The Round-Up – FAWNL 02/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd September

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

The sunny weather returning at the start of September, the FAWNL takes a weekend off from the league as all it’s member clubs face-off in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The victors going on to play for the Cup proper the losing sides going on to contest the Plate.

15 of those ties featuring clubs playing in the Southern Premier Division or South East Division One on Sunday. Plenty of goals scored too. Billericay Town Ladies newcomers to the FAWNL the biggest winners as they scored double figures to progress to the Cup proper winning at home to South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Ladies. Karissa Rodney and Samantha Pittock both scoring a hat-trick each for Billericay. Jay Blackie bagged herself a brace, with a goal each for Zoe Rushen and Hayley Piggott in a 10-1 demolition

Crawley Wasps Ladies newcomers to FAWNL South East Division One with Billericay Town Ladies were also big winners in the Determining Round, taking on Ipswich Town Women at home for the 2nd time in 2 weeks having beaten the Suffolk side 5-1 on the opening day of the season. Sian Heather setting the ball rolling with the opening goal for Crawley in the 14th minute. Kemina Webber and Megan Stow scoring within 3 minutes of each other mid-way through the first half to put the hosts 3-0, Faye Rabson and Webber with her 2nd of the match adding a further 2 goals late in the first period to put Crawley in full control of the game with a 5-0 half-time lead. Closing in on the final quarter hour of the game Charlotte Cooper scored to make it 6-0, with Naomi Cole and Stow with her 2nd of the game scoring at the death the seal an 8-0 win.

It was the East Anglian derby on Sunday the men’s sides meeting at Portman Road, Ipswich Town Women suffering a heavy defeat their East Anglian rivals Norwich City Ladies fared little better away to Southern Premier Division side Coventry United Ladies. Amy Wathan a new signing for Coventry from Yeovil Town Ladies lobbed the keeper on 9 minutes to score her first goal for the club. Wathan adding a 2nd goal heading the ball in to make it 2-0 with Amber Hughes on hand to make it 3-0 soon after. A 3-0 advantage at half-time. Jade Brooks getting amongst the goals to make it 4-0 in the 2nd half, Wathan went on to score her 3rd and complete a hat-trick. Hughes grabbing another goal, Marie Gauntlett also getting her name on the score sheet at the final whistle to send Coventry on into the Cup proper with a 7-0 victory.

Southern Premier Division joint leaders, Loughborough Foxes Women continued their fine start to the season with a home win over South East Division One side, Denham United Ladies on Sunday to progress to the opening round of the FAWNL Cup. Eva Rogers scoring the goal midway through the first period to hand Loughborough the lead at half-time. Laura Dexter made it 2-0 just after the restart. Charlotte Cooper with her 4th goal of the season scoring to make it 3-0 in the final 20 minutes. Shauna Chambers also getting a goal for Loughborough to see them win 4-0.

The FAWNL Cup Determining Round is were this Sunday’s action came from on Women’s Football East a trip to Mildenhall Town FC the home of Cambridge United WFC to see the South East Division One side take on Southern Premier Division side C&K Basildon Ladies. A much changed line-up for last season’s Southern Premier Division runner’s up a new era at the club a squad made up largely of last season Southern/South East Reserves league champions. Cambridge have several new signings themselves and hit the ground running a high tempo game right from the start, the hosts creating chances finding space the goal coming in the 20th minute to put Cambridge into the lead. Amber Cantwell’s superb pass forwards finding captain Kelly Blanchflower in space on the right she shot from the top of the area sending the ball over the keeper to score.

Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard

1-0 the advantage at the break, C&K Basildon pressed looking for a reply Cambridge you felt needed a 2nd goal and it came early on with club captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt nodding the ball in from close range from a corner to make it 2-0 with her 2nd goal of the season. Space opening up as C&K Basildon searched for a reply Danielle Sillitoe coming closest with a long range strike that struck the upright. Cambridge having further chances too winning the game 2-0. For the full match report click on the following link https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-343/

Portsmouth FC Women leading the Southern Premier Division were at home in the Determining Round taking on another side with a winning start to the season local rivals Chichester City Ladies. Helen Ogle with the goal in the opening minute to put the visitors into the lead. Shannon Albuery bringing the scores level for Portsmouth with 7 minutes left to play in the first half. Chichester restoring their lead before the half-time whistle as Jade Widdows found the back of the net. A 2nd half brace for Chloe Melton putting Chichester into a strong position leading 4-1 going into the final quarter hour. Sarah Eadon pulling it back to 4-2 with five minutes left, not enough Portsmouth entering the FAWNL Plate.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies met fellow promoted side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies away from home in the Southern Premier Division, Plymouth winning the encounter 4-3. Now the sides met again 2 weeks later in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, Milton Keynes Dons making the long trip down to the South West. Natasha Knapman who scored all 4 of Plymouth’s goal in their opening day victory set the ball rolling putting Plymouth into the lead on 5 minutes. Amber Pollock doubling the lead midway through the first half a goal from Kayley Lane in the closing minute of the first half putting Plymouth into a 3-0 lead. Milton Keynes Dons responded early 2nd half to bring it back to 3-1. Rebecca Dandridge restoring Plymouth’s 3 goal cushion within a matter of minutes. Milton Keynes Dons once again pulling a goal back on 64 minutes it wasn’t enough as Plymouth secured the win. Kerry Newman and Kim Farrow with the Milton Keynes Dons goals.

A first victory of the season for Queens Park Rangers Women as they won at home in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup against fellow Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday. Courtney Ward-Chambers giving QPR the lead 20 minutes into the match. Leading 1-0 Sue Kumaning struck to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes left to play. Gillingham pulling it back to 2-1 straight away the nerves weren’t settled until the closing minute with Ward-Chambers on target for her 2nd of the game to secure a 3-1 win.

Ellie Noble scored two fantastic goals in each half for Oxford United Women to see theCardiff Southern Premier Division side through to the FAWNL Cup proper on Sunday were away taking on South East Division One side Actonians Ladies who have now started the season with three losses. Good news though as last season’s top scorer Alessandra Barreca was back with a goal in the closing minutes to pull Actonians back into the match in the final 5 minutes, Oxford going on to win 2-1.

A 2-1 away victory too for Watford FC Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side taking on South West Division One side Poole Town Ladies. The score 1-1 at half-time, Faye Rolfe-Hawkins on target with the goal for Poole. Linda Afuakwah getting Watford’s goal. It was unfortunately an own goal that settled the match second half in favour of Watford.

Cardiff City Ladies from the Southern Premier Division were away to South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. Goals from Cori Williams, Nadia Lawrence and Kelly Issac in the opening 22 minutes putting Cardiff well on the way to victory Grace Horrell adding a 4th goal to Cardiff’s tally early in the 2nd half as the welsh side went on to win the tie 4-1.

