A busy start to the New Year in the ERWFL with 11 games taking place across both the Premier & Division One at the weekend. Both leagues exciting with the race for the title for both growing ever more intriguing as 2018 wore on, more of the same in 2019 please.
Acle United Women ending the year top of the pile leading the Premier Division began 2019 at home, AFC Dunstable Ladies making the long trip up from Bedfordshire with just the 9 available. Acle’s attack firing on all cylinders. Naomi Cooper opening the scoring for the Norfolk side on 12 minutes celebrated a 2nd goal just 6 minutes later. Lauren Bullard putting Acle 3 up on the half hour. Top scorer Grace Birchall with a headed goal making it 4-0 just before the break. Kate Pasque making it 5-0 to Acle soon after the restart. Birchall added two to complete her hat-trick and with Dunstable now down to 8 through injury added more goals, Pasque then Bullard with their 2nd goals each, double figures coming in injury time Birchall getting it her 25th of the season Acle winning 10-0.
An equally large scoreline too for 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies to start the year away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Carla Penny and Bella Simmons both celebrating a hat-trick a piece there were goals too for Erin Davies, Charlotte Gillies, Lauren Tomlinson and Anna Goggin along with captain Becca Fay who scored her 1st goal of the season on an 11-1 victory. Cambridge City unbeaten still with just 2 points dropped and 4 games in hand on the leaders the gap 3 points. Sandeep Tak with the goal for Haringey her 1st for the club.
Cambridge City Ladies, Becca Fay
Plenty of goals, you only need to beat the opposition by 1 to get the 3 points and that was enough for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies at the Harlow Arena to beat Harlow Ladies and travel home from Essex with the win under their belts. Katie Steward with her 11th goal of the season clinching the win for the 3rd placed side who themselves have been beaten just the once this season are 6 points off top spot but like Cambridge City have 4 games in hand on Acle.
4th placed Royston Town Ladies are themselves in a good position in the Premier Division table going into 2019, losing just the once this season themselves played 11 now like Cambridge and Peterborough Northern Star have 26 points. Were at home this Sunday against AFC Sudbury Ladies. Goals from Danielle Carty, Joanne Rutherford, Charlotte South and Georgia Gannaway seeing the Hertfordshire side win the game 4-0.
It was a good point at home for Colney Heath Ladies to start the year as they managed to hold the Wymondham Town Ladies attacking force to a goalless draw to earn a point against the 5th placed side. A much better result than the 7-0 loss Colney Heath suffered in the reverse fixture back in October.
ERWFL Division One
Like the Premier Division in the ERWFL the title race in Division One is proving just as exciting. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies the team to beat as 2019 begins top of the table the Essex side were at home to Norfolk’s King’s Lynn Town Ladies this Sunday. A solitary goal the difference at half-time advantage to Bowers & Pitsea, Sophie Dowman with the goal. A cracking strike from 30 yards seeing King’s Lynn level the scores on the hour. Bowers & Pitsea retaking the lead midway through the 2nd half Eloise Ives finding the back of the net, Georgia Fraser on target extending the lead to 3-1 with 15 minutes left. Into the final 10 minutes and King’s Lynn pulled it back to 3-2, Danielle Styles with the quick reply for Bowers & Pitsea adding a goal 5 minutes from time enough to secure the win 4-2. Tiffany Forshaw and Olivia Baker with the goals for King’s Lynn.
St Ives Town Ladies are 2nd in Division One the only unbeaten side in the league since joining the regional league this season. Their great start extended into 2019 with a home win against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Their previous meeting a 0-0 in the league and a 5-4 with away from home for St Ives in the League Cup, it was another positive result this Sunday, a goal for Emily Smith along with one for top scorer Tierney Coulson seeing St Ives win the game 2-0. Two points behind Bowers & Pitsea with 2 games in hand.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves are the defending champions were the early pacesetters results towards the end of 2018 going against them nevertheless remain firmly in contention in 3rd spot just 3 points separating the top 3 started the new year well with a comfortable home win over bottom side Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. Emily Schofield leading the goal scoring charts now hitting a brace in the match with Faith Greene also scoring on her first start for the side. Stevenage winning 3-0.
Another side performing well at the top end of ERWFL Division One are Hutton Ladies, having strengthened their squad the Essex side have gained a prolific goalscorer in Vicky Kinsman was on target again at the weekend away to Hatfield Peverel Ladies. 4th placed Hutton though had to settle for a point as they were held to a draw by Hatfield Peverel struggling for numbers since joining the ERWFL. A good point earned for Hatfield Peverel their goalscorer Jasmine Cox on her debut, a proven goalscorer something the Essex side has been lacking.
Newmarket Town Ladies are another newcomer to the ERWFL were away from home on Sunday against Essex side Lawford Ladies, both starting life at the higher level with a defeat have since gone on to flourish developing into a competitive force more than a match for anyone on their day. Currently 5th & 6th in the table shared 6 goals on Sunday, Tess Ryan and Stacey Teager on target for Lawford, it was Newmarket who came out on top to win the 3 points thanks largely to a 2nd half hat-trick from Annabel Cuthbert the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Brooke Wickens with the visitors goal. 16-year old Cuthbert putting Newmarket 2-1 up on 55 minutes added a 2nd just 2 minutes later her hat-trick coming in the 70th minute.
2018 overall a tough one for Bishops Stortford Ladies, started 2019 on a positive note earning a point at home to Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies on Sunday. Histon getting themselves into the lead in the 35th minute Charlotte Westrope turning the ball in the back of the net. A complete turn around though late in the 1st half with Bishops Stortford firing in two goals inside 3 minutes to lead 2-1 at the whistle Brooke White with her 1st of the season and Poppy Kelly the goalscorers. Into the final 10 minutes and Bishops Stortford held the lead, Histon with a corner, Alison Wright rescuing a point levelling the scores in the 82nd minute.
With it being an FA Cup weekend there was a limited programme of fixtures across the rest of the FAWNL to start the year 5 games across both the Southern Premier and South East Division One.
