Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 16th September

ERWFL Premier Division

A trip down to Essex this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, newly promoted Harlow Town Ladies hosting Colney Heath Ladies.

A clash between the sides currently 4th and 5th in the table both with 4 points each, still very early days in the league however with several of the ERWFL Premier Division sides involved in the early qualifying rounds of the FA Women’s Cup.

A 4th successive promotion for Harlow Town Ladies having risen through the Essex County leagues before clinching runners-up spot in ERWFL Division One South last season. A win, draw and loss from their opening 3 league matches in the Premier Division. Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team for Harlow’s earlier successes has moved on to manage Norwich City Ladies in the FAWNL. A place in the FAWNL up for grabs for whoever wins ERWFL Premier Division title themselves. Dean Perrett in charge of the 1st team at Harlow now as the club look to continue to progress. A 1st team and Reserves side this season with ambition to create a girls section to establish Harlow as a force in the women’s game.

Colney Heath Ladies begin their 2nd season in the ERWFL Premier Division having finished runners-up in Division One to earn promotion. Was a difficult first campaign playing at that level, teams dropping out of the league which finished with 9 didn’t help their cause, ended bottom without a recorded win. The squad stretched last season too have bolstered numbers for this season and added experience too, a much better start undefeated in their 4 matches played including a win and a draw in the Premier Division.

The Harlow Arena the venue for today’s game a superb facility that has hosted FAWSL 2 football in the past. An artificial playing surface a good sized pitch, overlooked by a large main stand along one side offering plenty of seating housing the changing rooms and clubhouse, bar and refreshments available. A smaller terraced stand opposite room to expand too. A pleasant sunny afternoon a stiff breeze blowing across the open ends of the ground.

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Courtney Miller, Megan Sende, Kirsty Woodacre, Nicole Learner, Chloe Bassett, Kaydee King (C), Abbey Dell, Poppy Binding & Lily Bruno. Subs – Tayla Handscombe, Rubie Smith, Liv Steele, Tegan Burling & Maisie Ryan.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Amy Mullett (C), Kelly Hancock, Rebecca Fhalora, Annie Hickey, Lucy Hancock, Sophie Gardiner, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver, Sophie Joseph, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Kelly Glynn, Adrienne Milton & Sarah Brennan.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway wearing red and white horizontal striped shirts with red shorts and socks with opponents Colney Heath lining up in blue shirts and shorts with white socks. The ball toing and froing in the middle of the park in the early stages Harlow attempting the 1st attack as captain Kaydee King wins possession inside the Colney Heath half and looks to sent the ball through for Abbey Dell on the left, a race for the ball across comes Kelly Hancock to slide in tackling Dell to put the ball out for a throw.

The hosts with a chance to take the lead as the ball is pressed high up the pitch Dell has it on the left in towards Lily Bruno positioned at the top of the Colney Heath box left of the D plays it back to Poppy Binding central and turns into the area Binding returning the ball to Dell who has come infield plays the ball through to Bruno the striker is free having gotten herself across to the far post the Colney Heath defence static don’t react as Bruno shoots firing a shot back across goal wide of goalkeeper Amy Mullett but so too the post.

Colney Heath get the ball forwards rolled into Sheree Oliver central she puts the pass on for Christina Freestone ahead of her play switched to Rebecca Fhalora getting forwards on the left strikes the ball from outside the box her low effort running wide across the Harlow goal. The visitors make ground through the middle the ball played out to Rianne Townsend-Brown drifting right her cross blocked at close range by Chloe Bassett closing her down, a goal-kick the result.

Colney Heath Ladies, Rebecca Fhalora

The referee spotting a shirt pull on Oliver, Colney Heath with a free-kick on the right 25 yards out from goal. The ball played up into the box, King with a firm header on the ball clears for Harlow. Nicole Learner bringing the ball on done the right for Harlow, Fhalora stepping in to make the tackle, the visitors build another attack moving the ball well, Moreton coming for the ball has options left and right aswell as Townsend-Brown ready to break in behind. Courtney Miller coming inside to cut out Moreton’s through ball.

Charlene Moreton with Harlow Town Ladies, Nicole Learner

Harlow bring the ball forwards with pace King linking up with Learner out to Farrell on the right wing a cross fired in low towards the near post Bruno arriving attempts to flick the ball on towards goal, instead it lands in the side netting. Binding lines up a strike from distance is charged down by Kelly Hancock, the rebound gathered by Binding she isn’t deterred has another go, Annie Hickey throwing out a leg to put in the block this time for Colney Heath. The game is a little physical but this is mainly down to which the pace the ball is being moved around Dell enjoying a good contest with her opposite number as she attacks on the left.

GOAL! 12 minutes played and the visitors get themselves into the lead, Sophie Joseph on the ball central has Moreton in close attendance the ball into her put up towards the edge of the area, Townsend-Brown hustling the Harlow defence who don’t deal with the danger the Colney Heath striker strong gets hold of the ball bursting into the box and smashes a low shot across goal into the bottom corner 0-1.

Harlow with a real chance to equalise straight away attacking up the other end the ball on the left fired inside into Learner outside the box she takes in on across the D is taken down as she goes to strike the ball, looked like it was inside the box but I’m on halfway the decision a free-kick a foot outside, a dangerous position, King over the ball lines up a strike, hitting the ball well it is always rising as it flies a half yard over the crossbar.

An open game both sides on the attack as soon as they have possession, Colney Heath have Oliver on the ball wide right squares the ball inside to Townsend-Brown, Kirsty Woodacre close in tackles to win the ball back for Harlow, counter attacking, Dell is given the ball on the left, tries to put the diagonal ball through towards Learner breaking forwards through the middle, can’t quite get there. The ball won in defence Colney Heath come forwards Oliver on the ball right plays it to Townsend-Brown central with Moreton ahead of her making a run into the area right of goal she receives the ball shoots, Charlie Orwell covering her near post is able to gather the ball for Harlow.

Sheree Oliver on the ball for Colney Heath Ladies

Dell wins Harlow a corner on the left, a good delivery into the centre of the box the ball headed goalwards, a second Harlow header from close in the touch taking the ball over the bar. Amy Mullett is called into action making a fantastic save diving low to her left to deny Bruno as she is played through on goal as Harlow attack down the right Bassett on the ball, Bruno right off goal aiming for the bottom corner sees her shot saved. From the resulting corner, the ball played into the box, Dell can’t dig the ball out of her feet before Coley Heath close her down.

Decisions going against Harlow frustration visible, a free-kick awarded left side 25 yards out, Moreton on the ball her strike wide of the far post. Hickey in to win the ball for Colney Heath the defender with a great ball realises Oliver who has been finding space on the right coming inside with the ball evades a couple of tackles on the top of the area before taking the ball inside, closing in on the near post she pulls the trigger but so close in Orwell has closed the door makes the blocking save.

Pressing the ball high up the pitch Harlow catch the Colney heath defence lingering on the ball Dell taking the ball wide out on the left fires a cross low and hard into the area, Bruno behind the ball near post top of the six yard box controls it enough to play back to Binding running in to the box central shifts the ball as it comes into her and lets fly with a driven shot angling in towards goal, Mullett gets down quickly to her left to once more push the ball away behind to safety.

GOAL! Harlow equalise midway through the 1st half the goal coming from a free-kick deep in the right players in the box as the ball is played up long into the area, dropping amongst bodies Colney Heath don’t deal with it Dell closest pouncing to smash the ball into the back of the net 1-1.

Moments later Harlow come close to taking the lead, winning the ball back in the middle King with Bassett, the pass forwards finds Bruno left of the D, time to line up a shot, drags the attempt narrowly wide of the near post. Woodacre steps in to put the ball behind for a corner as Townsend-Brown tries to run onto a ball put into her from the left. Harlow try to break from the corner, Sophie Gardiner winning the ball back for Colney Heath. On another day Bruno would have a hat-trick in the bag by now as she shoots from 20 yards out the ball caught by Mullett before the striker sends another shot wide across goal from a similar position.

Chloe Bassett with the ball for Harlow Town Ladies

A change for Harlow, Learner the player coming off, on in her place is Rubie Smith. The home side counter Bassett playing a one two with Bruno as she carries the ball forwards on the right going on to the byline sends a cross in towards the near post Hickey cutting the ball out concedes the corner. Moreton is brought down by Dell, a free-kick wide right for Colney Heath, Megan Sende defending for Harlow as Gardiner plays the ball into the box.

Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton

Another free-kick in a similar position, Dell with another decision against her the Harlow bench not happy to, make a change Dell withdrawn, with Tayla Handscombe coming on. Gardiner to play the ball long into the area again for Conley Heath to attack going long falls to Townsend-Brown wide of the far post smashes a shot in across the face of goal strikes the far post back into play straight a Freestone little time to adjust her body takes on the 1st time strike screws the attempt away from goal.

Annie Hickey sliding in to tackle for Colney Heath

Colney Heath attack late in the first half, Sende intercepting the ball, Katie Farrell too doing well at the back as Moreton and Oliver try their luck on the right. Gardiner with a long pass forwards finds the ever willing Oliver running clear on the right down the line her squared cross into the middle on the area behind Townsend-Brown, Moreton coming in behind her connects sees her shot pulled wide. Kelly Hancock defending well for Colney Heath as Harlow mount a late attack, Binding looking to put the ball on for Bruno.

Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 1-1 Colney Heath Ladies

All square at the break, 1-1 between the two sides. Chances to go further ahead for both Mullett with two vital saves for Colney Heath, whilst their attackers movements has caused the Harlow defence issues at the other end. Harlow have attacked well occasionally let down by decision making in the final 3rd. An open and lively game physical without being malicious an entertaining watch.

A blow for Colney Heath at the start of the 2nd half, forced into a change Hickey having taken a knock to the head feeling unwell rightly comes off, Kelly Glynn entering the game. Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway. The home side winning an early free-kick inside their opponents half the ball played forwards won by Freestone. A quiet start to the 2nd half Harlow pushing players onto the Colney Heath defence to apply more pressure to the ball, Mullett dealing well with an awkward situation inside her six yard box as the ball is put into her, Binding and Bruno both closing the keeper down put behind a goalkick given.

King gets hold of the ball in the middle for Harlow bringing it forwards with purpose aims to lay it out to Handscombe attacking left, she can’t quite take the ball on into her stride.

GOAL! Moments later though Handscombe does get hold of the ball inside the Colney heath box to put the hosts into an early lead in the 2nd half. The ball played forwards into Handscombe left she comes inside just outside the box Bruno in close support the pass into the striker as Handscombe runs on past her the ball given back to her closing in on goal she gets her head over the ball and strikes an arrowing shot home before Mullett can move 2-1.

Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe

A strong start to the 2nd half from Harlow, Binding sweeping the ball out to Bassett on the right she is tackled by Fhalora. Harlow come on again Smith with ball 30 yards out playing it into Bruno top of the area one touch and turns to shoot, Mullett making the save low to her right to push the ball away for a corner. Right side, Harlow bring on Liv Steele before it is taken.

GOAL! Harlow double their lead from the corner kick the ball played into the area Colney heath struggle to get it away as it drops into the danger area deflected back out to Woodacre outside the area the central defender brings the ball away the the right the space opens up in front of her a sight on goal she takes the opportunity from 20 yards out hits the ball well it flies in across the goal to nestle in the bottom corner 3-1.

11 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Harlow have gotten themselves into a strong position, Colney Heath make a 2nd change Gardiner coming off, Adrienne Milton coming on going into an attacking role. Smith on a free-kick on halfway for Harlow the ball up towards the edge of the area cleared by Lucy Hancock. Binding nipping in to win the ball carries on her run into the box strikes the ball the swerving shot angling back safely into the gloves of Mullett.

Poppy Binding with Sophie Joseph

Another injury blow in defence for Colney Heath, Fhalora down has to come off after lengthy treatment Sarah Brennan coming on for the visitors. Struggling to get anything going in attack Colney Heath have Townsend-Brown running with the ball on the left outpacing her marker cuts the ball back across the top of the area, spinning Milton back to goal tries to help it on through to Oliver on the right just can’t quite find her. Maisie Ryan comes on for Harlow replacing Binding.

Harlow are causing all sorts of problems for Colney Heath now is very nearly an own goal from a long free-kick launched into the area the ball headed narrowly wide of the post. King is coming forwards with the ball more in the 2nd half taking it away to the left cuts back to shoot from 20 yards out putting the strike straight at Mullett. Lucy Hancock sliding in to defend for Colney Heath as Harlow attack on the left. Glynn defends at the near post cutting out a cross from the byline as Handscombe gets away on the right for Harlow.

Lily Bruno getting her head on the ball for Harlow Town Ladies

Glynn in again on the edge of the box to charge down Steele as she lines up a shot from the edge of the area. Colney Heath have there backs to the wall can’t get the ball forwards as Harlow press the ball high up the pitch forwards passes not coming off like they were in the 1st half. Kelly Hancock gets back into the box to slide in a tackle Steele as she tries to work space for a shot left of goal as King sends her through. Tegan Burling comes on for Harlow replacing Bassett.

GOAL! Harlow extend there lead the ball put down the line on the right from a set-piece after a pause in play knocked inside by Handscombe to Steele 20 yards out on for King who takes it further infield across the D looking for a shot hits a low left foot strike in towards goal runs away in celebration as it lands in the back of the net a well worked goal 4-1. King is substituted then with Dell coming back on.

Harlow have their tails up want more goals are dominant coming forwards once again Bassett with the ball right side lines up a shot from distance drags the shot wide across goal. Joseph comes forwards for Colney Heath moving wide right the ball rolled into her by Oliver she runs on down the wing before squaring a low cross into the area Townsend-Brown closing in on the penalty spot, attacking the cross doesn’t get a convincing touch as Orwell closing her down makes things difficult. Counter attacking the ball played on for Steele she has Bruno ahead of her ready to race onto the ball put into the box, Steele obliges, Mullett reads it well racing out to slide in and stop the ball for Bruno can let fly.

Dell is knocked out as she comes together in an accidental collision with Joseph as the Conley Heath midfielder tries to bring the ball out from the back catching Del on the side of her noggin, goes down like a sack of spuds. Play stops everyone knows Dell is out if it flat on the ground, but thankfully she comes round quickly but holding her head she’s taken straight off Binding coming back on.

Chances rare for Colney Heath 2nd half, can’t get Oliver into the game like they did 1st half Townsend-Brown on the left powers forwards is tackled by Miller, the ball deflected to Milton she looks to tee up Freestone but her strike from distance is off the mark. Into injury time Harlow attack wide left Burling furthest forwards, Mullett comes a long way to slide into win the ball does but Burling’s momentum sees the pair collide. The injury brings an end to the game the final whistle blowing Harlow winning 4-1. Burling back on her feet after receiving treatment.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Colney Heath Ladies

A strong 2nd half performance from Harlow Town Ladies to secure the win scoring 3 goals after seeing chances going begging in the 1st half. Pressing the ball higher up the pitch, Colney Heath struggled to get going in the 2nd period after a good 1st half performance, forced into changes after injury during the game. Harlow were dominant in the 2nd half deserving the win.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, it’s a tough one this Sunday a close call with 3 players in the running all from Harlow in the finish, Poppy Binding and Chloe Bassett doing well in midfield the captain edges them out however with a solid performance strong on the ball willing to get forwards and set up attacks, rounding it all of with a goal, Kaydee King is today’s Player of the Match.

Both sides are in action in the FA Women’s Cup next Sunday tough trips for both against FAWNL South East Division One opposition, Cambridge United WFC await Harlow whilst Colney Heath travel to Billericay Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying.

An enjoyable afternoon at The Harlow Arena it’s good to see both sides again after missing out last season. Thanks as always for helping me out with the team details and Harlow Town for the hospitality.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage Ladies

Wednesday 12th September

FAWNL South East Division One

Midweek action under the floodlights this Wednesday with a trip to The Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Stevenage Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.

Cambridge United WFC missing out on the opportunity to play at The Abbey Stadium late last season get an early chance this time round to showcase their talents under the floodlights at the League Two ground. Women’s sides getting more opportunities to play at their respective men’s clubs than ever before.

4 games into the season and Cambridge United WFC have 4 points from 3 league games played, started the season well with a draw and a win away from home a good result in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup followed before they suffered their 1st loss of the season at the weekend going down to a stoppage time winner. The two promoted sides, Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies getting off to a flyer winning all of their games, Cambridge are amongst a cluster of sides below on 4 points looking to catch them.

Stevenage Ladies come in to tonight’s game at The Abbey Stadium on the back of 3 straight defeats in all competitions having won their opening match of the season. Like Cambridge are bedding in a few new signings with Mark Dicker taking up the reins as 1st team manager. As great an opportunity this is for Cambridge, their opponents should relish the chance too.

As you’d expect from a League club ground at the start of the season the pitch is immaculate, no excuses about bobbles tonight. Is a wide pitch so their will be plenty of space to exploit. The mainstand open, hot food and drink available with the Dion Dublin Bar also open. A pleasant evening dry and calm perfect weather for football.

Cambridge United starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Amy Howlett, Kelly Bingham, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Vicky Neal & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Liz Pamplin, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Faith Hewitt, Mollie Coupar & Kirsten Burt.

Stevenage Ladies starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Erin Pope, Paige Logie (C), Dominique Godbeer, Charlotte Ryan, Kristi Burling, Ellie Searle, Shona Chitate, Ashleigh Deacon, Amy Makewell & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Amy Josland, Jodie Whitford-Stark & Poppy Bennett.

The teams lining up before the match

It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the match underway kicking off 1st half, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Stevenage lining up opposite wearing white shirt with red vertical striping along with red shirts and socks. A couple of strong challenges put in early on from Stevenage as Cambridge look to work the ball forwards, its as the visitors get hold of the ball that Cambridge win it back in the middle of the park Amy Howlett bringing it on central aims to release Becky Shephard making an attacking run on the left cutting inside towards the edge of the area Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis alert out to the edge of her area gathers the through ball before the Cambridge winger can latch onto it.

Play is turned around quickly by Stevenage defending on the left side the ball cleared up to Ashleigh Deacon in a central position she spots striker Nicole Emmings making a run into space on the right sending the ball on for her Emmings takes it on into the box shooting from the angle sends the ball racing low past the the diving keeper Savannah Smith but also wide of the far post. Deacon cutting inside from the right 25 yards out lines up a strike the ball charged down by Fran Gough in the Cambridge defence.

