Match Report – Cup Final Special

Friday 12th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

St Ives Town Ladies Development v Wisbech Town Ladies

 Back to the road for a successive night heading into Cambridgeshire for the 2nd of this weeks Cup Final, this evening at Ely City FC for this season’s Women’s Division Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition into it’s 2nd season. Histon Ladies Reserves beating Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to lift the trophy last season. The competition as the name suggests for the sides playing in the leagues below the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Championships, North & South. 12 sides split between the two divisions, this evenings finalists both 2nd in their respective league and both very much in the battle for top spot itself.

  St Ives Town Ladies Development reaching a cup final just two seasons after being formed. Their 1st team leading the way unbeaten still in their first season playing regional football, St Ives is rapidly becoming a rising force in the woman’s game in Cambridgeshire. Play in the Championship South currently 2nd in the table some 9 point behind leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies but have 3 games in hand and have to play Haverhill once more in their run in. Jade Carpenter St Ives top scorer with 15 goals so far this season.

Wisbech Town Ladies play in the Championship North where the title race looks certain to go all the way two with them having been neck and neck with current leaders Ketton Ladies all season both way out in front with 100% winning records Ketton beating Wisbech Town the first time they met in the league are now 6 points clear at the top. Wisbech having played a game less however and their being two huge games away to Ketton to come. A successful season in the cups too so far reaching the semi-finals of both the Invitation Cup and League Cup. going one better in the Division One Cup to reach the final. Have a potent attack with Sophie Swinden top scorer rapidly closing in a 40 goals for the season.

Road to the Final

    Both sides at home for the 1st Round of the Division One Cup, St Ives were drawn up against Championship South title rivals Haverhill Rovers Ladies, a brace from Frances Chapman along with a goal for Penelope Ford seeing them edge the win 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Wisbech taking on Championship South side Park Ladies. Rachael Simpson and Chelsea King getting a goal a piece along with a brace for Sophie Swinden seeing them comfortably through to the quarter finals 4-0.

   Onto the quarter finals both drawn away from home St Ives taking on Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies win through to the last 4 of the competition with a 3-0 win the goals coming from Jade Carpenter, Georgia Rebane and Emilee Steel. Wisbech racking up a big score away to fellow Championship North side Cardea Ladies. Captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a hat-trick with Sophie Swinden and Chloe Stanborough both bagging a brace each Aisling Ryan also finding the back of the net in a 9-2 win.

A blustery day greeted the semi-finals of the Division One Cup both games switched to 3G, St Ives at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies a 3-1 win securing them a place in their first ever final. Was there to watch the other semi-final a very cold and windy afternoon as Wisbech took on Championship North title rivals Ketton Ladies ,getting the better of the conditions Wisbech blew their opponents away Sophie Swinden scoring a hat-trick with a brace from Chloe Stanborough and one from Amy Newell to see them book their spot in the final courtesy of a 6-0 win.

This evenings final played at Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium, nestled behind the new cinema and restaurant leisure park recently built on the outskirts of Ely just off the A10. A elevated seat stand overlooking the pitch on one side the bar situated underneath. Another well used pitch a good size numbers building before kick-off. The weather dry but cloudy with a possible shower and getting chilly as the light start to come on before kick-off.

   A special mention too for this evenings match officials the all female line-up from Norway part of a NORCORE the Norwegian Centre of Referring Excellence over in England on a 6 day training camp officiating in a number of fixtures across the county this week, Ane Kliskar refereeing, assisting on the lines, Ram Eirik Glomseth & Himmett Boyar with Kristina Lokke the fourth official.

St Ives Town Ladies Development starting XI – Sophie Majoram, Steph Ransome, Connie Liddiard, Georgie Astley (C), Leah Culpin, Molly Berryman, Sophie Crook, Penelope Ford, Fran Worrall, Jade Carpenter & Kirsty Wicks. Subs – Ellen Chapman, Cherish Sibanda, Caitlin McGeown, Ellie Hathirimani & Emilee Steel.

Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Rachael Simpson, Chelsea King, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Abbie Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Jasmine Luckett, Faye Kowalewsky, Amy Newell & Sophie Swinden. Subs – Jade-Amber Court, Elizabeth Hodgson & Naomi Lyon.

(roll no roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

St Ives to get the Division One Cup Final underway, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball pressed in midfield straight from the off deflected out for a throw-in. Fran Worrall for St Ives with the first meaningful attack a driving run with the ball up the left flank Wisbech defending to concede a throw high up the pitch. 

Wisbech get on the ball in the middle play out to the left Jasmine Luckett combining with striker Sophie Swinden as she comes across to make herself available, Penelope Ford coming back to support full back Steph Ransome putting in the tackle to regain possession as Swinden tries to get infield. The ball played into midfield Sophie Cook playing it forwards Jade Carpenter nodding it on in behind into the box, Wisbech goalkeeper Rachael Simpson gathering the ball.

A cagey opening neither side settling early on passes rushed a little disjointed, Powell getting forwards playing a diagonal ball into the Wisbech area, Katie Garner winning the header. On the right St Ives get forwards Ford up to Carpenter plays it inside looking for Kirsty Wicks, Leah Hall intercepting and clearing for Wisbech, Sophie Swinden after the ball good hold up play moving left as Luckett and Chloe Stanborough get forwards in support, Molly Berryman cutting out the intended pass. Stanborough staying high up the pitch has the ball played into her 25 yards out left of the D takes on the early shot the ball running along the ground heading wide of the far post claimed by St Ives goalkeeper, Sophie Marjoram. 

  Amy Newell picking up the ball in midfield 35 yards out has time on the ball line’s up a shot on target Marjoram right behind it a comfortable height to pull down out of the air. Kaylie Swinden charging down a shot from Wicks 25 yards out for St Ives the ball fired into her feet dug out before smashing it against the defender. A great chance for Wisbech to open the scoring Stanborough with a fantastic pass releasing Sophie Swinden in behind beating the offside trap to carry the ball on into the area left of goal one on one with the keeper closing Marjoram down Swinden pulls her strike wide of the near post from 8 yards out. 

  Pressure from Wisbech’s Sophie Swinden chasing the ball down into the left channel winning a corner, the ball payed in near post defended, Swinden preventing St Ives mounting a counter top of the area can’t get the ball out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down bu Leah Culpin. 

  GOAL! Closing in on the half hour and the dead lock is broken the opening goal going to Wisbech, pressing the ball in the final third Stanborough picking it up 25 yards out left of the D does really well to keep possession St Ives not getting in a meaningful tackle as she manages to force her way into the box and wrap her foot around the ball to shoot, Marjoram throwing her gloves up to push the ball away sending it across goal, Wisbech captain Faye Kowalewsky in behind following the shot in getting her head on the ball to push it into the empty net 0-1. 

Marjoram out towards the edge of her area to close down the angle as Sophie Swinden gets away on the right gets something on the shot as she goes to ground the sting taken out of the shot Culpin back with captain Georgie Astley to clear the ball. Wisbech settled now work the ball forwards well Hall with Luckett and Stanborough ahead of her. Berryman cutting the pass towards the box out. Worrall out wide left takes the ball on for St Ives looks to turn inside drive on into the area, 3 Wisbech defenders converge to win the ball. 

  Powell inside to Astley the ball lifted  forwards, Carpenter getting in behind into the box, Simpson off her line out to claim the ball before the striker can attack it. A throw left for Wisbech Luckett sending a cross in along the of the area Berryman sticking a leg out to clear, runs straight to Stanborough she sends it back into the area again Berryman with the clearance. Carpenter flagged offside as Cook bringing the ball on through the middle for St Ives looks to play her in.

  Changes for both sides, Emilee Steel on for St Ives replacing Wicks, Caitlin McGeown on for Ford. Jade-Amber Court on for Wisbech replacing Sommerville. Culpin defends for St Ives as Hall lays the pass forwards for Sophie Swinden to chase on the left. Wisbech get clear on the left Sophie Swinden lively in attack players getting forwards the ball crossed in along the top of the six yard box through to Stanborough free at the far post gets her foot around the ball to smash a shot back in strikes the top of the upright, the ball dropping back down into the area St Ives scramble it away.

  A free-kick wide right for St Ives, Culpin on it over halfway a great all dropping onto the penalty spot a fantastic run from Worrall to get on the end of it in between the Wisbech defence her header sent over the bar. Culpin winning the ball at the back for St Ives off Sophie Swinden plays it forwards up to Carpenter back to goal 25 yards out chest it down, Steel making the run for her to her left she attempts the back heel to play her in a timely foot stabbed out from the Wisbech defence halting the move. Into the last 5 minutes of the first half Wisbech creating the better opportunities quicker to the ball breaking up St Ives attacks before they can begin. 

