot blocked the ball spinning behind for a corner. Appeals for handball from the resulting corner but nothing given.

   GOAL! 20 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Harlow come back to level the score. Harlow awarded a free-kick wide on the right after Japal is fouled. Nicholls on the ball sends it on into the area, King making the near side run getting to the ball first to turn it on across goal, Mackler diving gets her fingertips on the ball but not enough to keep it out at her far post 2-2.

  Harlow looking the stronger side now despite being down to 10, Leigh Ramblers tiring, Harlow buoyed by the equaliser and the injustice they feel from the sending off. Giles getting the ball forwards for Leigh Ramblers into the run off Denton right her cross into the box claimed by Douglas. Mackler with another fantastic save diving to her right to deny Nicholls as she shoots from outside the area right set up by Japal. Nicholls showing good movement in the final third playing in Smith left her shot parried up by the keeper collected on the bounce. The game entering the final minutes of normal play. Changes for Leigh, Mashford and Diwell back on. Harlow pressing forwards Binding moving left hits a shot on the turn from the top of the area her effort always rising. 

  GOAL! Harlow launch an attack in the 88th minute Binding bringing the ball on from halfway allowed to travel taking it all the way to the edge of the area left of goal letting fly with a shot a fantastic finish! The ball in over the keeper dropping under the bar to nestle in the bottom corner. Harlow down to 10 have the lead 2-3.

Poppy Binding putting Harlow into the lead late in the game

   Into stoppage time Harlow with the lead Leigh Ramblers with little time to find a reply, Rebecca Dalgarno now in an advanced position. Risk being hit on the counter Harlow with their tails up not interested in defending what they have Binding up on the right cutting a ball back for Nicholls to line up a shot from 25 yards out her strike over. 

  GOAL! The game surely won for Harlow as they score a further goal at the death Nicholls bringing the ball on central forwards for Smith breaking into the box she shoots early putting the ball past the advancing keeper to make it 2-4.

 Leigh Ramblers have a late corner on the left players forwards into the area the delivery in low met by Rebecca Dalgarno at the far post close range she turns to strike, Davidson blocking on the line for Harlow the rebound popping straight to Brown can’t keep it down from close in.

Jazi Davidson with block to deny Dalgarno

  Nicholls bringing the ball on for Harlow in the closing minutes up towards the top of the area strikes the ball the attempt rising over the bar. The final whistle blows and Harlow complete a sensational win having been a goal and player down with 25 minutes left to play, players rushing onto the pitch to celebrate.

Harlow celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Leigh Ramblers Ladies 2-4 Harlow Town Ladies Development

  An entertaining cup final played at a fast temp Harlow on the front foot from the off, Leigh Ramblers not settling early on. Chances created Harlow didn’t capitalise Leigh Ramblers ahead against the run of play soon pegged back a late penalty first half giving them the advantage at the break. The game turned on it’s head early 2nd half with the sending off of Josie Burke that decision galvanising Harlow however as they pushed on getting back on level terms and despite the player disadvantage looked the more likely to find the winning goal as they pressed the attack late on.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to pick this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a competitive game with lots of energy expanded. Some notable performances, Kaydee King strong at the back for Harlow so too Rebecca Dalgarno for Leigh Ramblers. Ellie Nicholls impressive in attack bringing the ball on showing good movement throughout. The award though goes to Harlow’s Poppy Binding a threat all game getting forwards making intelligent runs to get into scoring positions and back when needed to regain the ball covered alot of goal and scoring two fantastic goals.

Harlow Town Ladies Development 2018/19 Essex Women’s League Cup winners

 Congratulations to Harlow Town Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s League Cup.

 Not to be for Leigh Ramblers Ladies but a fantastic season nonetheless winning the Premier Division title.

 Two sides that I have covered alot in this season’s Round-Ups always good to see the players and sides you write about in action for the first time. My thanks for the help with the teams and good to meet everyone. Almost done one game to go.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Thursday 16th May

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

Cambridge City Ladies Development v Cambridge University Women

 Off to St Neots this Thursday evening for my penultimate cup final of the season, postponed from last week the Cambridgeshire S-Tech Women’s League Cup Final. Cambridge City Ladies Development v Cambridge University Women.

  Cambridge City Ladies Development playing their final game of the season, the League Cup final are looking to go one better than their first team and complete the treble having already secured the Premiership title and won the Junior Invitation Cup Final. A successful season for the club at all levels, some from the squad breaking into the first team such as Ceri Flye and Freya Standing along with top scorer Megan Tonks who has 32 goals to her name this season. 

