Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 3rd October

FAWNL South East Division One

A midweek trip East along the A47 this evening to watch some league action from FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC.

A late reversal of the fixture with Norwich City Ladies scheduled to travel to play Cambridge United WFC. The pitch at Mildenhall Town FC unavailable the league asking Norwich if they could host they agreed. A good distance between Norwich and Cambridge for a game under the lights. Both sides looking to get their league campaigns going both with just the single win to date. All very tight in FAWNL South East Division One early in the season the two promoted sides, Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies getting off to a flying start below there are just 4 points separating the sides placed 4th to 12th. Actonians Ladies in 3rd spot proving that if you can get a run going you can quickly climb the table.

Norwich City Ladies started the season with a 5-1 defeat to Enfield Town Ladies, before collecting a point in a 2-2 draw with Denham United Ladies. Changes behind the scenes 1st team coach Grant Palmer adding to the coaching team the club fielding a new Development side this season. Heavy defeats in the cup and league followed, their only league win of the season a memorable one away to East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Ladies. Although they have progressed in the FA Women’s Cup with a big win, League points haven’t come losing 2-1 at home to Stevenage Ladies last Sunday. After a couple of lethargic seasons fighting at the wrong end of the table Norwich are rebuilding aiming for better results.

A promising start to the season for Cambridge United WFC, bringing in several new faces to the squad to away trips down to the capital yielding 4 points. A goalless draw in their previous midweek fixture at The Abbey Stadium against Stevenage Ladies earning them a 5th league point of the season. Does tell the whole story however as they have enjoyed success in both the league cup and FA Women’s Cup the latter just this past Sunday a 6-0 win at home to Harlow Town Ladies. Travel to Norfolk tonight missing a few players unable to get to the rearranged game on time due to work commitments.

The league interesting this season has the feel that any team on their day can beat the other. The venue for this evenings fixture, Norwich United FC’s, Plantation Park. It’s a big pitch very wide, under the lights looks even bigger. A bar overlooking one end of the pitch a small seated stand down one side. A mild evening at the start of October, cloud cover but no rain forecast.

Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Laura Thacker, Sasha Diston (C), Kate Parsons, Ellie Smith, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Emily Moerkerk & Rosie George.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Fran Gough, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Vicky Neal, Faith Hewitt, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Holly Northfield & Charlotte Crisp.

Norwich to have the kick-off in the 1st half wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green socks. Cambridge wearing their white away shirts with black shorts and socks. Cambridge press Norwich for the ball straight away get i forwards into Steph Gale in attack, play halted as she commits a foul trying to turn in behind her marker. Both sides snapping at the ball a little disjointed at the start neither side making progress into the final 3rd. Norwich spreading play out to the left wing players drawn across a cross flung in towards the near post Emma Jenkins getting her head on the ball to clear for Cambridge.

Norwich starting to build momentum come forwards Chelsea Garrett receiving the ball just over halfway Aimee Durrant on the right wing looking to get in behind bursts forwards, Cambridge centre back Kayleigh-Anne Burt reading Garrett’s intention backing up giving herself a better angle to intercept the intended pass. A free-kick awarded to Norwich inside the Cambridge half, midfielder Miller Daviss over the ball her delivery lifted into the area attacked the header taking it behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good delivery into the box a high ball dropping into the six yard box, goalkeeper Liz Pamplin getting her gloves on the ball knocking it down the defence able to launch clear.

Energetic from Norwich at the start of the game pressing forwards have their opponents on the back foot. Jenkins lunging in to tackle Natasha Snelling as the attacker gives chase to a ball played up into the right channel, the left back conceding a corner. Cambridge look to release Becky Shephard on the left wing trues to link up with Gale leading the line, captain Sasha Diston defending for Norwich. Daviss with a great forwards pass has Garrett interested central 20 yards out manages to get in behind her marker through into the area but is halted by the offside flag.

Norwich win a corner over on the left another good delivery angling in under the crossbar, Pamplin with another vital save getting her gloves to the ball, knocked down into the congested box, a shot is blocked at close range from Laura Thacker. Appeals for handball from Norwich but the officials not interested. Snelling takes on a shot from distance 30 yards out lets loose a shot, the ball on target is catch low by Pamplin.

GOAL! Norwich capitalise on their good start to the match taking the lead in the 17th minute the goal coming from another corner on the left the high delivery falling towards the penalty spot is attacked by Norwich’s Kate Parsons getting up well timing her headed connects well the ball looping up and dropping over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

Cambridge get on the attack straight from the restart play broken up in the middle the ball played up to Shephard coming in field a chase for the ball goalkeeper Hope Armstrong coming to close the attacker down the ball struck against her trickles in behind Shephard keeping up the chase the Norwich defence recovering and getting to the goal bound ball to hook clear before she can apply another touch.

A free-kick wide left for Norwich as they build on the wing, Durrant and Snelling over the ball 30 yards out is driven in low towards goal Pamplin adjusting her body getting behind it pushes the ball out towards the top of the area, picking it up Garrett right of the D, looks to shoot send the ball in towards the far post across the keeper her strike off cue racing wide is met by a Norwich player the ball turned goalwards lacking power safely in Pamplin’s hands.

Parsons defending as Cambridge enjoy a little it of possession on the right wing Amy Howlett playing full back getting forwards to support captain Kelley Blanchflower. Norwich moving the ball well some intricate short triangles in midfield getting players forwards. Fran Gough getting in front of Garrett to defend for Cambridge as Ellie Smith brings the ball forwards. Cambridge struggling to get anything going in attack the passes just not sticking. Vicky Neal winning the ball from Daviss up to Gale closed down quickly. The visitors getting a little frustrated. A free-kick wide right the ball in towards the top of the area held up but not allowed to turn Norwich marking well. Howlett doing well defending against Snelling on the wing as she and Garrett looking to play a one two get Snelling in behind.

GOAL! Norwich double their lead with the game passing the half hour. Attacking on the left players breaking forwards from midfield overloading the box the cross fired in across the top of the area into Ellie Smith controls the ball before striking a low shot past the keeper into the goal at the near post 2-0. Smith’s first goal for Norwich.

Cambridge come close to finding a reply a free-kick wide on the left cleared back out to Shephard pressing down the wig sends an inviting cross racing through the Norwich six yard box, no-one gambling central picked up on the far side brought in close to goal the shot goalwards defended in front of goal. Alice Parker coming on to support Durrant the pair combining Garrett looks to spin in behind, Burt close to her making the tackle prevents her making progress into the box.

Norwich finishing the 1st half strongly Durrant with the ball at her feet 20 yards out driving with it across the Cambridge box on for Snelling far side her shot sliced behind by Burt for the corner. The set-piece defended. Diston misjudging the bounce of the ball as it is played out from the back nevertheless sets up a great attack as it strikes her face, looping on for Durrant on quickly to Garrett, in behind Pamplin coming to close her down, Garrett knocking it past her looking to follow it on into the goal beyond, Gough getting back does enough to get on her shoulder she the striker’s touch take the ball wide for the goalkick.

Pamplin saving at her near post coming out to claim the ball low and Garrett slides in for it getting in behind the defence. Faith Hewitt getting forwards as Gabrielle Whitehurst robs Reeanna Cook in midfield tries to get Blanchflower away on the left Thacker, with Parsons supporting preventing the final ball being delivered. Gough stepping out of the back line for Cambridge intercepting the ball up for Shephard central play spread to Blanchflower on the right, Thacker closing her down wins the challenge.

