Match Report – Hertford Town Ladies v Bishops Stortford Ladies

Sunday 27th January

ERWFL Division One

Back to the football after having weeks rest, a trip down to Hertfordshire this Sunday to watch a game I’ve had pencilled in the diary for a while from ERWFL Division One, Hertford Town Ladies v Bishops Stortford Ladies.

The Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) having two divisions steps 5 & 6 of the women’s football pyramid. 12 teams contesting the Premier Division, 12 teams contesting Division One, back to a single division this season having been split North & South last season. Started with 13 the league has sadly lost Ipswich Wanderers Ladies due to lack of numbers, sadly a feature that is affecting women’s football across the board right now.

Today’s sides at the wrong end of the table Hertford currently the bottom side, Bishops Stortford 10th. Followed each other into the ERWFL winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One title, Hertford in 2015/16, Bishops Stortford the following season. Two sides that rose rapidly through the county leagues have hit the buffers somewhat since joining the ERWFL

Hertford showing signs they are starting to turn the corner, Danny Barley taking over as manager towards the end of last season. Have a new home venue Wodson Park Sports Centre. A multi-sports complex next to Ware FC. Looks a impress partner to become associated with and plans are afoot for Hertford to be renamed in time for the new season. Have a grass pitch surrounded by a running track and access to a 3G pitch too. Had suffered due to lack of numbers have addressed that balance a new crop of players coming in to bolster the squad Rhianna Patmore, Chloe Ring, Georgia Turville, Megan Sende and Dempsey Favell amongst the new arrivals. Got their 1st league point on the board last Sunday a very good result a 1-1 with unbeaten St Ives Town Ladies at home.

Bishops Stortford are struggling for committed players right now and are continuing to fulfil fixtures despite not being able to always field a starting XI, injury adding to that too. Just the 10 last week away to Newmarket Town Ladies, a commendable performance taking the lead but eventually lost 4-1. Together from youth level and successful they rose all the way through the age levels into women’s football, there as can often happen with a youth side climbing into women’s football there are loses to university. Since then Bishops Stortford have struggled to get results 3 points on the board so far.

It’s a windy one and very chilly with it, the hats on for the first time this season and I’ve brought the umbrella but how I’m going to hold it down if it does start raining I don’b know gloomy and overcast. Fingers crossed the rain stays away. The main pitch deemed too wet due to the overnight rain the game to be played the 3G pitch, a good size room for spectators down one side. The Sports Park offering the usual facilities.

Hertford Town Ladies starting XI – Ellie Morris, Zoe Garvey, Megan Sende, Rhianna Patmore, Christie Seakens (C), Lauren Barnard, Georgia Turville, Chloe Ring, Olivia Worsfold, Katie Williams & Donna Watts. Subs – Nicola Davey, Karen Staples, Carly Snell, Dempsey Favell & Clare Pavett.

Bishops Stortford Ladies starting XI – Teigan McHale, Matilda Attridge, Rebecca Bull, Chloe Haken, Samantha McComish, Brogan McHale (C), Heather Martin, Poppy Kelly & Hollie Tate.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

As you can see from above straight away the visitors are at a huge disadvantage, arriving late not much time to prepare have just the 8 to take to the field with one on the way. Hertford with their new additions have twice the number available. The 3G pitch on a elevated position the hollowing wind is assured to play a huge part in the game a to some regards be something of a leveller. Bishops Stortford to get the game underway wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts blue shorts and socks with Hertford lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts with a navy band across the front, navy shorts and socks.

Bishops Stortford playing into the wind first half, Brogan McHale playing the diagonal ball out to Poppy Kelly attacking right drives at the Hertford defence, Megan Sende standing her ground putting the tackle in at left back. Bishops Stortford quick to close down Matilda Attridge into win the ball onto McHale, a great pass long to the right for Kelly crosses early, won by Rhianna Patmore at the back for Hertford. Kelly lively early on gets her head down prepared to run at players wins a throw in. Play across to the left side the pass inside to McHale given time shapes to shoot 30 yards out the ball wide of the upright.

Bishops Stortford Ladies, Matilda Attridge with Hertford’s Zoe Garvey

The wind at Hertford’s back isn’t necessarily helping forwards balls for the attackers running on difficult to chase down aiding the Bishops Stortford defence. Chloe Haken blocking a ball inside box for Bishops Stortford sees Hertford with a corner right side the ball crossed into toward the near post high for Donna Watts to try and bring down and turn and shoot, won’t come down Bishops Stortford see the threat away. Hertford unsure where best to exploit their opponents lack of numbers possession football very difficult with the wind press Bishops Stortford into their own half the 8 doing well enough in the opening exchanges.

Hertford Town Ladies, Donna Watts bringing the ball down

Balls that are played in behind would create problems on another day but the wind again makes these balls difficult to run down. Heather Martin coming back to win the ball for Bishops Stortford as Zoe Garvey brings the ball on from the back on the right for Hertford. Hertford come close to opening the scoring the ball fired in low across goal, Teigan McHale wearing the gloves today making a smart save with her leg at the near post of Chloe Ring, the ball loping up comes at Katie Williams quickly gets a touch the ball falling wide of the post.

GOAL! The hosts open the scoring launch an effective counter attack, Lauren Barnard carrying the all on through the middle a threaded ball through to Watts moving right into the area McHale coming out to close the angle the striker shoots McHale saving with her legs going to ground, the rebound coming straight to Ring following Watts into the box from the right sends the ball back in across the empty goal and I think the ball is over the line at the far post even though Williams sliding in makes sure 1-0.