South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled down to the South Coast on Sunday to play South West Division One side Southampton Saints in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The sides heading for extra-time with the score still 0-0 heading into the final five minutes, captain Jess Trimnell grabbing the winning goal for AFC Wimbledon with 3 minutes left on the clock to send the visitors home with the win.

A tough start to the season for Luton Town Ladies losing their opening two league matches were hosting South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies this Sunday in the Determining Round. Annie Martin putting the visitors into the lead scoring with half an hour played. Luton pulled the scores level to go in 1-1 at half-time Nicola Henman with the goal. Amy Leach scored early in the 2nd half to put Cheltenham back in front with Martin scoring her 2nd of the game in the final 20 minutes to send Cheltenham into the FAWNL Cup proper.

South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC, were away in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday playing South West Division One side, Swindon Town Ladies. Goals from Lisa Fulgence, Hayley Barton and Danielle Griffiths putting Leyton Orient 3-0 up at half-time. Sophie Le Marchand added a 4th goal with Fulgence adding another goal in a 5-1 win. Abby Picton with the Swindon goal midway through the 2nd half.

Last but not least another South West, South East Division One clash with Chesham United Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies in the Determining Round. The sides level at half-time the score 1-1. Tia Bailey with Enfield’s goal in the 25th minute. Sara Degooye adding a 2nd goal for Enfield with 15 minutes left the winning goals coming at the death for the visitors as Enfield ran out 4-2 winners in the end, Degooye with her 2nd of the game on 87 minutes, Molly Peters striking in the 90th minute. Niamh Euman and Gemma Fraser with the goals in each half for Chesham.

The competition line-up settled, be it in the FAWNL Cup or Plate everyone still with a chance to contest for silverware. Details of both draws to announced shortly.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v C&K Basildon Ladies

Sunday 2nd September

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

The sun has made a welcome return for the start of September as the FAWNL Cup begins with it’s traditional Determining Round all the FAWNL sides contesting the winners going on to compete for the Cup the losing sides going on to play for the Plate. A trip to Mildenhall Town FC this Sunday, the home of South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Premier Division side, C&K Basildon Ladies.

The FAWNL the new name for the league known as the National League now as a pose the previously being called the FAWPL (Premier League) the format of the leagues still the same two ‘Premier’ Divisions, Northern and Southern and four regional Division One’s, South East, South West, Midlands and Northern. 72 sides in all. Alot of changes in regards to the teams within following the restructure and new licences issued to clubs joining the FAWSL. Player movement on the whole has been at it’s highest levels too this close season.

Cambridge United WFC amongst those that have brought in several new faces which include Vicky Neal who has played for Watford FC Ladies whilst they were in FAWSL 2. Attacker Becky Shephard who has scored plenty of goals at every club she’s been at rising through the women’s football pyramid was at ERWFL Premier Division side, Royston Town Ladies last season. Kelly Bingham joins having played for the likes of Watford and MK Dons previously. Steph Gale has 8 years playing experience in the USA, was at Luton Town Ladies for a spell last season. Abi Davies enjoyed a good season with Histon Ladies last campaign. Emily Smith from Peterborough United Ladies and Albany Hodgson with King’s Lynn Town Ladies will also be looking to progress.

Cambridge’s reserves squad will be playing in the FAWNL Southern/South East Reserves league this coming season. The First team has started the season well unbeaten in their opening two league games a draw and a win against AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC who were both in the hunt for the title last season.

A whole new era for C&K Basildon Ladies, the Essex side making a rapid rise through the leagues, achieved their highest ever finish last season, runners-up to Charlton Athletic Women in the FAWPL Southern Premier Division. For all that time the club has been well supported financially by Peter King, whose passion for the side saw it become one of the leading forces for women’s football in Essex. Peter King has now retired and this signals a new beginning for C&K Basildon Ladies, not that Peter won’t be around.

Gone is manager Steve Tilson and almost all of the 1st team squad from last season. A new side, players brought in the emphasis very much on youth. A good base for this is last season’s Development squad that won the FAWPL Southern/South East Reserves league last season. Les Thompson managing that side is joined Luke Pierre in managing the new look team. Alex Bailess handed the captain’s armband. Courtney Clarke is the latest addition to the squad the former Writtle forward adding a goal threat up front. Two big losses to begin the new league campaign against Portsmouth and Cardiff a team that has to hit the ground running alot to ask, but confidence is high within the squad that is getting to grips with what the management team is asking of them.

The FAWNL Cup Determining Round a distraction from the league clubs have approached it in various ways in the past, with no one knocked at this stage, and ending up playing for the Plate is no less important, silverware is silverware just as Lewes FC Women and West Ham United Women.

Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s match, been here several times before but for anyone who hasn’t it is distinctive for its sloped pitch from one goal mouth to the other. An immaculate playing surface too offering plenty of width. New dugouts a clubhouse beside the pitch. A contrast from last Sunday, raining everywhere, today the sun is high in a clear blue sky.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Kelly Bingham, Amy Howlett, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Emma Jenkins, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Holly Northfield, Faith Hewitt & Mollie Coupar.

C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Chelsea Hinz, Grace Gillard, Danielle Sillitoe, Nicola Moore, Alex Bailess (C), Madelyn Thomas, Sophie Rhodes, Gemma Abela, Katie Whitehead, Courtney Clarke & Ella Tooley. Subs – Jodie Osborne & Madelene Wright.

It’s Cambridge to get the game underway attacking up the slope in the 1st half, Vicky Neal out and Emma Jenkins on the bench, Fran Gough and Abi Davies make up the right side of the defence for today’s game. Wearing their home colours amber shirts with black shorts and socks. Basildon have a few players unavailable for the match themselves, are kitted out in an all blue kit. The ball played up the left by Becky Shephard her through ball gives Basildon goalkeeper Chelsea Hinz an early claim inside her box.

At the other end Cambridge goalkeeper, Savannah Smith is quick to race out of her box clear the threat as Basildon build with pace on the right Courtney Clarke looking to play the ball on for Ella Tooley trying to break in behind. The game has started at a quick pace Cambridge attack Gale coming to the halfway line to receive the ball tries to get Kelley Blanchflower away into the right channel, Hinz reaching the ball first. The ball fired into the Cambridge area from the left a deep cross, Kayleigh-Anne Burt clears for a throw on the left. Katie Whitehead and Gemma Abela combine from the throw-in Whitehead sending a cross into the area claimed by Smith.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Sophie Rhodes

Despite the heat both sides are attacking the ball, pressing time to settle at a premium, Nicola Moore breaking up a Cambridge forward move the ball played out to Whitehead on the left, her pass forwards cutting open the Cambridge defence no one there to attack the ball as Fran Gough sweeps the ball away. A hopeful effort from Alex Bailess a long way out on the left side falls wide of Smith’s far post.