Cambridge win a throw-in wide right in a deep position play getting drawn across to that side a cross is worked into the area running across the top of the six yard box Shephard free far post, Parker dealing with the threat clearing the ball for a corner. The delivery long to the far post headed wide for the goalkick. A crunching 50/50 in the middle of the park no prisoners taken between Parsons and Neal. The ball just won’t stick for Cambridge, Whitehurst bringing Durrant down as she attacks right side 20 yards out. Taking the set-piece Durrant sends it long to the far post met by a runner turned towards the near post Pamplin well positioned to make the save.

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 2-0 Cambridge United WFC

A good 1st half from Norwich, by far the better side attacking well in numbers at times taking an early lead, adding to the lead looking comfortable for their 2-0 lead. A frustrating 1st 45 from Cambridge players out of position haven’t been able to make the ball stick up front get bodies forwards themselves find a way in behind Norwich who have been solid at the back. 2-0 always an interesting lead Norwich look comfortable for it and a much better 2nd period from the visitors will be needed if they wish to get back into the game.

Positional changes for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half a switch of flanks for Blanchflower and Shephard no operating on the right wing as they take the kick-off. Paying the ball forwards a hand ball is spotted as Norwich look to win the ball, unfairly, Cambridge have the free-kick 30 or so yards out left of the box Jenkins floating the delivery in towards the far post area Armstrong coming for it makes the catch. Cambridge showing more energy at the start of the 2nd half determined to press Norwich on the all higher up the pitch. Gale fouled on halfway trying to hold the ball up.

Good work from Gale back to goal holds the ball up Hewitt coming on looks to play her in, Smith getting back to close her down regain possession for Norwich. Neal getting hold of the ball in the middle long for Gale peeling away into space on the left taking the ball up the pitch sends the cross back in across the front of the area Whitehurst brought down in a dangerous position. 22 yards out Jenkins on it is encouraged to have a go gets the ball past the wall but not Armstrong the keeper well positioned beyond.

Are a few physical challenges both benches showing frustration at some decisions being made, one questioned by the Cambridge management as Howlett is sent sprawling on the right the free-kick played in towards the near post is over Diston, Gale beyond caught a little unaware expecting the defender to get there can’t get off the ground quick enough to meet it. Cook drives forwards with the ball played on for Garrett a dink over the top, Gough doing well getting her head on the ball defending for Cambridge.

A good start to the 2nd half for Cambridge give away a free-kick wide on the right as Durrant attacks. The delivery defended back with Durrant played inside to Garrett top of the area right side strikes the ball well low in across the keeper, Pamplin down low to her right diving to push the ball away. Norwich make the 1st change of the match, Snelling the player taken off, on comes Rosie George.

Hewitt coming on with the ball for Cambridge sets up an attack playing the ball out wide right to Shephard, taking the ball to the byline, attacked at the near post, both Neal and Blanchflower closing in Armstrong dong well in between the to claim the ball ends up on the deck, the decision going against Neal, clearly frustrated at being shown a yellow card.

Garrett coming for the ball has Smith running beyond her plays the ball on making a run to the left getting the return pass striking from outside the box the ball racing wide across the Cambridge goal. Armstrong rushing out of her box clears as Gale tries to get to a ball put on by Hewitt for Cambridge. Hewitt finding Gale on the left deep play switched to the right Shephard supported well by Howlett the cross in defended well by Parsons cleared central Cambridge have it back the pass out to Blanchflower on the left her 20 yards strike too high goes out for the goalkick.

The referee getting alot of stick from both sides frustrated at a lack of consistency, challenges coming the decisions being questioned. Cambridge much improved 2nd half, Norwich sitting more have the 2 goal cushion, the visitors needing to find a reply. Hewitt is brought down in a clumsy challenge left side. The ball flighted up into the area a defender missing it drops for Neal stooping low into the header can only drop the ball wide of the far post. Parker getting across in intercept inside the six yard box as Shephard plays the ball in from the right.

Burt is cautioned making a rash tackle on Garrett outside the area a free-kick in a dangerous position for Norwich, Parsons over it has a go for goal on target lacking the pace to trouble Pamplin. Parker is brought off by Norwich, Tigi Robson introduced to the action. The benches continuing to be be unhappy with the officials. Burt getting across to deal with Durrant as Garrett looks to find her on the right.

Jenkins winning the ball brings it forwards on the left on for Blanchflower, her diagonal ball long to the right picking out Shephard shoots Parsons blocking once then again as Shephard collects the rebound. George gets played in behind by Garrett left of the D shoots, Pamplin holding onto the ball. Norwich make their final change Jodie Drake on for Cook. A double change for Cambridge, Blanchflower having picked up a knock along with Gale coming off. On come Holly Northfield and Charlotte Crisp. Neal and Shephard up into the area the ball played in the knock down back to Whitehurst her shot charged down by Parsons.

Cambridge having a frustrating night, aggrieved at decisions being made adding to their woes the final ball not coming off, Norwich working hard to defend their lead. Parsons and Diston solid at the back, Garrett always available finding pockets of space ready for any counter attack. Daviss picking up possession on early for Garrett, one on one with the keeper coming to meet her edge of the area the ball past her Gough getting back to put the striker off as they race for goal.

Into the final minutes Cambridge cannot find that telling goal put pressure on Norwich risk getting caught on the counter have to commit player forwards. Whitehurst finding Shephard left side her cross driven in cleared by Parsons back to Shephard the 2nd cross deeper Drake heading clear at the far post for Norwich.

GOAL! The home side break getting the ball up the park quickly on the left the cross put across the face of the area finding Durrant unmarked shifts and shoots wrong footing Pamplin the ball going past her at the near post 3-0 the 3 points assured with so little time left on the clock.

Neal has a strike at goal from distance the attempt over the crossbar. Armstrong dropping a high cross delivered from the right but can pounce on the ball before it is attacked. Hewitt driving on with the ball central on for Whitehurst spreads play right for Howlett her cross in claimed at the near post confidently by Armstrong with Neal closing her down. Crisp getting the ball up into Neal she turns in an attempt to get into the box Parsons getting in the tackle.

Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Cambridge United WFC

Norwich get the win their 2nd of the season both coming under the lights, climb all the way up to 7th position as a result. By far the better side 1st half capitalising with 2 goals. Happy to defend more 2nd half were solid coping with the pressure Cambridge applied getting the 3rd goal at the death. A bad night at the office for Cambridge one to chalk off on the back foot from the start the 1st half not good at all improved 2nd half and had they found a reply may well have gone on to get something from the game. Both are at home in 3rd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, Norwich take on Enfield, Cambridge up against Stevenage Ladies.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Ultimately I’d narrowed this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match down to two contenders by the time the game had finished but not having to choose right away it’s always good to take a look back at the notes still a hard choice Chelsea Garrett doing very well leading the line for Norwich up front creating chances and drawing players out of position, bringing others into good shooting positions. At the back however Kate Parsons was a rock very experienced has been out for Norwich for quite awhile with injury now back she is looking sharp played well putting in the blocks keeping Cambridge’s chances inside the area to a minimum. The Player of the Match goes to the central defender.