A good tempo to the match both sides relishing the opportunity Kelly Bingham winning the ball in midfield for the hosts lays it back to left back Carrie Bennett, she goes long with Shephard eager to race in behind for the left the bouncing ball too close to the keeper however Vandersluis positioned high catches the ball. No one spending any time on the ball often leads to defence turned into counter attack, Cambridge captain Kelley Blanchflower has a chance a central run into the box the ball driven into her path taking it left of goal looks to put the shot back across the keeper with the outside of her boot, Vandersluis drifting towards her near post can claim the ball.

Up the other end Smith comes out to block Emmings as she is played in behind by Deacon taking up a good central position as Stevenage attack. A set-piece for Stevenage wide on the left the ball delivered high towards those gathering at the top of the Cambridge area, it’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt defending for the hosts that headers the ball clear. Cambridge are looking to peel off the full-backs get in behind Vicky Neal up with Blanchflower the latter almost succeeds central only Vandersluis’ quick reactions coming to the edge of her box to slide in to stop the ball prevents a shot, colliding with Blanchflower the contact accidental.

A good spell from Cambridge, attacking Shephard left sends a pacy ball into the area that evades everyone, the ball retrieved on the right side players are drawn towards it as the driven ball on the diagonal is sent in towards goal running wide Shephard tries to throw herself at the ball with Vandersulis diving for it gets the ball past the keeper lands in the side netting wide. Smith back on her goal line is well placed to catch the ball as Shona Chitate digs a snap shot out of her feet from 20 yards out. Room for Deacon on the right bringing the ball on for Stevenage players breaking into the box her cross sent in low near post is defended by Cambridge out for a corner with Amy Makewell attacking it.

Cambridge break forwards Howlett central carrying it into the Stevenage half has Shepherd ahead of her cutting in behind from the left, Charlotte Ryan defending centrally for Stevenage gets in front of the Cambridge winger inside the area shielding the ball well allowing Vandersluis to gather safely. Neal’s turn to get in behind on the left holding up the ball sends the cross in long across the face of goal Blanchflower coming in far post the target, Stevenage captain Paige Logie does well to intercept and putting behind for a corner so close to her goal.

Neal once again moving to the right to receive the ball wide has Abi Davies breaking forwards inside her lays the ball into the speeding full backs path Davies shot from range charged down the ball rebounding away for a corner on the right. A good deliver in central under the bar Vandersluis doing well to glove the ball up and on towards the far post, Cambridge’s Gough leaping heads the ball back in towards goal blocked Stevenage defend the ball eventually behind for the goalkick.

Is a good contest both sides looking to attack quickly sees the attackers from both sides looking to exploit pockets of space. Dominique Godbeer sliding in to challenge Howlett outside the box left of goal as she looks to burst inside receive the return ball from Shephard on the left. Neal charges down Vandersluis as she attempts to kick the ball long from the top of the area, no control over where the rebound goes it’s deflected behind wide of goal. Bennett with a vital interception as Stevenage play the diagonal ball long from the left with Deacon away on the right.

Breaking Stevenage’s Kristi Burling on for Chitate the pass forwards into Emmings, tries the back heel to try and put strike partner Makewell in behind the Cambridge defence, Gough isn’t fooled turns and cuts the ball out. Shephard and Neal combine in attack Shephard coming forwards passing the ball inside to Neal 25 yards out continues her run past her Neal shifting the ball on into her path edge of the area central Shephard looks to place her shot past the advancing keeper places the ball wide of the goal beyond.

Howlett brought down as she tries to get forwards left side combine with Neal. A good position 25 yards out left of the D, Cantwell on the ball sends a rising ball in towards goal, off target however as Vandersulis coming across to the near post can watch in drop harmlessly wide. Emmings coming near post sees the ball into her low from Ellie Searle on the left, attempting to control and turn goalwards Gough gets the tackle in.

A throw in for Cambridge left as they come forwards the ball finding it’s way into Blanchflower controlling inside the box turns her marker making room for a shot plays the ball straight at the keeper. Burling and Searle working together left side a cross squared inside to Makewell 20 yards out her shot charged down by Burt. Stevenage pressing late on in the first half win a corner right side a good delivery in close to goal Smith gloving the ball away dropping far post little time to react volleys the ball up over the crossbar.

Attacks in the closing moments of the 1st 45 a free-kick played in from wide left for Stevenage Chitate stooping to header the ball right on the edge of the area sees her effort take a deflection wide. Howlett leaning back to strike the ball coming into her from 20 yards out as Cambridge attack across the face of the Stevenage area sees her effort swerve wide of target. A late break Blanchflower picking up the ball looks for options Shephard with a central run Blanchflower tries to play her in Logie doing well for Stevenage sliding in to intercept the ball.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies

A good contest ends in stalemate at the break neither side finding a clinical edge both attacking with purpose with no one taking time on the ball a high tempo has seen passes rushed and quality through the middle at a premium defences doing well. The attackers all wanting to drift into space haven’t been able to combine where it matters inside the box. Will that change in the 2nd half?

2nd half huddles

Stevenage to get thing’s underway in the 2nd period. Cambridge get hold of the ball and coming forwards win themselves a corner on the left. A long delivery Stevenage can’t get the ball away as Howlett plays it back in towards Blanchflower comes in, Ryan defending for the visitors to prevent a shot on goal. A shirt pull spotted by the referee earns Abi Davies a card for Cambridge joining the Makewell in the book who was cautioned first half. The set-piece wide right driven in low towards the near post Emmings there can’t get a clean connection the chance gone.

Searle picks up the ball driving forwards attempts the diagonal pass out for Deacon on the right, Burt making the interception for Cambridge. Neal is a presence for Cambridge up front working hard to pull the Stevenage defence towards her, her persistence on the left bringing a corner kick. Cantwell to play the ball into the area, Burt coming towards the ball plays it back to the corner taker Cantwell dropping her shoulder cutting past a challenge sends a low cross in towards the near post Gough is there can’t quite get the ball out from under her feet before Stevenage’s Ryan closes her down.

The ball given to her as she breaks clear on the left Stevenage’s Searle looks to strike the ball in towards goal from the top of the area, Smith with the save diving to her right to push the ball away. The tempo reduced 2nd half both sides still attacking and counter attacking the ball is rarely still. Gough fouls Makewell in a dangerous position central 20 yards out. It’s the Stevenage striker to take it striking the ball in low towards goal finds it’s way through unimpeded straight at Smith however back on her line the keeper coming forwards to gather the ball.

Both sides make a change within minutes of each other Deacon coming off for Stevenage is replaced by Amy Josland. Faith Hewitt on for Cambridge replaced Shephard. Blanchflower looks to get in behind on the left Pope and Ryan closing her down.

Penalty! Cambridge are awarded a spot kick as Neal s checked inside the box as she goes to strike the ball played into her from Hewitt on the left. A chance for taker Howlett to put the hosts into the lead, looking to place the ball high to the right misses the score remains 0-0.

Stevenage are fired up now feel aggrieved with the penalty award, Howlett gets back on the ball a strong run into the area right of goal fires a squared ball across the Stevenage six yard box, Ryan clearing for Stevenage. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Cambridge probing put a few long range balls into the Stevenage area, Godbeer and Ryan both winning it for the visitors. A second substitution for Stevenage, Pope coming off with Poppy Bennett. Attacking right side the diagonal ball finding Searle coming in field from the left strikes the ball from the top of the area her effort narrowly over the bar, a corner awarded nicking off a Cambridge body on it’s way through. Gough winning the ball for Cambridge from the set-piece.

Blanchflower breaking away into the clear on the right as the diagonal pass put long picks her out taking the ball on into the box strikes across the ball on the angle Vandersluis throwing her gloves out to make the save deflects it central, Neal in on the follow up, so to is Ryan the defender doing superbly to get the ball clear in front of goal.

A goal now would surely be the winner both sides thinking it is there for the taking Howlett with Cantwell in the middle played on for Blanchflower to the right brings the ball inside across the top of the area determined to get a shot away fired in towards the Stevenage goal Bennett blocks for the visitors. Jodie Whitford-Stark comes on as Stevenage make their final substitution Burling coming off. The substitute with a chance to strike the ball early on laid back to her from inside the box off a throw on the right the ball won’t sit for her as Whitford-Stark sends it over.

A free-kick awarded on half way for Cambridge, Cantwell with a good delivery into the area for a moment it looks like Burt might have stolen in behind to attack the far post, Vandersluis managing to get the ball away. Cambridge come close to breaking the stalemate once more Neal with the chance stooping into a header as she positions herself near post the cross played in from the right, Vandersluis diving for it the ball evading her skips out of play off the base of the post.

Cambridge press late on Stevenage hit them on the break the ball fired long up field Emmings getting the better of the defence to strike the ball from just inside the box sees her attempt whistle over the crossbar. Ryan defending up the other end as Howlett looks to break forwards onto the ball played in from the right the Stevenage centre back putting in the tackle as Howlett lines up a shot.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies

The final whistle blows and it’s a point a piece as the sides play out a goalless draw. Another point on the board for Cambridge, Stevenage ending their run of losses. Neither side with be happy with the result as both should feel they could have won the game. Cambridge coming the closet. More clinical finishing was needed however defences on top with little time was devoted to the ball in the middle of the park.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a difficult one, defenders on top ultimately especially through the middle. All did a good job, one edging it for me and that is Stevenage Ladies, Charlotte Ryan who made some well timed and important challenges throughout the match.