Chichester City Ladies clinch a narrow home win at the weekend to see them return to the summit of the Southern Premier Division. Began 2019 at home taking on Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The hosts starting the game well it was Plymouth however who were to take the early lead Rebecca Dandridge finding the back of the net against the run of play. Chichester getting the scores back level with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Helen Ogle scoring to see the sides level at half-time. The 2nd half a close contest two sides battling, Ogle striking the crossbar with a 30 yard strike on 65 minutes, 5 minutes later she had her 2nd of the game and what would prove to be the winning goal firing home from a free-kick 30 yards out.
A positive result too for Portsmouth FC Women at the start of 2019 with a home win against Queens Park Ranger Women on Sunday a debut for new signing Hannah Haughton and Becki Bath. The sides goalless at half-time once again it was a narrow loss for QPR struggling at the bottom of the table, Rachel Panting scoring from the penalty spot to put Portsmouth into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half, a welcome win putting them back into contention with the sides clustered in mid-table.
FAWNL South East Division One
With the top 3 sides in South East Division One all involved in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was a chance for 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC to take over 3rd position in the table as they welcomed Stevenage Ladies in the league. A five game unbeaten run for Leyton Orient they took the lead early in the match Chanel Richards with the goal on 8 minutes. Stevenage responded well drawing level just 4 minutes later Nicole Emmings scoring for the Hertfordshire side. Both sides creating good opportunities it remained level at the break. Leyton Orient getting themselves back into the lead 2nd half with Hayley Barton scoring. Chances continued for both the game into the final 10 minutes and Stevenage drew level once more Ashleigh Deacon making it 2-2. The winning goal coming in the final minute going the way of the visitors Emmings finding space to shot and squeeze the ball home.
Stevenage Ladies, Nicole Emmings
Actonians Ladies were 5th in the South East Division One table going into the new year showing form at the end of 2018 to move them up the table 3rd position a possibility for themselves as they played host to Cambridge United Women who had dropped down the table a run of successive cup matches to end 2018 seeing them fall down the league, in need of points as they look to pull away from the danger zone. Actonians coming close in the first half from a corner Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith tipping an effort onto her bar. Goalless at half-time it was the visitors without a few first team regulars who broke the deadlock Mollie Coupar beating the keeper to make it 1-0. Actonians levelling the scores with 15 minutes left though Carla Williams firing the ball home. Smith with another crucial save late on to ensure the sides shared the points.
It was a share of the points too between Denham United Ladies and Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday, always competitive when the two meet a usual point for Denham 2nd bottom as they held Enfield in 6th to a goalless draw.
Happy New Year to you all! The first edition of The Round-Up for 2019 the action beginning with the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup. 10 ties across the country the competition seeing the sides from both the FAWSL and Championship enter in the 4th Round.
No sides from outside the FAWNL making it to this stage of the competition. 7 of the 10 ties featuring clubs playing in either the Southern Premier or South East Division One.
Coventry United Ladies leading the Southern Premier Division unbeaten so far this season were hosting Crawley Wasps Ladies, the leaders in South East Division One, with an equally impressive start to the season a 100% success rate so far. Two in form sides going head to head it was Coventry who opened the scoring attacking down the right a cross sent into the area put in at the far post by Amber Hughes in the 26th minute. Crawley hitting back with an instant reply Ariana Fleischman up the other end getting the final touch to level the scores. 1-1 at the break. Both sides creating opportunities in the 2nd period Megan Stow seeing an effort strike the woodwork for the visitors just past the hour dug in as Coventry pressed. Into stoppage time with the game heading into extra-time, Crawley found the winning goal, Darcey James heading in a Naomi Cole corner to see Crawley beat their higher league opponents to reach the 4th Round.
Northern Premier Division leaders, Blackburn Rovers Ladies are into the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup although it took a last minute winner to secure their place on the road away to Oxford United Women in the 3rd Round on Sunday. A fast paced 1st half between the two sides looked to be heading into the changing rooms goalless at half-time when deep into injury time Evie Gane tapped the ball home to give the Southern Premier Division side, Oxford the lead. Blackburn came back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half Natasha Flint finding the back of the net, then in the closing minute it was Flint on target worth her 2nd of the match to clinch the victory for Blackburn.
Had planned a trip to Nottingham this Sunday, circumstances against me however as Nottingham Forest Ladies stalwarts of the Northern Premier Division played host to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division in the 3rd Round. A tight contest between the two sides, a single goal the winning margin, scored in the 2nd minute of 1st half stoppage time, Kim Farrow getting one on one with the keeper to put Milton Keynes Dons Ladies into the lead the visitors holding on to win and reach the 4th Round for the 1st time.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Kim Farrow
It was a long trip up to the North East for Southern Premier Division side Watford Ladies as they took on Middlesborough Women from the Northern Premier Division in the 3rd Round of the Cup. Midfielder Danielle Scanlon with the early goal for the visitors seeing Watford 1-0 up after 7 minutes just 3 minutes later Watford were 2 goals to the good Helen Ward scoring. Both sides attacking chances coming Middlesborough pulling it back to 2-1 on 18 minutes through Emily Scarr. Just two minutes later Watford were back ahead by 2 goals with Ward netting for the 2nd time to make it 3-1. Eleanor Drake on the scoresheet for the hosts to reduce the deficit once again on the half hour. Watford when into the half-time break with their 2 goal cushion restored as Katie O’Leary scored to make it 4-2 in the 39th minute. The visitors having the better of the 2nd half as the home side pushed from a reply, Samantha Hailsworth making it 5-2 on the hour. Into the final 10 minutes and Ward scored twice more to claim 4 for the game and secure a 7-2 win for Watford.