Hertford Town Ladies, Chloe Ring looking to keep the ball in play

Hertford look to press the advantage Olivia Worsfold puts a low ball in from an the right intercepted by Haken. Ring getting into the area twists and turns wins a corner the ball in from the right cleared out of the box falls to Garvey 25 yards out tries to lift it in over the goalkeeper, drops short into her arms. Worsfold sees a pass wide left into her feet left of the D turns into a shot the low ball running straight to McHale to claim low. A change for Hertford Georgia Turville off on comes Carly Snell.

Bishops Stortford Ladies, Brogan McHale

Bishops Stortford defending for the majority in their own half have the ability to hit on the counter do just that the ball won the pass played early for Kelly bursting away on the right is clear goalkeeper Ellie Morris comes running out of her area to close her down, Kelly gets her shot away beating the keeper the ball heading for the goal beyond strikes the base of the near post. Calls for a foul as McHale is brought down outside the Hertford area, none given Hertford counter, the through ball for Ring clear right side Teigan McHale coming to close the angle Ring shoots the keeper getting her leg in the way of the ball sees it spin away across the face of the six yards box Watts getting a touch the ball spins away from goal wide.

Samantha McComish heads the ball clear for Bishops Stortford

Up the other end Broghan McHale is still down needs treatment, the wind is really hollowing now is bitterly cold. A few strong challenges coming in Kelly bundled off the ball. Hertford attack as Christie Seakins brings the ball forwards Worsfold looking to combine with Watts up top the wind ruining the move. Hollie Tate arrives Bishops Stortford have 9 on the field. A flowing attack from Hertford’s attacks Watts with it right 20 yards out plays it inside for Worsfold inside the D she lets it run on for Williams coming in left side hits a fierce shot in on the angle McHale making a great one handed save to palm the rising ball behind for the corner. Broghan McHale off for repairs has a bloody knee, vaseline applied she’d back on.

GOAL! The lead is doubled, from the set-piece the delivery good from the corner falls to Williams far post shapes to shot is blocked at pointblank range the ball spinning away to the to left hand corner of the area straight to Snell catches it well lashing the ball into the back of the net 2-0.

Hertford Town Ladies, Carly Snell

A committed performance from Bishops Stortford’s 9 players are getting a few knocks for their efforts, Rebecca Bull the latest needing treatment. Hertford are enjoying the majority of the possession but no one is being afforded any time on the ball. Samantha McComish breaking up a Hertford attack. McHale combining with Kelly up front the latter forcing her way through in behind left the ball squared into Haken can’t turn as she is quickly closed down inside the D. Calls for a penalty as Snell appeared to be body checked inside the area but the appeals are waved away.

Half-time Hertford Town Ladies 2-0 Bishops Stortford Ladies

The half-time whistle blows and Hertford head into the changing rooms leading the game 2-0. Not good conditions for playing football the wind playing a huge part, have gotten the goals putting themselves into a good position to build on 2nd half know the wind will be against them 2nd half should see the through balls hold up better. Have the player advantage to which will be a factor as their opponents begin to tire. Bishops Stortford for their part have done very well a shortage of numbers everyone needed to step up to the plate and has, in their own half for much of the game came close to getting a goal themselves, pressed well and wind will be in their favour 2nd half.

Changes at half-time with Nicola Davey and Dempsey Favell on the field for Hertford at the start of the 2nd period the hosts to get us underway. A little lull in the wind but it won’t last long. Bishops Stortford win the ball come away on the left a driving run first by Kelly then picked up by McHale she is dispossessed outside the area the ball though coming to Martin, she has a shot 20 yards out the ball held by Morris in the Hertford goal. Tate is fouled going forwards McHale encouraged to have a go from 30 yards out the ball deflected wide for the corner. The visitors making an encouraging start to the 2nd half.

Poppy Kelly on the attack for Bishops Stortford

Hertford build on the right side a Ring pushing on in behind sends a cross in along the face of goal Williams arriving far side heads the ball wide. Favell with a great low ball through for Worsfold to go after bursting into the right channel, McHale comes early racing in intercept just gets there for the attacker, momentum keeps to keeper coming on gets a 2nd blocking tackle in as Ring is right behind Worsfold. The hosts starting to get a hold of the game push Bishops Stortford back into their own half once more. The visitors making she last gasp blocking tackles in and around their area, Bull, Attridge and Haken all called in to action.

GOAL! Hertford extend their lead a goal started ad finished by Worsfold the ball with her left side over halfway combines well with Favell breaking forwards the diagonal ball inside to her feet, Worsfold running on into the box receiving the return ball opens up her body to curl a low shot in McHale gets something in it but Worsfold gets a 2nd bite and makes no mistake 3-0.

Olivia Worsfold looking to win the ball for Hertford

Kelly carries a real threat with the ball at her feet for Bishops Stortford attacks right is stopped by Seakens outside her box the ball played on for Favell a flowing attack she turns the ball on into the area for Worsfold peeling into space between the defence shots McHale going to ground making another good save with her legs. Williams comes off for Hertford on come Clare Pavett. The hosts have Bishops Stortford penned into the final 3rd, the wind holding the ball up in the air as Snell lifts in on for Worsfold left side she gets it up across the six yards box Ring racing in sees her shot charged down. Sende with the ball looks to get in past Worsfold on the left Bull sliding in wins the ball. Ring comes off for Hertford on in her place Karen Staples.