Nice to see a game under the lights, a great venue and hopefully Cambridge United WFC will get another opportunity to play there soon. My thanks to everyone for their help this evening.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

The county league kicked off this Sunday in Cambridgeshire with their once again being a top tier the Premiership with 2 division one leagues the Championship North & South. 8 teams in the Premiership with 3 sides promoted. 7 sides in the Championship South with Haverhill Rovers Ladies re-establishing a women’s team a new addition with Netherton United Ladies at last setting up a Reserves side. Cardea Ladies the new side in the Championship North which is down to just 6 sides after two late withdrawals which sadly include Spalding United Ladies.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

3 games to start the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Cambridge City Ladies Development the early leaders with a big win away to Championship South Champions, Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Cambridge City’s young development side having gained vital experience playing at this level will be stronger this season and started well. Yasmin Crow getting her season off to a flying with a hat-trick on the opening day. Megan Tonks also claimed a brace with Anna Kanz also hitting the back of the net with a goal in a 6-0 victory.

Also winning away from home on the opening day of the season in the Premiership are, double cup winners ICA Sports Ladies. Playing in a Peterborough derby again Championship North Champions Riverside Ladies, ICA Sports claimed the 3 points with a 2-0 win the goals scored by Megan Purnell and Donna Nicholls

A 7 goal thriller elsewhere in the Premiership with the last of the 3 promoted sides Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds also losing out on the opening day, away to Netherton United Ladies who were giving debuts to 5 players. Fulbourn opened the scoring at The Grange. Netherton came back to level Emily Johnson with the goal. Yasmin Green finding the back of the net struck to give the hosts the lead but they were to be pegged back to 2-2 at half-time with Fulbourn scoring in the 44th minute. Into the 2nd half and a penalty to Netherton a chance to restore the lead Green converting the spot kick for her 2nd goal of the game 3-2 were pushed all the way by Fulbourn who were looking for the another equaliser a 4th goal needed Claire Gallagher shooting to make it 4-2 in the last five minutes but there was no relaxing at the death as Fulbourn pulled it back to 4-3 Netherton holding on for the 3 points. Katie Luddy, Marie Stubbings and Krissie Taylor all scoring on the opening day for Fulbourn.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

A good opening Sunday to the Championship North for the two Wisbech clubs as they both record big wins on home soil to start their seasons. Wisbech Town Ladies beginning with a home game against Pinchbeck United Ladies who have strengthened over the close season as they begin their second season. A tough start for the visitors however as they were blown away by Wisbech Town, Sophie Swindon top scorers last season hitting the ground running this campaign with an opening day hat-trick. A brace each for Chloe Stanborough and new captain, Faye Kowalewsky with Emma Woods and Kaylie Swinden both grabbing a goal each in a 9-0 victory.

Top of the table by two goals rivals Wisbech St Mary also start the season with a comfortable home win taking on Hungate Rovers Ladies. Josie Turner moving to St Mary having been with town last season netting an opening day hat-trick, Hannah Shales on target for a brace with Eilish Brown also scoring and own goal too setting up a good result at the beginning of the season 7-0.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

3 games to start the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Isleham United Ladies ending Sunday top of the pile with an away against Park Ladies who drop down from the Premiership after a couple of difficult seasons. Isleham starting well recording a 6-1 win to earn the 3 points.

New to the league are Haverhill Rovers Ladies, returning to women’s football, a 1st team competing in Cambridgeshire have made some notable signings catching the imagination making them favourites for the title. Still regardless of potential these thing’s have to be earned and beginning their season away to St Ives Ladies Development who themselves are beginning just their 2nd season in women’s football got the 3 points on the opening day coming home with a 5-2 win. Hayley Turner scoring a brace, Paulina Beasley, Joeli Kirby and Siobhan White all adding a goal each for Haverhill. Ellen and Frances Chapman both scoring for St Ives Development.

A trio of away victories in the Championship South on the opening day with Cambridge Rangers Women getting a good result on the road up against Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Getting the 3 points in a 4-0 win.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

A new season of football in Suffolk began this weekend with the Women’s Division swelling in size from 9 to 13 sides for the 2018/19 season with 6 new sides entering. Was initially going to be 15 but sadly there have been 3 sides who have withdrawn, Bacton United Ladies and Ipswich Athletic Ladies struggling for numbers aswell as last season’s League Cup finalists AFC Kesgrave Ladies after 1 season in the league. The new sides being Brettvale, Brightlingsea Regent, Chantry Grasshoppers, Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves, Needham Market, and Woodbridge Town and a last minute entrant University of Suffolk. Alresford Colne make the switch to Suffolk having previously contested in Essex.

Suffolk Women’s Division

A larger Division, defending Champion’s East Bergholt United Ladies will be looking to end up top of the table once more, going the whole season unbeaten last time out aswell as clinching the double with the League Cup started strongly away from home playing Coplestonians Ladies on the opening day. New signing Stacey Teager making an immediate impact by claiming a hat-trick for East Bergholt. Georgia Lockerbie also netting a brace in the match with goals too for Annie Northwood and Charlotte McGrath in a 7-0 win.

There was an even bigger scoreline away from home for one of the new sides on the opening day as Needham Market Ladies won comfortably away from home in their first ever league game against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Chantry not getting in the pre-season they would have liked started well taking the lead, Needham Market strong though coming back to score 9 goals past there opponents who ended the game with 10 after Jessica Monk was shown a 2nd yellow. Keira Hines getting on the scoresheet for Chantry to score their first ever league goal. A larger league there will be plenty of games to improve and get to know one another.

Brantham Athletic Ladies will be looking to challenge East Bergholt United Ladies at the top of the table once more a 3rd place finish last season they began this campaign at home to Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday. 23 goals for striker Kirsten Hutchings last season, she hit the ground running once again by bagging herself an opening day hat-trick for Brantham with Jodie Sharp also scoring a goal in a 4-1 victory. Claire Rouse with the goal in the first half for Alresford.

Leiston St Margarets Ladies made alot of progression on the pitch last season picking up some good results and will home to build on last season’s mid-table finish. Started with a win on the road against one of the new sides entering the competition, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. A close contest Lucy Eagle scoring to goal in the first period to see Leiston St Margarets leading 1-0 at the break, Eagle netting again in the 2nd half with Emily Gibbs scoring for Brightlingsea Regent to see Leiston St Margarets start the season with a 2-1 win.

2-1 also the winning margin in the final match to bring you from the Suffolk Women’s Division from the opening Sunday. Woodbridge Town Ladies travelling to play Brettvale Ladies both sides new to the league this season. Woodbridge Town coming back to win the game in the 2nd half as Brettvale held the advantage at the half-time interval with Kelly Hannington putting them into a 1 goal lead. Caitlin Howe and Sophie Crane finding the back of the net 2nd half to win the game for Woodbridge Town.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

The new season of county league football got underway across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this Sunday with there once again being 3 divisions, an influx of new sides seeing those swell in number 28 teams in all with 9 in Division One including Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies as well as Garston Ladies 2nd XI and Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires both promoted. Division Two featuring 10 sides with Watton Ladies dropping down, Bedford Ladies Development, Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies, Welwyn Pegasus Azures and Evergreen Ladies all moving up a league. 6 new sides joining Division Three, 9 sides in all, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College LFC, AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves, Kempston Rovers Ladies, Stotfold Juniors Ladies, Langford Ladies and Buntingford Town Ladies the new names. As is Biggleswade United Ladies who were formerly Shefford Town & Compton Ladies. Woburn Lionesses having just the one side this season. Potters Bar United Ladies a late withdrawal from the league.

9 matches taking place on the opening weekend all the action covered below.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Two matches taking place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One on the opening day of the season and it was a great start to the season for Sharnbrook WFC as they started their season at home with victory over Garston Ladies 1st team. Emma Butler scoring twice in the game with Hoffi Pursey and Charlie Mullins also bagging themselves a goal in a 4-1 win.

Houghton Athletic Ladies also began their league campaign with a home game against last season’s runners-up, Northwood Ladies. The visitors having just the 9 players available at the beginning of the season ran Houghton close nonetheless scoring twice in the match, Houghton coming out on top however clinching a 3-2 win courtesy of a brace from Emily Wilson last season’s top scorer with 24 goals along with an opening game goal for Emily Peat.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

3 games to start the season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday and it was a good start to the season for last season’s Division Three Champions, Bedford Ladies Development. Away to Watton Ladies on the opening day came home with a 4-2 win, Jessica Bunnage and Sarah Ridley getting the Bedford goals first half with Amy Butler and Katy Peters making it 4 in the 2nd half. Emma Carter and Gemma Bickell with the goals for Watton Ladies who will be hoping for a better season following last season’s difficult campaign in Division One.

Also starting their season with an opening day win are Hitchin Town Ladies, as they secured the win at home against Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Not quite the way they would have wanted but it was the difference in a close contest, Evergreen unfortunately putting through their own net the goal the 1-0 result going Hitchin Town’s way.

Elsewhere on the opening day in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the points were shared between Royston Town Ladies Development and Hitchin Belles. Abby Laughlin and Megan Kaba both scoring a goal each for Royston they couldn’t capitalise allowing Hitchin Belles to get back into the game Shannon Page and Katie White sending the ball into the back of the net to earn the visitors a point in a 2-2 draw.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

A host of new names to kick-off the season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three and it was a big win for one on the road against another on Sunday. A result Buntingford Town Ladies will want to get out of their system as they as they were soundly beaten at home against AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College LFC. Chloe Urbanowicz getting her season off to a flyer scoring a double hat-trick. Bex Cray also getting an opening game hat-trick. Zara Garrad striking twice with Katie Hay also scoring a goal in a 12-1 victory.