Always enjoy a game under the lights not necessarily getting up early to write the report afterwards though. My thanks to both teams for helping me out with the teams always appreciated.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership sees a 3 way lead at the top of the table after this weekends results with Netherton United Ladies joining leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development and 3rd placed ICA Sports Ladies on 6 points. It was a win against fellow Peterborough based ICA Sports that saw Netherton United win their 2nd league game of the season and end ICA Sports 100% winning start. At home Netherton United opened the scoring on the half hour Georgina Parrett scoring to put the hosts 1-0 up. Doubled there lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half Emily Johnson getting the goal. Made sure of the 3 points with a 17 minutes left to play Alice MacNichol getting on the scoresheet. Netherton United climbing to 2nd above ICA Sports courtesy of the 3-0 win.

Cambridge University Women were starting their Premiership season this Sunday, began with a home match against Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The visitors still in search of their 1st league point following promotion took an early lead in the game through Katie Luddy. Marie Stubbings also getting a goal for Fulbourn. Cambridge University hit back to score twice and see the sides level at half-time. The hosts having the better of the 2nd half went on to score 3 more goals to win the game 5-2.

Riverside Ladies climb off the bottom of the Premiership after they won their first league game of the season at home to March Town United Ladies on Sunday, up to 5th, Annie Posnett struck in a hat-trick for the Championship North Champions. Lianna Bell also getting a goal in a 4-1 win. Danielle Westgate scoring for March Town United.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

Like the Premiership above there is now a 3 way tie on 6 points at the top of the Championship South table. With Wisbech Town Ladies not in action, Ketton Ladies and Wisbech St Mary Ladies both close the gap. Ketton Ladies winning away to Cardea Ladies on Sunday to start their season with 2 wins in the league. Fran Kavanagh striking for 4 goals in the game, Lauren McKeever and Claire Lawrenson also getting a goal each in a comfortable 6-0 win.

A comfortable score too for Wisbech St Mary Ladies after they win for the 2nd time this season in the Championship North. At home were taking on Pinchbeck United Ladies. Josie Turner finding the back of the net for 5 goals. Hannah Shales too on target getting a hat-trick as Wisbech St Mary ran out 8-2 winners.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Haverhill Rovers Ladies win for a 3rd successive league match to climb 6 points clear in the Championship South, starting with a 100% record 4 wins in total were on the road at the weekend away to Cambridge Rangers Women. Abbi Griffin scoring a hat-trick with goals too for Joeli Kirby and Kayleigh Nolan in a 5-0 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

Cambridge City Ladies Development were playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup this Sunday. A new group format this season, in Group C were away taking on Histon Ladies Reserves who they beat 6-0 away from home on the opening day. Cambridge City with a repeat scoreline netting 6 goals again, Megan Tonks scoring 5 of them, Ellie Cullum too finding the back of the net. Histon Ladies Reserves did get on the scoresheet themselves this time however with Philippa Hayden-Evans scoring a consolation goal.

Plenty of goals scored too in the other League Cup group match played on Sunday. In Group D, Isleham United Ladies travelled to play fellow Championship South side, Burwell Tigers Ladies. The hosts scoring 4 goals, Charlotte Fogarty with a brace along with a goal a piece fir Elisa Heinamaa and Hannah Dewey. Isleham United though hit there opponents for 6 goals up the other end to win all 3 points, Laura Todd and Louisa Harwood both netting a brace, the other goalscorers, Rachael Turner and Melanie Findlater.

The Round-Up – Essex 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Frontiers Ladies are the new leaders in the Essex Women’s Premier Division with a 100% winning start to their league campaign 3 wins out of 3. The Harlow based clubs 3rd successive league win coming on the road on Sunday up against Silver End United Ladies at last playing their 1st league match of the season, not the result they wanted however Frontiers having the better of it winning the match 4-1. New signing Dempsey Favell netting twice, along with Chloe Godleman-Barnum scoring her 1st goal for the club, an own goal adding to the scoreline. Roxanne Gardner scoring for Silver End United rejoining the county league.

A fantastic start to the season too in the Premier Division for Harlow Town Ladies Development, 2 wins for 2 going into the weekend a good challenge away to Collier Row Tigers followed this Sunday, The hosts narrowly losing their opening league fixture 1-0 against Frontiers Ladies, goals from Emily Dempsey and Sarah Finch seeing them earn their 1st point of the season. Harlow Town scoring twice to earn a point from the match to remain unbeaten at the start of the season, Savannah Japal with her 1st goal for the club and Ciara Purdue the players on target for Harlow Town

Leigh Ramblers Ladies newly promoted to the Essex Women’s Premier Division climb up to 3rd in the table with their 2nd league win of the season away to Corringham Cosmos on Sunday an eventful start to the season for Leigh Ramblers who have I suspect been bitten by the FA Women’s Cup bug like a few others in the past following their debut campaign. A 2nd successive win in the league both by 4 goals to 1. Rachel Fleming scoring for Corringham Cosmos in the 1st half.

Chelmsford City Ladies are up to 4th in the table as they recorded their 1st league win of the season at home to Southend United Ladies on Sunday. Early days across the whole league of course just Chelmsford City’s 2nd league game a win off the back of a draw a promising start. Southend United Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division finally getting their campaign started. Goals for Mia Brisley and Georgia James seeing Chelmsford City to a 2-0 win.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Georgia James

Essex Women’s Division One

A three way tie on 9 points now at the top of Essex Women’s Division One after Sunday’s results. Leaders Rayleigh Town Ladies not in action allowing the chasing sides a chance to catch up and both took the opportunity.

Billericay Town Ladies losing 2-3 to Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies last weekend after 2 high scoring wins at the start of the season got back to winning ways on the road against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Lisa Robins scoring a hat-trick. Hope Strauss with a brace and Darcie Salmons amongst the goals for Billericay in a comfortable 7-0 win.

Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies great start to the season continues as they made it 3 wins from 3 at home to Chigwell Ladies this Sunday. A big win for Dagenham & Redbridge, Amy Jacobs the star of the shoe scoring 8 (yes eight) goals in the game taking her to 13 for the season. Juliet Thomas also scoring in a 9-0 her first of the season.

Hutton Ladies Reserves were at home on Sunday playing Runwell Sports Ladies. The hosts coming back from a goal down to win the game 2-1 and record their 1st win of the season. Aaryanna Simonelli with her 9th goal of the season putting Runwell Sports into the lead an advantage they held at half-time Hutton coming back in the 2nd half to equalise and go on to win the game, Leanne Cox and Jo-Anne Johnson with the goals.

Finally in Division One, Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves were away to Island Ladies on Sunday a close match a single goal securing the 3 points it was the 2nd win of the season for Leigh Ramblers new Reserves side as they climb up to 6th in the Division One table.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

Suffolk Women’s Division

4 wins out of 4 at the start of the new season, and scoring 41 goals without reply, East Bergholt United Ladies have started strongly in their defence of the Suffolk Women’s Division title this season 3 points clear the the top. Were taking on another side with a 100% record at the start of the season at home on Sunday, Leiston St Margarets Ladies who themselves had scored 19 goals in their opening 2 fixtures. Was a 1-0 lead to East Bergholt United before the defending Champions too control of the match in the 2nd half to eventually run out 7-0 winners. Stacey Teager scoring a double, along with Elena Nitsche making her debut for the 1st team. Top scorer Anne Northwood adding another to her tally taking her to 9 already this season. Goals to for Millie Wilding and Jessica Oxlade.