Favell plays the ball on for Pavett left side her cross inside to Worsfold central lets it run on for Snell she unleashes a shot 25 yards out, gathered by McHale. The light is starting to fade and the wind is getting stronger, won’t sit on the corner spot for Martin.

GOAL! That though is the cue for someone to hold the ball still for the kick taker as Bishops Stortford are awarded a free kick all of 40 yards from goal the win at her back Bull over it has a go McHale laying beside the ball an outstretched finger holding it still, works as Bull catches it well the shot on target looping up and with the wind adding to the pace is over Morris before she can adjust 3-1.

Rebecca Bull with the goal for Bishops Stortford

Hertford continue to push players on Staples drifting out to the right sends in a cross/shot from the angle looping down at the near post a difficult on for McHale to deal with gets a glove to it turning it behind for the corner. The corner headed over by Davey. Into the last 10 minutes Bishops Stortford get some joy wide right winning a corner a great ball in across the six yard box by Martin isn’t attacked.

Hertford Town Ladies, Nicola Davey

Broghan McHale onto a loose kick out from the keeper sends a shot back in low left of the D, Morris setting herself has it covered. A free-kick wide on the right for Hertford the ball driven into the area with pace Favell gets a bullet header on it central, Teigan McHale with a fantastic one handed save especially as her body shape is taking her the wrong way.

GOAL! Space opening up late in the game the light fading fast Hertford attack right Davey on for Favell, good hold up play 20 yards out turns her marker to get inside drives a cross into Staples in space to the right of goal, she smashes a shot in towards goal defenders racing across to block it takes a nick and that carries it past the keeper and in 4-1.

Not long left Hertford finish strong Favell on for Snell right side shoots from the angle the ball skipping up of the surface claimed by the keeper.

Full time Hertford Town Ladies 4-1 Bishops Stortford Ladies

4-1 to Hertford Town Ladies they win their first league game of the season 4 points from the last two games taking them off the bottom of the table. A promising start to 2019 as they look to rebuild and become a force in the league. Exceptionally difficult conditions today the wind just meant there was no opportunity to get the ball down and play which would have tired their opponents out quicker, always hard to against a side without 11 on the field they will work all the harder simply because they know the have to. Patience usually paying off though.

Full credit to Bishops Stortford a great effort from start to finish, 4-1 perhaps a little harsh one them, to start with 8 and keep their opponents from scoring a hat full of goals. The wind in their case suited them today the ball not going to stick to anyone. Great commitment shown and I’ve heard nothing but praise before seeing it for myself. If they can just get a few more committed to the cause they have got a fantastic core of talent to build with.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A tough day for playing football no doubt that wind just awful. Credit to Bishops Stortford for the work rate through out the side. For Hertford Carly Snell made a impact upon coming on scoring the 2nd goal, Dempsey Favell too influential in the 2nd half finding pockets of space bringing others into play. Today’s award however goes to Olivia Worsfold, her link up play excellent and always looking for opportunities up front for herself and others, the wind in her favour 2nd half she got herself into some good attacking positions and scored too.

Good job I love what I do, it was bitterly cold out there today that wind simply the worst cut right through you, glad to be in the warm this evening. Enjoyed it though I can never predict what I’m going to get and glad I don’t. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today much appreciated.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 20/10/19

Sunday 20th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

The weather played a big part in the fixture list in Norfolk on Sunday with 2 of the 3 scheduled Division Two fixtures called off due to frozen pitches. It was also quarter finals weekend in the Women’s County Cup, 8 sides potentially 2 matches away from a showpiece final at Carrow Road. As it was two of the quarter finals were called off.

That left two to be played, Thorpe United Ladies have featured in 4 of the previous Norfolk Women’s County Cup Finals including successive wins in the 15/16 & 16/17 finals. A strong lead this season in Norfolk Division one they were the favourites heading into their quarter final tie at home to Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies on Sunday, and so it proved Thorpe comfortable winner in the finish ending with a double figure winning score 10-0 to book there place in the last 4.

Wymondham Town Ladies are the current holders of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup winning the trophy for the 1st time last season, would love to get the opportunity to play at Carrow Road and try and win it for a 2nd successive season. A late switch of venue saw there quarter final tie against Taverham United Women on on Sunday. Taverham’s young side enjoying a great debut season in women’s football unbeaten at the top if Division Two there toughest test yet against Wymondham playing 3 leagues higher in the ERWFL Premier Division.

Wymondham have plenty of goalscorers in their side and if they get an early foot hold in a game tend to go on and go big. The ERWFL doing just that with Becca Russell striking from distance to open the scoring in the 7th minute. Just 4 minutes later it was 2-0 Mollie O Callaghan turning in a cross. Jorja Patterson scoring a 3rd goal for Wymondham in the 15th minute. A comfortable platform early in the game it was quiet for the next 15 minutes then on the half hour goals came at regular intervals as Taverham struggled to contain Wymondham’s attack. O’Callaghan with her 2nd of the game making it 4-0. Striker Hannah Waters with a brace along with Russell who claimed her hat-trick in the 45th minute Wymondham leading 8-0 at half-time.