Langford Ladies were also starting the season at home to another new face in the league with AFC Dunstable Ladies starting up a Reserves side. An encouraging start for the visitors as they picked up all 3 points with a win on the opening day, Maddison Ashford, Kerry Mulvihill-Reed and Bianca Vassell all pouncing for a goal each in a 3-0 win.

A new beginning for Shefford Town & Campton Ladies and with it they will be hoping for better fortunes as they become Biggleswade United Ladies. The new era starting with a win on the opening day away to Kempston Rovers Ladies new to the league. Leeanne Davison scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory for Biggleswade United.

Another new side joining the league were also celebrating an opening day win on Sunday. Stotfold Juniors Ladies were at home taking on Bedwell Rangers Ladies, scoring twice it was enough to claim all 3 points in a 2-1 win. Rachel Jones scoring for Bedwell Rangers.

The Round-Up – Essex 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

For the 2018/19 season the Essex Women’s County Leagues will have two divisions the Premier and Division One, 11 sides contesting each. 4 new sides in Division One, Island Ladies and Belhus Ladies, Hutton Ladies Reserves returning to the league with Leigh Ramblers Ladies officially becoming ‘experienced’ as they are joined by a new Reserves side. Division One kicked off last Sunday, now it’s the turn of the Premier Division.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

2 matches to start the season in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Runners-up last season in only their 2nd season together Frontiers Ladies will once again be amongst the forerunners in the push for the title in what could prove to be a very intriguing division. Began the season with a win earning the 3 points away to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kelly Holsworth, Kay Foy and new sighing Dempsey Favell seeing Frontiers to a 3-1 win. Grace Leavett scoring the goal for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies.

It was a difficult campaign in the Premier Division last season for Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Competing in the Premier Division once again started this season off with a great home result over newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies, runners-up in their debut season in women’s football Leigh scored plenty of goals and were on target for 4 away from home at the start of the season, Harlow Town though hit their opponents for 7 goals up the other end to earn the 3 points in their opening league fixture. Ciara Purdue and Hannah Smith both scoring a brace each for Harlow Town, Maisy Wyer, Lucy Edmeades and Claudia Zahui all getting a goal each.

Essex Women’s Division One

New to the league the last thing you want to do is face a side that won 14-0 in their opening league fixture, that though was the story for Belhus Ladies as they travelled to play Billericay Town Ladies Reserves, looking very strong this season as they benefit from the 1st team’s squad strengthening over the summer. It’s now 27 goals in 2 matches of Billericay’s Reserves as they scored 13 goals against Belhus, Nancy Butler getting 5 of the goals for Billericay. Lauren Bourne scoring a hat-trick, both Amy Nash and Lisa Robbins hit two each with Emilia Dingwell also on target for her first goal for the club. Didn’t have it all there own way however as Belhus managed to breach the defence for a consolation goal.

Billericay Town Ladies Reserves, Nancy Butler

Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves were the side unfortunate enough to come up against Billericay in that 14-0 defeat last Sunday. Bounced back however as they came out on top in a 7 goal thriller away to Chigwell Ladies this Sunday. Chigwell too with a better performance after a heavy defeat themselves on the opening day, Caitlin Hynes and a brace for Victoria Parker seeing them score 3 goals not enough however as Leigh Ramblers hit 4 at the other end to clinch their 1st 3 points of the season.

Runwell Sports Ladies and Rayleigh Town Ladies both enjoyed good wins on the opening day of the season this Sunday they met with Runwell Sports the hosts. Drawing 1-1 at half-time it was the visitors who went onto have the better of the 2nd half netting 4 more goals to take the game 5-1. Megan Harley and Eleasha Reeves both getting a brace for Rayleigh Town with Jo Cooper also getting on the scoresheet. 2 wins out of 2 for Rayleigh Town. Karen Whitmarsh with the 1st half strike for Runwell Sports.

A good result to start the season too for FC Clacton Ladies last Sunday winning 6-2 at home they were away this Sunday taking on Hutton Ladies Reserves. The points shared in a 2-2 draw, a first league point earned for Hutton with FC Clacton starting undefeated. Baylie Kingsworth and Maisie Threadgold-Smith the goalscorers for Hutton, whilst Becky McDougall and Amy Hartley were both on target for FC Clacton.

Essex Women’s County Cup

An early tie in the 1st Round of the Essex Women’s County Cup saw Division One side Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves away to Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers. A tough test of Chelmsford’s Reserves and so it proved as Collier Row Tigers progressed into the 2nd Round with a comfortable 9-0 win.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

The new season of county league football kicked off in Norfolk this Sunday once again there will be two divisions. An 8 strong Division One with an influx of new sides seeing Division Two grow to 12.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A new name in Norfolk Women’s Division One as Aylsham Ladies return after being forced to withdraw from the league early last season. A new look to the side Robert Hinge coming in as manager previously with Stalham Town Ladies, has brought as large number of those players with him plus a few from North Walsham Angels Ladies who withdrew their woman’s side from the league over the summer.

Aylsham began the new season at home against Beccles Town Ladies who were beginning their 2nd campaign in the league having secured promotion as Division Two runners-up last time out. Goals from Megan Vincent and Taylor Whiting seeing Beccles leading the game 2-1 at half-time, Aylsham were to comeback to equalise and go on to score twice more to begin the season with a 4-2 win.

Bungay Town Ladies began the defence of the Division One title they won last season as part of the double, with an away trip to take on Thorpe United Ladies. Changes for both sides, Thorpe were fielding a good number of last season’s U16 squad in their side. The hosts holding a one goal lead at half-time when on to win the match 2-1 in the 2nd half start with a win, Laura Hedtke and Molly Young getting the goals. Shannon Dade netting the goal for Bungay Town Ladies.

A strong debut season in Division One last season saw Sprowston Ladies clinch runners-up spot as well as the League Plate. Were at home on the opening Sunday taking on Gorleston FC Ladies. Strikes from Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake the difference for Gorleston as they began their season with a 2-0 victory.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

12 sides contesting Norfolk Women’s Division Two this season including 5 new names. Thetford getting not one side but two with Thetford Town Ladies and Thetford Bulldogs Ladies. Taverham Women step up to adult football, with Hockering Ladies and Horsford Women setting up new sides. Long Stratton Ladies and Fakenham Town Ladies both dropping down from Division One.

Joining women’s football from the youth ranks can take some getting used to takes a little time to adapt, just as Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies who stepped up last season took them a while to find their feet, finished the season strongly. This Sunday it was them who were the dominate side against one of the new comers a home to Bulldogs Ladies, Bure Valley ran rampant in front of goal scoring an eye-watering 17 goals. Kiera Brown top scorer in the game with a double hat-trick. Charlie Cooper opened her account with 4 goals. There was a hat-trick for Abigail Clark, with Becky Wood, Anya Sadler, Juliette Kelly and Lucy Ellis all getting a goal.

It was in Norfolk Women’s Division Two were Women’s Football East took in a game from the new county league season on Sunday a trip to Clipbush Park to watch Fakenham Town Ladies take on Dereham side Tavern Ladies. Few chances created in the first half, Fakenham goalkeeper Chloe Easter with a superb double save to prevent Tavern taking the lead, they were awarded a free-kick from range up the other end Maddie Smith sending a high ball in to drop over the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0.

Tavern Ladies, Charlotte Allum tackling Fakenham’s Sam King

A narrow lead at half-time, Fakenham hit Tavern on the break to double their advantage Jennifer Codman racing through to lob the ball over the advancing keeper. Before Tavern could recover Sam King broke in on goal to make it 3-0. King striking a shot across the keeper to score her second of the game and see Fakenham star the season with a 4-0 win.

If you open you season by scoring 5 goals you would usually expect to be taking away the 3 points however that was not the case for Gorleston Rangers Ladies as they found themselves on the end of defeat at the weekend against visitors Long Stratton Ladies. Lauren Dennis netting a hat-trick for Gorleston Rangers with Chloe Ashton and Rachel Adams both getting a goal. Long Stratton have had a couple of torrid seasons were nearly twice as prolific in front of goal up the other end to claim their 1st win in over a year. Samantha Walker scoring 4 goals, with Emily Watts back from injury scoring a brace, Charlie and Jennifer Head both getting a goal each with Beth Stratton also on the scoresheet in a 9-5 win.

Freethorpe Ladies began their season at home taking on one of the newcomers to the league, Taverham Women. A solid start to the season for both sides as the battled out a goalless draw to share the points.

Lastly two of the newcomers faced off against each other on the opening weekend with Horsford Women hosting Thetford Town Ladies. The visitors enjoying the trip home with the 3 points in the bag. Melissa Boulton scoring a hat-trick for Thetford Town, Laura Martins and Shannon Richardson with a goal a piece, the visitors winning 5-1. Kathryn Gordon scoring the goal for Horsford.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

ERWFL Premier Division

It was a top of the table clash in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday with Bedford Ladies and Acle United Women the top two at the beginning of the season. Acle United coming back from a 2 goal deficit to draw the game and take a point back to Norfolk. Two goals in the fist half-hour seeing Bedford take a 2 goal lead. Acle United coming back into the game early in the 2nd half with 2 goals in quick succession with 55 minutes played Laura Holden 1st then Amber Rowland striking to bring it back to 2-2 chances for both sides to win it but neither could find the back of the net one last time as it ended all both sides remain unbeaten.