Plenty of goals too between Billericay Town Ladies and Loughborough Foxes Women in the 3rd Round as the Essex side 2nd in South East Division One took on their higher league placed opponents. Billericay taking an early lead in the game Sam Pittuck volleying home in the 5th minute. Loughborough quick with the response levelling the scores within 3 minutes Rebecca Knight scoring to make it 1-1. 3 minutes later Loughborough were in front Rebecca Mcgrother with the goal. Amy Burle with a terrific save to deny Karissa Rodney a goal on the half hour soon after Mcgrother found the back of the net up the other end to put Loughborough 3-1 up. That the score at half-time Billericay started the 2nd half strongly pushing for a goal chances Burle saving once more. The game closing in on the final 20 minute Loughborough further extending their lead, Eva Rogers played through and sending the ball past the keeper to make it 4-1 for the visitors. Zoe Rushen pulling it back to 4-2 with 10 minutes left. Burle busy in the Loughborough goal, Rushen beating her for her 2nd of the game to set up a nervy final five minutes Loughborough holding out to win the game 4-3.
Cardiff City Ladies were hosting Bolton Wanderers Ladies from Northern Division One in the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. An early goal helping settle any nerves the Southern Premier Division side might have Cori Williams heading in from a corner in the 7th minute. Kylie Nolan with the final shot from a break making it 2-0 on 15 minutes. Those goals proving enough with Bolton unable to find a reply, Cardiff progressing.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies, 3rd in South East Division One were on the road in the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday taking on higher league opponents Hull City Ladies from the Northern Premier Division. A goalless 1st half between the sides, it was Wimbledon who enjoyed the better of the 2nd half Katie Stanley putting them a goal up just past the hour mark. Jordan Hoesli-Atkins doubling the visitors lead just 7 minutes later to put Wimbledon 2-0 up and with Hull pushing later on for a goal Georgia Heasman secured victory for Wimbledon scoring their 3rd goal in injury time.
In the other 3 3rd Round ties, Stoke City Ladies won 2-1 away to Derby County Ladies. Huddersfield Town Ladies were 4-1 winners at home to Leeds United Ladies and Keynsham Town Ladies doing well in South West Division One beat Flyde Ladies 2-1 at home.
The FA Women’s Cup 4th Round draw – ties to be played Sun 3rd February
Yeovil Town Ladies v Birmingham City Lades
AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Bristol City Women
Crystal Palace Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies
Millwall Lionesses v Lewes FC Women
Durham Women v Cardiff City Ladies
Everton Ladies v Chelsea Women
Leicester City Women v London Bees
Reading FC Women v Keynsham Town Ladies
Liverpool Women v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Loughborough Foxes Women v Sheffield United Women
Charlton Athletic Women v Huddersfield Town Ladies
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC v Manchester United Women
Happy New Year! The first game of 2019 for Women’s Football East, another great year of football action to look forwards too. A quiet end to 2018 with just the one game watched have missed it and keen to get this year off to a flyer, the action beginning in Norfolk from the 2nd Round of the Ladies League Cup with Aylsham Ladies at home to Sprowston Ladies.
A place in the quarter finals of the competition up for grabs the one remaining tie the other 7 places decided and with half the Division One sides set to be gone from the competition after today’s game a great opportunity awaits the winner of today’s tie.
Aylsham Ladies reformed this season after a brief withdrawal from the league. Managed now by Robert Highe formerly in charge of the Stalham Town Ladies side, he has brought with him a good number from that side with players formerly with North Walsham Angels Ladies also joining the squad has plenty of experience competing in Division One. 8 sides in the league this season Aylsham were one of the early pacesetters neck and neck with Thorpe United Ladies, a dip in results seeing Thorpe who have remained consistent throughout stretch their lead.
Aylsham are second and well clear of the chasing pack, the dynamic of the league changing over the first few months of the season, several teams struggling for numbers early on most have added to their squads and alot closer to one another now, anyone can feel capable of beating anyone on their day as the new year begins.
Sprowston Ladies are 4th in Division One their squad light early on has gotten stronger, this side making their debut in Division One last season were very strong pushing eventual winners Bungay Town Ladies all the way to the title, collected silverware too winning the League Plate. Both sides will be keen to get going in 2019 having both played their last competitive fixture back in November! The two sides drawing 2-2 at Sprowston when they met in October.
Youngs Park the venue for today’s fixture and the first time I’ve been back there since the redeveloped site was opened in 2016. A new housing development close by easier to get to than I remember, a large carpark a large clubhouse with bar and refreshments, beside the main pitch, lots of space for additional practice pitches, a great sporting facility. The weather a pretty dull picture, gloomy and overcast, not too cold mind
Aylsham Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Charlotte Darvill, Hannah Sturman, Megan Champion, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Amber Mayhew, Kerry Wright, Summer Moore, Mary Anne Hoy, Vicky Lubbock & Leanne Symonds. Subs – Jade Knights, Emma Gillespie & Abbie Charlton.
8 teams in the league, 3 of them play in orange. Aylsham as the home side wearing there first choice colours, orange shirts and socks with blue shorts. Sprowston wearing black shirts today with orange shorts and black socks. It’s Aylsham with the kick-off 1st half. The visitors press the ball straight away Abbi Nobbs getting hold of the ball for Sprowston, played forwards cut out by Aylsham’s Sophie-Jayne O’Connor.
Vicky Leyer with the ball at her feet for Sprowston inside the Aylsham half central played on down the left for Amee Kennett to chase, Hannah Sturman across her for Aylsham sees the ball out for a goal kick. Sturman with some good defensive work soon after as Kennett given the ball left side looks to turn inside get into the area the Aylsham defender getting in a good challenge.
Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs
Abby Hutchin getting forwards with the 1st goalwards attempt for Sprowston her low ball gathered easily by Aylsham goalkeeper Katie Clarke. A good start to the game from the visitors Sprowston attacking have the ball inside the Aylsham half making in difficult for the hosts to counter.
GOAL! Sprowston capitalise on their good start by taking an early lead in the match attacking right side Chelsea Brister on the ball down the line plays it back of Hutchin behind her she sends a cross along the top of the six yard box Leyer central send the ball on for Kennett closing in at the far post she sends a shot back across the goal and scores 0-1.
Amee Kennett opens the scoring for Sprowston Ladies
Aylsham look for an immediate response the ball forwards into Vicki Lubbock right channel her ball forwards cut out by Ria Drake, the visitors counter the ball forwards finding Leyer top of the centre circle is clear running in towards goal, the flag is up however and when eventually spotted her run ended.