A 1st half hat-trick for Wymondham’s Becca Russell

Onto the 2nd half Taverham having a tough first half needing a positive start to the 2nd half keeping Wymondham out for the 1st 15 minutes managed to pull a goal back on the hour, not long before Wymondham got a goal however with Chelsea Clarke sending in a rebound to make it 9-1. O’Callaghan completing her hat-trick with 18 minutes left. Laura Nicholls Wymondham’s top scorer popping up with a quick fire brace in final 15 minutes to see Wymondham reach the semi-finals with a 12-1 win.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

The single league fixture taking place in Norfolk this Sunday was in Division Two with 3rd placed Long Stratton Women winning their 4th successive league game to close the gap to 2nd placed Fakenham to just 2 points. Were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies. 23 goals for Long Stratton in those previous 3 games took it to 31 from 4 with an 8-0 win on Sunday. Emily Watts finding her form in front of goal scoring 5 at the weekend taking her onto 17 goals for the season with Charlie Head getting herself a hat-trick has 12 goals now. Long Stratton applying some pressure to the leading pair.

The Round-Up – Essex 20/10/19

Sunday 20th January

Essex Women’s County Cup

County Cup quarter final weekend in Essex the big guns entering the competition, holders C&K Basildon Ladies, along with Billericay Town Ladies going strong in FAWNL South East Division One and ERWFL Premier Division sides, Harlow Town Ladies & Brentwood Town Ladies who reached the final of the competition last season. Coming through the previous 3 Rounds to have the opportunity against them were ERWFL Division One side Hutton Ladies, Essex Premier Division sides, Leigh Ramblers Ladies and Harlow Town Ladies Development along with Division Two side Rayleigh Town Ladies.

The latter’s away trip to Billericay Town Ladies falling foul to a frozen weather. That saw 3 ties played on Sunday. Leigh Ramblers and Harlow Town Ladies Development riding high in the Essex Women’s Premier Division would prove a tough opponent in the quarter finals. Harlow Town away to Brentwood Town Ladies certainly the case. Harlow Town’s young side holding their opponents 2 leagues above to 1-1 after 90 minutes to take the tie into extra-time. Brentwood coming through to get the result scoring the winning goal in the extra-period of play to see them into the last 4 of the competition. Georgia Holdaway enjoying a good season in front of goal scoring both.

Leigh Ramblers Ladies leading the Premier Division were at home in the quarter finals of the County Cup taking on Hutton Ladies both sides doing well scoring plenty off goals between them and against each other too as on Sunday they shared 9 goals. Leigh Ramblers scoring 3 times, it was Hutton who came out on top scoring double that up the other end, the Essex Women’s Trophy holders into the last 4 of the County Cup. Hayley Piggott, Laura Allen and Hayley Critchell all getting on the scoresheet for Hutton along with runaway top scorers Vicky Kinsman who scored yet another hat-trick to take her onto 35 goals for the season now.

C&K Basildon Ladies are enduring a difficult season in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, the County Cup a trophy they have had an iron grip on in recent season’s began their defence of the trophy at home against Harlow Town Ladies on Sunday. Got themselves a much needed confidence boosting win a comfortable score in the finish running out 3-0 winners to reach the semi-finals. Sophie Rhodes, Holly Turner and Maddie Thomas getting the goals.

Essex Women’s Trophy

Also quarter finals weekend in the Essex Women’s Trophy on Sunday with the sides losing in the early rounds of the County Cup going on to contest for another piece of silverware. Again one tie postponed leaving 3 quarter finals to be played.

ERWFL Division One leaders, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were at home taking on Essex Premier Division side Southend United Ladies. A nasty injury to one of the Southend players seeing a lengthy delay whilst treatment was administered on the pitch that saw the 1st half stretch to 60 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea eventually getting the break through deep into that stoppage time with Georgia Fraser striking to make it 1-0. Southend were back on level terms 10 minutes into the 2nd half with Lauren Johnson sending the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-1. Bowers & Pitsea with the quick response got back up the other end retaking the lead just 4 minutes later, a Sophie Dowman shot saved by the keeper, Eloise Ives following up to turn the back in to make it 2-1 and score what would prove to be the winning goal to send Bowers & Pitsea through to the last 4.

Silver End United Ladies reached the final of the Essex Women’s Trophy last season. Were away from home in the quarter finals of this season’s competition up against Division One side Chigwell Ladies. The Premier Division side advancing through to the last 4 with a 3-1 win on Sunday. Angela Holden getting on the scoresheet for Silver End along with Danielle Bragg scoring for the 1st time this season Lindsey Cowell also credited with a goal for Silver End.. Victoria Parker scoring the goal for Chigwell.

The other Trophy quarter final saw Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers at home to Belhus Ladies from Division One this Sunday. The lower league side coming up against a side that had score 20 goals in their last 3 matches. Collier Row Tigers continuing that form into this game Laura Bunton now fully into her stride taking the lead in the goal scoring charts for Collier Row Tigers with a double hat-trick taking her onto 18 for the season Sarah Finch moves onto 16 for the season netting a hat-trick. Emma Harrison bagging a brace, with Helen Moriera getting a goal along with 1st goals of the season for Georgie Brophy and Natalie Oxby. A 14-0 win for Collie Row Tigers seeing them into the last 4.

Essex Women’s Division One

Two games played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday and it was another blow for 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in their pursuit of leaders Billericay Town Ladies Reserves as they suffered a 3rd defeat in 4 league matches away from home. A great result for FC Clacton Ladies lifting them up to 5th spot in the table. Goals from the dual signed Daisy Canny and Charlotte Warren seeing them win the game 2-0.