  A free-kick won wide on the right for Wisbech the ball played in towards the near post area, Marjoram coming for it under challenge does well to glove it down then snatch it into her body on the deck. Carpenter does well holding the ball up in the right corner before lifting a cross into the area attacked far post by Worrall, Court on her shoulder doing enough to put her off allowing Simpson to gather the ball. Newell playing the ball on for King 20 yards out, Culpin sliding in to win the tackle. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Fran Worrall (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Into stoppage time a free-kick high on the left for St Ives defended by Garner inside the box for Wisbech they launch a counter attack Stanborough onto King sent onto Sophie Swinden peeling away left her diagonal ball played high into the area Kowalewsky her intended target the past too strong runs out of play.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

   Wisbech looking comfortable for their lead at half-time but at just 1-0 still all to play for. St Ives frustrated didn’t settle can happen in a final, the game scrappy especially in the early stage no one settling on the ball, Wisbech creating some great chances getting their noses in front could and probably should be leading 3-0 but not taken St Ives have the chance to regroup at half-time find away to get back into the game, haven’t found a fluidity to their attacking play to trouble the Wisbech defence yet. 

Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway a substitution made, Naomi Lyon on for Luckett. St Ives pressing the ball get it forwards Simpson with an early touch in the Wisbech goal. Hall getting forwards on the left for Wisbech the ball on for Swinden to chase in behind, Marjoram quickly off her line to the edge of her area to claim the ball. Astley winning the defensive header for St Ives at the back Stanborough looks to play in Sophie Swinden the ball left with Liddiard for St Ives her cross lifted into the area headed back out of the area by Garner. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Sophie Cook (picture credit Gary Reed)

  St Ives make a change bringing of Berryman on comes Cherish Sibanda. Wisbech starting the 2nd half where they left off the first pressing the ball high up the pitch preventing St Ives from getting forwards. Wisbech coming left, Kowalewsky drifting into a central position meets the cross with the the outside of her boot looking to lift a high looping ball in towards goal, falls wide of the mark. Marjoram across to cover her near post down to smother the ball as it is fired in from the left. Wisbech prevent St Ives breaking, turn play around and win a corner on the right. Worrall back the defend winning the ball inside the box. Cook comes off for St Ives on in her place Ellie Chapman.

 Worrall getting forwards in attack down the left keeps possession wants support, none available turns inside to beat her marker and send a cross into the area, Simpson coming out towards the ball claims it launching it forwards. Wisbech with possession 25 yards out Kowalewsky bringing it inside rolled on to Lyon central then out to Newell left laid back for Hall coming forwards shoots from 30 yards out the ball driven in Marjoram punching it down, scrambles to get her gloves around it with Kowalewsky coming in.

   Not happening for St Ives in the final third and that is bringing frustration, Carpenter seizing on an opportunity to catch Simpson out of position getting hold of the ball wide right lifts the ball over Simpson, falling short of the near post Worrall after it can’t keep it in play as she attempts to keep it alive. Wisbech for all their dominance need a 2nd goal to make the scoreline more comfortable Stanborough doing well through the middle a powerful run the ball on for Lyon tries to lay it on for Sophie Swinden inside the D, Astley intercepts before Kowalewsky is brought down 35 yards out from goal.

  GOAL! Sophie Swinden putting the ball down with intent no one else around players forwards but only one thing on her mind as she strikes the ball towards goal plenty of lift on it with pace Marjoram not the biggest of keepers, Wisbech thinking they can exploit it, not as easy as it sounds however the delivery spot on though dropping under the bar and into the back of the net for that crucial 2nd goal 0-2. 

Sophie Swindon with the strike to make to 2-0 to Wisbech (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Less than 20 minutes left on the clock, St Ives get forwards Worrall on the left carrying the ball forwards turning her marker inside out before flashing a cross into the area intercepted near post Liddiard gets hold of it inside the box for St Ives shifts the ball before shooting the attempt straight at and held by Simpson. St Ives with a corner on the right into a crowded near post area Wisbech scrambling it away. A change for St Ives Cook back on replacing Powell.

  Wisbech press high keeping St Ives on the back foot in defence as they struggle to get forwards to try and find a way back into the game, Stanborough breaking up more than one attack. Luckett comes back on in place of Newell. Lyon robbing the ball off the St Ives defence chases it down into the area closing in on the keeper gets to it first lifting a shot wide of the near post. Stanborough 20 yards out lets fly central again seeing a shot smash against the crossbar. 

Wisbech Town Ladies Chloe Stanborough with St Ives Penelope Ford (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Wisbech in possession of the ball around the St Ives box won’t let them out late on, Carpenter comes off for St Ives Berryman back on to join the attack with 5 minutes left. Luckett tackling to regain the ball to stop St Ives breaking right, Lyon comes off for Wisbech Newell returning. Berryman bringing down a long pass 30 yards out plays it to Cook out wide right she sends a cross in near post area attacked by Steel her downward header deflected wide of goal a corner awarded. Shouts for handball as the ball is played into the box a 2nd corner given this one to the top of the area Newell gets hold of it for Wisbech brings the ball away. 

  Into stoppage time Wisbech continue their high pressing game effective a free-kick won wide right Stanborough to deliver played into the near post bodies to fight through Marjoram is determined to get there does well punching the ball away to safety. Wisbech keep the ball in the final third win a late corner the ball long to the far post a touch seeing it spin away wide of the upright. The final whistle blows and Wisbech Town Ladies win this seasons Division One Cup Final.

Full time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-2 Wisbech Town Ladies

  Wisbech deserved winners played well creating the better opportunities the woodwork struck twice a 1-0 lead at half-time could have been more. That the score for 25 minutes into the 2nd half another goal was needed just to make things more comfortable St Ives struggling to get anything going in attack never out of it just couldn’t find a way back into the game, the 2nd goal eventually coming Wisbech defending from the front keeping St Ives penned in their own half limited attacks. No doubt St Ives will be disappointed can only dust themselves down and put all their focus into their remaining league games. Wisbech in turn can use their cup success to bolster their own title battle. 

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A shortlist of three eventually whittled down to one as the 2nd half wore on. Leah Hall with a fine performance at the back for Wisbech, striker Sophie Swinden as constant threat great strike to make it 2-0 from distance, overall like she did in the semi-final the award goes to Chloe Stanborough a driving force in the heart of midfield for Wisbech getting forwards, striking the woodwork (twice) and more often than not the player in to stop St Ives getting out to attack.

Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.

Wisbech Town Ladies Division One Cup Winners

 Wisbech winning the Division One Cup lifting the trophy and getting soaked in a good deal of prosecco in the process enjoying the celebrations, of the the pub just a few hundred yards away to continue no doubt their will be a few sore heads later today.

An enjoyable night under the lights once again, Saturday off though in need of a rest after two finals in a row my thanks to everyone for their help with the team details as always much appreciated and to Gary Reed for the additional photos.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Thursday 11th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup 

Cambridge City Ladies Development v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

A trip to Cambridgeshire this evening for a Cup Final double, first up this Thursday the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium.

An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Final, Cambridge City Ladies Development with the chance to win a treble, beginning with a shot at silverware this evening have also reached this season’s League Cup Final to come in May. They are currently top of the league and in a strong position with 4 games left to play to win the title and with their 1st team winning the ERWFL Premier Division title this season their 3rd league title in 4 seasons the club is enjoying a prolific spell with a strong youth section being the bedrock of the club. Megan Tonks top scorer for the Development side has 28 goals to her name so far this season.

A Cup Final appearance for the second season running for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Reached the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup last season on their way to winning promotion back to the Premiership. Currently leading the pack in the cluster of sides below the top 3 with 3 points between the sides placed 4th to 7th a top half finish a real possibility with a handful of games left. Marie Stubbings once again leading Fulbourn’s goal scoring charts with 17 goals to her name so far this season.

Road to the Final

    Fulbourn receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition, Cambridge City awarded a home win the action moves on to the quarter finals. Cambridge City at home taking on Histon Ladies Reserves, Megan Tonks netting a hat-trick along with a goal for Hannah Lock seeing them win the game 4-1. Fulbourn were at home too in the quarter finals taking on Championship South side Cambridge Ranger WFC, goals from Amy Smith, Yasmine Upson, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings putting them through to the semi-finals with a 4-0 win.

Onto the semi-finals Cambridge City at home to fellow Premiership side March Town United Ladies. Another hat-trick this time from 16-year-old Freya Standing, along with an own goal plus one from Rachel Pearce seeing them comfortably through to the junior Invitation Cup Final winning 5-0. Fulbourn were taking on another Championship South side in the last 4, Burwell Tigers Ladies. A brace each from Stubbings & Pinner aswell as a goal by Katie Luddy securing a 5-1 win to send them through to the final.

Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium the venue for this evenings Junior Invitation Cup Final, it’s a large pitch offering plenty of width seen alot of action over the season. The bar open a large seated stand overlooking the pitch. The food hut open too, only went to get a cup of tea but the burgers did look good and temptation got the better of me, have been good though this believe it or not my first cheeseburger of the season and it was very nice too. The evenings pulling out the light not yet gone at kick-off a warm day beginning to cool, dry with a little cloud cover.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Hannah Lock, Becky Langthorpe, Lucy Hurst, Anna Kanz, Jade Powell, Emily Reed, Rachel Pearce, Ellie Cullum (C), Yaz Crow, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks. Subs – Jess Struthers, Amy Ozakpinar & Bronte Rapley.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Isaacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Abi Molloy, Katrina Cloherty, Emma Clark, Sarah Gee, Stacey Kemp, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Amy Smith, Gabby Gallegos, Abi Dowell McGrillan, Nikki Cowan & Katie Luddy.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

It’s Fulbourn to get the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup underway wearing claret shirts and socks with navy blue shorts. Cambridge opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Cambridge closing down the ball in the middle quickly get position switch play down the right wing Freya Standing taking the ball on, Krissie Taylor defending for Fulbourn seeing the ball out for a goalkick.