  Cambridge University Women fielding a side in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership amongst the top sides in recent seasons. Pushing for runners up spot this season with one match left to play. Their 2nd’s playing in the competition otherwise known as The Eagles, whom they shall be referred to henceforth. Starting their fixtures later they are often playing catch up a threat to the sides above without putting them under undue pressure throughout the season capable of beating anyone in the league on their day.

Road to the Final

  The League Cup beginning with a mini-league format for the first half of the season, the sides from the Premiership and Championship North and South drawn into 4 groups each side playing the other once. Cambridge City Ladies Development topping Group C with 5 wins from 5. The Eagles in a much tighter Group D one of three sides all finishing on 9 points with 3 wins and a loss each, Haverhill Rovers Ladies top on goal difference, The Eagles pipping Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to 2nd spot the top two from each group going on t contest the knock out stages.

  Cambridge City drawn at home to Championship North leaders Ketton Ladies in fantastic form going into the game a single goal scored by Bella Simmons seeing Cambridge City into the semi-finals. The Eagles away to fellow Premiership side march Town United Ladies, goals from Amanda Wainwright, Freya Ekman and Lu Liu securing a 3-1 victory to send them into the semi-finals. 

  Cambridge City at home to Championship North title challengers Wisbech Town Ladies. Freya Standing amongst the goals scoring a hat-trick as the hosts ran out convincing winners 8-0. The Eagles at home too taking on the holders ICA Sports Ladies a hat-trick from Eli Cropp seeing them win the match 3-1 to reach the final.

  St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for this evenings final has been a while since I last visited the ground, was hard to find then too, set within the new build properties going up on the outskirt of the town. Once you know where it is though you’re set. Will be hosting women’s football regularly from next season as it becomes the home of FAWNL South East Division One side Cambridge United WFC. Boasts an immaculate pitch in great condition. A seated stand on one side with covered terracing behind either goal. A clubhouse and bar serving hot drinks. A warm evening a bit of cloud cover still.

 Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI- Freya Robson, Rose Jump, Sophie Ingledew, Shona Lester, Carrie Buettner, Matilda Schwefel (C), Eli Cropp, Sara Merican, Lili Donlon-Mansbridge, Amanda Wainwright & Flora Risdill-Smith. Subs – Hannah Sanderson, Charlotte Kenyon, Flora Harpley-Green, Lu Liu & Beatrice Wood.

Cambridge University Women starting XI – Hannah Lock, Becky Langthorpe, Rachel Littlewood, Jade Powell (C), Anna Kanz, Emily Reed, Rachel Pearce, Bella Simmons, Yasmin Crow, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks. Subs – Lucy Hurst, Amy Ozakpinar, Charlotte Gillies & Drew Jenkins. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  City to get the League Cup Final underway kicking off first half wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks with The Eagles lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with black coloured shorts and socks. The ball closed down straight from the off passes rushed in midfield neither side getting time to find their passes, Lili Donlon-Mansbridge for The Eagles the first to make a meaningful run with the ball gathering it 30 yards out and driving on central the City defence rushing out to charge her down as she goes to pull the trigger. 

   Eli Cropp playing a pass out to Donlon-Mansbridge attacking right puts the cross into the box early long to the far post City clear. City counter getting forwards on the right Yasmin Crow winning her side a corner kick. The Eagles defence dealing with the delivery lifted in towards the near post. Progress up the right side for City the cross lifted into the near post missed by goalkeeper Freya Robson as she rises to punch it dropping beyond her the ball threatening to dribble over the line the defence have gotten back the ball scrambled up field. 

Cambridge Universities, Lili Donlon-Mansbridge with Cambridge Cities Freya Standing

  Megan Tonks played in on the right top of the area the ball at her feet turns and shoots, Carrie Buettner blocking at close range for The Eagles the ball with them in the middle captain Matilda Schwefel sending it on for Donlon-Mansbridge through the middle she runs on towards the area, City captain Jade Powell getting back on her in defence to challenge and regain the ball. The Eagles keep up their pressing of the ball disrupting City as they look to send the ball forwards, Donlon-Mansbridge right playing the ball inside to Amanda Wainwright in attack, Anna Kanz tackling for City outside the area.