Runwell Sports Ladies are up to 4th place in Division One have won as many as they have lost with 7 now in both the W & L column results when they win they tend to win well and this Sunday was no exception away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. A 6-0 win for Runwell Sports in the reverse league fixture, they again scored 6 past their opponents to claim the 3 points winning 6-1.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Like their 1st team, Cambridge City Ladies Development won big at home on Sunday to return to the top of the league. One of 3 games taking place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. It was a clash between the top two with Cambridge City hosting league leaders ICA Sports Ladies. Megan Tonks this in prolific form in front of goal for Cambridge City this season, way out in front on the goal scoring charts, scored another 5 goals this Sunday against ICA Sports to take her onto 26 goals from just 10 appearances. Jade Powell was also amongst the hosts goals netting a brace with Freya Standing also getting a goal in an 8-1 win, 3 starts yielding 4 goals. Carmen Herridge with the consolation goal for ICA Sports.

Cambridge University Women climb back up into 3rd position in the league have plenty of games in hand on both leading sides with the gap 6 points to both. Were away to the side in 3rd position going into the weekend Histon Ladies Reserves, nothing separating the sides at half-time with the game goalless the visitors going on to claim the 3 points with a narrow win in the 2nd half goals from Jennifer Atherton and Amanda Wainwright enough to see the game won 2-1 with Sophie Wing scoring for Histon.

The other game from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership involving the bottom sides with Riverside Ladies hosting Fulbourn Bluebirds Institute on Sunday. Fulbourn getting the 3 points just their 2nd win of the season that lifts them up a place and well positioned to fight for a mid-table finish. Marie Stubbings scoring a brace, there were goals too for Sharron Pinner and Krissie Taylor in a 4-0 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

One match in the finish from the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup competition this Sunday, Championship North side, Wisbech St Mary Ladies hosting Championship South side St Ives Town Ladies Development. A close one this at least in the 90 minutes the sides battling out a 0-0 the tie heading into extra-time where St Ives Town were the side to at last get their noses in front, the visiting side going in to add a further 2 goals to see them through to the last 4 of the Division One Cup. Jade Carpenter, with Emilee Steel and Georgia Rebane scoring for the first time this season.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

The weather played it’s part across the border in Bedfordshire seeing both County Cup semi-finals postponed, in Hertfordshire it was a different story with convincing wins for both sides reaching this season’s final.

Stevenage Ladies are into their 5th consecutive Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup final winning away from home against the side they faced in last season’s final Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. A strong defensive display from the ERWFL Division One side in the 1st half restricting their FAWNL South East Division One opponents to a 1 goal lead. Stevenage stepping up a gear in the 2nd half however going to to score a further 6 goals to set up a 5th successive final appearance. Have won 3 of the previous 4 finals including the past 2 season’s.

Stevenage Ladies winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup last season

Stevenage’s opponents in the 2018/19 Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final will be Watford Ladies U23s, competing in the FAWNL Reserve Southern/South East Division they were hosting Beds & Herts Women’s Division One leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies in their semi-final this weekend. A dominant start to the game saw Watford fire themselves into a quickfire 2 goal lead adding a 3rd before the break. Watford continuing that level of performance 2nd half to go on and win the game 8-0. A competitive final on the cards, a Watford Development side winning the competition 3 season’s ago.

The final scheduled for Sunday 17th March will update you with kick-off time and venue when confirmed.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The league schedule suffering due to the overnight freezing conditions saw a limited number of games. There was a big one in Beds & Herts Division One however this Sunday with Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires hosting defending champions St Albans Ladies. Newly promoted Welwyn the early pacesetters in the league have been caught at the top as other sides get into their stride an interesting title battle looming, Hemel Hempstead Town taking over at the top involved in the County Cup this Sunday, Welwyn had a chance to reclaim the lead and did so coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller with St Albans. A tight contest between the sides a goal from Eleanor Lovelock along with a brace from Sophie Lawrence for St Albans they suffered defeat late in the game as Welwyn scored 4 against them to climb back to the top of Division One.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

The fixture list in Beds & Herts Women’s Two fared a little better with 3 of the 4 scheduled games taking place and with league leaders Hitchin Town’s match against Evergreen Eagles the casualty it was a chance for the chasing sides to close the gap. 2nd placed Hitchin Belles were on the road taking on the other Evergreen side in the league Evergreen Ladies. The hosts holding the lead at half-time with Natalie Maher scoring. Hitchin Belles coming back in the 2nd half to level the scores and claim a point, Keira How getting the goal for the visiting side her 8th of the campaign.

Letchworth Garden City Eagles climb back above Royston Town Ladies Development into 3rd spot now 2 points behind Hitchin Belles with a game in hand with a good result at home to Bedford Ladies Development this Sunday. Letchworth getting themselves into a 2-0 lead at the break went on to score a further 3 2nd half to run out 5-1 winners, Kate Tempest netting a brace for Letchworth. Tayla Murray also finding the back of the net for her 10th goal of the season with Jade Anglum and Amy Phillips scoring their 1st goals.

Watton Ladies were away to bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures on Sunday the visitors taking the lead, Welwyn coming fighting back to equalise and then go 2-1 in front, Watton then fighting back themselves the scores level at 2-2 before a 3rd goal won the game for Watton 3-2. Keeleigh Berry scoring her 1st goal for Watton, with Amy Marshall and Elizabeth Dowton also scoring a goal each.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

Suffolk Women’s Division

Sad news to bring at the start of this weeks Suffolk Round-Up with the withdrawal of Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves from the Suffolk Women’s Division. New to the league this season has not been the start the club would have wanted, have been struggling for numbers right from the start and have bravely battled on playing games with just 8 or 9 players, have suffered some heavy defeats as a result but also the commendation of their fellow league clubs in the way they conducted themselves their spirit and effort. Tough to keep on like that however so the tough decision was made to withdraw, haven’r folded will continue in smaller sized versions of the game and hope to see them back in the league soon with extra recruitment. Sending everyone my best wishes.