It was to Suffolk, Women’s Football East travelled this Sunday to watch a game between two sides who will be hoping to be n the title mix themselves come the end of the season both unbeaten at the start of the season. Brantham Athletic with 2 wins from 2 hosting Walsham Le Willows Ladies. Brantham starting the better attacking early doors, Kirsten Hutchings getting away on the right crossing into the box finding Danielle Harvey unmarked in front of goal composed a side foot to take the ball by the keeper into the back of the net in the 7th minute. Walsham Le Willows getting into the game started to push Brantham back the midfield crowded, Charlotte Osborne in goal for Walsham Le Willows with a brilliant save to deny Harvey a 2nd, the hosts scored a 2nd goal late in the first half Hutchings beating the offside trap to run clear with the ball and score.

Walsham Le Willows, Mia Banbury with Brantham Athletic’s Lucy Dunnett

A 2-0 lead for Brantham at half-time changes made for the 2nd half a 3rd goal coming with 20 minutes left Hutchings winning the ball turning in behind on the right her cross along the face of the area finding Sophie Crabtree unmarked at the far post to score her 1st goal of the season. Walsham Le Willows midfielder Zoe Klimcke suffering a nasty looking knee injury moments later saw her stretchered off the pitch. Brantham adding a 4th goal to wrap up their 3rd straight win to go third with Jodie Sharp running clear and rounding the keeper to score.

It was a huge win at home for Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday to see them climb up to 4th in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were hosting new side, Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Tiffany Reeves scoring a hat-trick for Alresford. There were 4 players celebrating a brace Rae Clancy, Vicky Hall, Kirsty Belfall and Lucie Stanbury all 4 netting their 1st goals of the season, Hannah Bingham also on target as was Leia Rudge with her 1st of the season in a 13-0 win.

A double figure win to for Brightlingsea Regent Ladies on Sunday as they won their 1st competitve game in the league away from home against Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves. Jessica Scott netting 4 goals, Maddie Hubbard getting a hat-trick to her name with Paige Knight and Ashleigh Goddard getting 2 each all with their 1st goals for Brightlingsea Regent who had scored just the one goal in their previous 3 games.

Just the one goal scored in the 1st half by Lottie Aldous was enough to see Coplestonians Ladies win on Sunday were on the road taking on new side Woodbridge Town Ladies. A much needed result for Coplestonians having suffered two heavy defeats in their opening 2 league matches, awarded a home win last Sunday have now added their 1st competitive 3 point haul of the season up to 7th in the table as a result.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Thorpe United Ladies continue their excellent start to the season in Norfolk Women’s Division One their young side making it 4 wins from 4. 3 points clear at the top were away on Sunday taking on last season’s runners-up Sprowston Ladies who themselves are a young side. Of course their are a few experienced players within Thorpe’s ranks and one of those scored her first goal for the club on Sunday, Joanne Hooper newly joined from Acle United getting her first goal in pink, Natasha Levesley also getting her 1st goal for Thorpe as they ran out 2-0 victors.

Thorpe aren’t the only side in Division One with a 100% record at the start of the season, 2nd placed Aylsham Ladies have also yet to drop a point since rejoining the league. 3 wins from 3 the latest this Sunday coming at home against last season’s Division Two Champion’s, Sprowston Athletic Ladies (then FC Sprowston Ladies). A single goal enough for Aylsham to claim a 3rd 3 point haul. Sprowston Athletic losing both their opening fixtures ending the game with 10 after a red card and a blow with Annika Skoog sustaining a broken collar bone.

Gorleston FC Ladies move back up into 3rd position in the Division One table after winning for the 2nd time this season following 2 successive defeats. At home on Sunday were taking on newly promoted Beccles Town Ladies. Goalless at half-time Gorleston found the winning goals in the 2nd period, Samantha Hunn and Bethany Turner celebrating their 1st goals of the season Gorleston winning the game 2-0.

Has been a tough start to the season for both Bungay Town Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves the two meting on Sunday, Bungay still struggling with injuries and illness it was a first win of the season for Wymondham Town. All the goals coming in the 2nd half, strikes from Sally & Laura Hammerton along with a goal for Chelsea Pettifer securing a 3-1 result, that takes Wymondham Town off the bottom all the way up to 5th. Emily Leach scoring for Bungay Town along with Sprowston Athletic are yet to get off the mark both though have played just 2.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Fakenham Town Ladies are the new leaders in Norfolk Women’s Division Two, making it the perfect September with 4 wins from 4 to start their season. Dropping down a division a squad now getting a taste for winning travelled to Thetford on Sunday to play new side, Thetford Town Ladies the hosts at a disadvantage having only 9 players available worked very hard nevertheless but ultimately Fakenham proved too strong, running out 5-0 winners, Fanny Danskanen scoring twice along with substitute Kayleigh Robb with captain Sian Sands also getting a goal.

New side Taverham Women move into 2nd place in the Division Two unbeaten at the start of the season with 3 consecutive league wins the last two both by a huge 14 goals to nil! Winning against a depleted Hockering Ladies side last weekend were at home again this Sunday against fellow new side Horsford Women. Rebecca Sutton scoring 5 goals in the match, their were hat-tricks for both Abbie Walker and Tiegan Robinson, with Hannah Artis, Caitlyn Arnup and Maya Lawlor also getting on the scoresheet.

A great result away from home for Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday in Division Two winning away from home against Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies a 2nd successive victory seeing them up to 4th in the table. One goal needed to win the match it was Andrea Colbrook who found the back of the net to score the winning goal for Freethorpe.

Big wins elsewhere in Division Two on Sunday. Tavern Ladies were hosting Hockering Ladies the Dereham based side having bounced back from an opening day defeat away to Fakenham Town Ladies with a 7-0 win over Freethorpe a fortnight ago were even more ruthless in front of goal this time around, Katie Hart-Copsey scoring a double hat-trick (6) in the match captain Sophie Fuller scoring a hat-trick for the 2nd successive game there were goals too for Lucy Kean, Leysha Bangura and Rianna Stott the latter pair with their 1st goals of the season. Tavern winning 12-1.

A 1st win of the season for Gorleston Rangers Ladies on Sunday their 1st 3 point haul of the season coming away to Thetford side, Bulldogs Ladies new to the league a difficult start for the hosts, Gorleston Rangers knowing what a difficult 1st season feels like going home with a confidence boosting 3 points running out double figure winners in the finish 3 players getting a hat-trick, Rachel Adams, Chloe Ashton and Zoe Waite, with a goal each for Hannah Meadows and Abbie Pogmore. The 3 points lifting Gorleston Rangers into 7th place.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Houghton Athletic Ladies had started the season brilliantly winning all of their opening league matches to sit top of Division One. That record ended after they met the defending champions, St Albans Ladies who were at last getting their own league campaign underway. Chomping at the bit it seems as they hit Houghton Athletic for 7 to start with a comfortable win. Eleanor Lovelock and Ellen Slater both scoring twice. Opening game goals too for Michaela Johnson, Molly Slade and Sophie Lawrence in a 7-0 win. Houghton Athletic still 3 points clear at the top despite suffering their 1st defeat.