C&K Basildon Ladies captain, Alex Bailess

Davies with a great ball forwards causes problems for the Basildon defence as Steph Gale strong outwits her marker and getting free for a shot on the edge of the box can’t open up her body enough to curl the ball in on target as it spins out of play for a goalkick. Cambridge are beginning to build some momentum Davies able to get ahead of the attackers to put a cross in sees her initial effort blocked by Grace Gillard the ball coming back out to Amy Howlett wide on the wing a dangerous ball flighted high into the box, Hinz is able to claim it high without challenge on her goal line.

Basildon have tried it a couple of times already and this time it almost comes off as they build on the right Clarke deeper playing the ball through for Tooley running clear can reach it just before the onrushing Smith can close her down outside the area, lobbing the keeper is always a heart-stopping moment when the ball goes over the keeper, turning though Smith sees Tooley’s effort sail over her crossbar.

Kelly Bingham is reading the game well in the middle of the park, Basildon are looking to attack quickly the midfielder breaking up play setting Cambridge up for an attack of their own. The ball played forwards is retrieved by Gale on the touchline left side of the area, time to place her cross Blanchflower is making a good near post run, the ball coming into her, closely marked by Gillard the Basildon defender does brilliantly to deny the chance.

Blanchflower and Gale are looking a threat up top for Cambridge linking up well both searching for pockets of space to run into, combine on the right as they bring the ball forwards a one two on the corner of the area Gale’s cross in sliced lands in the side netting. Clarke hasn’t had much opportunity to get into the box for Basildon early on does so as the visitors have a throw in the left the cross fired into her left side a good first touch to evade her marker half a yard for a shot on target but straight down Smith’s throat.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell

Now my handwriting is abysmal at the best of times but today it’s suffering badly no sooner has one attack finished the ball is down the other end, high tempo Cambridge get a corner, Amber Cantwell over the ball a great delivery long dropping at the far post Gale I think gets something on the ball to divert it goalwards from inside the six yard box Basildon though have numbers back somehow they keep the ball out. Basildon break on the left, Whitehead with Tooley inside her have Davies outnumbered the right back reading the situation perfectly to cut it Whitehead’s intended through ball. A free-kick almost in the corner right side for Basildon the ball stood up across goal Smith goes to glove it away misses as does Clarke jumping unmarked behind her.

GOAL! 20 minutes played and Cambridge take the lead it’s Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park with a fantastic diagonal pass to send Blanchflower clear on the right shooting from the top of the area sends the ball up over Hinz to drop into the back of the net 1-0.

Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard

Basildon press the ball Madelyn Thomas getting clear in the middle to play the ball on for Tooley in attack 25 yards from goal Abela is close by given the ball she takes on the shot a curling effort that falls wide of the goalpost. Cambridge are looking the stronger of the two sides Shephard, Cantwell and Howlett through the middle all looking to support Blanchflower and Gale in attack. Cantwell drifting into space on the right sees her cross deflect of Gillard favourably for Hinz to claim in the box.

Howlett with a diagonal ball out to Shephard on the left on with the ball swings in a cross Blanchflower attacking it far post her header downwards taking the ball wide of the upright. Bailess comes left to intercept as Blanchflower looks to run clear on the right. Cambridge press the attack Shephard’s cross almost headed in off a Basildon head as the clearance is made but an offside flag would have saved the day.

Bingham bringing the ball on looks to combine with Blanchflower and Gale, Basildon getting numbers back, as Moore clears the ball. Gillard defends well nipping in between Blanchflower and Gale on the right as they look to get into the area. A few tackles coming in but nothing malicious such is the high tempo of the contest. Howlett sliding in on Bailess one such example but little complaint from either side.

Tackles, Cambridge’s Amy Howlett slides in to win the ball from Alex Bailess

Cantwell with an ambitious effort all of 40 yards out perhaps intended for Gale left of the D the striker dummies letting the ball run on towards goal, Hinz though has time to set herself to gather cleanly inside her six yard box. Cantwell is upended inside the Basildon half top of the circle picks herself up to take a god delivery into the box Cambridge have runners one connects with the ball Blanchflower I think but the effort is over so she might say it was somebody else.

One last attack in the first half for Basildon Gillard getting down the left to support Whitehead, getting her return ball the full back sends a cross in deep towards Clarke, outside the area right of the D good control the attacker spins into the shot, her low effort seeing Smith produce an excellent save diving to her left to push the ball away from goal then scramble to smother the ball.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

A narrow lead for the lower league side at the break, Cambridge go into the dressing room 1-0 to the good following Blanchflower’s 20th minute strike. Have been the better side pressing the ball all over the pitch ad finding space to exploit. Bingham breaking up attacks regularly in the middle. Basildon have worked hard themselves high tempo looking to get the ball into their attacking players whenever they can just haven’t found the room on the the wings Cambridge have. Still with such a narrow lead Basildon are far from out of it and you feel Cambridge need another goal to press home their advantage.

Needed to retreat to the shade 2nd half or risk becoming a lobster so to the stands on the opposite side, sheltering from the rain last Sunday I suppose I shouldn’t complain. No changes for either side during the interval, Basildon to get thing’s underway attacking up the slope. The visitors making ground on the left Whitehead getting a throw in. Whitehead does well to get a cross into the area high at the far post Burt gets her head on it and knocking the ball up does well defensively as Clarke puts pressure on her getting the ball out to Shephard to launch clear.

Strength shown by Blanchflower in attack as play s stretched Basildon players caught up-field as the ball is driven forwards at pace along the ground 25 yards out robs the Basildon defence and heads for goal left side Hinz comes to close the angle sliding saves with her legs as Blanchflower unleashes a shot saved the rebound comes to Gale central, little time to adjust sends her effort over.

C&K Basildon Ladies goalkeeper, Chelsea Hinz

A free-kick for the home side as Bennett is fouled coming forwards, wide on the left Shephard rises to head the ball down top of the area, on for Gale, she can’t shake off Bailess as she aims to take a shot from the top of the area, the Basildon captain having none of it. Is a big pitch and with so much put into the contest first half more space is opening up. Clarke strong on the right side for Basildon tries to power her way forwards Bingham getting across to support Bennett and Burt.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas, looks to get away from Cambridge’s Abi Davies

Whitehead attacking left side has a throw moves into the area herself as the cross is played into her tries to drag the ball under her feet turn into a shot Cambridge defend close quarters the ball coming to Thomas at the top of the D, takes on the shot slices her effort wide across the Cambridge goal. Smith is called into action racing out to close Tooley down on the right side of her box as the attacker looks to burst in on Clarke’s forward pass, the goalkeeper sliding in to make the vital touch. Gale finds herself free on the right space to run into fires in a dangerous ball full of pace across the Basildon goal, Blanchflower attacking it but excellent defending from Moore the ball out for a corner.

Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Savannah Smith

GOAL! Cambridge get the goal they needed taking a 2-0 lead in the match 10 minutes into the 2nd the ball to be played in from the left into a crowded six yard box. Gale central gets her head on the ball turns it goalwards the ball is scrambled off the line but far from safety as players from both sides go for it the ball popping up kindly for Burt at the near post, Cambridge United’s club captain heading home from close range for her 2nd goal of the season.

The scorer of Cambridge United WFC’s 2nd goal. Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Cambridge are looking strong in attack Shephard bringing the ball on down the left plays the ball inside to Blanchflower, twice she takes on the shot, both times the Basildon defence block. A corner won taken short up the line the ball swung into the area Hinz claims it well under pressure as Burt closes her down at the near post. Davies sends the ball out to Gale moving right coming inside the attack the area Moore stands up well against her to win the ball. Cambridge are enjoying a dominant spell Basildon have let their heads drop a little.

Gough defends inside her area as Clarke coming left with the ball looks to play Whitehead on on goal. Getting forwards down the left Shephard is tackled b Rhodes before she can line up the cross. Howlett comes forwards with the ball for Cambridge into space before setting up Blanchflower for a shot inside the box coming in from the right, Hinz saving well at her near post conceding the corner, a long delivery from the right goes all the way out to the left before being played back in towards the near post Hinz running in to catch the ball low.

Basildon keep attacking when they can get the ball forwards, Clarke looking the most likely to make something happen as she and Tooley drift across to the left side of the Cambridge area as Whitehead surges forwards with the ball at her feet on the left her pass inside finding Clarke positioned just outside the area, she aims to set up Tooley for a shot, Cantwell back in the box defending intercepts launching the ball out of the ground for what must be the dozenth time. (was Cantwell every time mind you).

Cambridge make the first change of the game, Gale the player coming off, Mollie Coupar the player coming on Shephard switching to the right. Clarke coming deeper for the ball powers on through the middle moving left the pass played on for Whitehead playing off the shoulder of Davies at right back strong cuts inside and despite being challenged gets a shot away from the top of the area her low drive held by Smith. Bailess takes on a very ambitious lob from distance with Smith well off her line and backpedalling Smith isn’t sure where its going to land until it lands behind her goal.

Cambridge’s Abi Davies with C&K Basildon’s Katie Whitehead

Gillard gets her head on the ball as Howlett runs into the space vacated by Shephard on the right as she takes the ball inside before laying it off for Blanchflower who has seen Howlett’s run. A vital header by the defender. Cambridge are getting a little sloppy giving the ball away Basildon are pushing on are leaving space in behind now but can sense they might get a goal back. The visitors with a free-kick wide on the right players forwards into the box, Tooley near post the target Burt defending well for Cambridge.

Basildon hit the woodwork a fantastic strike from distance on the right side as Thomas allowed time on the ball lays the pass across the Sillitoe on the right hits it well racing in across the Cambridge goal throwing herself at it Smith is beaten, the ball cannoning off the woodwork. Basildon press the ball high up the pitch a free-kick won on the left 30 yards from goal a chance for Abela to play it in the delivery long to the far post is unchallenged runs out of play.

With Basildon attacking in force as the game nears the end Cambridge have the opportunity to hit them on the counter the ball won on the left played on for Coupar making a run into the area gets her shot up over the keeper as she comes sliding in to close her down, the attempt fired over the bar. A 2nd change for Cambridge Howlett the player coming off, on comes Gabrielle Whitehurst into the midfield.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Courtney Clarke

Clarke on the ball right side takes on the shot from all of 30 yards her effort bouncing harmlessly wide of the Cambridge goal. Clarke with energy to take on the Cambridge defence late on in the match fires a cross in from the top of the area a favourable deflection off a Cambridge defender almost sends it into the path of Whitehead clear at the far post but she cannot get a touch on the ball. One last effort to pull a goal back Basildon pushing Cambridge back Bennett is adjudged to have handled the ball (just) outside the area central inside the D the ball is placed Clarke on it goes for goal on target Smith is right behind it.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

A 2-0 win for Cambridge they advance to enter the FAWNL Cup proper C&K Basildon will now contest for the Plate. A fast paced game especially first half, everyone pressing the ball little time given in possession affected the quality somewhat but nevertheless highly entertaining. I watch the game once and can pick the tempo right up again with my notes it felt like I was writing this at a higher tempo too. Cambridge were the better side deserved the win but certainly needed the 2nd goal. Basildon never lost faith kept attacking rather than settle deep and defend at all costs credit to them, will grow as a team. Need to get a win under their belts to bolster the confidence. Cambridge

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is a relatively straight forwards affair looked good in attack players getting forwards to support Gale and Blanchflower. It was central midfield however where they had their linchpin new signing Kelly Bingham breaking up a tremendous amount of Basildon attacks which ultimately prevented the visitors getting forwards with the numbers they would have liked.

Am enjoying the start to the season another enjoyable match report to write-up. My thanks to both sides for the team details and Les Thompson and Luke Pierre of C&K Basildon Ladies for taking the time to chat before the match.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 26/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th August

FA Women’s Cup

An early start to the season for a number of clubs with this years FA Women’s Cup seeing a record number of entrants meaning a Preliminary Round that featured 53 ties across the country including 6 involving teams in the East. There were a few casualties though due to the early start and it also being a Bank Holiday weekend getting a team together a challenge. Wymondham Town Ladies advancing through to First Round Qualifying without kicking a ball with there opponents Moulton Ladies withdrawing. That saved them getting a soaking however as the whole of the region was experiencing heavy rain come kick-off time Sunday afternoon.

Preliminary Round

Of the 5 ties in the Preliminary Round that were played in the East, Beccles Town Ladies were one of the lowest ranked sides making their debut in the competition, this time last season they hadn’t even kicked a competitive ball. Now they were at home taking on Essex Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies. It was to the Suffolk where Women’s Football East headed to watch the game. The promised rain arrived at kick-off and was persistent throughout. A slow start, Beccles centre backs cutting out Chelmsford’s forward passes, up the other end a shot flashing across the face of goal, was goalless at the break.

Georgia James on the attack for Chelmsford City Ladies

Chelmsford started the 2nd period lively attackers Georgia James and Lisa Overall moving around well to try and stretch the Beccles defence and the pair combined early on to hand Chelmsford the lead James on the left delivering a perfect cross to Overall making a near post run a deft header sending the ball over the keeper into the back of the net. Beccles had chances to draw level whilst their goalkeeper Chloe Pearce kept them in it at the other end including saving from the penalty spot in the closing minutes. Chelmsford getting the narrow win will face ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies at home in next weekend First Round Qualifying match. The link to the full match report can be found by clicking on the following link https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-342/

Elsewhere in the FA Women’s Cup Preliminary Round, St Ives Town Ladies were at home taking on Corby Town Ladies. Having gotten off to a great start in the league St Ives Town expected a tougher test this time around and so it proved with the game heading all the way to extra-time the sides goalless after 90 minutes. The winning goal scored in extra-time and it was St Ives Town celebrating as Katie Stancombe struck her first goal of the season to send the hosts through and another tough tie in First Round Qualifying at home against Peterborough United Ladies this coming Sunday.