   Fulbourn look to get away on their right the ball won on halfway Yaz Crow playing it on high into the area, Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger getting her head on the ball nodding it behind for a corner. Played in from the left into bodies at the near post pushed out towards the top of the area met by a Cambridge shirt a low shot driven back in towards goal, Samantha Isaacson captain and goalkeeper getting down on her line to stop the ball.

   Cambridge captain Ellie Cullum looks to combine with Standing on the right as they press forwards Fulbourn defending Taylor backed up by Abi Molloy another corner conceded. Cambridge with a bright start closing the ball down. Standing attacks with the ball at her feet, Taylor up against her does well to nick the ball her clearance straight to Cullum her return ball back over the top for Standing sees her flagged offside. Standing seeing alot of the ball early on squares a cross to Cullum central 25 yards out she helps it on to the left Crow getting forwards takes the shot on early her strike racing wide across goal. 

  Fulbourn riding out the early pressure from their opponents break forwards Bodger playing the ball out from the back long for Marie Stubbings to chase into the right channel she pushes it out of her feet before sending a low diagonal ball in towards the top of the area looking for Sharon Pinner who has gotten into an advanced position, pressures the Cambridge defence into a rushed clearance the ball straight to midfielder Sarah Gee she catches it well from 25 yards out the strike the shot over goalkeeper Hannah Lock smashes against the crossbar.

  Cambridge get hold of the loose ball taking it forwards rapidly hitting Fulbourn on the counter the pass into striker Megan Tonks she is tackled 25 yards out the deflected ball running behind for a corner on the right. The delivery in near post Bodger is up well to defend for Fulbourn heading the ball on away past the far post a scramble for the ball sees it run wide of the post adjudged off a Cambridge foot a goalkick given. 

  GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and Fulbourn take the lead possession on the left the ball is played forwards a great pass finding Stubbings central 30 yards out back to goal turns well pushing on has Stacey Kemp making a fantastic run to her right lay the ball into her path the winger hitting the ball from outside the box well struck to whistle past the keeper into the back of the net and put see Fulbourn lead 0-1. 

  Cambridge get straight on the attack a long distance strike from the right sent wide of goal, Seema Grewal defending at right back stops Crow taking the ball in behind.

  GOAL! Fulbourn’s lead doesn’t last long as Cambridge find an immediate response the ball kept on the left a throw in won inside the Fulbourn half players from both sides drifting across a pass slid forwards comes to Standing 20 yards out left of the D, not closed down takes a touch before taking on the shot the ball bouncing inside the six yard box managing to creep inside the post to see the scores level 1-1.

More good footwork from Standing attacking right a cross swung in looping into the six yard box taken well by Issacson. Grewal on for Kemp on the right getting forwards has support from Stubbing central, Anna Kanz though doing well in defence for Cambridge winning the ball back and playing it forwards into Emily Reed, onto Cullum she turns attempting to play Tonks in behind, Bodger with an important interception for Fulbourn, Cullum latching onto the loose back her shot from distance falling wide of the target. 

  Rachel Pearce plays a fantastic diagonal pass forwards into Standing right side taking the ball on Taylor standing up against her well preventing her getting in behind. Fulbourn make ground on their right a throw in won level with the area, put on into Stubbings inside the box, Kanz tackling wins the ball. Cambridge make a change Hurst coming off at left back on in her place Jess Struthers. Good combination play between Standing and Tonks getting forwards attempting a one two the ball inside the box claimed well by Issacson down at the attackers feet. 

  Play from one end to the other, Fulbourn winning a corner got work from Stubbings on the byline holding it up as Kemp plays it forwards. The delivery from the right defended at the near post Cambridge launching a counter attack, the ball out to the right Standing sending a cross racing into the area long  cleared past the far post along the ground it met well by the advancing Cullum struck back in low cut out inside the six yard box the ball popping up for Tonks central has a stab at it placing the ball wide of the left post. 

   GOAL! Cambridge come back from conceding the opening goal to take the lead a goal out of nothing possession high on the left the ball with Reed inside the area taking it to the byline not tackled looks for options corner of the six yard box, hooks a ball in towards goal the looping shot over Issacson drops over the line to see Cambridge go 2-1 up.

Cambridge City Ladies. Emily Reed

A Cambridge corner on the right dealt well again at the near post by Bodger. Cambridge enjoying more of the ball exerting pressure towards the end of the 1st half make a 2nd change, Kanz the player coming off on comes Amy Ozakpinar. Fulbourn’s Emma Clark playing the ball forwards on the left for Pinner to chase, Becky Langthorpe’s clearance catching her in the face. A stinging blast hitting her in the eye, no chances taken time needed to recover, she is substituted one comes Abi Dowell McGrillan. Stubbings seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out looks to turn in behind Jade Powell getting in the tackle to regain possession.

Becky Langthorpe clearing the ball before Fulbourn’s Sharon Pinner can close her down

  Good hold-up play from Clark on the left for Fulbourn inside the Cambridge half plays it back to Taylor before turning in behind to get forwards in attack the full back with a great past up to Stubbings outside the box cushions it down well aiming to put it on for Clark not quite able to take it in her stride, Struthers clearing for Cambridge. Katrina Cloherty with the ball central for Fulbourn out to Dowell McGrillan left her crossfield ball finding Kemp attacking on the right puts it into the area for Stubbing right of goal she gets a shot away the ball blocked deflected wide. Kemp down with an injury after being fouled far side, a late change for Fulbourn, Amy Smith given her moment runs on the wind taken out of her sails as the whistle blows straight away for half-time.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 2-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   An entertaining first half Cambridge with the early pressure Fulbourn coping well in defence breaking well to open the first smash a shot against the ball then open the scoring from a well taken strike by Kemp. Switched off a little to see Cambridge draw level straight away and then go on to take the lead, not as fluid as Cambridge would like but the advantage is theirs at the half-time interval.

Pinner back on for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half, no changes for Cambridge as they get the 2nd 45 minutes underway. Up in the stand to watch the 2nd half. Pearce playing an over the top pass for Standing right side, Taylor getting across her and defending for Fulbourn. Standing with a strong run down the right again gets in behind this time bursting into the box hitting a shot goalwards, Issacson doing well at her near post down to push the ball wide across her six yard box, Grewal the first to it sends the clearance up field. 

  Cambridge on the front foot attacking with purpose at the start of the 2nd half Crow taking the ball on to the byline left does well to get her side a corner. Taken short the angle opened to put in the cross, Grewal is out to the ball jumping to block the ball. Standing with the ball right 30 yards out lays it back to Langthorpe the full back opening her boy to lift a long range diagonal pass into Tonks top of the D, chesting it down to her left tries to place it into the path of the advancing Pearce, the attack not quite coming off. 

  Tonks coming left sends the ball on for Cullum breaking in behind, Grewal with an important interception. Cambridge all attack get forwards left a cross sent in along the top of the area Tonks looking to latch onto it, Molloy gets their just in time to block the ball deflected wide for a corner. In low from the left flicked on into the six yard box, a touch goalwards, straight at Issacson pops out of the keepers gloves a scramble for the loose ball ensues, but Issacson grounded has the ball in her gloves on her goal line.

  Fulbourn make a change Pinner off on comes Katie Luddy, little in the way of attacks so far Cambridge on the front foot. Standing pulled back on the right corner a free-kick awarded, the ball played into the near post, Bodger continues to win it for Fulbourn. Cambridge make a double change Reed and Tonks the players off on come Bronte Rapley with Kanz returning to the action.. Crow away on the left sending the ball inside for Cullum bursting into the box a snap shot not caught cleanly the midfielder snatching it wide of her near post.

GOAL! Against the run of play Fulbourn break and get themselves back on level terms 20 minutes into the 2nd half. A fantastic run with the ball from Luddy on the right getting in behind to fire a cross into the box along the top of the six yard box knocked away at the near post the ball collected by Stubbings central just inside the area a great turn and hit the ball swerving past Lock curling into the back of the net 2-2 game on.

Fulbourn’s Marie Stubbings

   A goal can do wonders for confidence and suddenly Fulbourn are on the front foot themselves looking to attack once more Grewal winning the ball back higher up the pitch pushing it on for Luddy, Struthers tackling to prevent the cross. The Cambridge defence put under pressure Powell clearing. Cambridge make another double switch Reed and Hurst returning in place of Cullum and Langthorpe. Standing drifting over to the left picking up the ball turns well inside the box her shot blocked, a 2nd bite at the cherry for Standing knocked central a shot pushed towards goal Issacson down to push it behind for a corner.

  An injury for Cambridge before it can be taken, Crow can’t continue Tonks is back on. Mayhem from the corner but I’ll do my best the delivery perfect in central top of the six yard box a header downwards cleared off the line put out to the right wide of goal a shot blasted back in smashes against the crossbar dropping into the six yard box players dive in referee Dulcie Asher pointing to the spot Cambridge winning the penalty!