Moving into 2nd spot in the Division One table are, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. A 2nd half comeback seeing them win for the 1st time last weekend were at home this Sunday playing Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires. The visitors scoring twice with Chemise Huitson netting both goals, there were braces too for Natasha McConville and Lizzie Richardson to see Hemel Hempstead Town win the game 4-2.

Northwood Ladies secured their first 3 points of the season at home to bottom side Garston Ladies on Sunday in a close match Northwood edging the game 3-2. Goals from Leanne Jones, Emma Steele and Danielle Tyler securing the win despite a brace for Yasmin Sabri for Garston Ladies.

Two losses to start their league campaign, Sherrardswood Ladies got their 1st win of the season in Division One at home to Sharnbrook WFC this Sunday. Rianna Rose scoring inside the opening 5 minutes, Melissa Wright getting a 2nd goal for Sherrardswood on 18 minutes. Enough to seal the win despite Charlie Mullins scoring a goal for Sharnbrook WFC. A 2-1 win for Sherrardswood.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

3 successive league wins to start their season Hitchin Town Ladies leading the way in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. Saw their 100% winning start come to an end on Sunday away to Evergreen Eagles. Remain unbeaten however as the sides drew the game 2-2. Megan Franklin and Mandy Cain-Murnane getting the goals for Hitchin Town. Evergreen Eagles getting their first league point on the board coming against the league leaders.

Royston Town Ladies Development in 2nd place also remain unbeaten at the start of the season were playing their 4th league match in Division Two at home to Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Kierra Gabriel, Imogen Sole and Jazmin Racher getting the goals for Royston Town they were held to a 3-3 draw by 5th placed Evergreen.

Watton Ladies climb up to 3rd place in the Division Town table bouncing back from last weekends 7-1 loss with victory at home against Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies this Sunday. A first half brace from Sian Owens seeing Watton seal a 2-1 victory over Wheathampstead to get the 3 points.

Also winning in Division Two this Sunday were Letchworth Garden City Eagles getting off the mark in their 2nd league game after coming out on top away to Welwyn Pegasus Azures. A 3-0 win for Letchworth over the newly promoted side.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. Langford Ladies are the new leaders the new side with a 3rd successive league win to go top, getting the win against early leaders Biggleswade United Ladies. Amber Clark and Chloe Scott with the goals for Langford to secure the 3 points.

Stotfold Juniors Ladies also new to the league this season climb into 2nd position in the Division Three table with a 4-1 home win over Kempston Rovers Ladies on Sunday bouncing back from last weekend defeat to Langford.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

ERWFL Premier Division

New leaders in the ERWFL Premier Division, a 4th straight league win seeing Brentwood Town Ladies climb to the top of the table, the Essex side ahead of Cambridge City Ladies on goal difference. Brentwood winning on the road this Sunday away to AFC Sudbury Ladies, Marie Barker scoring for the 1st time this season from Brentwood along with a brace for Georgia Holdaway taking her into double figures for the season seeing Brentwood clinch victory 3-0.

Cambridge City Ladies maintained their own excellent start to the campaign with a late winner at home to Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday to make it 4 from 4 in the ERWFL Premier Division. A close contest saw the visitors open the scoring midway through the 1st half Jorja Patterson sending the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0. Cambridge City coming back to level through an own goal and chances to take the lead were denied with Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan making some vita saves. Cambridge City though went on to score a late winner to keep up their 100% record, Laura Mills arriving at the far post to turn the ball in to win the game 2-1.

2-1 also the winning score for 3rd placed Acle United Women as they maintain the pressure on the leaders 2 points the gap, the Brentwood and Cambridge City. Were on the road up against Coley Heath Ladies on Sunday. Grace Birchall scoring in the 1st half to give the Norfolk side the advantage, Acle defending their goal advantage going into the final 10 minutes were awarded a free-kick the ball sent in to the box hitting the post before Birchall turned the rebound in to make it 2-0 to Acle. Colney Heath aggrieved at some decisions made were awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time, Lucy Hancock converting to score.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies are now up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division table having now collected 7 points from their last 3 league games a 2nd successive win coming at home on Sunday against AFC Dunstable Ladies. A single goal enough to win all 3 points, Vicky Gallagher with her 1st goal of the season securing the victory for Peterborough Northern Star.

ERWFL Division One

Stevenage Ladies Reserves continue to set the pace in ERWFL Division One recording a 5th league win of the season at home to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies on Sunday to leave them 5 points clear at the top. Gemma Biggadike netting her 1st goal for Stevenage in only her 2nd game. Sherrie Evans also scoring with, Emily Schofield and Daniela Martucci both getting 2 each in a 6-1 win. Martucci moving onto 10 goals. Jade Horne with the consolation goal for Ipswich Wanderers.

St Ives Town Ladies move up into 2nd spot in ERWFL Division One, unbeaten at the start of the season won for the 3rd time at home to Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday, the Cambridgeshire Premiership winners playing Hertford Town Ladies at home for the 2nd successive Sunday. A 5-0 win in the 1st Round of the League Cup last time out. A brace each for Georgia & Katie Stancombe seeing St Ives Town secure the league win 4-1 this time around.

Katie & Georgia Stancombe

Also newly promoted to ERWFL Division One from the Cambridgeshire Premiership are Newmarket Town Ladies, a 3rd league win seeing them join St Ives Town Ladies on 10 points in 3rd place in the table following a 3rd successive league win unbeaten in 4 now. Were away to Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. A brace from Jess Linger seeing her open her goals account for Newmarket this season with Lauren Deller and Hannah Rogers also with her 1st Newmarket goal seeing the visitors return home with a 4-1 win. Heather Martin with the goal on the stroke of half-time for Bishops Stortford.

A more comfortable scoreline to one they’ve been used to for King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday as they win for the 3rd time this season too away to Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Tiffany Forshaw deciding she’d not going to let Oksana Imanalijeva runaway with the goals scoring a double hat-trick to take her onto 8 for the season. Imanalijeva just ahead with 9 as she scored another goal. Rochelle Woods also getting on the scoresheet along with Annie Rooks netting her 1st King’s Lynn goal in a 9-0 victory. Now 5th on 9 points along with 4th placed Hutton Ladies.

All very tight in ERWFL Division One two more sides moving onto 9 points in the middle of the table, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were entertaining Histon Ladies on Sunday, the Essex side winning for the 3rd time this season a goal scored in each half by Sophie Dowman and Danielle Styles seeing Bowers & Pitsea win 2-0.

Also on 9 points in 7th are Lawford Ladies unbeaten now in 3 in the league after their opening day loss. The newly promoted Essex side were at home in the league on Sunday taking on Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Jasmine Cox moving onto 8 goals scoring a brace. Both Erin Hornby and Jessica Collinson also scoring in the match both their 1st goals of the season. Winning 4-1. Lawford taking a 2nd minute lead were pegged back just 4 minutes later as Rosy Woodhams equalised for Hoddesdon. Lawford scoring late in the 2nd half wrapping up the 3 points striking twice in the final 10 minutes of the game.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

FA Women’s Cup

The weather out pay to 3 ties across the East from 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup last Sunday the ties rolled onto this Sunday.