It was the first competitve match of the season for both Royston Town Ladies and Hertford Town Ladies as they were drawn together in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup. Royston playing in the ERWFL Premier Division hosting Division One, Hertford the higher league side proving too strong with 3 players all opening their season with a brace, Francesca Smithers, Hayley Elderd and Joanne Rutherford on her return to Royston. Samantha Edgar also claiming a goal for Royston in a 7-1 win. Royston will now be away to Bishops Stortford Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.

A good run in the FA Women’s Cup for Newmarket Town Ladies last season dispatching 2 higher league sides before being stopped by Wymondham Town Ladies in extra-time. Newly promoted to the ERWFL themselves this season Newmarket faced a tough test in the Preliminary Round drawn at home against Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side doing the business to progress, Charlotte Gillies and Carla Penny with the goals in each half to secure the win. Cambridge City will now be at home to Riverside Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.

The last tie featuring sides from the East in the Preliminary Round was an all Essex affair with Frontiers Ladies from the Essex Women’s Premier Division hosting ERWFL Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies. The higher league side progressing with Georgia Holdaway following up her opening day brace with a hat-trick this Sunday to move her onto 5 goals already this season. Leah Cowan returning to the Brentwood side following a lengthy sell out with injury last season was also on target for her 1st goal of the season in a 4-0 win. Brentwood will now be at home against Harlow Town Ladies in First Round Qualifying on Sunday.

The draw for First Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sun 2nd September featuring sides in the East is as follows –

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Northampton Town Ladies

St Ives Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Roade Ladies

Kettering Town Ladies v Acle United Women

Cambridge City Ladies v Riverside Ladies

Histon Ladies v Thrapston Town Ladies

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Corringham Cosmos v Bungay Town Ladies

Brentwood Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies

Chelmsford City Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

AFC Dunstable Ladies v Watford Ladies Development

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Royston Town Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies

The Round-Up – ERWFL 26/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th August

ERWFL Premier Division

The ERWFL games probably had one thing in common this Bank Holiday Sunday, it was wet! Rain sweeping in across the East for the afternoon. A shortened fixture list as a few sides were involved in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup which I shall get on with in a little while but 6 games across both the Premier and Division One to bring you first.

A perfect start to the season for Acle United Women who lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start the season and have now scored 11 without reply too. Were at home for the 2nd successive Sunday this time taking on Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies. Acle getting off to a flyer at the start of the game were 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Grace Birchall setting thing’s rolling with the opening goal on 5 minutes. Birchall adding another goal to her tally 7 minutes later, Naomi Cooper bringing up the 3rd goal on 15 minutes before being forced off with injury. A 3-0 lead for Acle at the break in terrible weather they held their lead adding a further goal in the 2nd half through defender Anna Larkins to win the game 4-0.

Colney Heath Ladies had a tough first season in the ERWFL Premier Division last season finishing bottom albeit with 3 withdrawals No wins to there name then either a much better start this time around as they begin their season having been involved in FA Women’s Cup action the weekend before with a solid home win over relegated Haringey Borough Women. Goals from Sophie Joseph and Nicola Hollick seeing Colney Heath leading 2-0 at half-time. Hollick with her 2nd of the game making it 3-0 at the start of the 2nd half. Lucy Hancock getting in on the goals scoring action to bring up 4-0. Sophie Joseph sending home a free-kick for her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. Charlotte Grogan firing in a 30 yarder to see Colney Heath win the game 6-0 and that following on from a 7-0 win in the cup the weekend before.

Harlow Town Ladies won their first ever game in the ERWFL Premier Division 5-2 at home on the opening day of the season. Were at home too this Bank Holiday Sunday taking on Bedford Ladies who had drawn their opening game of the season. The visitors having the better of the 1st half were leading 2-0 at the break with Catalina Costas scoring both of Bedford’s goals. Harlow though were to mount a comeback 2nd half to take a share of the points Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe both on target with a goal each to see the game finish 2-2.

ERWFL Division One

3 games too played in ERWFL Division One on Bank Holiday Sunday, 2 sides winning their opening two matches to lead the table. Stevenage Ladies Reserves followed an opening day 5-0 away win against Bishops Stortford Ladies with a win at home against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who themselves had also won on the opening day. With just the bare 11 available Stevenage had to work hard for the 3 points, goals from Katherine Calvert and Daniela Martucci the difference as Stevenage ran out 2-0 winners.

Also starting their season with 2 successive victories are Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on the road again followed their 2-1 win against newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies with another 3 points at Bishops Stortford Ladies. Kealy Farley on target with the opening goal to put Bowers & Pitsea ahead in the 12th minute. Bishops Stortford were back on level term 10 minutes later Rebekah Coppen with their goal. Back came Bowers & Pitsea retaking the lead with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Abbie Simmonds finding the back of the net. An own goal coming late in the half to put the visitors 3-1 up. Ebony Moore with a goal midway through the 2nd half to secure a 4-1 victory for Bowers & Pitsea.

Lawford Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL started the season with a heavy defeat to fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day of the season. Bounced back this Sunday to claim their 1st victory. At home the Essex side were taking on Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies. Goals at either end of the 1st half from Jasmine Cox and Daisy Canny seeing Lawford leading 2-0 at half-time. Histon eventually scoring what would prove to be consolation goal through Katie Webb.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 26/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th August

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

August Bank Holiday weekend saw the 2nd round of league fixtures across the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and South East Division One with newly promoted sides leading the way in both divisions after Sunday’s results. A wet afternoon across the whole of the East very few if any games avoided a drenching.

Loughborough Foxes Women lead the way in the Southern Premier Division jointly with Portsmouth FC Women, making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. Last season’s Midlands Division One Champions were away to former FAWSL 2 side Watford Ladies on Sunday. Rebecca Knight heading Loughborough into the lead in the 22nd minute. Kate Lowder with a strike from the edge of the box making it 2-0 to the visitors 6 minutes later. 2-0 the lead at the break, Watford were far from out of the game chances for both sides 2nd half Leanne Bell pulled it back to 2-1 inside the final 15 minutes for Watford, just 2 minutes later though Loughborough countered to restore their 2 goal cushion, Charlotte Cooper on as a 2nd half substitute making it 3-1, a result that sees Loughborough lead a three-way tie at the top on 6 points.

Goal difference and goals scored identical after 2 matches played Portsmouth FC Women match Loughborough with 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on the South Coast were taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. The sides looked to be going in goalless at the half-time interval until Gillingham broke the deadlock scoring from a free kick late on, Maddison Chamney-Farrand with the goal. Portsmouth were quick out of the blocks 2nd half with Shannon Albuery levelling the scores with a minute played. Portsmouth then went on to take the lead in the 58th minute Katie James on the scoresheet. Jade Bradley striking from long distance to make it 3-1 to Portsmouth 5 minutes later. Daisy McLachlan netting in the final 10 minutes to seal a 4-1 victory.