Four games played in the league on Sunday with just one game affected by the freezing overnight conditions. League leaders East Bergholt United Ladies were at home taking on Coplestonians Ladies. The visitors doing well in the 1st half keeping East Bergholt’s potent attack at bay to go in goalless at the break. Annie Northwood getting the break through for East Bergholt 2nd half the clubs top scorer going on to add a 2nd goal east Bergholt keep up their 100% record with a 2-0 win.

Eye watering scoreline are becoming a feature in the Suffolk Women’s Division this season and this Sunday was no different. East Bergholt may have an iron grip on the lead but newcomers Needham Market Women having hit the ground running have now opened up an 8 point gap in 2nd spot to 3rd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies. Were at home on Sunday up against another newcomer Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Needham Market have plenty of goalscorers in their squad and they filled their boots at the weekend. Francesca Rainbird showing no signs of slowing down is way out in front for Needham Market with 4 goals on Sunday taking her to 25 for the season. Rainbird wasn’t top scorer in the game however with Amber Sparks going one better with 5, her 13 goals coming from 7 appearances. Both Laura Tuley and Abbie Walker scoring a hat-trick each. Jemma Wessels and Lois Balfour a brace a piece with Milly Carter also on the scoresheet in a 20-0 win.

Leiston St Margarets Ladies were at home this Sunday taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, the hosts getting themselves into a 2-0 lead at half-time, matched that tally 2nd have to secure their 6th win of the season. four different goalscorers for Leiston St Margarets with top scorer Lucy Eagles getting her 13th of the season, goals too for Thalia Cloke and Sarah Cooper whist Grace Knock scored her 1st Leiston St Margarets goal.

The points were shared in the league match between Woodbridge Town Ladies and Brettvale Ladies on Sunday. The visitors Brettvale taking an early lead in the match scoring from the penalty spot Tarnya McKew sending the ball home. Woodbridge fighting back getting the leveller to see the game finish all square at 1-1. Jenna Liverpool, Woodbridge’s top scorer getting her 16th goal of the season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

ERWFL Premier Division

Like the FAWNL the ERWFL fixture lists were severely reduced due to sides contesting their various County Cup competitions and the overnight freezing conditions. Just the two games played in the Premier Division with contrasting scorelines, the outcome the same 3 more points on the board.

Cambridge City Ladies climb back to the top of the league making it 12 unbeaten in the league, scoring 12 goals without reply in the process. Were at home on Sunday taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies, struggling at the other end of the table, their cause not helped on Sunday with another injury blow seeing them reduced to 10. The Cambridge City attack a handful at the best of times have goalscorers throughout the side now have 5 players within the squad into double figures. Erin Davies top scorer with 18 collecting a brace on Sunday, so too did Charlotte Gillies, Carla Penny and Shannon Shaw. With Bella Simmons, Laura Mills, Anna Goggin and Hannah Bodily all celebrating a goal.

18 goals for Cambridge City Ladies, Erin Davies

Less goalmouth action in the other game played in the Premier Division on Sunday in Hertfordshire with Colney Heath Ladies hosting Royston Town Ladies. Samantha Edgar’s strike in the 1st half the difference as the visitors won the game by a single goal the 3 points taking them up a place into 3rd spot in the table.

ERWFL Division One

League tables and final scores tell one side of a story but those snapshots can’t tell the whole picture the hard work and effort teams put in on the pitch and in training. Hertford Town Ladies are bottom of the ERWFL Division One table without a point on the board, that changed on Sunday when they earned themselves a very good 1st point of the campaign at home to title chasing St Ives Town Ladies, themselves putting in the work getting the rewards unbeaten since joining the ERWFL, a point earned for the visitors coming back to level after Chloe Ring had put Hertford into the lead. St Ives levelling the score through new signing Ruth Fox marking her return to the game after 9 months with a goal and player of the match on her St Ives debut. St Ives closing the gap to leaders Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to just a point with a game in hand.

The same could be said of the two sides featuring in the other Division One game at the weekend, Bishops Stortford Ladies have had a tough time of it since joining the ERWFL at the wrong end of the table, keep fighting an injury blow late on saw them travel to 5th placed Newmarket Town Ladies with just 10. Despite that the visitors got themselves into an early lead Lucia Sanchez Miguel scoring her 1st goal for Bishops Stortford. Made Newmarket work the hosts eventually drawing level with 8 minutes to go in the 1st half Abbi Griffin finding the back of the net. Just before the stroke of half-time Newmarket took the lead Jess Linger firing the ball home from a free-kick on the edge of the box. A great start to the 2nd half saw Newmarket 3-1 up straight away Laura Bailey on target. Annabel Cuthbert securing a 4-1 win for Newmarket in the 66th minute that lifts them up into 4th spot in the Division One table.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A scheduled County Cup weekend across the country with most competitions into the latter stages plenty of sides competing in the FAWNL for silverware, that saw a limited fixtures list across the Southern Premier & South East Division One this Sunday.

Just the two matches taking place in the Southern Premier Division, 3rd placed Watford Ladies making the trip to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. A good start for the visitors with Adekite Fatuga-Dada stealing in to fire Watford into the lead inside the opening quarter hour. Half an hour played and Plymouth’s Rebecca Dandridge was brought down into the box, a penalty awarded. Captain Katie Middleton levelling the scores from the spot. The hosts going on to get themselves into a 2-1 lead with a couple of minutes left on the clock in the 1st half, Mollie Taylor scoring.