   Winning possession central the ball rolled into Flora Risdill-Smith in attack she spots Rose Jump getting forwards on the right flank the full back taking the ball on down the line, Rachel Littlewood for City preventing the cross. Jump then back on defensive duty does well as Littlewood coming on looks to support Freya Standing on the wing. City bring the ball on through the middle Rachel Pearce getting forwards passes to Bella Simmons peeling out to the right shoots from the angle 25 yards out pace behind the ball, Robson across to cover her near post palming it down and gathering.

Cambridge University captain Matilda Schwefel

   Schwefel fouled central a free-kick awarded the ball put on towards the top of the area for runners left side escapes everyone running behind for the goalkick. A competitive start to the game The Eagles working hard to close City down high up the pitch. Tonks showing good movement across the front leading the line for City behind her free-kick being given away disrupting play favouring The Eagles, one coming to Donlon-Mansbridge right of the D sends a shot in towards goal, straight at goalkeeper Hannah Lock she collects the high ball. 

Cambridge City goalkeeper, Hannah Lock

 Pearce plays the ball up the left for Standing she drives forwards for City, Jump going with her keeps her from getting inside Standing nevertheless squaring a cross into the six yard box the ball cut out near post the clearance just evading Simmons as she bursts forwards to the edge of the box. Becky Langthorpe getting forwards from full back for City on the right with Crow ahead of her the ball put int the box met by Simmons drifting in near side turns the ball goalwards from 8 yards out, Robson down smartly to save. City starting to gain some momentum going forwards.

Cambridge University goalkeeper, Freya Robson

  GOAL! City coming on left winning a corner the ball fired in close to goal near post dropping behind the first City attack landing at the feet of the 2nd a reactive stab sending the ball over the line from close range, Tonks with the touch to put City into the lead 1-0.

  City have the ball central, Standing released on the left, Buettner running back to get the tackle in. A throw for City high on the left the ball dropped into Tonks she turns lifting it on into the area, Simmons meeting it near side a first time shot looping high to land on the roof of the net. Schwefel making a good run with the ball for The Eagles sending it on for Sara Merican on the left flank, Risdill-Smith with a run into the left channel ahead of her, Powell sticking out a leg intercepting the pass for City at the back.

Sara Merican on the ball for Cambridge University

  Crow attacking right for City, Sophie Ingledew sliding in to dispossess her. City building seeing more of the ball, Tonks laying it on for Simmons racing ahead of her shooting from distance Robson gathering safely. 

 GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes of the 1st half and City double their lead breaking Standing on the ball central halfway plays it early lifted on for Tonks moving clear off her marker running on shooting from outside the box power behind it the low ball skipping off the surface wide of the keeper into the back of the net 2-0.

Megan Tonks taking the ball in behind

   City getting the upper hand a diagonal ball left long to the opposite side Robson up to collect with Tonks closing her down spilt on landing Tonks after it, The Eagles defence quick to close her down Robson grounded between the the ball sent behind for a corner. A good delivery fired into the box central Standing on the penalty spot the Littlewood to her right both seeing a shot blocked. 

  The Eagles make a change with Donlon-Mansbridge coming off on in her place Charlotte Kenyon. City break the ball put on up the right with Simmons racing away the ball cut back towards the top of the six yard box Standing hitting it on the volley seeing the ball smash down off the bar, the attack stopped by a raised flag. Robson with a brave save doing well at the feet of Tonks at the top of her area as Tonks runs through. The ball played through the middle coming to The Eagles Cropp taking it on she shoots from 30 yards out the effort over the crossbar.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 2-0 Cambridge University Women

  A good contest so far played in good spirits, The Eagle starting well closing City down disrupting play whilst trying to find openings themselves. City gaining momentum as the 1st half wore on getting Simmons forwards to support Tonks chances created before the opening goal came from a corner. Tonks making it 2-0. More often than not a critical scoreline the next goal and important one.

  The Eagles to get the 2nd half underway the floodlights on as the light begins to fade. City having made two changes at the start of the 2nd period, Standing and Crow off, Lucy Hurst and Charlotte Gillies taking up their positions left and right in attack. Risdell-Smith brought down inside the City half bringing the ball forward the delivery on into the area aimed for Lester can’t reach it the ball bouncing through to the keeper, Lock sending the ball up field launching a counter attack Tonks lively looking to get away right fouled. The Eagles defending the resulting free-kick.