  GOAL! Bronte Rapley placing the ball down a short run up and composed finish, Issacson going the wrong way as she finds the bottom left corner to restore the lead 3-2 with a little under 15 minutes to play. 

  Luddy showing her frustration as she is adjudged to have fouled Struthers after Stubbings plays her in on the right with a good lay off. Standing on the left now gets clear to get her foot wrapped around the ball a drive a cross in across the six yard box, Molloy able to intercept and clear at the far post. Reed with a run from midfield the cross from the byline from Standing just evading her. Fulbourn making 3 changes in quick succession, Luddy first for Cloherty, Pinner return in in place of Gee with Gabby Gallegos for Pinner whose cameo was longer than this paragraph suggests. 

  Fulbourn win a free-kick in a dangerous area just in front of the D, Taylor over it gets her shot in on target past the wall, safely gathered by Lock back on her line, Time running out Cambridge are a young side and they don’t tend to run the ball into the corners attack on their minds. Bodger well placed tracking back to intercept with Tonks on her shoulder as Struthers threads a diagonal ball into her the ball out for a throw on the left. Time up the final whistle blows and Cambridge City Ladies Development celebrate winning the Junior Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 3-2 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   The first part of their potential treble complete, Cambridge weren’t at their best but that only added to the excitement. A strong start but Fulbourn rode it out well hitting on the counter taking an early lead. Their back four playing really well all making some crucial tackles and breaking up Cambridge’s flow. Switched off for both the goals as Cambridge fought back to level straight away then take the lead. An onslaught at the start of the 2nd half from Cambridge without getting the break through of a 3rd goal. Fulbourn taking their chance well through Stubbings to make it 2-2. Cambridge getting the opportunity to restore their lead from the penalty spot Rapley with a composed finish. 

Women’s Football East – Payer of the Match

 On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. An entertaining game with some great moments of defending two well taken strikes from Fulbourn, the award goes to the scorer of Cambridge’s first goal Freya Standing easy to see why she has broken into the first team this season, lively on the wing always available as the ball is won back at the back taking players on and setting up attacks.

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development on their trophy success this evening.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners, Cambridge City Ladies Development.

   One final down, back to Cambridgeshire again tomorrow (well it’s today as I write this) for the Division One Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development up against Wisbech Town Ladies at Ely City FC. An enjoyable game under the lights at Histon, my thanks to both sides for the team details.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The race for the title in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One looks like it will go all the way now in what has been an intriguing title race at the top of the table all season. Northwood Ladies the first side to complete their fixtures ending on a high sitting top of the table with a crucial 1-0 home win over 2nd placed St Albans Ladies on Sunday, that win taking Northwood 4 points clear of St Albans Ladies meaning they can’t catch the with one game left to play. Runners-up to St Albans Ladies  in their debut season last year Northwood are guaranteed a top two finish this time around too. Leanne Jones scoring the all important winning goal. 

As intriguing as the title race in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One has been, there was always likely with their games in hand over their rivals and suffering just the one defeat all season that Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies would come through to take top spot, that though looks less certain now after they suffered a surprise defeat away from home on Sunday to bottom side Garston Ladies 2nd XI. A brace from Ruby Jager along with a goal for Charley Kelsey seeing Garston Ladies fresh from reaching The Chris Renshaw Trophy final beating Hemel Hempstead 3-1. Amy Bentall scoring the goal for the visitors, the title remains in Hemel Hempstead’s reach with 3 games left to play but can’t afford any more slip ups with the gap to Northwood 6 points.

  A good weekend all round for Garston Ladies women’s sides as their 1st team extended their unbeaten run in league and cup to 6 matches building on a midweek win away to Sherrardswood Ladies to beat Sharnbrook WFC at home this Sunday. A 2-1 win in midweek, Garston scored 2 without reply on Sunday to pick up the 3 points and climb up a place to 7th in the table.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Home wins awarded to the top two in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the title battle almost over. Hitchin Belles top of the table leading by 9 points with a game left to play, that match away to 2nd placed Hitchin Town Ladies this coming Sunday. A positive result for Hitchin Belles seeing them finish champions, promotion to Division One for the 1st time assured. Even a win for Hitchin Town may not be enough as even with maximum points from their last 3 games will see the sides level on 44 points Hitchin Belles with a usual 19+ goal difference as it stands. A fantastic season for both an Sunday’s game sure to be a special day played at Hitchin Town FC’s Top Field stadium.

One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday, a thriller between Evergreen Ladies & Watton Ladies sharing 9 goals, Watton bringing an end to Evergreen’s winning streak. Both sides short on a full compliment of players Natalie Maher on target with a brace for Evergreen has 14 goals now for the season with Top scorer Rebecca Freeman staying 1 ahead of her on 15 with a goal, Lisa Nolan also getting a goal. 4 though wasn’t enough for Evergreen to take anything from the game as a brace from Gemma Bickell taking her to 10 for the season and a hat-trick from Sian Owens also on 10 goals no seeing Watton clinch the win 5-4.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Three games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday and with leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves not in action it was a chance for 2nd & 3rd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lioness & AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies to close the gap exert some pressure leading into the final 3 games of the season.

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies this Sunday, Nikita Blackburn scoring a brace for the hosts her 1st goals of the season. Kodi Meader and Victoria Harrold celebrating a goal each too along with top scorer Giselle Randall finding the back of the net for the 25th time this season as Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses won the game 5-2 to close the gap to Dunstable back to 4 points. Jessica Sullivan and Georgia Miller scoring the goals for Bedwell Rangers playing their last game of the season.

   AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies were also at home this Sunday taking on Stotfold Juniors Ladies in Division Three. Bex Cray top scoring in the game with 4 for the hosts moves her onto 18 goals for the season. AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College winning the game 7-2 with Emily Devereux, Rachael Mumford and Danielle Cherry all claiming a goal each, Cherry’s first of the season. The 3rd placed side closing the gap to AFC Dunstable to 7 points, the two sides have to play each other home and away in their final 3 games, with their final game at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses those games could well have a big impact on the title.

A hat-trick from Amber Clark enough to see 4th placed Langford Ladies win the 3 points at home to Kempston Rovers Ladies on Sunday in Division Three. The hosts edging the win by 3 goals to 2, Clark out in front as top scorer for Langford now with 23 goals. Meghan Dimmock and Chelsea Rose Jeffery scoring for Kempston Rovers.

The Round-Up – Essex 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Essex Women’s League Cup

Harlow Town Ladies Development are the first side to reach the final of this season’s Essex Women’s League Cup. Their young side enjoying an impressive debut season in the Premier Division 4th in the table a long unbeaten run at the start of the season now into their 1st ever final. Were away to Division One side Runwell Sports Ladies who have been League Cup finalists themselves losing to Harlow’s 1st team 3 seasons ago. Harlow’s Development side enjoying a good first half showing to lead the game 3-0 built on that 2nd half adding a further 5 goals to book their spot in the final with an 8-1 win. Top scorer Hannah Smith on target for 4 of those goals taking her goals for the season up to 27. Ellie Nicholls also on the scoresheet with her 18th goal of the season with a goal each to for Maisy Wyer, Evie Anderson and Savannah Japal. Leigh Ramblers Ladies are at home to Southend United Ladies in the other League Cup semi-final taking place this coming Sunday.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Collier Row Tigers are up to 3rd spot in the Essex Women’s Division after picking up the 3 point in an impressive win away to 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Laura Bunton racing past the 30 goals mark with a 5 goal haul that sees her on 31 goals from just 12 appearances. Collier Row Tigers winning the game 6-0 with Emma Harrison the other goalscorer.

  A 5th straight league win for Southend United Ladies sees them consolidate 6th position in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and with games in hand on the sides above them could yet push for a top half finish after a slow start to the campaign. Were in the road this Sunday taking on Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Jo Smeaton scoring her 20th goal of the season for the hosts it wasn’t enough for Beacon Hill Rovers to get anything from the game as goals from Lily Halliday and Ellie Wood saw Southend United win the game 2-1.

Essex Women’s Division One 

In Essex Women’s Division One, Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies are the 1st side to play out all their fixtures end their campaign leading the table by 3 points wasn’t to be more as they suffered defeat in their final league match at home to 3rd placed Hutton Ladies Reserves. Baylie Kingsnorth celebrating a brace, with a goal each for Vicky Kinsman and Cassandra Piejko plus an own goal in a 5-0 win. Dagenham & Redbridge can only wait and see what the chasing pack will do, a 3rd placed finish guaranteed at least, with both 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies Reserves 3 points behind with 3 games in hand and 5th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies on 30 points with 7 still to play can overhaul them. Either way a great season for Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies. Hutton Ladies Reserves enjoying a strong season too have had a real impact on the title race.

FC Clacton Ladies climb up to 4th in the Essex Women’s Division One table winning at home this Sunday against Chigwell Ladies. Goals from Jasmine Cox, Lauren Lucas and a 1st of the season from Sasha Moy securing a 3-1 win for FC Clacton. Victoria Parker getting on the scoresheet for Chigwell Ladies her 15th goal of the season.