Clarke does well coming early to kick the ball clear as Hutchin making a great run through the left channel is almost played in on goal. The passes not coming off for Aylsham frustration in the early part of the game as Sprowston continue with their energetic game. Amber Mayhew bringing the ball forwards fro Aylsham looks to set up Lubbock as she moves with her to the right the Sprowston defence regaining possession.
Aylsham Ladies, Amber Mayhew
Mary Anne Hoy flicking the ball on down the left wing gives chase tries to tie up Leanne Symonds in the middle, the best the attacker can do is win a throw as Georgina Belton slides in with her in win the ball. Sturman with more good defensive work inside the box the deny Kennett a shot as she turns inside. Charlotte Darvill defends for Aylsham as Sprowston try to double up on her at left back Hutchin with the run into space on her right with Leyer holding up the ball.
Paige Barnard has a long throw in her arsenal and uses it to good effect for Sprowston on the right the ball into the box causing problems, Megan Champion clearing for Aylsham. Barnard likes to charge forwards with the ball at her feet too a good run from half way is ended as her heels are clipped 25 yards out Sprowston winning the free-kick. The ball flighted into the box headed down out of the area the defensive clearance dropping straight to Hutchin outside the box, shoots her looping effort straight at Clarke well placed in the Aylsham goal.
Paige Barnard on the attack for Sprowston Ladies
Aylsham haven’t registered a shot on target yet are struggling to get anything going in the final third, Summer Moore gathering the ball into her feet inside her opponents half looks to plough her way towards the box, eventually after three challenges Sprowston manage to stop her.
GOAL! From the resulting counter attack Sprowston get the ball up the other end and score to double their lead the ball played direct up through the middle Hutchin picking it up carrying it on into the area, Sturman managing to get in the challenge on her takes the ball away from her Kennett free behind Hutchin coming in from the left onto the loose ball sends her shot from outside the box up over the keeper to score her 2nd of the match 0-2.
A change for Sprowston, Brister coming off a straight swap on the right with Evie Tolson coming on. 25 minutes played. Sprowston remain strong in attack numbers forward win a throw deep on the right, Barnard to take the long throw, drops to Leyer inside the area right side holds the ball up well before trying to tie up Hutchin top of the area central her shot blocked by Moore the deflected ball racing out to Melissa Anderson positioned left she 1st time shot over the bar.
GOAL! A mix up at the back sees the visitors score a third goal. The ball played up over the top with Tolson the target right side, Darvill to it first as it runs into the box, the keeper calls aiming to clear it as she advances, defender and goalkeeper too close to each other as she does the ball unfortunately striking Darvill rebounds behind both into Tolson who has an empty net in front of her scores her 1st goal for Sprowston in just her 2nd appearance.
Darvill getting forwards for Aylsham tries to link up with Hoy on the left the pair gain ground on the wing before Barnard slides in with the tackle to win the ball. Sprowston counter Hutchin running into the space vacated by Darvill right side to the by line her cross in low towards the near post taken well by Clarke. Aylsham’s turn to counter quick to get the ball forwards into Symonds left of goal across the top of the area into Lubbock, Belton sliding in on her as she shoots the ball looping up over the bar a corner awarded, the ball near side defended.
GOAL! 35 minutes gone and Sprowston add to their lead Nobbs on for Hutchin breaking forwards a good run through the middle sends it on for Leyer bursting clear into the area moving right away from goal gets a shot away wrong footing the keeper moving to close down the angle the ball back across her and into the far bottom corner 0-4.
Vicky Leyer holding the ball up inside the box for Sprowston Ladies
A free-kick for Sprowston awarded on the left side 35 yards players up from the back as the ball is played diagonally across to Hutchin moving in from the right 20 yards out her shot blocked… by Tink.
GOAL! A late life line for Aylsham in the first half as they are awarded a penalty. Mayhew getting the ball forwards into Symonds getting into space on the right her cross squared into Lubbock top of the area she is upended as she goes to receive the ball the referee pointing to the spot. Lubbock gets up to take, a well taken effort placed to her right pulls a goal back for the home side 1-4.
Vicky Lubbock scores from the penalty spot for Aylsham Ladies
A double change for Aylsham in the cards before the penalty and with it a change of formation 3-5-3 now with Darvill and Moore coming off for Abbie Charlton and Emma Gillespie. Little time left in the first half for the changes to take effect, Sprowston press on the ball from Hutchin up to Leyer running right sends a cross along the face of goal into Kennett a chance for a hat-trick the ball bouncing the attempt screwed wide.
Half-time Aylsham Ladies 1-4 Sprowston Ladies
A strong first half from Sprowston, an early goal pressed the ball well inside their opponents half making it difficult for Aylsham to get anything going in attack, frustrated Sprowston capitalised getting into a 4-0 lead. Chances few and far between for Aylsham a goal back late on gives them something but know they have alot of work to do if they are to get themselves back into the game 2nd half.
Sprowston’s Calista Tink with Aylsham’s Leanne Symonds
Another change at half-time for Aylsham, Moore on for Sturman. Sprowston to get the 2nd 45 underway. Aylsham need to start on the front foot, Anderson though wins the ball for Sprowston on for Leyer central drives on, Champion tacking her and winning the ball for Aylsham spins away to the right Wright doing well too in defence before Clarke lays claim to the ball.
Aylsham much more positive at the start of the 2nd half pushing on Symonds winning a throw on the right as Lubbock sends the pass down the line. Champion winning the ball inside her opponents half pushes forwards on for Symonds looks to turn inside tackled by Tink.
Megan Champion with the ball for Aylsham Ladies
A second penalty awarded to Aylsham early in the 2nd half the ball played into Lubbock standing just inside the box a kick out at her calves spotted. 4-2 now and it’s a huge boost for the hosts Lubbock to take again, missed the ball lifted over this time.