Simmons central sends the pass up to Gillies on the right int the corner has Tonks with her the pair looking to combine the flag going up against Tonks. A bright start from City coming on in attack left side a ball squared along the top of the area Simmons central with Reed coming on tees her up The Eagles defence charging her shot down. Buettner doing well in defence for The Eagles defending from a corner put in from the right. Wainwright bringing the ball forwards right for The Eagles support for Kenyon getting on down the wing, Littlewood does well to break up the attack for City. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Emily Reed

  Simmons finding pockets of space in advanced positions sets Gillies away on the right wing, Ingledew doing well in defence for The Eagles. Hurst nicking the ball just outside the area for City is brought down, the free-kick in a dangerous position left of the D, Powell forwards to take it. Hit well Powell sees her strike smash down off the crossbar falling out to the right a shot blasted back in flies over. The Eagles on the back foot seeing little of the attack look to create through the middle Schwefel sending it on Wainwright very nearly sneaking in behind, Powell sticking out leg to make a vital interception at the back. Gillies on the attack right for City sending Simmons away ahead of her, Robson comes racing out of her box to try and close her down Simmons getting her shot away first the ball past the keeper but also wide of the right post.

  GOAL! The City pressure in attack bringing a goal with 57 minutes played Simmons getting on down the right firing a shot in on the angle pace on it Robson gloving the ball away straight to Hurst central under challenge getting as shot away to divert the ball back towards goal low wide of the keeper from outside the six yard box 3-0.

Lucy Hurst up for the headed challenge putting City 3-0 up

City with the upper hand first to the ball 2nd half aren’t letting The Eagles have any time on the ball difficult to find their attacking players. Tonks with a shot from 30 yards out a deflection taking it wide for a corner kick. Schwefel positive looking to bring the ball forwards, Reed backed up by Pearce keeping it tight through the middle winning it back for City.

  GOAL! City go further ahead the ball brought on through the middle fired into Simmons 25 yards out central turns well to send the ball into the path of Tonks inside the ball moving left of goal, Robson out to close down the City striker taking it past her in behind composed not rushing her shot plays it in along the ground the ball squeezing in inside the post before the defender sliding in to stop it can reach it Tonks scoring a cup final hat-trick 4-0.

  GOAL! No sooner have City scored a 4th goal they get up the other end to make it 5. A corner on the right taken short catching The Eagles off guard crossed in from high a fantastic delivery central into the six yard box, Tonks their free rising to nod the ball down over the line to score her 4th of the game 5-0.

  A double change for City now with Langthorpe and Reed the players off on come Drew Jenkins and Amy Ozakpinar with 20 minutes left to play. Tonks flagged offside a Robson comes rushing out of her box just about getting to the ball first. Standing returning to the action as Simmons is brought off. Standing fouled off a throw in high on the left outside the box, Hurst over it sent log to the far post Powell meeting it put straight at Robson at close range the keeper saving. 

The Eagles cannot get going in attack few opportunities to get the ball forwards City bristling with confidence. Lock catching comfortably as Kenyon floats a ball on from the right. Wainwright strikes from 25 yards out the City defence blocking. The Eagles keep possession the ball long into the box attacked near post bodies forwards lifted over a corner awarded.

 Tonks is applauded off for City as she is substituted Crow returning to the action. Buettner cutting the ball out at the back for The Eagles as Gillies plays it on from the right. Cropp catching a shot well from 25 yards out for The Eagles sees her attempt race wide of goal. Pearce coming off for City with Simmons returning. Jump comes off for The Eagles with Hannah Sanderson coming on. A throw on the right City want to make a change Littlewood called to the bench on the opposite side of the pitch, a false alarm as she is sent back getting a cheer for her efforts.

Eli Cropp coming forwards for Cambridge University

   Gillies bringing the ball on down the right a shot driven in from 20 yards out Robson saving at her near post. A late change for The Eagles Lu Liu on for Kenyon. City continue to press the ball high keeping their opponents back inside their own half a comfortable lead now the final whistle blows on the game and their season and City have done it completed the treble adding the League Cup to the already to the already bulging trophy cabinet.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 5-0 Cambridge University Women

  City with a strong 2nd half capitalising on their good finish to the 1st half, creating chances to go further in front Tonks scoring 2 more to take her tally to 36 for the season. Pressing the ball high themselves lively in attack kept The Eagle from getting any foothold in the 2nd period. A bright start from The Eagles playing their part in an entertaining and good-natured final but once City got the lead they were in control. One more game for The Eagles runners-up spot still there for the taking as they play March Town United Ladies on Sunday.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, two names above the others and that quickly became one as the 2nd half wore on. Bella Simmons with some great movement in attack creating opportunities for herself and others was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet herself. Megan Tonks did however for 4 goals took her chances well and showed great movement and vision throughout to get herself into space and be available whenever City attacked. 