  A home win too this Sunday in Division One for Chelmsford City Ladies taking on Belhus Ladies, goals from Kelsey Honeywood and Tish Cleary seeing Chelmsford win the game 2-1 to record their 3rd league win of the season enough to take them above Belhus into 9th place in the table. Bethany Murray scoring for Belhus.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership   

 Into April the finishing line in sight for a number of clubs the season soon coming to an end. Cambridge City Ladies Development 3 points clear at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership have 4 left to play, weren’t in action this Sunday but saw other results go their way. Just the one game played in the league at the weekend and it was a good result at home for Netherton United Ladies as they held third placed Cambridge University Women to a 0-0 draw. The big movers in the league Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds the latest side to leap from 7th to 4th courtesy of being awarded the 3 points for a home win over 2nd placed ICA Sports Ladies who now have just one mach left to play.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

 In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North leaders Ketton Ladies kept up their winning record 11 from 11 now to open up a 6 point lead at the top of the table. Ketton were at home this Sunday taking on 3rd placed Cardea Ladies. 25 goals for the season now for Claire Lawrenson as she celebrated scoring a hat-trick for Ketton. Fran Kavanagh once again amongst the goals to netting a brace to move onto 44 for the season. Ketton winning the game 5-1, Laura Rudd with the Cardea goal.

   In the other game played in the Championship North there was a eye opening scoreline between Hungate Rovers Ladies & Wisbech St Mary Ladies with the hosts 2nd from bottom in the table racking up a double figure scoreline to win for just the 2nd time this season. Hungate Rovers ladies winning the game 10-0. Savanna Plavecz top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. Also amongst the goals were Kelly McKenna scoring twice with a goal each for Ewelina Jerzak, Kate Neal and Kelly McManus the latter pair scoring their first goals of the season.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

 Three games left to play in the league now for Haverhill Rovers Ladies look on course for the title holding a 9 point lead at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South. Can be caught by 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development who have 3 games in hand, one of Haverhill’s remaining games however at home to St Ives. This Sunday they racked up another double figure win this time at home against Park Ladies. A hat-trick each for Kayleigh Nolan who has 16 for the season and Abbi Griffin who is on 9. Top scorer Joeli Kirby also on the scoresheet with another goal taking her tally to 36 for the season. Julie Brown and Sian Cotterill alos scoring with an own goal completing a 10-0 victory.

  St Ives Town Ladies Development prepared for their upcoming Division One Cup Final this Friday with a comfortable home win against Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Winning the game 6-0 to keep their title hopes alive games in hand will be looking to close the gap to leaders Haverhill before the sides meet on the 5th of May.

   Cambridge Rangers Women continue to keep neck and neck with St Ives Town Ladies Development level with them on 24 points albeit having played two games more. Their 8th win of the season coming at home on Sunday against Burwell Tigers Ladies. A close result in the finish Charlotte Fogarty and Elisa Heinamaa scoring a goal each for Burwell, Cambridge Rangers edging them out to win the 3 points with a 3-2 victory.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Suffolk Women’s Division

Annie Northwood was on target for all 4 goals in East Bergholt United Ladies 4-1 win away to Brettvale Ladies this Sunday to see them retain their 6 point lead at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Just 2 games left to play a point is all that is needed to ensure them the league title. Northwood scoring an impressive 37 goals now for the season. Completing a first half hat-trick to put East Bergholt in full control of the game adding a 4th 2nd half. Tarnya McKew with the strike from Brettvale. 

East Bergholt have been pushed all the way to the end by Needham Market Women enjoying a fantastic debut season in women’s football, the only side to beat East Bergholt in the league, a sic point gap are guaranteed runners-up spot at the least 11 points clear of 3rd placed Brantham Athletic now who have 3 left to play. That gap extended away to Brantham this Sunday. A big game Needham Market holding a slender 1 goal advantage at half-time. Brantham scoring 2 goals in the 2nd half, Needham Market scoring plenty of goals themselves this season adding a further 4 to win the game 5-2. Francesca Rainbird top scorer fast closing in on 30 goals for the season a brace moving her closer on 28. Amber Sparkes to celebrating a brace has 19 for the season. Eboni-mae Shepherd with the other goal her 3rd of the season. 

Woodbridge Town Ladies are another new name this season enjoying a good campaign up into 4th in the table lay just 2 points off 3rd placed Brantham now the 3 points won away from home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. The visitors leading 2-0 at half-time went on to secure the win scoring a 3rd goal in the 2nd half. Top scorer, Jenna Liverpool with a brace moves onto 18 goals for the season. Kerry Scott also on the scoresheet scoring her first goal for Woodbridge.

  A tussle in the middle of the table 6th placed Walsham Le Willow Ladies at home to 7th placed Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division victory for the away side seeing the pair swap places in the table. Norma Locker and Olivia Hodges scoring for Walsham Le Willows. Sarah Cooper finding the back of the net for a brace for Leiston St Margarets her 6th & 7th goals of the season with a goal each for Leanne Morphew & Leanne Fairweather in a 4-2 victory.

  Victory too on Sunday for Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies in their bottom of the table clash at home to University of Suffolk Women. A brace for Charlotte Archer taking her to 11 for the season along a brace from Madeleine Fairbrother her first goals for Chantry Grasshoppers and a goal for Bernice Corney seeing the hosts win 5-1 against the bottom side. 

The Round-Up – Norfolk 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Norfolk Ladies League Plate

This weekend saw the semi-finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition taking place. An all Division One line-up. Beccles Town Ladies reaching the last 4 of the competition were looking to reach their first ever cup final as they travelled to play Aylsham Ladies in their semi-final. A disappointing 2nd half to the campaign for Aylsham who showed early promise upon their return to women’s football this season 2nd for a long spell played out their last league match in midweek a 4-2 loss seeing them finish 5th. A shot at ending the season on a high by reaching the League Plate final. Megan Vincent on target with a goal for Beccles giving them a narrow lead at half-time. Onto the 2nd half and Vincent struck again to double Beccles lead and see them into their first ever final in just their 2nd season.

  Their opponents in the League Plate Final will be Sprowston Athletic Ladies who will be making their third successive appearance on a Norfolk Women’s Finals day in their various guises. Their debut as Sprowston Athletic were at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves in the last 4. Katie Fray netting a brace along with a gal for Olivia Leggett securing a 3-1 win for Sprowston Athletic, Laura Watson on the scoresheet for Wymondham. 

  The Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final between Sprowston Athletic Ladies & Beccles Town Ladies scheduled for Sun 5th May at Plantation Park a 10am kick-off part of the NWGFL Finals day with the 7’s Final & League Cup Final between Sprowston Ladies & Tavern Ladies

Norfolk Women’s Division One

     One game played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday just a handful of matches left to play, Thorpe United Ladies Champions have played all their games. this weekend it was the last league game of the season for Sprowston Ladies, into the final of the Ladies League Cup the 2nd placed side were away to Bungay Town Ladies who picked up the 3 points with a midweek home win over Aylsham Ladies on Wednesday. A 4-2 win, Imogen McGregor netting a brace with a goal each to for Jody Wells & Selina Rowland. 

  Were looking to build on that result at home to Sprowston the scores level at 1 a piece at half-time more of the same 2nd half with both adding another goal to share the points in a 2-2 draw. McGregor scoring both the goals for Bungay the youngster into double figures now for the season. Victoria Leyer on the scoresheet for Sprowston once again with her 28th of the season with Abbi Nobbs also getting a goal. Sprowston finishing on 23 points 2 clear of Gorleston Ladies who still have two games to play.

Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Taverham United Women remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Their lead 9 points bouncing back well from their 1st league defeat of the season against Tavern ladies two weeks ago. At home this Sunday were taking on Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Taverham are scoring plenty of goals well past 100 now, 36 of those claimed by Rebecca Sutton the clubs top scorers on target with another goal this Sunday. Goals to for Charlotte Hurren her 9th of the campaign and Teigan Robinson with her 12th of the season Taverham winning 3-0. A big week coming up with a trip to Long Stratton Women now 2nd on Wednesday and Clipbush Park on Sunday to play 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies.

Those two met this weekend with Fakenham 2nd going into the match travelling to Long Stratton. The hosts taking a 1-0 lad into the break with Emily Watts finding the back of the net. Watts adding a further 2 goals in the 2nd half to claim her hat-trick and in doing so moving onto 25 goals for the season. Long Stratton winning the game 3-0 and moving above Fakenham losing for just the 2nd time in the league into 2nd spot.

 Tavern Ladies fourth in Division Two were playing at home on Sunday against bottom side Bulldogs Ladies. The Dereham based side are scoring plenty of goals this season, largely through Katie Hart-Copsey who has more than half their tally moving past 40 goals for the season, sporting a new pair of boots at the weekend they brought her a further 4 goals to take her to 45 goals, Tavern leading 4-1 at half-time went on to win the game 7-2. Nicole Costin scoring a brace for Tavern their was also a 21st goal of the season for Atlanta Griffith. Emily Hinsley making just her 3rd appearance for Bulldogs scoring both goals her first for the club.