A trip to Mildenhall Town FC for ERWFL Premier Division side, Harlow Town Ladies taking on higher league opponents, FAWNL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC. Few chances in the opening half hour Cambridge breaking the dead-lock in the 34th minute, Vicky Neal finding the back of the net, the lead doubled just 2 minutes later, Faith Hewitt striking from just inside the box. The advantage 3-0 come the half-time whistle with Kelley Blanchflower striking from distance. Steph Gale rifling the ball home to make it 4-0 in the 56th minute. Defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt getting the final touch as the ball was headed goalwards from a corner kick with 15 minutes left, Gabrielle Whitehurst adding a sixth goal from close range in the 86th minute to see Cambridge comfortably through to a 3rd Round Qualifying tie at home to Stevenage Ladies this coming Sunday.

Was an all FAWNL South East Division One 2nd Round Qualifying tie played this Sunday with Denham United Ladies hosting Crawley Wasps Ladies. Naomi Cole scoring on 15 minutes to hands Crawley Wasps the lead 1-0 the advantage going into the half-time interval. 5 minutes into the 2nd half Crawley Wasps were awarded a corner, Kemina Webber heading home to double the visitors lead. Faye Rabson scoring to make it 3-0 the game closing in on the hour. Denham pulling a goal back substitute Liv Thompson scoring on her debut with her first touch. Crawley Wasps winning 3-1 will now play away against Chesham United Ladies in 3rd Round Qualifying.

ERWFL Premier Division side, Royston Town Ladies bow out of the FA Women’s Cup after they were defeated on the road against Queens Park Rangers Girls on Sunday. Kristal Clarke, Melanie Hall and Merle Ling amongst the goals as the hosts ran out comfortable winners to progress to 3rd Round Qualifying. Sammy Tinsley scoring the goal for Royston Town. QPR Girls will now face Whyteleafe Ladies away from home this coming Sunday.

Revised 3rd Round Qualifying fixtures featuring sides across the East, ties to be played this coming Sunday 7th October:-

Nettleham Ladies v Histon Ladies

Norwich City Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Acle United Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Chesham United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Godalming Town Ladies

Luton Town Ladies v Oxford City Ladies

The Round-Up – FAWNL 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Five straight league wins for Coventry United Ladies now takes them back to the top of the FAWNL Southern Division. Unbeaten in 7 at the start of the season. At home on Sunday taking on C&K Basildon Ladies, goals from Amber Hughes and Jade Brook seeing Coventry start strongly 2 up after 10 minutes. C&K Basildon pulling a goal back before the half-time interval. Brook with her 2nd of the game restoring Coventry’s 2 goal cushion on the hour. Amy Wathan scoring in the last 10 minutes to see Coventry record a 4-1 win to move top ahead of Watford FC Ladies.

Losing to Coventry a fortnight ago Chichester City Ladies unbeaten start to the season came to an end last weeks fixture at home to Cardiff City Ladies falling foul of the weather, Chichester were on the road this weekend back in league action taking on Loughborough Foxes Women. A tight game the sides contesting a goalless first half, Chichester striking early 2nd half Molly Clark on 47 minutes scoring what would prove to be the winning goal, Chichester in 3rd keep the pressure on the leading pair.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies impressive start to the season continues the South West Division One Champions now up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after they won for the 4th successive game. Were on the road taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Helen Bleazard with a 1st half double handing Plymouth a 2-0 half-time advantage, they didn’t have it all their own way 2nd half, QPR fighting back with 2 quickfire goals to level the scores, new signing Whitney Locke scoring her 1st goal for the club on 65 minutes, Rochelle Shakes also newly arrived making it 2-2, 4 minutes later. Plymouth coming back to retake the lead and go on to win the game Zoe Cunningham finding the back of the net to make it 3-2 with 7 minutes left.

A 2nd league win in the Southern Premier Division for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as the newly promoted side winning South East Division One start to find their feet in the league. At home on Sunday at Stadium MK up against Gillingham FC Ladies. Another close contest 0-0 for 75 minutes, the winning goal was struck home by Kim Farrow for Milton Keynes Dons in the 76th minute to win them the 3 points moving them onto 7 points after 7 played.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Kim Farrow

FAWNL Cup

This weekend saw the 1st Round’s of the FAWNL Cup and Plate taking place, a handful of ties in both competitions with most handed a bye to the 2nd Round. Two 1st Round Cup matches featuring South East Division One sides, AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home taking on Buckland Athletic Ladies from the South West Division One. Bernice Tully with her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon giving the hosts a 21st minute lead Laura Quinn-Low also scoring for the 1st time this season seeing AFC Wimbledon leading 2-0 at half-time. Jenny Nagle another scoring her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon to put them 3 up midway through the 2nd half. Georgia Heasman in her 1st game back in Wimbledon colours adding a 4th goal with 5 minutes left.

Was a 7 goal thriller in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round tie on Sunday, South East Division One side, Enfield Town Ladies hosting, Southampton Women of South West Division One. Nuala McKevitt putting Enfield 1 up within 6 minutes of the start. Southampton coming back equalised through Kayleigh Tonks in the 22nd minute the visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half Natalie Bavister on target. 2-1 the lead for Southampton, Jane Yates gave them a 3-1 lead scoring 2 minutes into the 2nd period. Enfield’s turn to fightback, Sara Degooye pulling it back to 3-2 five minutes later. Molly Peters scoring to see Enfield level it at 3-3 with 15 minutes left. The winning goal coming 3 minutes from the end of normal play, Roxanne Lee-Stewart with Southampton’s 4th and winning goal.

The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup has been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-

Billericay Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies

Cambridge United Women v Leyton Orient WFC

QPR Women v Loughborough Foxes Women

Oxford United Women v Crawley Wasps Ladies

Larkhall Athletic Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Southampton Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies

Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

FAWNL Plate

In the FAWNL Plate 1st Round, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women were away to Poole Town Ladies from South West Division One. The higher league side proving too strong, Katie James putting Portsmouth into the lead inside 10 minutes. Carla Perkins adding a 4 minute brace with Eilidh Currie making it 4-0 to Portsmouth midway through the 1st half. More goals coming for the visitors 2nd half, Rachel Panting striking early going on to complete a hat-trick. Hannah Geer also scoring with Perkins also adding a 3rd goal to complete her own hat-trick a 9-0 victory seeing Portsmouth progress.

The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate has also been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-

Maidenhead United Ladies v Denham United Ladies

Keynsham Town Ladies or Southampton Saints v Portsmouth FC Women

Brislington Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Actonians Ladies v Chesham United Ladies

Gillingham FC Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Norwich City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

Ipswich Town Women v C&K Basildon Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

A thriller for the neutral at the top of South East Division One on Sunday with 3rd placed Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. An early goal for Jennifer Laidlaw along with a goal for Sara Lopez-Ezzahiri for Actonians in the 1st half they found themselves trailing however with Billericay on target for 3 goals up the other end the visitors adding a 4th goal 2nd half, Actonians hit back to earn a point with Enya Collins and Carla Williams striking to see the game finish 4-4. Billericay’s 100% winning start coming to an end the point nevertheless enough to put the into top position with Crawley Wasps in cup action at the weekend.

Teams clustering below with just 2 points between 4th and 10th in the South East Division One table. Stevenage Ladies moving up into the top half of the table following their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday coming on the road away to Norwich City Ladies, goals from Shona Chitate and Ashleigh Deacon seeing Stevenage hold a 2-0 advantage at half-time. Norwich saw a penalty saved in the 2nd half before pulling a goal back with Laura Thacker making it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the 2-1 win.