Cambridge City Ladies move level with points with Bedford in 2nd spot as they won their 2nd league game of the season at the weekend. At home to Harlow Town Ladies who were unbeaten going into the match following promotion last season. Kaydee King with her first goal of the season put Harlow into the lead. Last season’s Premier Division runners-up came back to level the scores, winning the game in the 2nd half with 2 further goals to take the game 3-1. Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills and Isabella Simmonds netting the goals for Cambridge City.

AFC Sudbury Ladies picked up their first league win of the season this Sunday following on from success in the FA Women’s Cup last weekend. At home were taking on AFC Dunstable Ladies who themselves were looking to build upon a win in the FA Women’s Cup. Mia Etheridge scoring to put Sudbury into a 1-0 first half lead. The hosts went onto win the game 3-1 with Sophie Jeffery and Semma Halil getting the goals. Samaira Khan getting the Dunstable goal on 57 minutes as they continue their search for a 1st league point.

Leah Cowan scored a hat-trick at the weekend to help Brentwood Town Ladies secure their first league win of the season away to Haringey Borough Women. The hosts contesting well in the 1st half scoring 2 goals in the game through Lareace Thomas and Julia Carruthers, Brentwood coming on to be stronger in the 2nd period with Danielle Butler, Lauren Knight and Joanne Attridge adding a goal each to bolster Cowan’s hat-trick in a 6-2 win.

Royston Town Ladies were finally getting their league campaign started and the Hertfordshire side began with a narrow victory on the road travelling to Norfolk to play newly promoted Wymondham Town Ladies. Goals from Danielle Carty and Sammy Tinsley putting the hosts into a 2-0 lead. Laura Nicholls pulling it back to 2-1 for Wymondham in the 65th minute the hosts couldn’t find an equalising goal in the final 25 minutes as Royston held on for the 3 points.

Honours even at the Branch Bros Stadium on Sunday with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies sharing the points with Colney Heath Ladies. A double from Emma Pollard for the hosts, Nicola Hollick and Sheree Oliver were on target for Colney Heath in the 2-2 draw remain unbeaten at the start of the season whilst Peterborough Northern Star claim their first point.

ERWFL Division One

6 matches in ERWFL Division One on Sunday, league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves going 5 points clear at the top of the table winning for the 4th straight league match albeit a closer result at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A goalless first 45, Stevenage broke the deadlock early in the 2nd half Emily Schofield scoring in the 49th minute. Bowers & Pitsea were to come back and take the lead themselves with Sophie Dowman netting a brace in the 62nd and 73rd minute. Two goals in quick succession completely turning the game around for Stevenage coming 10 minutes from time Holly Darling making it 2-2 her goal quickly followed by the winner scored by Daniela Martucci her 5th goal of the season.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies move into 2nd spot in the ERWFL Division One table after coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller at home to King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kristina O’Connell and Summer Muir at either end of the 1st period seeing Hoddesdon leading 2-1 at the break O’Connell struck again early in the 2nd half with Charley Handley scoring what would prove to be the winning goal in the 64th minute. King’s Lynn coming away empty handed despite scoring 3 goals themselves, one from Oksana Imanalijeva and a brace for Rochelle Woods.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell

St Ives Town Ladies were back in league action after a couple of weekends involved in the FA Women’s Cup. a 6-1 home win to start their season were on the road this weekend for the 1st time this season versus Bishops Stortford Ladies. Continued their fine start to the league since joining from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, a 5-1 win this time around Amy Seymour-Shove scoring a brace with a goal each for Tierney Coulson, Megan Stow and Caitlin Jarman. Rebekah Coppin getting the goal for Bishops Stortford.

Earning their 1st point in the ERWFL last weekend at home, Newmarket Town Ladies followed that up this weekend with their 1st league win against Hutton Ladies. The newly promoted side hosting the Essex side, a goal in each half scored by Brooke Wickens and Hollie Turner were the difference for Newmarket as they ran out 2-1 victors, Victoria Kinsman getting the goal for Hutton.

Histon Ladies are finally off the mark in ERWFL Division One with their first league win of the season and it was a big win at home to to Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Alison Wright on target with a 1st half hat-trick for the Cambridgeshire side a brace from Katie Webb seeing Histon leading 5-0 at half-time two more goals coming in the closing minutes, Jordanne Sillitoe in the 88th and Kaya Haq deep into stoppage time.

Finally it was honours even between Hertford Town Ladies and Ipswich Wanderers Ladies as they both get their 1st league point on the board in ERWFL Division One drawing their league game 1-1 on Sunday. Ashley Bustos getting the goal for Ipswich Wanderers, Olivia Worsfold on target with the goal for Hertford Town.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

New leaders in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with Chichester City Ladies making it 4 straight wins to start the season in all competitions as their rivals at the top dropped points on Sunday. Chichester City travelling up to Buckinghamshire to play newly promoted South East Division One Champions at Stadium MK. The 100% percent winning start to the season maintained by a late winner scored by Molly Clark after Chichester City having dominated to game finally broke Milton Keynes Dons Ladies defence to score in the 86th minute. Results going their way to see Chichester City take over at the top. In contrast Milton Keynes are still searching for their first league point of the season.

That came at last for C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday away from home at all places against the then league leaders Loughborough Foxes Women. The home side getting their noses in front midway through the first have with Kate Lowder powering the ball home for her 3rd goal of the season. C&K Basildon getting back on level terms ate in the first period with Madelyn Thomas scoring what was the Essex sides first goal of the season. Loughborough couldn’t find their clinical edge 2nd half and despite hitting the crossbar C&K Basildon defended stoutly to earn a much needed point.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas

Portsmouth FC Women had made it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season were hosting another unbeaten side in the league on Sunday Coventry United Ladies who had earned a draw and win from their opening 2 matches. The away side taking an early lead in the game Helen Dermody tapping the ball home inside the opening 5 minutes. Portsmouth responded well and were back on level terms just 4 minutes later with Rachel Panting on target. Jade Brook getting Coventry United back in front midway through the first half, the visitors awarded a penalty late in the first half after Lois Jefferies was fouled inside the box Dermody missing from the spot. 2-1 to Coventry United at the break, both sides looking for further goals 2nd half defences holding firm however Coventry United climbing up to 3rd in the table as a result.

At home at last for the 1st time this season after 3 successive away trips Cardiff City Ladies are enjoying a much more positive start to the season this time around recovering from an opening day loss well a 3rd successive win in all competitions lifting the Welsh side up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table. Taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies it was the visitors who got off to a flying start Chontele Lawrence sending the ball home in the 5th minute an advantage QPR held going into the half-time interval. Cardiff City started the 2nd half well and were back on level terms 4 minutes after the restart. Took the lead with less than 20 minutes left before running away with the result adding a further 3 goals late on one from the penalty spot to win the match 5-1. Cori Williams and Kylie Rolfe both claiming a brace with Alice Griffiths also on the scoresheet.

Watford FC Ladies were away to Oxford United Women in a Saturday kick-off in the Southern Premier Division. A late winner 3 minutes from time securing the 3 points for the visitors. Oxford United leading at half-time with Georgia Timms scoring in the 19th minute to put them 1-0. Watford were level with 10 minutes played in the 2nd half striker Katie O’Leary pouncing in the box to smash the ball home. The winning goal coming in the 87th minute Watford with a purposeful attack, Helen Ward making the run the ball played into her the Welsh international forward smashing the ball in across the keeper to win the game 2-1.

Newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division, South West Division One Champions are enjoying a good start to the season, A long trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies the venue for Sunday’s match the Medway Priestfield Stadium. Not the result Gillingham would have wanted however as the visitors enjoyed a good first half performance. Zoe Cunningham striking the ball into the back of the net in the 10th minute. Helen Bleazard scoring just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0 to the visitors a goal from Mollie Taylor coming with 5 minutes of the first half left to see Plymouth leading 3-0 at half-time. Captain Katie Middleton making it 4-0 on the hour, Gillingham were awarded a penalty late in the match Maddison Farrand converting what was to be only a consolation goal. The 4-1 win takes Plymouth up into 7th joining 4 sides on 6 points.

FAWNL South East Division One

The excellent start to the season for the clubs promoted to FAWNL South East Division One continues with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies maintaining their 100% winning start to the season. Goals scored seeing Billericay go top last time out, it switches this Sunday with Crawley Wasps hitting Norwich City Ladies for six away from home at the weekend. Goals from Sian Heather and Kemina Webber seeing Crawley Wasps leading the game 2-0 at half-time. Emma Plewa struck to make it 3-0 early in the 2nd half. Heather netting her 2nd goal midway through the 2nd period to make it 4-0 with Naomi Cloe and Suzy Davies striking in the final 10 minutes to seal a 6-0 win.

Scoring 19 goals in their opening 3 matches Billericay Town Ladies needed just the 1 goal to claim the 3 points at the weekend. At home taking of AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Megan Jiggins first goal for Billericay midway through the first half enough against a side who won their fair share of matches by a single goal themselves last season. 3 win from 3 in the league for the two promoted sides.