Both Zoe Waite and Abigail Bell were celebrating a hat-trick at the weekend for Gorleston Rangers Ladies as they won 8-1 away from home against Horsford Women to move back up into 6th position in the Division Two table. Rachel Adams also on the scoresheet for Gorleston with her 13th goal of the season with Amy Durdin celebrating her 1st goal of the campaign. Laura Hudson with the 43rd minute goal fr Horsford.

   Hockering Ladies have done fantastically well to battle on this season more often than not struggling to field a full team, it was a rare occasion this Sunday when the boot was on the other foot, Hockering having not only a full side but someone on the bench. Were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies who were the ones short on numbers this Sunday with just 8 available. Hockering able to take advantage a get just their 2nd win of the season. Jolene Ayrton opening the scoring in the 7th minute went on to score a first half brace her first goals for Hockering 2-0 up at half-time Leah Brown was on target from a brace too in the 2nd half. Laura Stratton making her 2nd Hockering appearance scoring her 1st goal too along with Sophie Baldry celebrating her 1st Hockering goal in just her 3rd appearance. A 6-0 win for Hockering.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

ERWFL Premier Division

Cambridge City Ladies have won the ERWFL Premier Division with 3 games to spare, a 4-0 home win over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last Sunday. This Sunday they travelled to Hertfordshire to play Royston Town Ladies looking to end the season unbeaten, just the two points dropped so far. Those coming in the reverse league fixture with Royston who are enjoying a god season themselves in the league 2nd with a 4 point gap over 3rd placed Acle United Women going into the game. A rainy afternoon Royston started well but it was Cambridge who took the early lead Shannon Shaw heading the ball in from six yards after the delivery from a corner wasn’t cleared. Further chances for Cambridge to extend the lead 1st half as they worked hard to limit opportunities up the other end. A 1-0 lead at half time.

Royston’s Sammy Tinsley battles with Cambridge’s Sarah Mosley for possession of the ball

  More urgency from Royston 2nd half as they looked to get back on level terms, hitting them on the break Shaw was put through in the left channel to shoot from the top of the area her shot squeezing in inside the post on the hour, a well taken goal from the edge of the area from 16-year-old Freya Standing seeing Cambridge extend their lead. A frustrating afternoon for Royston their advantage in 2nd cut to a point but remain in a strong position with 3 matches left to play.

Acle United Women have been amongst the title challenges for the past 3 season’s, pushing all the way in earlier campaigns haven’t managed to exert pressure on the leaders this season, not that anyone else has. Nevertheless in the top 4 all season are looking for a strong finish into 3rd clinched the 3 points at home on Sunday to close the gap to a point on 2nd placed Royston. Harlow Town Ladies making the long trip up to Norfolk this weekend. The visitors playing 2 thirds of the game with 10 players after Rubie Smith got her marching orders in the 32nd minutes for a rash challenge that saw Acle captain Anna Larkins forced off through injury. Both sides creating openings early on. The game goalless at half-time. Harlow battling hard in the 2nd period to keep Acle at bay as they pushed forwards looking a goal, the winner coming with 6 minutes left of normal play Mary-Anne Hoy stretching out a toe to get on the end of a cross and sent it into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club.

  A 4-1 win at home to Wymondham Town Ladies over Bedford Ladies a month ago, the Norfolk side travelled to Bedfordshire this Sunday to play the reverse fixture. 4th in the Premier Division table, Wymondham opened the scoring on 22 minutes after making a good start Laura Nicholls on hand to score the ball flicked on by Chardonnay Johnston. Jorja Patterson doubling the lead just 6 minutes later to see the visitors 2-0 up at half-time. Bedford starting the 2nd half well forcing a save from Wymondham keeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan in the 50th minute, Bedford get it back to 2-1 moments later scoring from a corner. The equaliser coming midway through the 2nd half. The points shared, Eden Kibron and Michelle Byrne Bedford’s goalscorers. 

3 wins in a row now for Colney Heath Ladies finding a bit of form towards the end of the season, an away win over Haringey Borough Women this Sunday. The Hertfordshire sides taking the lead in the 1st half a cross put in from the byline parried by the keeper falling to Melissa Godino to smash the ball into the back of the net to score her 1st goal for the club the goal proving to be enough to win the game.

ERWFL Division One

 St Ives Town Ladies remain 6 points clear and unbeaten still at the top of ERWFL Division One well on course for back to back promotions were up against the side where their excellent season began with a trip to fellow promoted side Lawford Ladies. A close contest Lawford finding their feet in the league well after a heavy loss to St Ives on the opening day. Chances for both side it was St Ives who open the scoring Georgia Stancombe heading in at the far post from an Emily Stephenson cross. Lawford coming back to level inside 10 minutes Daisy Canny captaining Lawford with a good run and pass to tee up Michelle McRae to score her 1st goal for the club. Level at half-time St Ives starting the 2nd half well Lawford battling to keep them out, the scores level heading deep into injury time the visitors pressing Tierney Coulson finding Emily Smith inside the box she took her chance to score and win the game for St Ives.

 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies can only win their games now and home St Ives slip up keep the gap to 6 points with the two sides due to play at St Ives in a fortnight. This Sunday they were taking on 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies at home. 3 draws in a row seeing Newmarket slip away from the title picture themselves, a good season so far playing at this level for the 1st time. Bowers & Pitsea losing just the two matches in the league this season strong themselves buoyed by recent success in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final. Sophie Dowman on target for her 13th goal of the season opening the scoring for Bowers & Pitsea in the 12th minute. That the only goal of the first half. The hosts scoring early in the 2nd half Dowman with the assist putting Georgia Fraser in to slide a shot under the keeper to make it 2-0 her 17th of the season. Jennifer Lyttle with a 25 yard strike in the 86th minute seeing Bowers & Pitsea to a 3-0 win.

   A trip to Hertfordshire for King’s Lynn Town Ladies this Sunday as they took on 4th placed Stevenage Ladies Reserves. King’s Lynn looking t get some form under their belts in the lead up to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final being played at Carrow Road. Came home with all 3 points putting in a good team performance, winning the game 2-1, Olivia Baker scoring both the goals enough to win the game with Emily Schofield scoring for Stevenage.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies are up to 5th place in the ERWFL Division One table continuing their recent run of good results that has seen them win 4 on the bounce now. Were away to bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies this Sunday. Rosy Wodhams scoring a hat-trick moving her ahead in the goal scoring charts with 15 now for the season. Both Grace Leslie and Rebecca Scola also getting a goal each too in the 2nd half for the visitors Hoddesdon winning the game 5-2, and they are also credited with scoring both goals for the hosts.

Histon Ladies bounced back from last weeks home defeat to Stevenage Ladies Reserves to pick up the points on the road this Sunday against Hertford Town Ladies. A single goal enough to win the 3 points coming late on with just 3 minutes left on the clock. Kirsty Geal making her first appearance for Histon scoring the decisive goal. The win putting Histon to within a point of the top half of the table.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

FAWNL Southern Premier Division 

  Into April the end of the season drawing rapidly to a close, those challenging for titles knowing what they have to do now. Coventry United Ladies top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division suffering their 1st defeat of the season at home to Chichester City Ladies last Sunday bounced back in midweek to win at home against Oxford United Women. This Sunday were on home turf once again taking on 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Women. A frustrating performance from the league leaders as they were held to a draw despite Nikki Miles putting them 1-0 heading in from a corner.

  Coventry leading at half-time Queens Park Rangers have had a difficult season, without a win on the board their 4 points all coming from draws, continue to work hard and battle fought back to earn a point with Kasha Petit scoring to make it 1-1 with a little over 20 minutes left. Coventry now 7 points clear of 2nd placed Cardiff City Ladies who have a game in hand. Coventry with a chance to open up a 10 point lead at the top if they win at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in midweek, then it’s a huge game on Sunday at home again to Cardiff City Ladies a win would see Coventry crowned champions.

  A 10th league win of the season in their 100th FAWNL win games, it sees Plymouth Argyle Ladies back up into 5th spot in the Southern Premier Division. The 3 points coming at home on Sunday against Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Natasha Knapman putting Plymouth 1-0 to the good inside 10 minutes. Milton Keynes responding straight away to level the scores Amy Gooderham’s half volley finding the back of the net. Plymouth regaining the lead just past the half hour Jessie Jones seeing her shot saved putting it in as the rebound fell straight to her. 2-1 to Plymouth at the half-time interval. The hosts securing the win with a 3rd goal in the 66th minute, Knapman heading home from a cross put in by substitute Helen Bleazard. 

   Portsmouth FC Women travelled to Kent this Sunday to play Gillingham Ladies. The sides creating few opportunities in the first half went in goalless at the break. The visitors breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half Katie James scoring from a stunning free-kick, her shot from distance over the wall striking the post and in to make it 1-0 in the 52nd minute. The lead doubled with 15 minutes remaining players up for a free-kick the ball parried inside the box Eilidh Currie on hand to score from close range. Portsmouth winning 2-0.