A first league win of the season in South East Division One for bottom side Luton Town Ladies. At home on Sunday taking on Ipswich Town Ladies. The visitors taking the lead however Paige Wakefield putting Ipswich in front. Dionne Manning scoring a brace brought Luton back on level terms then gave them the lead. Jess McKay scoring to make in 3-1 and see Luton collect their 1st league points of the season.

Match Report – Brantham Athletic Ladies v Walsham Le Willows Ladies

Sunday 30th September

Suffolk Women’s Division

A game from the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday afternoon, a trip to Brantham to watch Brantham Athletic Ladies versus Walsham Le Willows Ladies.

A clash between two sides I haven’t seen play in a while. Both with ambitions to contest for the title. Won by Brantham Athletic Ladies close neighbours, East Bergholt United Ladies last season also doing the double will be strong favourites once again.

A much larger Suffolk Women’s Division this season increasing in number to 13. Seven new sides, Brettvale Ladies, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies, Needham Market Ladies, Haverhill Ladies Reserves and University of Suffolk all new whilst Alresford Colne Rangers switch having previously competed in Essex. More teams meaning more games which was something the league sorely needed.

Early days in the league, East Bergholt United have started well 3 games in winning them all so to a 100% record for new side Needham Market Ladies. Leiston St Margarets Ladies getting stronger each season also have 2 wins from two as does Brantham Athletic Ladies, a 4-1 home win over Alresford Colne Rangers on the opening day were in action at home in midweek winning 8-1 over league newcomers Brettvale Ladies. Striker Kirsten Hutchings scoring 5 in midweek already has 8 goals on the board this season.

Walsham Le Willows Ladies are another sides capable of challenging at the top of the league joining 2 seasons ago the core of the ex Bury Town Ladies squad. Haven’t necessarily had a favourable time with their fixtures. last season were always playing catch up having no kicked off their league campaign until the 22nd October. An earlier start this time around although awarded a home win on the opening day are unbeaten with 3 games gone at the start of the season winning away to Woodbridge Town Ladies, drew 3-3 with Alresford Colne Rangers last Sunday, 3rd in the table travel to 5th placed Brantham Athletic this afternoon.

Brantham Leisure Centre the venue for today’s game, the large clubhouse over looking the pitch from on goal, home to Brantham Athletic FC a small stand along one side of the ground the pitch in good condition a reasonable size. An overcast day, cloudy a light drizzle possible starting to cool as we end September.

Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI – Zoe Adams, Shanice Leeks, Monique Peters, Emily Boore, Shannon Giles, Lucy Elmes, Lucy Dunnett (C), Jessica Ryan, Jodie Sharp, Kirsten Hutchings & Danielle Harvey. Subs – Sophie Crabtree, Rebecca Prime, Hollie Murray, Merlin Watson & Toni Mott.

Walsham Le Willows starting XI – Charlotte Osborne, Julie Brind, Shelley Cocksedge, Claire Ellis, Jemma Long, Kate Sandlan, Lisa Pratt (C), Mia Banbury, Zoe Klimcke, Chelsea Page & Laura Brame. Subs – Katie Grimwood, Steph Hanratty & Kirsty Pollard.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s the visitors, Walsham Le Willows to get the 1st half underway wearing yellow shirts with a red quarter over the left shoulder, red shorts and yellow socks. Brantham wearing blue shirts with a pair of diagonal lines across the front, blue shorts and socks. Brantham win the ball straight away the push forwards through the centre has Kirsten Hutchings interested, Claire Ellis standing in her path winning the ball back for Walsham Le Willows at centre back. The ball played forwards into striker Laura Brame held up then played out wide right as Julie Brind breaks forwards, Jodie Sharp putting in the tackle to send the ball out for a throw-in.

Hutchings peeling right taking the ball out wide looks to cut in back in towards the area with Danielle Harvey making the run in behind for Brantham, Charlotte Osborne in goal for Walsham Le Willows reading it can gather before Harvey can reach it. Hutchings with support on the right from Jessica Ryan this time the pair winning a corner. Sharp to play the ball in a good height on it coming in near post, Ellis getting her head on it to send it away to the left, gathered by Brantham a high ball played back in towards goal Osborne can see it drop wide of her goal.

Brantham with a confident start to the game press forwards captain Lucy Dunnett with a strong run forwards looks to play in Sharp bursting up the left wing, Brind doing well to close her down and defend for Walsham Le Willows. Ryan winning a throw high up the pitch on the right the ball into Hutchings turns and fires the ball in towards goal from the angle, Osborne behind it to catch.

Walsham Le Willows, Claire Ellis

Good pressing from Zoe Klimcke catching Brantham in possession in the final 3rd the ball on for Brame to chase, Monique Peters staying with her able to shield as goalkeeper, Zoe Adams comes sliding in to claim the ball. Klimcke on the ball right side on for Brame the Brantham defence momentarily stretched the striker taking the ball to the byline, puts the ball in Chelsea Page the only Walsham Le Willows player there making a run far post in from the left, the ball stopped by Shanice Leeks ahead of her, trapping the ball between her feet digs out the clearance.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Shanice Leeks

GOAL! An early lead in the game for Brantham as they hit Walsham Le Willows on the counter attack, the ball played out to Hutchings on the right drives up the wing crossing square from deep, the ball into box central Harvey arriving unmarked is composed in front of goal side footing the ball taking it across the keeper to nestle in at the far post or her 1st goal of the season 1-0.

Walsham Le Willows respond well to falling a goal behind less than 10 minutes played Mia Banbury playing the ball out to Brind right side she passes inside to Brame top of the box the striker slipping in behind her marker, Emily Boore recovering excellently to get back at her and make a clean tackle inside the area the ball out for a corner. Boore on hand again to save the day from the resulting corner kick a great delivery in firmly headed it towards goal at the near post by Brind at the top of the box, the defender on the post making the goal saving block.

A throw right side high up the pitch for Walsham Le Willows inside to Brame takes it on across the area Page over on the left looking to play her in on goal Adams alert gets out and smothers the ball at the attackers feet. Hutchings with a driving run right channel lets loose a shot from distance runs wide of the near post. After a sluggish start Walsham Le Willows have livened up getting at Brantham higher up the pitch. Klimcke getting herself about in the middle finds Brind out wide right her early ball inside for Brame, Peters defending well for Brantham top of the area.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Monique Peters with Walsham Le Willows, Laura Brame

Adams with a good save to deny Brame in the box after more good work from Klimcke in the middle closing the ball down the rebound off her flying forwards Brame chasing it into the area left of goal shoots, Brantham’s keeper equal to it. Play is clustered in the middle Brantham pressed having trouble getting it away, Walsham Le Willows captain, Lisa Pratt tackling Shannon Giles. Lucy Elmes getting forwards with the ball for Brantham, Ryan to the right on for Hutchings, Ellis stepping in to put in the challenge.

Walsham Le Willows, Mia Banbury with Brantham Athletic’s Lucy Dunnett

A change for Walsham Le Willows, Page the player coming off on comes Steph Hanratty. Klimcke nipping in to steal the ball bursts forwards into the box,Boore needing to bites at the tackle does well pushing her wide before conceding the corner. Played in towards the top of the area a high delivery Dunnett jumping with Ellis behind her does enough to put the centre back off the ball sent out towards the far post area beyond goal, Pratt keeping it alive volleys over.