Also making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season are Chichester City Ladies. Travelled west to play newly promoted Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday. Their new signings doing the damage Molly Clark having opened her account for Chichester in their 1st match of the season added a brace to her tally against Plymouth, with Helen Ogle previously with QPR Women also netting her 1st goal for the club in a 3-0 away victory.

A goalless draw for Coventry United Ladies n their opening match of the season away to Gillingham they were once again on the road again this Sunday a shorter journey to Stadium MK to play newly promoted Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Chenise Austin putting Coventry into the lead in the 20th minute. Marie Gauntlett struck to double Coventry’s advantage with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. The result made more comfortable on the hour mark with Lois Jefferies putting the ball in on the rebound after a strike from Marie Gauntlett had come back to her off the post. Coventry move up to 4th with the 3-0 win.

Cardiff City Ladies climb up to 5th in the fledgling Southern Premier Division table with a comfortable 5-0 away win against Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. A strong 1st half for the side from Wales, Kylie Nolan putting Cardiff into the lead inside the opening 2 minutes. A quick fire double from Hannah Miles midway through the 1st half further extended Cardiff’s lead with Cori Williams striking on 40 minutes to see Cardiff leading 4-0 at half-time. Alice Griffiths on target with a goal in the 2nd half to see Cardiff claim their 1st win of season.

A first win of the season to for Oxford United Women away to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday, the former FAWSL 2 side now 6th in the Southern Premier Division table as a result. All the goals coming in the 1st half Georgia Timms putting Oxford into the lead on 27 minutes. Kerry Walklett and Florence Fyfe both on target late in the half to put Oxford in full control.

FAWNL South East Division One

What are the odds of the two sides newly promoted to a league leading the way with 2 wins from 2 each at the start of the season? Long I should imagine but that is the case in FAWNL South East Division One with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies taking maximum points from their opening fixtures.

Billericay started the season with a 3-0 away win at Denham United Ladies. Were at home for the 1st time this Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies who had started with a 5-2 win themselves. The away side short of numbers going into the Bank Holiday weekend fixture just the bare 11. Billericay with a good start Samantha Pittock (who I called Puttock in the Round-Up last time out) handed the Essex side the lead scoring in the opening 5 minutes. Zoe Rushen doubling Billericay’s lead in the 10th minute. Nicole Emmings scored for Stevenage to see them trail 2-1 at the break. 2nd half Billericay took full control Jay Blackie with a brace scoring on 56 & 66 minutes making it 4-1, Pittock adding her 2nd of the game as the last 15 minutes loomed, Lucy Jones with a long range effort into the top corner sealing a 6-1 win in the 82nd minute.

Crawley Wasps Ladies also started the season with 2 wins from 2 but it was a much closer affair this time out away to Enfield Town Ladies. Both sides having started the season with a 5-1 win. For over 80 minutes the two sides had been locked at 0-0, the winning goal coming 6 minutes from time Rachel Palmer sending home a free-kick to send Crawley home with the 3 points.

Cambridge United Women climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with there 1st win of the season away to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A 2nd successive away day to the capital having earned a point away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the opening weekend. Striker Kelley Blanchflower scoring to put Cambridge into the lead late in the 1st half. New signing Becky Shephard opened her Cambridge account lobbing the ball over the keeper from the top of the box to make it 2-0 to the visitors in the 2nd half, with Blanchflower on target again for her 2nd of the game to seal a 3-0 victory.

Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower opened her account with a brace on Sunday

AFC Wimbledon Ladies drawing with Cambridge on the opening day also got their 1st 3 point haul of the season this Sunday, away to Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the match however Rachel Carter with the goal to put Luton 1-0 up. Sophie Manzi getting Wimbledon back on level terms midway through the 1st half, less than 10 minutes later the visitors were in front Sian Wylie finding the back of the net. 2-1 the lead to Wimbledon at the break it wasn’t until 4 minutes from time that the visitors made the 3 points secure Manzi with her 2nd goal of the match sealing the 3-1 win.

A 5-1 loss to newcomers Crawley Wasps Ladies on the opening day of the season Ipswich Town Women bounced back with a fine 2nd half performance to claim their 1st win of the season this time away to Actonians Ladies. It was the home side holding the advantage at half-time however Mariko Eagles getting the goal on the half hour for Actonians. Ipswich responding well Nicole Pannifer levelling the scores for the Suffolk side 20 minutes into the 2nd half just 3 minutes later Ipswich were ahead Zoe Cossey with the strike to make it 2-1. New signing Paige Wakefield previously with C&K Basildon Ladies struck to make it 3-1 to Ipswich with 15 minutes left. Natasha Thomas slotting home from the penalty spot to make it 4-1 to Ipswich in the 78th minute with another summer recruit Laken Ducher-Clarke also from C&K Basildon adding a goal in final moments of the game to secure a 5-1 win.

In the final game to report on from the FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies were denied all 3 points thanks to a late equaliser by visitors Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both sides starting the season with a loss Denham United were to take the lead on 10 minutes with Annie Hewitt getting the visitors goal. Norwich were quick to respond levelling the score less than 5 minutes later, striker Chelsea Garrett sending the ball home to make it 1-0. That the score at the break Norwich went on to take the lead in the game with a little over 10 minutes left to play Garrett on target for her 2nd of the game. The 3 points denied late on however a Denham came back to level the score with just 2 minutes left on the clock, Joanne Torr making it 2-2 to see both sides claim their 1st point of the season.

Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Chelmsford City Ladies

Sunday 26th August

FA Women’s Cup Preliminary Round

An early start to the FA Women’s Cup this season. The Road to Wembley beginning in August with a record number of entrants to the competition that saw 53 ties drawn for the Preliminary Round more than ever before. Women’s Football East travels to Beccles this Sunday to watch one of those new entrants, Beccles Town Ladies take on Essex side, Chelmsford City Ladies.

An early start to the season for several clubs which has led to difficulties in player availability some clubs forced to withdraw. Is a magical competition that throws up many memorable and intriguing ties over the season. Regionalised in the early rounds clubs can still make journey’s longer than they are accustomed to and test themselves against higher league opponents.

This time last year Beccles Town Ladies hadn’t even played a competitive fixture. The Suffolk side joined the Norfolk Women & Girls Football League (NWGFL) last season. A memorable debut season in Division Two saw the club clinch promotion as runners-up losing just the one league game along the way. Beginning the new campaign in Division One their season begin’s with their 1st ever game in the FA Women’s Cup. New signings made over the summer the side is still getting to know one another on the field.