Plymouth extending their lead going 3-1 up with 13 minutes gone in the 2nd period Jessie Jones getting the goal. Watford pushing for a reply it came too late for them to take anything from the game with Leanne Bell making it 3-2 in the 88th minute. A very welcome victory for Plymouth ending a losing streak of 7 games that stretches back to the beginning of November. Watford missing out on the opportunity to try and put pressure on the leading pair.

Oxford United Ladies had new signing Gemma Sims making her debut as they played host to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday. Oxford taking the lead in the 15th minute with Ellie Noble scoring. QPR finding a quick reply levelling the scores less than 10 minutes later with Stephanie Anes scoring her 1st of the season from a 28 yard free-kick. Oxford retaking the lead edging a close first half in the 39th minute with Emily Allen finding the target.

The 2nd half a different story with QPR disappointed losing heavily in the closing 15 minutes. Allen scoring her 2nd of the match in the 67th minute to extend Oxford’s advantage, a 4th goal quickly followed with Evie Gane celebrating the goal. Into the last 15 and Oxford were awarded a penalty, Allen stepping up to complete her hat-trick from the spot making her Oxford’s top scorer with 7 goals for all of 4 minutes with Florence Fyfe getting herself on the scoresheet to make it 6-1 and claim her 7th too of the campaign. Madeleine Robertson completed a 7-1 victory for Oxford scoring in the final minute.

FAWNL South East Division One

Same story in FAWNL South East Division One, several sides involved in crucial county cup games there were just the two games taking place in the league on Sunday. Actonians Ladies taking full advantage win a convincing win away from home to climb up to 3rd place in the table and move to within just 2 points of 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. A trip to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies, Natalie Richardson playing her last game for Ipswich captaining the side.

Actonians taking an early lead in the match with Carla Williams putting the visitors 1-0 inside 10 minutes. few chances followed Actonians taking a 1-0 lead into the 2nd half Ipswich changing formation in an effort to find a reply it was Actonians who got the crucial 2nd goal midway through the 2nd half, Williams doubling the lead with her 9th of the season. Alessandra Barreca rarely not amongst the goals this Sunday no exception as she put her mark on the game in the final 15 minutes scoring a hat-trick the 3rd goal deep into stoppage time, her 18th of the season to see Actonians win 5-0.

The other match played at the weekend in South East Division One involving the sides 11th & 10th. Denham United Ladies 11th in need of the points, Norwich City Ladies 10th 4 points ahead would rejoin the cluster of sides in mid-table jostling for position with a victory themselves. Aimee Durrant scoring from a free-kick to hand Norwich the lead in the first half held the advantage at the break. Rosie George heading in to double the lead in the 2nd half. A crucial goal with Denham pulling a goal back through Lauren Cox, the Norfolk side winning 2-1 and climbing 2 places up into 8th as a result just a point behind East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women who are their next opponents under the lights at Plantation Park on February 13th.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 13/01/19

Sunday 13th January

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

The semi-final line-up for this season’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup has been decided with the last of the quarter finals taking place this Sunday. Cup holders St Albans Ladies were at home taking on Houghton Athletic Ladies. St Albans booking there spot in the last 4 with a 4-1 win. Eleanor Lovelock and a 25 yard screamer from Kerry Twigg. Sophie Hull scoring in her first start for the club with Lovelock wrapping up the goals in the 65th minute.

St Albans Ladies will now face Division Three side AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies in the semi-finals with Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies taking on Division Two side Hitchin Belles in the other date to be arranged.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Speaking of Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies, they are the new leaders in Beds & Herts Division One move onto the top of the league with a home win against bottom side Garston Ladies 1st team this Sunday. Captain Steph Cripps scoring her 1st goal of the season for Hemel Hempstead, Bianca Hedgecock also finding the back of the net along with top scorer Natasha McConville who has 17 now for the season. Hemel Hempstead winning 3-1, Emma Trill with the goal for Garston.

Bad news to for Garston Ladies 2nd XI in Division One as they were beaten away from home by Northwood Ladies who themselves move up the league table into 2nd position. Emma Steele, Zamina Rahemtulla, Scarlett Keightley, Leanne Jones and Lisa-Marie Carty with her 1st goal of the season scoring for Northwood in a 5-1 win. Ruby Jager scoring for Garston.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

A full programme of fixtures in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday with all 10 sides in action. Leaders Hitchin Town Ladies were at home their opponents Bedford Ladies Development. A tough contest Bedford keeping Hitchin out to see the sides drawing 0-0 at the break, that how it remained heading into the last 20 minutes of the match when finally Hitchin broke Bedford’s resistance to open the scoring Georgina Winters scoring from a corner. Minutes later Hitchin were awarded a penalty as Louse Gash was brought down inside the box captain Emma Chaffey scoring from the spot kick. Chaffey making the scoreline more secure scored again in the 80th minute burying a 20 yard free-kick to see Hitchin run out 3-0 winners.

Local rivals Hitchin Belles are also enjoying a good season into the last 4 of the League Cup and 2nd in the Division Two table 6 points behind Hitchin Town with 2 games in hand. Were away from home this Sunday playing Evergreen Eagles. Charlotte Peters moving onto 10 goals for the season with a goal, moving ahead of her as Hitchin Belles new top scorer is Katie White who completed a hat-trick to take her onto 11 goals for the season as Hitchin Belles ran out 4-1 winners, Christie Brewer scoring for Evergreen Eagles.