Aylsham regroup push on Moore plays the pass out to Lubbock right side as she looks to combine with Symonds the cross into the six yard box Charlton the target far post the ball headed clear of the area collected by Hoy left side 20 yards out her strike wide. Lubbock with a 30 yard attempt on target Megan Lightfoot in the Sprowston goal back on her line claims the ball firmly over her head.
All Aylsham at the start of the 2nd half Sprowston with the 3 goal advantage soaking up the pressure. Lubbock with more support around her influential on the ball spins the pass out to Symonds right her looping cross falling central Mayhew forwards lays the ball off for Lubbock drifting in central top of the area her snap shot pulled wide.
Sprowston always ready to launch a counter Hutchin a good run forwards played in on goal into the box closing in on the keeper Clarke saves well at close range the ball pushed straight back into Hutchin’s path she tries to adjust place her shot wide of the keeper but Champion is back to clear for Aylsham.
Leyer holding the ball up for Sprowston brings Barnard into play as she bursts forwards on the right side, Wright reading the threat in quickly to put in the tackle deny a cross. A chance fro Sprowston Drake the player off, on comes Rebecca Basten. Tink intercepts at the back for Sprowston as Symonds aims to put Lubbock through. The final ball just not happening for Aylsham this afternoon.
Kennett with the ball at her feet on the left wing for Sprowston pushes on lays the pass on for Leyer 25 yards out she checks inside shapes to send a shot towards the top corner the ball flying wide of the upright.
GOAL! Leyer does score soon after Sprowston have ridden out Aylsham’s early pressure 2nd half find space in attack Kennett central with the run and shot 25 yards out the ball blocked manages to squirm it’s way through into the box for Leyer drifting free left of goal 8 yards out shoots her strike back across Clarke diving full stretched does well to get glove on it but the touch not enough to keep it out of the back of the net Leyer with her 2nd of the game 1-5.
Another chance for Sprowston with Jade Mundford coming on. Jade Knights on for Aylsham replacing Mayhew. Lubbock wins Aylsham a corner on the right side the ball into the area defended the half clearance straight to Charlton running onto the ball no time to control a shot too many bodies in front of her the rebound falling to Champion top of the area her shot runs wide.
Sprowston hit on the counter right side Leyer on the ball checks in field again shapes to shoot, this time Wright is in her face before she can unleash a strike tackling wins the ball. Champion back behind her keeper to clear the ball again as Clarke does well saving against Leyer at close range.
GOAL! Closing inon the final 15 minutes and Sprowston extend their lead with Aylsham pushing forwards gaps are opening up at the back as they tire Leyer a willing runner is played in Clarke sets herself making the save as she strikes the ball hard from the top of the area left of the D the ball racing out to the right Hutchin the player getting ahead of the Aylsham defence to meet t blasts a low strike from the top of the area into the back of the goal 1-6.
Abby Hutchin the goalscorer for Sprowston
GOAL! A further hammer blow for Aylsham moments later as Sprowston go on to add a 7th from a corner. Won on the right, Tink with the near post run isn’t picked up six yards out gets a free header turning the ball on towards goal and into the back of the net 1-7.
Aylsham are tiring has been a frustrating afternoon, not happening in front of goal, Sprowston press on late on remain full of energy. Anderson in to win the ball in the middle, out to Barnard running on right side the ball in field to Leyer cut out by Champion.
GOAL! a penalty awarded late in the game going Sprowston’s way this time. Plenty of options for the visitors leading 7-1 up to take it central defender Belton, A well taken effort wide into the side netting to her right scores her 1st goal for the side 1-8.
Sprowston press on late on the wind gone from Aylsham’s sails, Hutchin with a strike from 25 yards out runs wide of goal. The final whistle blows and Sprowston progress to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a convincing win.
Full time Aylsham Ladies 1-8 Sprowston Ladies
A comprehensive win for Sprowston Ladies in the finish reaching the last 8 of the League Cup, a great win to start 2019. Strong from the start an early goal setting them on their way pressed well inside their opponents half. Raced into a 4-0 lead, Aylsham out of sorts poor in the first half hour got a life line from the penalty spot 4-1 at the break needed an early goal 2nd half and despite starting well it didn’t come. Sprowston always ready to counter having soaked up the pressure added a further 4 goals. A confidence boosting result for the visitors the opposite for Aylsham not the start to the year they were looking for but no doubt out of character, know alot of these players from watching them before are better and will regather and bounce back.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2019. From the outset I had an early contender. Sprowston dominated the first half, soaked up some pressure 2nd half before ending strong, Vicky Leyer pushing for it towards the end the award today however goes to Abby Hutchin made some great runs from midfield to join the attack get ahead of play early on and maintained that throughout the game a constant threat adding a goal too.
Good to get a game in after a month and thrust me I needed it too after the weekend I’ve had, the best medicine great to see both teams in action. My thanks as always for the help with the teams. The draw for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup quarter finals will be made soon keep an eye on the @NWGFL twitter account for all the details.
The final edition of The Round-Up in 2018, ending with the weekends action from Beds & Herts including the quarter finals of the County Cups. Storm Deirdre playing its part as it did across the region affecting fixtures everywhere.
Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup
Two of the 4 quarter finals from this season’s Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup were played on Sunday with the other two postponed. Both featuring Dunstable. The 1st team were hosting Beds & Herts Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses at home in the competition. Dunstable struggling in the ERWFL Premier Division, Woburn & Wavendon showing good form in Division Three a huge gulf between the sides 4 leagues to be exact. Dunstable coming out on top getting a good win. Storm Sherrie Burrows scoring a hat-trick for Dunstable. Rachel Moffat also amongst the goals netting a brace with Sophie Bailey also claiming a goal in a 6-0 win to take Dunstable into the last 4.