The visitors today Chelmsford City Ladies, travelling up to Suffolk from Essex the club plays in the Essex Women’s Premier Division, where more often than not they have been amongst the sides challenging for the title. Injuries to a number of players last season made for a difficult season, a mid-table finish nonetheless have built over the summer and are confident to once again be amongst the top sides challenging for the league title. A home tie against ERWFL Premier Division side, AFC Sudbury Ladies awaits today’s winner in First Round Qualifying next Sunday.

Heading east for today’s game I was just in front of the wet weather that was sweeping in from the west to cover pretty much the entire region come the afternoon. Beccles Town Ladies play their home games at Beccles Town FC the football ground part of a larger sports facility on the outskirts of Beccles, housing a cricket, bowls and rugby. The football ground has seen some recent upgrades. Is a large pitch with a lush cover of grass, wide space to exploit. A small covered stand with some seating (very much needed today) a tea hut beside. The rain light before the game the heavens pretty much opened the minute the two sides took their positions either side of the referee for the handshakes.

Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Millie Fisher, Marie Carter, Megan Vincent (C), Poppy Wilson, Victoria Ottey, Francesca Heaney, Lucy Robbens, Bethan Owen, Chelsea Caplin & Taylor Whiting. Subs – Darcie Keiley & Caitlin Harvey.

Chelmsford City Ladies starting XI – Kin Ripton, Holly Gurnett, Broghan Lambert, Aimee Gannon, Gaby Freedman (C), Rosie Coe, Shannon Kelly, Adele Munday, Niki Medici, Georgia James & Lisa Overall. Subs – Laura Kendle, Charlotte Palmer & Monique Black.

Going to be a wet one out there this afternoon

Both sides used to roll on roll of substitutes the FA Women’s Cup is different only 3 substitutes each in the 90 minutes. Raining heavily it’s Beccles to kick-off the 1st half, wearing white shirts with black shorts and socks. Chelmsford lined up opposite in their claret strip. The hosts look to make progress into the Chelmsford half straight away the ball fed through the middle knocked on into the box an early claim of the ball for Chelmsford goalkeeper Kim Ripton.

Play condensed in the middle of the park, defences from both sides cutting out any forward balls. Victoria Ottey and Francesca Heaney in midfield for Beccles look to combine through the middle bringing the ball forwards the pass out to the left for Chelsea Caplin to chase is instead won by Chelmsford right back Holly Gurnett. Ottey onto the ball again forwards into Heaney on for Taylor Whiting in attack the Beccles forward placing her shot from outside the box wide of goal.

Beccles Town Ladies captain, Megan Vincent

Chelmsford come forwards the ball played out to Georgia James peeling out into the channel, Beccles captain Megan Vincent at centre back comes across to make the tackle prevent James getting into the box with the ball. Niki Medici takes the ball on down the left wing for Chelmsford her low cross squared into the box intercepted and cleared by Beccles, Poppy Wilson.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Georgia James

Whiting is forced off the ball as she makes a run for the top of the box having be played in by Lucy Robbens in midfield for Beccles, Gaby Freedman the Chelmsford captain with the challenge. The first real chance of the game falls to the hosts, Heaney charging a ball down on the right sprints beyond the full back and sends a dangerous low cross along the six yard box, evading Ripton comes straight to Whiting at the far post looks to send the ball back across goal into the bottom corner, instead it flashes wide across the face of goal out for a goalkick.

Chelmsford Niki Medici with Beccles, Bethan Owen

The weather a far cry from the heatwave enjoyed earlier in the summer, conditions miserable the rain falling heavily, both sides are struggling to get in full flow, Shannon Kelly backed up with Coe in midfield for Chelmsford tries twice to get James and Lisa Overall in attack in on goal as the attackers attempt to get in behind, Wilson and Vincent winning the ball on both occasions. Millie Fisher challenging Adele Munday and winning the ball as the Chelmsford midfielder attempts to get in behind.

James wins Chelmsford the first corner of the match on the right side the ball into the box cleared at the near post. Chelmsford attack the ball forward into Kelly right inside the Beccles half sends the pass on with James making a run, Wilson stays with her putting in the tackle inside the D, the deflected ball falling to Medici coming on from the left strikes the ball in across the goal face drops wide of goal.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Niki Medici puts in a ball towards the area.

James is starting to peel of the Beccles centre backs out into the channels to find room, the Chelmsford striker pushing the ball out to Medici on the left takes the ball on before sweeping a cross into the area, Wilson the first to it to clear for Beccles. Both sides with a spell of sustained pressure Chelmsford mounting an attack the Beccles centre backs cutting out the final pass. Beccles counter attack numbers forwards Heaney with Whiting ahead of her on the right, Aimee Gannon intercepting her cross at the top of the box, Robbens races in to steal it back looks to release Caplin on her left, Ripton able to gather the ball.

Bethan Owen on the attack for Beccles Town Ladies

Bethan Owen finds a Chelmsford goal kick coming straight to her 25 yards out controls and sends the ball into Whiting ready to turn in behind central to goal takes a shot her low effort saved by Ripton on her penalty spot as she goes to ground. Heaney has a shot from the edge of the area as she gets forwards to support the attack for Beccles from midfield left side, Ripton claiming the ball safely at her near post.

It’s Overall’s turn to make a run into the channel giving chase to a ball popping free after pinging around in the midfield, Wilson has the pace to catch up with the Chelmsford attacker putting in the tackle concedes a corner kick. Medici to play the ball in from the left cut out near post the deflected ball dropping to Kelly outside the box, taking the shot on the half volley, her curling effort is straight into the arms of Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Aimee Gannon

Chelmsford are awarded a free kick wide on the right inside the Beccles half, players go forwards into the box as the ball is played in James allows the ball to run past her near post as she pulls her marker with her the ball rolling on is met by Coe who strikes it 1st time her powerful strike driven wide. Beccles bring the ball on Heaney carrying in on through midfield her past setting up Whiting for a shot outside the area right of the D pulls the effort wide of the right post.

Beccles Town Ladies. Francesca Heaney

Ripton with a good take to claim the ball low inside her box and Owen dinks a ball in over the top for Beccles. James manages to shake off the attentions of her marker in the centre spinning clear to the left has space to run into but opts for the early strike 20 yards out on the angle doesn’t get enough on the ball to threaten Pearce’s goal the keeper gathering the ball. Medici with the ball left side squares a cross along the face of the area, Overall meeting the ball her strike is charged down by Vincent.

Late into the 1st half Chelmsford have a corner on the right the ball played in low near side is turned in towards goal by Freedman, Vincent blacking and clearing the ball for Beccles. Overall is flagged offside and Chelmsford attack in the closing moments of the half going slightly too early as Coe threads a pass through the middle.

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies 0-0 Chelmsford City Ladies

A goalless 1st half, wet and horrible conditions have contributed to the stalemate neither side getting control of the ball for very long, quality lacking at times is still very early in the season for both sides Beccles creating slightly more in the final third but defences on top so far.