FAWNL South East Division One

Thing’s didn’t turn out the way Crawley Wasps Ladies would have hoped for last Sunday as one more win was needed to clinch the FAWNL South East Division One title, playing 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies, the Essex side spoiling the party winning the game 1-0. Not what they wanted but Crawley remain in a very strong position knowing two wins from their final 5 league matches would be enough to become league champions. Were at home against the only other side in the Division to take points off them this season Cambridge United WFC, that game ending 0-0 was the beginning of a good spell for the visitors as they climb into a strong position in the top half of the table. A better game from Crawley this time around the hosts taking the lead on 20 minutes Jenny Drury’s free-kick striking the bar Amy Green was on hand to nod in the rebound, the lead doubled late in the first half Darcey James heading in from a corner kick.

  Crawley 2-0 up at half-time extending their lead early in the 2nd half with Megan Stow making it 3-0 with her 16th goal of the season. Kemina Webber edging in front of Naomi Cole as top scorer getting Crawley’s 4th goal on the hour to give her 19 for the season. Mollie Coupar pulling a goal back for Cambridge with 20 minutes left, Crawley pushing for more goals restoring their 4 goal cushion with 12 minutes left Rachel Palmer striking from 15 yards. Stow from an acute angle scoring her 2nd of the match in injury time to see Crawley win the game 6-1. 1 win from 4 needed now.

   Top half positions in FAWNL South East Division One remain hotly contested. Actonians Ladies returning to 3rd spot winning away to bottom side Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. The hosts battling at the foot of the table are a drift and need every point now, held Actonians to a goalless draw first half. The visitors getting the 2nd half off to a fantastic start taking the lead in the opening minute top scorers Alessandra getting the goal to make it 1-0 her 24th strike of the season. Carla Williams adding a 2nd goal for Actonians 7 minutes later making it 2-0 with her 12th of the season. The points made secured midway through the 2nd half with substitute Jennifer Laidlaw scoring to make it 3-0.

   Actonians climbing above Leyton Orient WFC as they suffered defeat away from home to Enfield Town Ladies this Sunday. Molly Peters on target with the only goal of the 1st half putting Enfield into a 16th minute lead. Peters 12th goal of the season early in the 2nd half doubling Enfield’s advantage. Claire Ford getting amongst the goals making it 3-0 to the hosts midway through the 2nd half. Lily Bruno introduced to the action in the 74th minute scoring for Enfield in the 82nd minute to wrap up a 4-0 win that sees Enfield back up into 5th spot, all remains very tight in the top half with a handful of games left.

   Kevin Foster taking charge of his first game since being named as the new AFC Wimbledon Ladies manager, began with an away trip to Suffolk to play Ipswich Town Women. Chances for the visitors first half the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time. The deadlock broken 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Georgia Heasman floating a ball over the keeper to put Wimbledon into the lead. The visitors going on to double their advantage midway through the 2nd half with Sophie Manzi a 2nd half substitute scoring a fine solo effort to make it 2-0. The win putting Wimbledon back onto the tail of the top half sides.

Match Report – Royston Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Sunday 7th April

ERWFL Premier Division

The league action this Sunday from the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. A clash between the top two with 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies at home to newly crowned Champions, Cambridge City Ladies. 

  A bit like After the Lord Mayor’s Show turning up to watch Cambridge City Ladies this Sunday after they clinched the league title at home to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last weekend with a comfortable 4-0 win. A massive achievement winning the Premier Division title, in just their 3rd season playing regional league football a 3rd league title in 4 seasons, and runners-up in the year they didn’t. A rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid, FAWNL football beckons next season and with it a few local derby matches. 

  Royston Town Ladies, today’s hosts enjoying a great season in the Premier Division themselves, the Hertfordshire side in a strong position to clinch runners-up spot in the league currently 4 points clear of 3rd placed Acle United Women with both having 3 games to play. Amongst the top sides in the league pressurising Cambridge City Ladies at the top. A good start to the season unbeaten in 7 winning 6. The only side to take league points off Cambridge City so far this season drawing away from home 4-4. 

  Cambridge City Ladies joining the ERWFL 3 season’s ago, Division One Champions in their debut season along with a League Cup final appearance. Runners-up in their first season in the Premier Division. Have won the title with 3 games to spare so far unbeaten dropping just 2 points all season from 19 played. Are into the last four of the League Cup once more a double very much possible. An unbeaten league season the icing on the cake as they move up to the FAWNL next season. Their Development side on course to win the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership aswell as two cup final appearances themselves. A strong youth set-up too within the club where it has made it’s name previous, just last Friday their U14s winning their League Cup final.

 The venue for this afternoons match Royston Town FC’s Garden Walk Stadium. The entrance can be easy to miss, but that led me to discover the Civic Car park close by last time so this is where I pitched up this time a short walk to the ground. Nestled behind houses is nevertheless a good sized stadium offering a large pitch looking in great condition offering plenty of width. A clubhouse with bar and hot drinks available. Some covered seating, needed too with the weather forecast predicting rain in the area, wet when I arrived would persist for much of the afternoon, overcast conditions.

Royston Town Ladies starting XI – Yasmine Walford, Katie Seymour, Angharad Chambers, Amy Cooper (C), Beki Fisk, Samantha Edgar, Danielle Carty, Hayley Eldred, Sammy Tinsley, Charlotte South & Jo Rutherford. Subs – Eva Ramsey, Georgia Gannaway, Paris Coldicott-Stevens & Ellie Pickard.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Ceri Flye, Lauren Tomlinson, Anna Goggin, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sarah Mosley, Erin Davies, Carla Penny, Shannon Shaw & Bella Simmons. Subs – Amy Reed, Freya Standing & Bronte Rapley.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides home colours black and white, Royston wearing those colours today, white shirts and socks with black shorts. Cambridge wearing thier sky blue away kit. The rain falling heavily at kick-off, Cambridge to get the 1st half underway, go left Royston quick to close the ball down, Hayley Eldred backed up by Katie Seymour at full back win the ball played up to the strikers, Jo Rutherford looking to win the head beaten to the ball by Cambridge centre back Anna Goggin. Royston press on the right Eldred forwards looking to put the ball on for Rutherford in attack the Cambridge defence intercepts.

Cambridge City Ladies, Carla Penny holding the ball with Royston’s Angharad Chambers marking

    A positive start from Royston putting the ball forwards looking to attack win a corner out on the right a high ball into the area cleared, Cambridge break through the middle the ball pushed on sees striker Shannon Shaw clear running in behind 20 yards out takes on the shot early, Royston goalkeeper Yasmine Walford back-peddling slightly unprepared reacts well adjusting to dive to her left and get her gloves to the ball push it wide and behind for a corner to Cambridge.

  GOAL! The ball played in towards the near post Walford coming to punch gets something on the ball but only succeeds in knocking it up high into the air and spinning further into the six yard box in front of goal, Cambridge attack it Shaw with the telling header to drive the ball into the back of the net to give the visitors an early lead, just 3 minutes on the clock 0-1.

Shannon Shaw opening the scoring for Cambridge City Ladies

  Cambridge’s turn to press the ball on their right, Erin Davies to Carla Penny moving into the right corner holds the ball up as full back Ceri Flye gets forwards in support the ball put back up the line Flye sends a cross into the area, the flag up as striker Bella Simmons strays offside. Simmons with a great run moving right gets in behind drives on coming in field getting into the area lets fly with a shot racing in near post Walford with a reactive save gloves out to send the ball wide and behind at her near post. Royston dealing with the resulting corner. 

 Seymour recovering well at the back for Royston as Simmons touch sees her get inside her, the full back diving in to make a good tackle win the ball 30 yards from goal. Royston with a free-kick on halfway captain Amy Cooper to play the ball up towards the top of the area, Charlotte South up well to nod the ball down, sky blue shirts reacting quickest to clear the loose ball. Sammy Tinsley lively on the left for Royston is fouled, Angharad Chambers putting the ball up the line, South after it flagged offside. 

Royston Town Ladies, Angharad Chambers

 Flye with a strong run after the ball carries on down the right closing in on the byline squares a cross into the Royston six yard box is behind Simmons, Cooper latching onto the ball clearing it with Shaw behind her.  Is a little scrappy, a few robust challenges coming in from both sides, some decisions angering the Royston bench. Cambridge have the ball on the left get forwards the cross whipped in early Shaw getting in front of her marker near side turns the ball goalwards, Walford can see it safely wide across her goal. 

  A competitive tussle in the middle of the park, Royston looking to find the final ball Cambridge quick to close down just getting hold of the ball first, South and Rutherford looking to combine, Goggin and captain Becca Fay both intercepting to break up the attack. Royston build well on the left Chambers on for Tinsley she plays it in field to Rutherford a clever back heel to tee up South 25 yards out she connects well with the shot, looping in doesn’t have the height to beat goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru as she takes it high. 

Charlotte South on the ball for Royston Town Ladies

  Penny with the ball right wing for Cambridge puts a cross in towards the top of the area central for Davies she lays it to Simmons on her right getting her foot up over the ball she shoots, Walford throwing her arms up makes the blocking save drifting across her goal. Cambridge press the attack numbers forwards through the middle Shaw with it is brought down right on the edge of the box a free-kick right of the D. Penny on it goes for goal her strike over the bar. 