In the other quarter final, it was an all Beds & Herts Division Three clash with AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies at home to league leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development. Both enjoying a strong start to the season. Kempston Town with the early lead getting in front inside the opening 10 minutes, held that advantage going into the 2nd half. Dunstable getting themselves back on level terms 7 minutes into the 2nd period Nicole Cameron scoring to make it 1-1. The visitors going on to take the lead themselves with the game entering the final 15 minutes Lakeisha Fazilahmed with her 1st goal of the season. The lead didn’t last long however with Kempston Town soon back on level terms. A dramatic end with the winning goal coming in the 90th minute, Kempston Town scoring it to win 3-2 and reach the last 4 of the County Cup in their debut season. Taylor Kingston scoring twice with Kimberlee Aldred also on the scoresheet.
Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup
One outstanding tie from the quarter finals of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup postponed last Sunday, this weekend ERWFL Premier Division side were away to Watford Ladies U23s playing in the FAWNL Reserves South/South East Division. Watford going strong in the competition recording a 5-0 win to reach the last 4 where they will have a home tie on Sunday 20th January against Beds & Herts Division One side, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Two games played in Beds & Herts Division One this Sunday. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires ending 2018 top of the pile but far from the result they would have wanted as they lost heavily away to Northwood Ladies. Danielle Tyler and Megan Warner both scoring a hat-trick in the game. Warner making her 1st start making a huge impact. Emma Steele with a goal keeps her just out in front of Tyler as top scorer with 9 now. Holly Gilder also scoring in an 8-0 victory. Northwood up to 4th on the Division One table a cluster of sides mid-table 3rd to 6th separated by just 2 points all with games in hand on the top two.
Joining Northwood Ladies on 10 points are 5th placed St Albans Ladies a slow first half to the season for the defending champions with just their 5th league game played this Sunday were at home to bottom side Garston Ladies 1st team. Ellen Slater scoring twice for St Albans has 9 for the season now, Nicola Dark and Molly Slade also getting a goal a piece in a 4-2 win. Emma Trill with both the Garston goals.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One game taking place in Beds & Herts Division Two this Sunday with leaders Hitchin Town Ladies away to bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Hitchin starting well taking the lead in the 14th minute Kirsty Smith lobbing the keeper from 20 yards out. 3 minutes later Hitchin were 2 up with Louise Gash finding the back of the net. On the half hour Welwyn pulled a goal back, Rebecca Bullar scoring to make it 2-1. Hitchin responding straight away two quick fire goals from Gash seeing her complete a 1st half hat-trick joins captain Emma Chaffey as the clubs top scorer on 8 goals. A 4-1 lead to Hitchin at half-time. The woodwork coming to the rescue for Welwyn in the 2nd half Chaffey 1st from a penalty then Gash with two efforts. A 5th goal finally coming in the 80th minute. Natalie Thompson the goal scorer the win seeing Hitchin 9 points clear of 2nd placed and local rivals the Belles who like all the chasing pack have games in hand but right now it has been a great opening half to the season for Hitchin Town.
Two games to end the year from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. Leaders ICA Sports Ladies were away taking on 7th placed March Town United Ladies. A competitive first half saw the sides level at 2-2 going into the break. March coming out the stronger in the 2nd half scoring a further 3 goals that sees them leap up the table into 4th spot with a 5-3 win. Naomi McGarvie netting a brace, there were goals too for Emma Frost, Adele Munday and Georgia Brown.
A 3rd defeat of the season now for ICA Sports Ladies they see their lead at the top of the Premiership cut to 3 points as Cambridge City Ladies Development return to wining ways in the league after losing for the 1st and only time at the start of the month. Were at home to bottom side Riverside ladies on Sunday. A 5-1 win in the finish securing the 3 points move onto 15 points 3 behind ICA Sports but with 3 games in hand. Yasmin Crow & Hannah Lock on the scoresheet for Cambridge City along with 3 players scoring their 1st goals, Ceri Flye, Rebecca Langthorne and Freya Standing making her 1st start too. Hannah Murphy with the goal for Riverside.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One outstanding quarter final from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior invitation Cup taking place this Sunday. An 11am kick-off with Premiership side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds hosting, Championship South side, Cambridge Rangers WFC. The higher placed league side proving the stronger in the finish despite ending the game with 10 players, Yasmine Upson amongst the goalscorers also shown a red card. Sharon Pinner, Amy Smith and Marie Stubbings all getting a goal too in a 4-0 win. Fulbourn will now face Burwell Tigers Ladies in the semi-finals.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
One group match from the League Cup taking place this weekend with Park Ladies away to Wisbech Town Ladies on Sunday in Group B. The game switched to 3G because of the bad weather. Park having just the 9 players available. Wisbech Town doing well in both the League & League Cup have alot of firepower in their squad and that proved too much for Park as they ran out 8-0 winners to climb up into 2nd spot in the Group B table with 9 points with one to play against Wisbech St Mary.
The final Sunday of football in Essex this weekend, the schedule hit by postponements after Storm Deirdre blew in on Saturday leaving some pitches unplayable. The Sunday saw the beginning of this season’s League Cup competition with just 2 of the 5 listed 1st Round games surviving. Both intriguing however seeing Premier Division sides up against the top two tussling for the title in Division One.
Harlow Town Development’s young side starting the season well a long run unbeaten only recently coming to an end were away to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves leading the way in the league below. Harlow enjoying the better of the 1st half getting themselves a 2-0 advantage going into half-time. Those goals crucial as Billericay came back to score 2 themselves in the 2nd period. Harlow though matching that total getting a further two goals themselves to win the game 4-2 to progress in the League Cup. Harlow’s goals coming from, Poppy Binding, Kaydee King, Lucy Edmeades & Hannah Smith. Kelsey Smith & Mya Turner with the 2nd half goals for Billericay.
Billericay’s rivals at the top of Division One are Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies, they were drawn away to Premier Division side, Silver End United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup this Sunday. A good contest between the sides both scoring twice in the 90 minutes the game heading into extra-time, Silver End United finding the back of the net one more time to win the tie 3-2 to advance. A brace from Rebecca Donnelly along with a goal for Ella Tooley for the hosts. Grace Tebb-Reading scoring for Dagenham & Redbridge, with Evie Doyle-Love also on the scoresheet with her 1st goal for the club.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two matches played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday. Runwell Sports Ladies finish the year up into 5th position. Played 12 now have won as many as they have lost. Their 6th win in the league coming away from home on Sunday against Belhus Ladies. A hat-trick from Rachael Selfe plus a 15th goal of the season for Aaryanna Simonelli securing a 4-2 result. Bethany Murray & Danni Jennings getting the goals for Belhus who slip back to the bottom of the table.