A double for the first team, the Development side go one better to claim a treble and that along with a host of silverware for their youth sides a very successful season as both sides prepare now for life at a higher level.

Cambridge City Ladies Development, 2018/19 Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup winners

 Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development on this evenings league Cup win and doing the treble. 

One more final to come a trip to Essex this Sunday for their league Cup final. The season almost done. Have enjoyed all of this season’s Cambridgeshire finals and my thanks go to Chris Abbott and the rest of the committee for the great work they do throughout the season. Thanks to too both clubs for their help with the team details.

The Round-Up – Essex 12/05/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th May

Essex Women’s Premier Division

 Premier Division Champions, Leigh Ramblers Ladies completed their excellent season this weekend with a win away from home against 4th placed Collier Row Tigers. Sasha Vail netting a hat-trick their were goals too for Chloe Gilligan and top scorer Kate Newton who finishes on 31 goals for the season. Leigh Ramblers winning the game 5-1 ending 6 points clear at the top losing just 2 of their 16 league matches and one of those way back on the opening day. 

  Below them a 6-2 win at home on Friday night for Harlow Town Ladies Development against Southend United Ladies had seen them set up a winner takes all game for 2nd against Frontiers Ladies this Sunday. Harlow with a point advantage in 2nd going into the game at home against their local rivals. A good season for Harlow’s youngsters a strong finish to the end of the season as they made it 6 straight league wins scoring 42 goals along the way. Leading Frontiers 2-1 at half-time Harlow piled on the goals 2nd half to win the game 8-1 to clinch runners up spot convincingly. Poppy Binding and top scorer Hannah Smith both scoring a hat-trick their were goals too for Kaydee King and yet another with a first Harlow goal to her name Ronni Harrison. The League Cup Final to come this Sunday at Runwell Sports FC 1st & 2nd meeting Harlow taking on Leigh Ramblers.

One more game to bring you from the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday and it was a positive end to the season for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies as they won at home to Chelmsford City Ladies. Ella Jones having previously been on the scoresheet for one goal this season for Beacon Hill Rovers scoring a hat-trick, there was goals for Abbie Sutton her first for the club in just her 3rd appearance and a 21st goal of the season for Jo Smeaton. Beacon Hill Rovers winning 5-2. Shannon Kelly and Mia Brisley with the goals for Chelmsford.

Tiptree & District Charity Cup

Silverware too for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies at the end of the season as they met Frontiers Ladies in the final of the Tiptree & District Charity Cup last Wednesday at White Notley FC. Goals from Jo Smeaton and Samantha Weidner seeing Beacon Hill Rovers draw 2-2 with their opponents in the 90 minutes, Loren Delamere and Kelly Holsworth scoring for Frontiers the game not settled in extra-time went all the way to penalties, Beacon Hill Rovers winning the shootout 4-2 to win the trophy.

Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies 2018/19 Tiptree & District Charity Cup winners (picture credit Beacon Hill Rovers)

 Congratulations to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on winning this season’s Tiptree & District Charity Cup.

Essex Women’s Division One

The season drawing to a close in Essex Women’s Division One, Billericay Town Ladies Reserves clinching the title, Rayleigh Town Ladies running them close started the day in 3rd spot 3 points back from 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies knowing a win in their final game of the season away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves would see them clinch 2nd courtesy of a superior goal difference. Rayleigh have scored goals all season and have plenty in their squad who can come up trumps. Isabelle Wallings way out in front as top scorer finishing with a goal on Sunday to take her to 52 goals for the season 10 more than she scored last season. Eleasha Reeves top scoring in the final game of the season for Rayleigh with a hat-trick as 26 goals to her name. Amy Cox-Smith with a brace with Sophie Rhodes also on target in a 7-0 victory.

  Hutton Ladies Reserves in fourth spot were at home to bottom side Island Ladies in their final game of the season. Finished thier debut season back in the league strongly with a win, Goals from Baylie Kingsnorth, Mathilda Cant, Emily Wilton and Samantha Kuski sealing a 4-2 result. Ebonnie Williams scoring both goals for Island.