Royston Town Ladies, Danielle Carty

  Danielle Carty winning the ball in the middle for Royston played out to Tinsley left her forwards pass into the run of South the ball getting tangled under her feet she can’t dig it out for a shot before Flye and Goggin close her down. Samantha Edgar through the middle for Royston on for Elderd breaking right she swings a cross in towards the top of the area, Hannah Bodily back to slide in and win it back for Cambridge. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Hannah Bodily

  Royston are hit on the counter Cambridge looking to play Simmons through racing after the ball, Walford comes racing out of her box a long way out but sliding in has to win the ball the clearance could go anywhere falls straight to Shaw she hits it early a long way out central hoping to find the empty net Walford racing back lets out a breath as it runs wide of the post. Royston are attempting all sorts to find a way through the Cambridge back line some good link up play the final ball just won’t come off. Tinsley working hard on the left a cross fired in deep towards the far post Mhunduru jumping to claim it does well under challenge to just about hold onto it. 

Sammy Tinsley

  Simmons gets away on the left in behind shifts inside before taking on a 25 yard shot the attempt bouncing wide across the face of goal. Royston build through the middle Edgar on for South played up to Rutherford in attack, left of the box, Tinsley making a good run to get inside her, Rutherford getting the ball into her run comes further infield looking to shot ends up being upended the free-kick awarded. Carty to take has a shot the ball straight into the arms of Mhunduru. 

Sammy Tinsley battling with Cambridge’s Sarah Mosley for the ball.

   Penny is fouled attacking wide right for Cambridge the free-kick level with the top of the area, players forwards the ball into the area cleared, Cambridge are quick to regain possession keep the attack alive play drawn left the cross comes in central Penny is their top of the six yard box the ball trapped under her feet, Chambers does really well to make the tackle deny the chance the ball cleared only as far as Mosley 25 yards out she shot back on sails over the bar.

  Rutherford charges down a shot at the top of the box defending as Cambridge’s Penny wins her side a corner on the right.. The hosts look to break, Cambridge pressing the ball on halfway progress halted. Tinsley making ground on the left support from Rutherford brings a throw in the ball played in field to South, too far out for a shot looks for options, Cambridge as they have all through the 1st half not let anyone have time on the ball.

Half-time Royston Town Ladies 0-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  An early lead for Cambridge, Shannon Shaw’s 3rd minute goal the difference between the sides going into the half-time interval. The visitors having further chances to extend the lead but none taken. Royston not getting the rub of the green in the final third have had some good build up play but on the whole Cambridge have been quick to close down and have been more rapid in the counter attack. The 1st half flying by, at 1-0 though still all to play for 2nd half.

  No changes for either side at half-time, Royston to get the 2nd period underway, the rain petering out towards the end of the 1st half. The hosts going right look to get Eldred on the ball wins a throw in. Eldred making progress up the wing a low cross driven in towards the near post hits Fay as she races back in defence. Remains scrappy, niggly challenges stopping play. Lively in the centre of the park, Carty and Edgar battling with Bodily, Mosley and Davies.

Samantha Edgar bringing the ball on for Royston Town Ladies

  Appeals for a penalty from Royston a powerful run from Rutherford trying to get the better of Tomlinson as she attacks left the striker into the box shoulder to shoulder with Goggin goes to ground as Mhunduru slides in to claim the ball. The appeals waved away, more frustration from the Royston bench. Royston showing more urgency at the start of the 2nd half, Rutherford supporting Eldred on the right a throw won, Carty receiving her cross charged down.

Royston’s Jo Rutherford with Cambridge’s Carla Penny

  Rutherford leading the line well for Royston looks to spin in behind the Cambridge defence on halfway, Mosley reacting well getting back to help out and regain possession. Decisions continue to frustrate Royston on and off the field. Walford with a good claim from a cross swung in from the right from Penny. The winger substituted soon after on in her place 16-year-old Freya Standing. 

Rutherford looking to spin in behind

  Cambridge doing well to keep Royston from breaking quickly pressing the ball high up the pitch from their own attacking positions. Standing with a burst of pace on the right wing a cross fired in near post Walford coming to punch doing well under challenge to get it away. The rain starting to fall again, Carty coming off worse in a 50/50 challenge in the middle the ball striking her. Edgar with a great pass down the right finding Elderd can’t keep it in to cross on the byline. 

Cambridge full back Lauren Tomlinson clearing the ball before Hayley Eldred can reach it for Royston

  GOAL! Past the hour and Cambridge double their lead and it’s Shaw on the scoresheet for her 2nd goal of the match the attack building left the ball helped on finding Shaw peeling away from her marker driving on towards the area strikes the ball from the top of the area low with plenty of pace, Walford diving can only get her fingertips to it pushing the ball onto the post and into the back of the net 0-2. 

  Royston respond with a double change, off come Carty and Seymour, on in their places, Eva Ramsey and Paris Coldicott-Stevens. Royston’s frustrations continue passes just won’t fall, good runs the ball won by Cambridge, Flye on the right denying Rutherford as Tinsley plays the ball on. 

 GOAL! Cambridge go further ahead 5 minutes after going 2 up add a 3rd goal, have possession high n the left a throw in the ball put inside driven across the top of the Royston area, Standing on the that side gets her foot up over the ball to hit a well taken shot back across the keeper and into the bottom corner to score 0-3. 

  A further blow for Royston another double switch is made Cooper and Edgar the players coming off. Georgia Gannaway and Ellie Pickard coming on. Davies pushing on for Cambridge a diagonal ball fired into the box, Fisk lunging intercepts conceding the corner. The ball in towards the near post defended. Chambers tackling Simmons on the right as she attacks a corner given away, played in higher towards the near post attacked a Cambridge head on the ball sent over. 

Eva Ramsey

  Ramsey with a timely interception as Cambridge attack on their left Davies finding space playing it on for Shaw. The action end to end Royston attacking have a free-kick the ball pinging around at the top of the area a collision between Flye and Tinsley both players down, play goes on though as Cambridge break Simmons racing up the right with the ball at her feet a shot driven in Walford down saves well then scrambling after the loose ball as Simmons goes for it a corner is conceded play stopped and brought back to deal with the still grounded players in the opposite box. Both up after treatment are okay to continue.

Cambridge City Ladies, Anna Goggin

  Up the other end the corner on the right into the area comes out to Mosley 30 yards out hits it back in a good effort straight at Walford the keeper pushing the ball up over her crossbar. Cambridge make their 2nd change Shaw coming off in attack Penny returning. Flye charges forwards with the ball at her feet sends it on for Simmons ahead of her right of goal blasts her shot wide of the mark. Ramsey getting time on the ball for Royston right plays Eldred in down the wing her looping cross into the Cambridge box won by Fay in the middle. Rutherford and Tinsley combine in attack for Royston driving on Rutherford putting the ball on for Tinsley shooting from 20 yards out Flye blocking. 

Royston on the attack

  Tomlinson breaking on the left for Cambridge sees Simmons central feeds her the pass taking in it Fisk with her Walford coming the defender knocks the ball wide of Simmons both going after it Simmons turning back to send a cross into the area, Pickard is there to head clear for Royston. The hosts work the ball well through the middle Coldicott-Stevens on for Tinsley plays it forwards Rutherford into the box has Gannaway to her left sends her the cross the attacker struggling to get the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away Fay closing her down. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Erin Davies

  South plays a dinked ball over the top of the Cambridge defence putting Rutherford through, goes to lob the keeper from outside the box, the right intention just not enough height to trouble Mhunduru. Into the closing minutes of the game a late change for Cambridge Bronte Rapley coming on for Mosley. Goggin tackles Rutherford inside her box late on as she receives the ball from a throw in. A loose goal kick from Walford intercepted by Simmons, Pickard does really well to get back on her make the tackle, Cambridge up attacking late on winning a corner defended but Cambridge prevent Royston from breaking as the final whistle blows and they make it 19 wins and a draw from 20 played. 

Full time Royston Town Ladies 0-3 Cambridge City Ladies

  Easy to see on this performance why Cambridge City Ladies are the champions played well throughout the team for the whole 90 minutes working hard to close the ball down, create opportunities, prevent their opponents from breaking. Scrappy at times but nevertheless an enjoyable match. Royston frustrated, some decisions not going their way, some great build up play, easy to see why they are doing so well themselves, it just wasn’t going to happen in the final 3rd today. The gap closed but 2nd position is still in their hands with 3 to play.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Royston, Sammy Tinsley was outstanding on the left of attack battling away getting forwards and trying to get the ball into the attackers linked up well with Rutherford. It was a fantastic all round team performance from Cambridge who are determined to try and end the season unbeaten. Worked hard to close the ball down all over the park, preventing Royston from breaking, and closing the door through the middle. Have to pick one however this is very close Sarah Mosley was excellent in midfield just misses out to Erin Davies whose work rate too was superb getting forwards well to support the attack.

  That game flew by highly enjoyable the ball wasn’t still for long, another good advert for the ERWFL. Pleased t have finally gotten to Garden Walk this season even if it was no doubt the result Royston didn’t want me to see. Won’t be long before I’m seeing Cambridge City Ladies again, in midweek, their Development side at least as they begin their quest for a possible treble in the final of the Junior Invitation Cup against Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds on Thursday. My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details today.