Leyton Orient WFC climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with their 2nd league win of the season away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, a brace from Lisa Fulgence doing the damage, the striker opening the scoring on 11 minutes, struck again to make the lead more secure with a little over a quarter hour left on the clock.

An equalising goal 17 (yes seventeen) minutes into injury time saw Ipswich Town Women grab a point from their home match with Enfield Town Ladies after they found themselves trailing 3-0 at half-time. Enfield enjoying the first half Sara Degooye scoring on 13 minutes to give the visitors the lead was followed by a brace from Molly Peters to put them in a strong lead. Ipswich mounted a come back in the 2nd half scoring early as Natasha Thomas was brought down in the box, captain Amanda Crump making it 3-1 from the penalty spot. Crump getting another goal soon after to make it 3-2 and set up a tense game that unfortunately over-boiled into a mass brawl at the death Tia Bailey shown a straight red card after putting an opponent in a head lock. A bit of sorting out leading to a lot of stoppage time Ipswich with a late corner Crump involved as the ball was put over the line to make it 3-3 and see the sides share the points.

Late drama too at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday with visitors Denham United Ladies striking late to win for the first time this season against Cambridge United Women. Goals for the visitors a both ends of the 90 with Emma Kern scoring to put Denham 1-0 inside the opening 2 minutes. Held onto the advantage going into the dressing room at half-time. Cambridge pushing for the equaliser found it 2nd half with Vicky Neal getting her head to the ball inside the six yard box from a left sided cross to make it 1-1. Denham though won it late into stoppage time Rae Roberts nipping in to send the ball flying past the keeper into the back of the net.

Another side winning for the first time this season are Actonians Ladies taking on Luton Town Ladies at home on Sunday both going into the game without a point on the board. Catherine Murphy scoring a goal on 10 minutes to see Actonians lead. 1-0 in remained going into the final 20 minutes Carla Williams doubling the score in the 73rd minute ensured Actonians their 1st 3 point haul of the season adding her 2nd and Actonians 3rd goal of the game with 3 minutes of normal time left to play. That result leaving Luton bottom now the only side in the league without a point. Still very early days however and results this weekend mean nothing can be taken for granted.

Match Report – Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies

Sunday 9th September

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

On the same day as the new fully professional FA Women’s Super League begins so to does the county league season get into full swing across the country. Beginning the season in Norfolk a game from Division Two with Fakenham Town Ladies hosting Tavern Ladies.

Two divisions in Norfolk once again this season, that decided late on however with a host of new sides wishing to join the league, teams thus didn’t know where they would be placed, as it was a few never got going and a possible North/South split to a Division One never happened, 8 sides will contest the top division with 12 sides making up the 2018/19 roster in Division Two including 5 new sides. 3 stepping up from youth football.

Fakenham Town Ladies drop down to Division Two, not necessarily a bad thing after struggling for results for the previous two seasons, an opportunity to rebuild, strengthen and regain morale. Starting the season with a smaller squad than they would have liked but one that is very much an integral part of the larger Fakenham Town football club. Very much a community club have teams playing at youth level from U6 to U17, an U18 means sides, Reserves, Ladies, Veterans and of course the 1st team playing in the Thurlow Nunn League.

Tavern Ladies, are a Dereham based side have been together for the past 2 season’s having previously been Dereham Ladies. Sponsored by The Railway Tavern in Dereham a pub I myself have frequented a few times in my younger days being a Dereham boy myself. Results improving with the name Tavern finished runners-up two seasons back and 3rd last season, will be amongst the sides threatening at the top once again in what is a much larger Division Two.

Clipbush Park the venue for today’s game plenty of activity at the ground already with several youth sides having been in action over on the pitch behind the ground itself. The Ladies game advertised on the entrance to the ground situated in a busy roundabout leading into Fakenham itself. Playing on the main pitch fitness will be a key factor as it is one of the largest and widest in the league. Looking good at the start of the season a small seated stand along the far side of the pitch people more likely to converge on the clubhouse beside the pitch on the near side leading into the ground offering hot drinks and a bar. Cloudy overheard with a cool and brisk breeze blowing across the ground from one goalmouth to the other. Nothing over concerning but it would play a factor in the game especially first half.

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Ellie Websdale, Jemma Riches, Maddie Smith, Laura Merin, Sian Sands (C), Tara Betts, Fanny Dankskanen, Kayleigh Robb, Jemma Riches, Jennifer Codman & Sam King. Subs – Anna Palomino & Sophie Anderson.

Tavern Ladies starting XI – Zoe Gibbons, Roxanne Bailey, Rachel Casey, Charlotte Allum, Sophie Fuller (C), Emily Bell, Jordie Head, Lanta Griffiths, Lucy Lincoln, Lucy Kean & Katie Hart-Copsey. Subs – Dani Lee, Meganne Carmicheal & Lesha Bagura.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Fakenham wearing yellow shirts with black across the left shoulder, black shorts and socks to get the game underway with Tavern lined up opposite in an all blue kit. Tavern press the ball early keep Fakenham pinned back inside their own half winning a series of throw-ins on the left wing without finding the final ball into the box, Fakenham regain possession the ball put long up the right wing Sam King peeling away into space takes the ball on to the corner before whipping in a cross into the area the ball headed clear by Tavern’s Charlotte Allum.

King pressing with the ball on the right again closing in on the box looks to drop her shoulder push the ball inside cut out by Lucy Lincoln the corner conceded. The ball angled in towards the near post from the right by Sian Sands, Fakenham’s captain, is headed behind for a 2nd corner kick, this one put in longer Zoe Gibbons playing in goal for Tavern comes well through bodies to punch the ball away. Tavern look to break, Tara Betts nips in to win the ball back for Fakenham on the left side before being upended the foul given by referee Andy Waite. Betts to take it herself 25 yards from goal hit along the ground races wide and out of play at the near post.

Tavern Ladies, Rachel Casey

Fakenham are testing the Tavern defence, King with good movement up front making herself available for the ball. Jordie Head intercepting a forward pass turns and puts the ball out to the right for Lanta Griffiths to chase, the Fakenham defence converging on the attacker outnumbered the ball is lost the home side bring it forwards, Sands, King and Ellie Websdale building an attack in front of the Tavern area, Sands set up for a shot left of the D is closed down by Roxanne Bailey.

Tavern Ladies Lanta Griffiths

Tavern look a threat on the break Griffiths with good pace right bringing the ball inside has Katie Hart-Copsey free on the left gives her the ball, taking it on early Hart-Copsey sends the diagonal ball looping up towards the far post the ball running wide of goal. Tavern regain the ball in the middle of the park Emily Bell on for Griffiths, has Lucy Kean with her making a run central the ball into her rolled wide left for Hart-Copsey closer in this time she hooks the ball in towards goal on the angle, on target is safely caught by Fakenham goalkeeper Chloe Easter back on her line.

Tavern Ladies, Charlotte Allum tackling Fakenham’s Sam King

The early stages of the game fairly even, Tavern getting more players into advanced roles when they are attacking. Laura Merin making a couple of vital interceptions at centre back for the hosts, with Hart-Copsey wanting the ball played into her. Up the other end King is the threat for Fakenham looking for space, hustling the Tavern defence shows good strength to win a bouncing ball laid forwards, getting a shot away from 25 yards out, hitting it as it skips up off the surface the strike sails over the bar.

Tavern captain, Sophie Fuller getting control of the ball in the middle combines well with Hart-Copsey to the left as they bring the ball into the Fakenham half Hart-Copsey with a good ball inside to Griffiths making a run right side her 1st time strike is blocked by Merin. The wind is blowing fairly briskly across the ground is holding the ball up a little favouring Fakenham, Sands coming forwards with Jennifer Codman in close support through the middle the pass forwards dropping into the path of King breaking towards the edge of the area Gibbons comes out quickly sliding in to smother the ball at the attackers feet.

Fakenham Town Ladies, Jemma Riches

Tavern counter attack with urgency the ball carried out of defence the pass put long into the path of Griffiths cutting inside from the right, controls the ball well before digging a shot out of feet before she is charged down, her 30 yard effort a foot over the Fakenham crossbar. Tavern are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous area after Merin handles the ball trying to bring in clear for Fakenham. 20 yards out left of the D, Fuller takes position over the ball puts a good ball in towards the far post area the ball standing up in the breeze is headed goalwards by Griffiths blocked at close range the ball drops to the floor inside the six yard box Rachel Casey with a snap shot again blocked.

Tavern are enjoying a good spell of possession inside the Fakenham half Hart-Copsey winning a corner, delivered into the near post the ball is headed up onto the roof of the net a 2nd corner kick given, a longer effort this time, Maddie Smith getting it away for Fakenham. Tavern are ready to spring an attack whenever they regain the ball in the middle, Fuller has a good range of passing ability, plays the ball on for Kean central she tries to release Hart-Copsey early on the left side, Merin covering the ground well to get across and put in the tackle.

Websdale committing a foul wide left another chance for Tavern to play the ball into their area from a set-piece Fuller sending the ball high into the box, Merin gets her head on it to clear for Fakenham. Fakenham make a switch midway through the 1st half Smith coming off, replaced by Anna Palomino. Merin is busy in defence for Fakenham closing down to regain possession.