That coming as Island Ladies won for the 2nd time this season this Sunday away from home against Chigwell Ladies. The hosts playing most of the match with just 8 players, Island capitalising as Chigwell tired to get a positive result to end 2018. Megan Blackwell scoring twice for Island, there were goals too for Jess Bowen along with Chloe & Kirsty Simmonds both scoring their 1st goals of the season in a 5-1 win. Victoria Parker getting the goal for Chigwell.
The final Round-Up for the county this year, although not the end to the football as Division Two looks set to continue through the festive period. Women’s Football East may well be at a couple pf those games if tempted (and that isn’t difficult).
This Sunday saw a couple of postponement’s Thorpe United Ladies ending the year 9 points clear at the top of Division One having injuries to key players (goalkeepers) calling off their match at home to Sprowston Athletic. Two matches were played. Sprowston Ladies moving clear into 3rd position end the year 3 points from 2nd placed Aylsham Ladies with a game in hand. Sprowston ending 2018 with a run of 5 games without a loss were at home on Sunday up against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A 2-0 win seeing Sprowston make 3rd spot their own.
At last a positive end to 2018 for Bungay Town Ladies. Getting numbers back into their squad and with it the results have come as last seasons defending champions make it 2 league wins on the bounce and a total of 7 points from their last 3. The ‘old farm’ derby as they titled this weekends game taking on local rivals Beccles Town Ladies at home on Sunday. A positive first half for Bungay taking control of the matching winning 5-0 at the final whistle. The goals coming from Selina Rowland and Imogen McGregor. Shannon Dade also scoring her first goal of the season along with Fiona Burrage getting a goal on her Bungay debut.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A huge game at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday with the leading pair both unbeaten so far this season going head to head. Leaders Fakenham Town Ladies with a 100% winning record away to Taverham United Women just two points behind in 2nd spot well clear of the chasing pack. Destined to be a close encounter and in the end it was just the one goal that separated the sides, Abbie Walker netting it for Taverham her 18th goal of the campaign seeing her side go to the top of the table as Fakenham suffer defeat for the 1st time this season, the sides meeting in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
Long Stratton Women finish the year in 3rd position in the Division Two table climbing above Gorleston Rangers Ladies with a comfortable home win on Sunday against Freethorpe Ladies. Striker Samantha Walker proving a useful addition to the squad too hot to handle this weekend scoring 5 goals moving her onto 27 goals from just 9 games. A brace to for Emily Watts who has 13 now for the campaign seeing Long Stratton win 7-0. Long Stratton travelling to Freethorpe next Sunday.
A Thetford derby this Sunday with the town’s young guns meeting for the first time in women’s football. Thetford Town Ladies at home to Bulldogs Ladies. A difficult start to lift in the league for both, Thetford Town struggling for numbers at times playing just their 6th league match, Bulldogs bottom of the table without a point, have nevertheless been competitve in several games. Melissa Boulton is Thetford Town’s top scorer a brace at the weekend taking her into double figures for the season. Emma Johnson getting the goals for Bulldogs scored another at the weekend to take her onto 8. Sara-Jane Langford also on the scoresheet for Bulldogs. It was Thetford Town celebrating the win at the end of the match however their 3rd of the season with goals from Laura Martins, Gemma Ramsey and Melena Smith seeing them to a 5-2 victory. Again the fixture reversed this coming Sunday.
Two sides in need of a confidence boosting win met on Sunday with Horsford Women entertaining Hockering Ladies. Both newcomers to the league with a single win on the board each so far. Hockering struggling for numbers have rarely been able to field a full team which hasn’t helped them, 2 to 3 more committed players will in time make all the difference. Ending up with 9 against Horsford, Hockering did well to limit Horsford to 3 goals enough to get them that 2nd 3 point haul of the season. Robyn Penn scoring for Hockering her first goal in her new teams colours. Likewise the two sides meet in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
2018 comes to an end in Suffolk with East Bergholt United Ladies out in front in an expanded league the defending champions with a 100% record and an incredible +100 goal difference from just 11 games. The latest 3 points awarded as an away win against Walsham Le Willows Ladies this Sunday.
There were 5 games played at the weekend the county largely unaffected by Storm Deirdre. Needham Market Women enjoying the best start of all the new names to enter the league this season up their with the leaders all season end the year 2nd on 27 points with 9 wins and two losses from 11 played. A large squad helping goals from several too were away to fellow newcomers Brettvale Ladies this Sunday. Francesca Rainbird, Needham Market’s top scorer netting a further two goals to take her tally to 19 for the season. Milly Carter also on target with a goal has 12 now for the campaign. Josie Harward on the scoresheet too along with Elysia Young scoring her first goal for Needham Market in a 5-2 win. Sheryl Nokes on the scoresheet for Brettvale along with Lucy Brown celebrating her first goal for the club.
Needham Market Women’s, Francesca Rainbird
Brantham Ladies Athletic had dropped points going into their last 3 games including two successive defeats were at home on Sunday against Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves who have been short on numbers for a while now soldering on despite suffering some mouth watering defeats, credit to them to keep going and fingers crossed numbers and with it fortunes can start to build in the new year. Just the 9 starting for Haverhill this Sunday against a strong Brantham side neck and neck with East Bergholt for 8 games. Goalscorers throughout out the side Haverhill ending the game with just 7 through injury beaten 21-0 in the finish. Brantham ending the year in 3rd spot.
Alresford Colne Rangers joining the Suffolk Women’s Division after spending a couple of season’s in the Essex leagues have started the season well just the one loss so far this season have been in and around the top 5 the whole time end the year in 4th a point back from Brantham after sharing the points at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday in a goalless draw.