A change for Beccles at the break with Darcie Kelly joining the action, the rain still persistent as Chelmsford get the ball rolling for the 2nd half. The visitors on the attack straight away Munday with a strong run on the ball down the left fires a cross in hard into the six yard box evades everyone near post Carter getting in front of Medici defends as she comes on far post the ball deflected straight into the path of Overall she opens up her body in an attempt to get the ball around the keeper, can’t as Pearce claims the ball into her midriff.

Beccles Town Ladies, Poppy Wilson

Chelmsford have started the 2nd half strongly getting forwards the ball is played to Overall drifting right her early cross in cut out by Wilson, the ball back into the middle regained by Chelmsford Kelly out to Overall who has stayed right her early cross into the near post James under challenge gets a shot away blasts the ball straight at Pearce.

GOAL! The bright start to the 2nd half from Chelmsford sees them take the lead in the cup tie James and Overall have been trying all sorts up top to find room in behind the Beccles centre backs both peeling into the channels combine for the opening goal well worked as the ball is put into James out wide left she whips a cross in towards the near post Overall has made a run near post in evading her marker to get her head on the end of the ball sends a looping header up over Pearce from the top of the six yard box to drop into the back of the net 0-1.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Lisa Overall scorer of the opening goal

Overall almost has a 2nd goal moments later as she charges down the ball on the right outside the box and from the corner of the area attempts to lob the keeper, Pearce back on her line however is well positioned to bring the ball under control. Beccles relieve the pressure sending a long ball forwards allowing it to bounce Chelmsford don’t have it, almost sets Whiting away in the left as she goes after it Gannon sliding in has to concede the throw, taken quickly Whiting plays the ball in from the byline her cross in cut out by Ripton as the keeper goes to ground at her near post.

Another change for Beccles one substitute for the other as Harvey withdraws, Caitlin Harvey coming on to join Whiting in attack. Coe in to win the ball in the centre of midfield plays it forwards into Overall outside the box she looks to divert the ball towards goal with the outside of her boot off target running wide she and Pearce have a coming together as the keeper slides in on the ball. Treatment needed but Pearce is okay to continue. Medici with a deft ball on the left into the area James attacking it, Vincent in across the attacker wins the ball.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Adele Munday

Caplin is played in by Ottey left side charges forwards but lacking options is marshalled off the ball by Gurnett. Munday brings the ball on for Chelmsford right side lifts the ball on for Overall positioned top of the Beccles area gets a shot away over the defence looking to lob the keeper back on her line once again awkward for Pearce she does well to get a fist on the ball punch it away to the right.

Robbens has been getting into more advanced positions for Beccles as the 2nd half has worn on and spinning clear of the centre backs 20 yards from goal as the ball is played across her from the right she swivels into a shot cutting the ball back towards goal swerving through the area is narrowly wide of the top corner nestling into the side netting. Lambert slides in to deny Harvey getting forwards for Beccles as she attacks down the right.

Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens getting clear of the Chelmsford defence

James with a jinking run on the ball attacks for Chelmsford outside the box across the D, Overall tries to get inside the box for the cut back, Carter coming inside from the left slides in to claim it for Beccles. Gannon gets across Whiting as the Beccles forwards attempts to power her way through the middle after being played in by Robbens. A free-kick for Beccles on half way Vincent over it the ball played in towards the top of the area somehow manages to squeeze on through into the box Robbens is on it spinning onto the shot maybe gets a little too much power behind it as she fires it wide across the face of the Chelmsford goal.

Chelmsford make a change, Medici the player coming off, Monique Black a direct swap for her on the left wing. Robbens onto the ball in the centre tries to release Caplin on her left, the winger run off the ball by Gurnett. Pushing forwards into the Chelmsford half Beccles come close once again Carter setting up Heaney as she surges forwards pulls the trigger from outside the area the ball racing low across the face of the Chelmsford goal Ripton can see it wide of her far post.

Francesca Heaney gets the better of Chelmsford’s Lisa Overall

Robbens with a shot from 20 yards out as the ball is diverted into her, the ball straight at Ripton. Wilson brings the ball on from centre back for Beccles releases Caplin on the left cutting back inside a shot from 20 yards out skipping along the floor, Ripton gets down sharply to get her body behind the ball, a quick turn around by Chelmsford the ball played through the middle James evading the challenge top of the area into the box left of goal her shot held by Pearce as she dives to her right.

Into the final 10 minutes and Beccles have their first corner of the game from the right in near post both Vincent and Ottey get something on the ball as it is diverted across the opposition six yard box, Gannon the one running onto it to launch it to safety for Chelmsford.

PENALTY! Late in the game from a corner kick up the other end Chelmsford are awarded a penalty, the ball played in near post is touched on and cut out in the middle by a Beccles arm the referee pointing to the spot even as Caplin attempts to clear the ball. A pause before taking it as Caplin has hurt herself and after treatment on the pitch she can’t continue carried off Beccles are down to 10 no more substitutes available. Time to take the penalty Coe with the ball places it on the spot for Chelmsford, runs in strikes the ball, sending it to the keeper right, Pearce has guessed right and diving gets her fists to the ball to make the save send the ball out to her right as her team mates rush in to congratulate her.

Beccles Town Ladies goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce dives to her right to save the penalty

The ball isn’t out of play however regained on the left swung back in Pearce marshals her defence quickly giving herself room to defend her near post punches the ball down out to Kelly who curls a shot back in the ball bouncing wide of goal. James with another shot across the face of goal as Beccles throw caution to the wind in the closing moments of the match but the visitors hold out comfortably in the finish to claim a narrow victory that sees them progress into next weekend First Round Qualifying tie at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies 0-1 Chelmsford City Ladies

A close match in the finish Chelmsford City Ladies finding a moment of magic early in the 2nd half to take the lead in the tie and claim the win. Beccles Town Ladies with a good showing in their debit in the FA Women’s Cup defended well on the whole, Pearce with vital saves, gave a good account of themselves and but for better finishing might well have been victorious themselves. Credit to Chelmsford City however James and Overall worked hard all game to find openings trying many thing’s not deterred combining for the winning goal. Know they will get better too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, as ever a difficult one but one did stand out for me. Both sides contributing to an intriguing cup tie, Wilson and Vincent pairing up well at centre back for Beccles, Heaney with some excellent running in midfield too, Munday strong on the ball for Chelmsford, their attackers both did well and to that end have chosen Georgia James as she grew into the game and found room in the channels and ultimately set up the winning goal.

I do love an FA Cup game, they can often throw up a surprise or two. Enjoyed my trip to Beccles despite the weather and my thanks to both the cricket club and football club for their help and hospitality today. I stayed dry that was a bonus. Best of luck to both clubs for the season ahead and thanks for the team details as ever.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 19/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th Aug

The new season of ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) began this weekend with 25 sides competing across two divisions this campaign. 12 sides in the Premier Division with 13 in Division One, plenty of football to come over the next few months with plenty of interesting encounters lined up.