A brilliant save from Osborne up the other end Brantham are very good on the counter attack get bodies forwards quickly almost a carbon copy of the opening goal Hutchings out wide right playing the cross in Harvey unmarked in the centre of the area further out this time looks to pick her spot angle the shot up over the keeper, Osborne adjusting brilliantly to get a glove up to the ball palm it over the crossbar.

Zoe Klimcke driving forwards for Walsham Le Willows

Good build up play from Brantham through the middle Dunnett, Giles and Elmes all involved up to Harvey heading the ball out to Sharp on the left, Kate Sandlan closing her down the ball out for a throw. Leeks gets forwards for Brantham as they press the attack players forwards Elmes to her right top of the area, the midfielder putting the return ball into Leeks inside the box stabs a low strike goalwards, Osborne down smartly to save.

GOAL! Right at the end of the first half Brantham double their lead, Hutchings threatening to do it in the 1st 45 beats the offside trap Walsham Le Willows with a high line in behind right of goal 20 yards out strikes the ball hard on the angle the ball racing across the keeper into the back of the net 2-0. Not long left to play the half-time comes to an end.

Kirsten Hutchings

Half-time Brantham Athletic Ladies 2-0 Walsham Le Willows Ladies

A goal at either end of the 1st half giving Brantham a 2-0 advantage at half-time started the game the better capitalising with a goal. Walsham Le Willows coming back into it creating chances had a shot cleared off the line. Brantham too had further chances to go in further in front and 2-0 is always an interesting scoreline at half-time the old cliche the next goal is crucial…maybe.

Changes for Brantham at half-time, Harvey and Ryan coming off, Sophie Crabtree in attack and Becky Prime wide right coming on. The home side to kick-off the 2nd half. Won back by Walsham Le Willows, Brind making ground up the right squared into Brame holds it up can’t turn sees Klimcke central the ball played back to her shoots from distance the 30 yarder caught by Adams. Sharp coming forwards left side on for Crabtree, Sandlan defending up against her.

Walsham Le Willows, Zoe Klimcke

Giles getting forwards more no for Brantham, support from Elmes tries to get forwards Klimcke sliding in to win the ball back for Walsham Le Willows. Pratt with the ball on into Brame backing in holding onto it spots Hanratty breaking into space on her left plays the pass out to her, Peters central sprints out towards her covering the ground to lunge in with a boot to put the ball away for the throw. Walsham Le Willows make a 2nd change Kirsty Pollard coming on for Long, joins Brame up front in attack.

Walsham Le Willows, Steph Hanratty

Dunnett gets the ball under control bringing it forwards on for Sharp, the winger winning the home side a corner. A high delivery into the box won and cleared by Ellis. Klimcke brings down Giles wide on the right a free-kick in a good crossing position for Dunnett, aims for Leeks making a run near side, can’t quite get her head on the ball, Walsham Le Willows attempt the counter attack, Giles stopping the threat building on the left. Walsham Le Willows with a 3rd substitution Katie Grimwood on for Cocksedge.

Brantham Athletic Ladies captain. Lucy Dunnett

Hutchings coming deeper to pick up the ball has Prime running past her on the right on the overlap, the ball played on Grimwood with Prime to her right, Crabtree closing in on her left does well to prevent the two linking up and getting through on goal. Leeks winning the ball at the back as Walsham Le Willows look to play in Pollard, the ball coming back to Brame she shoots from distance the strike lacking power easy for Adams.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Becky Prime

Pratt wins Walsham Le Willows a corner as she volleys a ball into the area from the left. The delivery into the centre of the box cleared out to the left, picked up by Hanratty her ball fired back into the box out wide across the goal. 20 minutes left on the clock. Hutchings springing the offside trap once more the ball forwards bouncing a one on one with the keeper as Osborne comes out to the edge of the box, stays big as Hutchings connects with the ball the goalkeeper making the blocking save with her legs the ball still alive running out wide right Hutchings after it so to the keeper does enough to put Hutchings off as the striker looks to wrap her foot around the shot. The resulting corner coming to nothing.

GOAL! Moments later and Brantham do get a 3rd goal Hutchings involved again turns her marker brilliantly high up the pitch in behind running with the ball down the right channel, is a stroke of fortune next as she looks to find Crabtree making the run into the box left side the ball across the D missed by all 3 Walsham Le Willows defenders tracking back, through them all onto Crabtree she shoots low as Osborne gets down low to her right gets something on the ball but not enough to take it wide of the goal as Crabtree celebrates her first goal for Brantham this season.

Elmes on the ball for Brantham slides it through for Hutchings onside, Osborne with a high starting position to it first to kick clear top of her area. Hutchings looking to get away right side again Klimcke sliding in to make the challenge… stops on the ground clearly in alot of pain in front of the Brantham dugout they are quick to have play halted, Klimcke is in alot of pain looks like a knee injury a lengthy pause and rightly so, both sides aiding, a stretcher is brought out, it’s never nice to see Klimcke can’t continue. Cocksedge returning to the pitch.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Lucy Elmes

Dunnett driving on with the ball out to Sharp now on the right side playing the ball on into the area is intercepted by Ellis. Giles on the overlap past Sharp receiving the pass sends a cross into the area headed behind for the corner. A tripe change for Brantham, Hutchings, Leeks and Peters all off on came Toni Mott, Merlin Watson, Hollie Murray. Into the final 5 minutes Walsham Le Willows win a corner off a set-piece a low ball driven into the area Brantham scramble it away.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Jodie Sharp

GOAL! At the death Brantham counter and grab a 4th goal Sharp playing through the middle now runs onto a clearance into the Walsham Le Willows half running with the ball closing in on the area, Osborne coming out to close the angle commits to the dive Sharp playing the ball around her left of goal gets a shot away scoring before Ellis can catch her 4-0. The last action of the game Brantham ending strong making it 3 wins from 3.

Full time Brantham Athletic Ladies 4-0 Walsham Le Willows Ladies

Brantham go 3rd in the table one of 3 sides still with a 100% record have played a game less than Needham Market and East Bergholt. Started the game well an early lead adding a 2nd late in the 2nd half felt they were the better side 2nd half and got the 3rd goal the 4th coming at the death. Created more chances to score. Walsham Le Willows suffering there 1st loss of the season did well the get back at their opponents after conceding early the 2nd goal making things harder needed to pull it back to 2-1 to get themselves back into the game didn’t Brantham getting that all important 3rd goal.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, there were a few notable performances out on the field this afternoon. For Walsham Le Willows, Zoe Klimcke was excellent covering alot of ground winning some vital tackles. Cruel to see her injured like she was and I am hoping it’s not too serious and wish her a speedy recovery. Shannon Giles and Lucy Dunnett for Brantham along with Jodie Sharp on the wing but for her performance up front scoring the 2nd goal and setting up 2 more today’s Player of the Match award goes to Kirsten Hutchings.

An enjoyable trip to Suffolk good to catch up with both sides after so long, my thanks to both for helping me out with the squad details. It’s going to be interesting in Suffolk this season and I’m looking forwards to seeing how it all unfolds.