The goalkeepers for both sides have had relatively little to do so far in the match, Easter called into action pulls off a superb double save to deny Tavern the opening goal of the game. Tavern build well players coming forwards through the middle with Hart-Copsey on the ball down the left squares the ball inside towards Kean 25 yards out from goal she helps it on to Fuller coming in central she sets herself for the shot making good contact the ball racing in towards goal, Easter is right behind it but needs to get down sharply to block, stopping Fuller’s strike the ball is loose and Kean racing in on the follow-up is first to it tries to open her body up to place the ball wide of the keeper, but can’t Easter with the double block.

Smith returns to the field for Fakenham with Betts coming off. Fakenham push forwards Riches with Sands right side the ball into the area headed away for a throw on the right. Bailey defends well for Tavern up against King as she looks to power her way into the area. Tavern get Fuller onto the ball she spins putting the ball out to Hart-Copsey, her early cross laid in towards the top of the Fakenham area cut out by Merin.

GOAL! 35 minutes played and the deadlock is broken Fakenham taking the lead the goal coming from a set-piece given away as Kayleigh Robb is brought down as she carries the ball forwards on the left. Smith to take, 30 yards out to the left of the Tavern goal she strikes it well sending the ball high into the area a little wind assist no doubt helping as the ball drops over the keeper to land inside the side netting 1-0.

The ball drops into the back of the net from Maddie Smith’s free-kick to give Fakenham the lead

Maddie Smith scorer of the first goal of the season for Fakenham Town Ladies

Fakenham regain possession from the restart the ball played up the line right side by Websdale on for King who carries the ball on to the byline before cutting a cross back into the Tavern area running long for Robb coming in from the left she doesn’t get the ball under control to strike it 1st time allows the Tavern defence to get away for a throw on the left Fakenham press late on the ball put into towards the near post with King lurking, a touch taking it wide of goal the corner given again swung in near post Gibbons takes command of the situation coming to claim the ball.

Easter with another important save right at the end of the first half comes out bravely to the edge of her box to slide in and claim the ball at Kean’s feet as she looks to get onto Hart-Copsey’s cross put in from the left.

Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 1-0 Tavern Ladies

An intriguing first half which sees Fakenham take a narrow lead into the dressing room. Could very easily have been the other way around. Clear cut chances at a premium, defences working hard. King causing all sorts of problems for the Tavern back line not playing off any single defender. Tavern attacking with purpose and pace whenever they can. Easter denying them the lead themselves all poised for the 2nd period.

Tavern to get the ball rolling for the 2nd half. The sun has broken up the clouds warmer now and with it the breeze that was prevalent first half has disappeared. It’s Gibbons called into action with a spectacular save in the opening minutes as her side lose the ball is fed into King breaking clear left of the box she aims to shot across the Tavern keeper, Gibbons throwing herself down to the left to push the ball away from goal.

Hart-Copsey operating on the right wing for Tavern now likes to get the ball at her feet and take on players a strong run on the wing she vents her frustration as her final ball from the corner of the area is sliced behind the goal. A busy start to the 2nd half Easter has to come and claim the ball low as it is pinged forwards for Kean to chase, never really gets control of the bouncing ball which enables the keeper to save.

Tavern’s Katie Hart-Copsey keeping an eye on the ball with Fakenham’s Anna Palomino

Tavern build through the middle Bell onto Griffiths her past long finds Hart-Copsey wide right a terrific cross fired in across the face of the Fakenham goal, excellent defending from Merin at the far post to get the ball away from danger.

GOAL! End to end action at the start of the 2nd half Tavern are hit on the counter attack as Fakenham double their lead the ball deflected forwards in the middle sees Codman running free in behind the visitors defence, seeing it down over her shoulder, 25 yards from goal the advancing goalkeeper in her sights she sends the lob over her and runs away in celebration as the ball bounces into the back of the net 2-0. 53 minutes played.

Jennifer Codman

Fakenham have their tails up bringing the ball forwards King is played in left of the D she moves across looking for an opening to shoot, taking to long Allum steps in to make the tackle out to Lincoln who sends the ball on for Fuller, Danskanen in to win the ball back for Fakenham. Lesha Bagura enters the game for Tavern moving into a forward position Head coming off. Gibbons catching the ball as Websdale shoots from all of 30 yards out the ball played into her by Riches.

GOAL! Fakenham capitalise to get themselves a bigger lead another goal coming about from a counter attack, Tavern having won a corner Fakenham win the ball come forwards with Dankskanen she times her through ball from the right side perfectly for King in the centre running clear Gibbons comes racing out to the edge of her area sliding in as King pulls the trigger the ball past her as striker and goalkeeper collide, racing back the Tavern defence can’t reach the rolling ball in time as it crosses the line 3-0.

A delay in play as Gibbons is hurt are the coming together accidental but painful the goalkeeper sadly can’t continue has a nasty black eye for her efforts, walking off the pitch however, Head is the player volunteering to done the goalkeepers gloves for the remainder of the game. Sands comes across to make the tackle on Griffiths as Hart-Copsey attempts to slide a pass into her from the right as she makes a central run.

Tavern get the ball forwards on the right Hart-Copsey linking up with Bagura wins a corner on the right played long into the area Lincoln up from the back the target, Smith getting close and heading the ball away for Fakenham. Sophie Anderson is on for Websdale for Fakenham the ball with her on the right moving deep she wins a throw-in. Play stretched now Tavern losing their shape a little Fakenham full of confidence press forwards. Dankskanen winning the ball right slid forwards for King her snapshot from 25 yards out charged down by Lincoln. King nips in ahead of the Tavern defence stabbing a shot over the bar as she is alert to Robb’s ball in from the right as she brings it forwards down the left.

GOAL! Fakenham go further in front as King nips in to score her 2nd of the game, the build up on the right, Dankskanen isn’t closed down as she picks her past slipping the ball in behind the Tavern back line as King supplies the run coming towards her spins into the path of the ball and right of the target sends her shot across goal into the far corner 2-0.

Fakenham Town Ladies, Sam King

Tavern frustrated nevertheless press on Hart-Copsey with a good run on the right wins her side a corner in towards the near post, Fakenham have it covered concede a 2nd corner this one goes longer, Smith clearing back to the corner taker, Hart-Copsey lines up a ball into the box, it’s Merin who clears with the header for the home side this time.

King with a chance for an opening day hat-trick almost a carbon copy of the previous goal Dankskanen playing her in on the right inside the box she takes on the shot drags this one wide across the face of goal. Tavern win themselves a corner on the right the ball played back out to Hart-Copsey sends a driven cross back into the congested area cleared falls straight to Bell 20 yards out right of the D doesn’t get a clean connect sends her attempt wide of the target.

A snap shot struck on the half-volley by Kean from the edge of the Fakenham box as the visitors push forwards on the left the diagonal ball is fired in low towards the area Palomino first to it sends her clearance straight at the on rushing Tavern attacker a good improvised effort loops over the crossbar. The game open now Fakenham break Robb putting a pass out to King drifting free on the right, swings a cross into the area, Anderson near post, Sands central the ball falls between them Allum able to get her head on it to clear for Tavern.

Codman picks up a knock for Fakenham comes off the field with Websdale heading back on. Fuller with a quality strike from the top left corner off the area comes within a lick of paint of pulling a goal back for Tavern the ball cut back across the area towards her from the byline her strike racing across the diving Easter comes back off the base of the far post. Fakenham with a free-kick wide left players go forwards into the area Sands over the ball the delivery long towards the far post a header comes in the ball though driven behind off target.

Tavern Ladies, Sophie Fuller

Robb with a powerful run on the ball down the left, can’t shake off Bailey as she tries to get inside her the defender lunging in to win the ball. Betts comes back on to replace Robb the game entering the final minutes. Fuller with a terrific ball forwards for Hart-Copsey on the right wing clear she sweeps in a cross looking for Kean closing in far post, Merin up against her with another top draw defensive tackle to prevent a shot coming in.

Even as I’m writing that attacking move down Fakenham are on the counter attack the ball out right fired in across the face of the Tavern goal Anderson closing in on the far post 2 yards out is tackled Bailey I think the ball behind for a corner. Tavern defend the set-piece. All Fakenham in the closing moments Bailey with a last ditch tackle inside the box denies Anderson a shot on goal as she makes a run to the right. The corner conceded playing in from the right isn’t cleared inside the area Fakenham can’t get a shot away Tavern scramble the ball away.

Full time Fakenham Town Ladies 4-0 Tavern Ladies

The final whistle blows and Fakenham Town Ladies celebrate with an opening day victory. 4-0 the final score finishing the game stronger capitalising with an early goal 2nd half to double their lead quickly became 3-0 and from their looked to have the 3 points in the bag. Tavern had their chances however and the first half might well have been the side leading themselves. Fakenham were the stronger side in the 2nd period took their goals well. Tavern had chances and on another day they would have capitalised themselves, a disappointing defeat nonetheless to begin their season need to and can bounce back, certainly have the ability. After a couple of difficult season’s this is a very welcome result for Fakenham and one that will do wonders for team spirit.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to pick this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Sometimes they are difficult sometimes they are easy, today’s is the latter. The notes will usually reveal a contender or two but sometimes a stand out performer will present themselves long before that and right from her first interception Fakenham Town Ladies centreback Laura Merin put herself forwards. On numerous occasions she was the defender making that interception, winning the header or last ditch tackle.

A good contest to begin the county league season, another example of why I’ve fallen in love with the grassroots game, just makes choosing which one to go to next all the harder. My thanks as always to both sides for their help with the team details.