A good result at home for Coplestonians Ladies sees them finish 2018 well in the top half of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were at home to University of Suffolk Women, the hosts enjoying a great 1st half to lead the game 5-0 going on to add a further 3 goals 2nd half to win 8-0. Abigail Eley had just the one goal before this Sunday’s game is now the clubs top scorer celebrating 4 goals in Coplestonians win. Courtney Farris-Whatling, Sophie Maul and Lottie Aldous all getting a goal each have 3 each to their name whilst Chloe York was on target with her first goal of the season.
A point back in 7th position are Leiston St Margarets Ladies who ended 2018 with an away win on Sunday their 5th of the season coming against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Lucy Eagle, Leiston St Margarets top scorer so far this season getting a goal to take her onto 12 for the season. Thalia Cloke also scoring a goal moves onto 5 with an own goal securing a 3-1 win for the visitors. Charlotte Archer moving ahead of Bernice Corney to lead Chantry Grasshopper’s scoring charts with the goal on Sunday takes her to 7 for the season.
The ERWFL fixture list suffering like most leagues across the country thanks to Storm Deirdre blowing in on Saturday affecting half the fixtures in Division One whilst County Cup action saw a reduced schedule in the Premier Division on Sunday.
Acle United Women will end the year top of the pile in the ERWFL Premier Division. Ended 2018 with a trip to Suffolk up against 2nd bottom AFC Sudbury. The visitors taking a little while to get going gradually building momentum creating opportunities, finally took the lead late in the first half with Grace Birchall’s shot blocked Ciera Flatt putting in the rebound. 1-0 up at the break Acle quickly added to the score early in the 2nd half defender Anna Larkins getting forwards to make it 2-0. Acle creating plenty of chances pushing forwards Lauren Bullard getting a 3rd for the visitors. Birchall scoring a brace late on to secure a 5-0 win for Acle moves her onto 21 goals for the season.
Cambridge City Ladies have had an excellent start to the season 9 wins from 9 they were looking to round that perfect record to 10 at home on Sunday as they welcomed Royston Town ladies to the Trinity Playing Fields. The hosts getting themselves into a 2-0 lead with 20 minutes played. Danielle Carty pulling it back to 2-1 for Royston from a free-kick. Striker Jo Rutherford putting the visitors back on level terms. Cambridge City coming back to restore their lead going 3-2 up, Teonie Peyton scored to see Royston equalise for the 2nd time in the game then Rutherford with her 11th goal of the season scored her 2nd of the match to put Royston 4-3 up. Erin Davies, Shannon Shaw and Charlotte Giles scoring Cambridge City’s 3 goal were down to 10 with Laura Mills shown a 2nd yellow. heading into injury time were in danger of losing for the 1st time in the league this season, very deep into stoppage time and the hosts found an equalising goal themselves to rescue a point with Giles scoring for the 2nd time in the match. Their 100% record gone Cambridge City nevertheless remain unbeaten in all a very successive 2018 for the club.
Cambridge City Ladies, Charlotte Gillies
Also enjoying a fantastic 2018 are Wymondham Town Ladies, making their debut at this level end the year in their highest position of the campaign up into 5th ending the year with a home win against one of the early pacesetters, Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies. Laura Nicholls enjoying a great year in front of goal leading the way in the scoring charts put Wymondham into the lead in the 21st minute of the game. Brentwood coming back to level 15 minutes later Leah Cowan first to a loose ball to fire in the equaliser. Wymondham restoring the lead late in the first half with Hannah Waters firing in her 19th goal of the season to make it 2-1. 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Chelsea Clarke fired in a shot across the keeper to make it 3-1 to the hosts. Wymondham enjoying a got run to end the year 6 unbeaten in a great position now to kick on in 2019.
ERWFL Division One
Every week the title battle at the top of ERWFL Division One takes a new twist remains as exciting as it has been with no clues yet as to who might emerge on top come the end of the season. Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies with a strong run of results at the end of the year unbeaten in 8 matches now moving to the top of the table.
Were at home this Sunday taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts getting off to a fantastic start taking the lead inside the first minute Sophie Dowman scoring the goal. Bowers & Pitsea pressing forwards creating plenty of opportunities it wasn’t until the 39th minute that they doubled the lead, Danielle Styles finding the back of the net to make it 2-0. Georgia Fraser scoring Bowers & Pitsea’s 3rd goal with the game moving into the final 20 minutes. Dowman on target with goals in the 76th & 81st minute to complete a hat-trick and take her onto 9 goals for the season Bowers & Pitsea winning the game 5-0 to see them stay top going into 2019.
If current form continues then the side in the strongest position to challenge for the ERWFL Division One title are newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies the Cambridgeshire side 2nd going into the New Year are unbeaten from 10 played two points behind Bowers & Pitsea with two games in hand. Ended the year with an away trip to fellow promoted side Newmarket Town Ladies on Sunday. The two sides enjoying some good encounters whilst playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership together. Both starting life at the higher level well, Newmarket in 5th spot. St Ives edging the first half leading 1-0. Kira Markwell making an excellent save denying Newmarket, who saw a goal ruled out. The 2nd half seeing both sides score Laura Bailey’s goal not enough for Newmarket with St Ives winning 2-1. Top scorer Tierney Coulson scoring from the penalty spot with Hannah Seymour-Shove also scoring. A whole calendar year unbeaten in the league for St Ives.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves long time leaders of Division One slipping to 3rd in the table late on dropping points for the 3rd successive match in the league. Were away this Sunday taking on Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. The hosts leading the game at half-time, Kristina O’Connell’s strike from outside the box finding it’s way into the back of the net in the 33rd minute. Stevenage getting back on level terms 7 minutes into the 2nd period with Gemma Biggadike scoring her first of the campaign to make it 1-1. Melody Jones making just her 2nd appearance for Stevenage shooting from outside the area in the 77th minute getting her first goal in the process to make it 2-1 to the visitors. The game deep into stoppage time and Hoddesdon found an equalising goal themselves to see the game end 2-2 and the sides take home a share of the points.