Royston Town Ladies Development came back from a goal down at home to win 3-1 on Sunday in Division Two keeping them in 3rd spot 2 points behind Hitchin Belles. Watton Ladies the opposition the visitors going in front with Courtney Smart scoring her Watton goal. Royston coming back to level and go on to win with Abby Laughlin netting a brace, and Olivia Sole with the other goal to clinch the 3 points.

Letchworth Garden City Eagles in 4th position move onto 18 points with 3 games in hand on the leaders themselves clinched a narrow win at home on Sunday in Division Two over bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures, won the game by 3 goals to 2 to claim the 3 points. Anna Bright and Senal Chapman scoring the 2nd half goals for Welwyn.

Lastly in Division Two it ended in a stalemate between Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies and Evergreen Ladies the score 0-0 in Sunday.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

0-0’s are rare in women’s football so to report on two in one Round-Up is of note but that’s how it ended between 3rd placed Langford Ladies and 4th placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies this Sunday in Division Three. A result that benefited and placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves respectfully. Langford the happier of the two the point ending a run of 3 straight defeats.

One other match to bring you in Beds & Herts Division Three, Kempston Rovers Ladies were at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies on Sunday. Chelsea Rose Jeffery moving into the top scorers position for Kempston Rovers scoring a brace with Hannah Meadwell scoring her 1st goal for the home side in a 3-1 victory. Jessica Sullivan scoring for Bedwell.

The Round-Up – Essex 13/01/19

Sunday 13th January

Essex Women’s Premier Division

With Premier Division leaders, Leigh Ramblers involved in the League Cup this Sunday it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies to close the 8 point lead that had been opened up. The Harlow based side away to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. A brace each for Kay Foy and Charley Sandford along with a goal from Hayley King seeing Frontiers win the 3 points with a 5-0 victory.

Harlow Town Ladies Development also in league action at the weekend strengthened their hold on 3rd position with an away win again Corringham Cosmos on Sunday. Harlow with a slender advantage at half-time leading the game 1-0. Rebecca Gallagher striking twice for Corringham in the 2nd half, Harlow going one better to add a further 3 goals to their tally to win the game 4-2 with both Ellie Nicholls and Hannah Smith scoring a brace.

A big win at home for 5th placed Collier Row Tigers on Sunday in the Premier Division as they look to gain ground in the league, the 3rd consecutive match that has featured Collier Row Tigers winning or losing by 8 goals, an 8-2 victory against Frontiers, followed by an 8-2 defeat to Harlow Town Ladies Development. This time it was beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on the wrong end of the result, Collier Row Tigers building on a 2-0 half-time lead to add a further 6 without reply in the 2nd half. Laura Bunton and Sarah Finch both scoring 3 a piece, Finch one goal ahead of Bunton with 13 for the season, Daisy Cook and Helen Moreira with the other goals.

A tight contest between Southend United Ladies and Silver End United Ladies in the Premier Division on Sunday the 1st half ending goalless it was Southend who found the all important winning goal in the 2nd half with Emily Pert scoring her 6th goal of the season to see the home side climb up into 6th spot in the league table.

Essex Women’s League Cup

Two fixtures played this Sunday in the Essex Women’s League Cup that see’s the 1st Round completed. Premier Division leaders Leigh Ramblers Ladies were at home facing 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies. A tough contest that could have gone either way it was Leigh Ramblers who progress a single goal enough to see the game won 12 consecutive wins for Leigh Ramblers now.

Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves were also in action in the 1st Round of the League Cup on Sunday at home were taking on fellow Division One side Hutton Ladies Reserves. The visitors in a rich vein of form winning 4 out of their last 5 games including victory over Chelmsford City in the league, a win in the League Cup too taking them into the 2nd Round, A brace from Rachel Agombar, with Laura Allen also getting a goal along with Emily Wilson and Mathilda Cant who scored their 1st Hutton goals in a 5-1 win.

Essex Women’s Division One

Wins for the top two in Division One saw Billericay Town Ladies Reserves and Dagenham & Redbridge pull 11 and 8 points respectfully clear of the sides below. Billericay were at home on Sunday up against Chigwell Ladies Nicola Carty netting a hat-trick for Billericay moves onto 7 goals for the season, Darcie Salmons getting on the scoresheet too with her 8th of the season along with Alicia Woodward and top scorer Lisa Robins who now has 16 to her name, Billericay winning 6-2, Jessica MacNab and Tamsyn Robertson with her 1st of the campaign the goalscorers for Chigwell.

Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies were at home in the league on Sunday a challenging encounter as they locked horns with Rayleigh Town Ladies who with plenty of games in hand and a free scoring attack could yet challenge the top two. It was Dagenham & Redbridge who managed to outscore their opponents by 4 goals to 2 at the final whistle to make it 10 wins out of 12 so far this season. Grace Tebb-Reading scoring a brace moving her onto 9 goals, the same tally as Jodie Barden who also celebrated a goal for Dagenham & Redbridge along with a 5th goal of the season for Juliet Thomas. Holly Gash scoring twice for Rayleigh who still have 4 games in hand on the leading pair.

At the other end of Division One the bottom two sides met on Sunday as Island Ladies hosted Belhus Ladies, the visitors coming away with the positive result to climb off the bottom of the table at Island’s expense. Danni Jennings scoring a hat-trick in a 6-2 win. Amara Drummond, Bethany Murray and Hayley Knott all getting a goal each for Belhus. Ebonnie Williams and Chloe Simmonds with the goals for Island.