The Round-Up – #FAWPL 28/01/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

FAWPL Southern Division

A much better weekend weather wise this time around after last Sunday saw all the FAWPL games across the Southern & South East Division One called off. Still a couple of games not making it this time around in the South with Chichester City Ladies and Lewes FC Women postponing their league fixtures.

Leaders Charlton Athletic Women extended the gap at the top to 5 points with a large away win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. Top scorer Charlotte Gurr scoring as early as the 2nd minute for the visitors a 35 yard strike from Charley Clifford seeing Charlton 2-0 within 10 minutes. Gurr added another midway through the 1st half with an own goal 2 minutes from time seeing Charlton lead 4-0 at half-time. On the hour Charlton were awarded a penalty kick Gurr stepping up to score and complete her hat-trick. 5-0 the lead going into the last 10 minutes of the game Charlton finishing strongly, new signing, Olivia Lukasewich scoring a goal on her debut for the club. Georgia Griffin making it 7-0 on 83. Gurr scoring her 4th of the game her 27th so far this season in the last minute. Time in injury time for one more goal Kit Graham on target for her 21st goal of the season in a 9-0 win.

The big game of the weekend however was between 2nd placed Crystal Palace Ladies away to 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies to gap 3 points. Basildon with a 100% record at Canvey Island are a tough side to play, Angela Addison with her 16th goal of the season giving the hosts a 1-0 1st half lead. Further chances 2nd half for both sides but defences came out on top Basildon claiming the 3 points to move level on points with Crystal Palace with a game in hand.

Elsewhere it was 8th versus 9th as West Ham United Ladies headed across to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies. Goals from Rosie Kmita and Ellie Zoepfl seeing the visitors leading 2-0 at half-time. Kmita scoring again early in the 2nd half to put West Ham into a 3-0 lead. A crazy 15 minute spell then saw a further 5 goals scored followed Kelly Weathall putting West Ham 4-0 up, Cardiff hitting back to make it 4-1 Kelly Issac scoring. Zoepfl scored her 2nd of the game to restore West Ham’s 4 goal cushion before Estelle Randall scored for the hosts to make it 5-2. Chloe Gurr recently introduced from the subs bench finding the back of the net to seal a 6-2 win for the visitors the 3 points taking them into 8th above Cardiff.

FAWPL Cup

One game left to play in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup. After 3 previous postponements due to the weather it was finally game on between South East Division One side Cambridge United WFC at home to Southern Division side, Coventry United Ladies. A tough test for Cambridge, Coventry coming into the game off the back of 6 straight wins in league and cup. It was the visitors who started the stronger putting Cambridge under immediate pressure resulting in a early goal Alison Hall heading in a Marie Gauntlett cross in the 9th minute. Coventry had chances to go further ahead but some excellent saves from on loan goalkeeper Shayla Burgess kept the score down to 1-0 at the break.

2 goals for Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

A chance for Cambridge to regroup, Coventry started the 2nd half just as strong as the 1st doubling their lead early on with Jade Brook sending the ball home to make it 2-0. On the hour mark Natalie Haigh up from the back powered the ball home from a header to make it 3-0. With Cambridge pushing up the field in the latter stages of the game the visitors them on the counter the ball played forwards Burgess racing out of her box to head the bouncing ball away can only put it into the path of the advancing Brook, 40 yards out goes for the lob the ball finding it’s way over the line for her 2nd of the game. 2nd half substitute Jessica Lundie scoring in stoppage time to secure a 5-0 and an away trip to Plymouth Argyle Ladies in the quarter finals.

FAWPL South East Division One

3 games played in FAWPL South East Division One this weekend. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies winning their 12th game of the season to maintain their 5 point lead at the top of the table. A home on Sunday playing Enfield Town Ladies the score was 0-0 at half-time. Wimbledon opening the scoring early in the 2nd half a minute played Laura Quinn-Low making it 1-0, 10 minutes later Quinn-Low netted her 2nd of the game to extend Wimbledon’s lead. Enfield pulling it back to 2-1 with 3 minutes left to play Katherine Long on target the hosts holding on for the win.

It was 2nd versus 4th in South East Division One on Sunday with Leyton Orient WFC hosting Ipswich Town Ladies. Top scorer Sophie Le Marchand scoring in the 1st half to give the hosts the lead. Ipswich levelling the scores 4 minutes before the half-time whistle their top scorer, Natasha Thomas scoring the goal. A close contest the winning goal coming on the hour Le Marchand with her 19th goal of the season securing a 2-1 win for Leyton Orient moving them 4 points clear of 3rd placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and putting a big dent into Ipswich’s own title ambitions in the process.

A huge game at the bottom of the table with the bottom 2 meeting each other on Sunday. Haringey Borough Women still looking for their 1st point at this level hosting Norwich City Ladies who themselves have just the 4 points on the board knowing 3 points were a must if they have any home of catching the sides above them. Vivian Moyo with the goal 10 minutes from half-time to see Norwich hold a narrow advantage at the break. Turning out to be crucial as Haringey scored 3 goals in the 2nd half, Julia Carruthers netting a brace along with a goal for Jonea Peter. Norwich also finding the back of the net for 3 goals themselves in a dramatic 2nd period, Moyo with her 2nd of the match. Sasha Diston getting a goal on 70 minutes with Chelsea Garrett scoring with 7 minutes left to win it 4-3 for Norwich moving them onto 7 points.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Coventry United Ladies

Sunday 28th January

Finally after 4 attempts it’s GAME ON! Originally scheduled for December 10th last year Cambridge United WFC finally meet Coventry United Ladies in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.

The good old British weather putting pay to this fixture 3 times! Along with the Christmas break and Coventry United Ladies playing in both the FA Women’s Cup and County Cup has seen this game long delayed. Better weather at last this Sunday at Mildenhall Town FC as these two sides play for a place in the quarter finals of the FAWPL Cup an away trip to in form South West Division One side Plymouth Argyle Ladies waiting.

A test for Cambridge United WFC 6th in FAWPL South East Division One taking on higher league opponents this afternoon. A Determining Round played at the start of the season the winning sides entering the Cup competition Cambridge United WFC went on to beat fellow league side Enfield Town Ladies 2-0 to reach the 2nd Round. Manager Steve Edwards leaving the club after 4 years in charge of the 1st team since then. Reserves and former 1st team manager Kevin Hoover taking over whilst the club look for a successor.

Coventry United Ladies looking as strong as ever at the start of 2018, 5th in the FAWPL Southern Division but with games in hand on the leading pair Charlton Athletic Women and Crystal Palace Ladies whilst still in contention in 3 cup competition’s the County, FAWPL and FA Women’s Cups. FAWPL Plate winners 2 season’s ago are unbeaten in 6 matches in both league and cup going into today’s tie.

Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s game like many others across the country has seen it’s far share of water these past few weeks, despite that looks once again in great condition if not quite a dried out as preferred this is the 52nd match to be played upon it so far this season. A sloping pitch from one goalmouth to the other, the sun bright in the sky beginning to fall behind one end. Positively tropical conditions as a pose to the freezing monsoon I endured during last weekends game, bright and sunny a strong breeze blowing across the pitch as the two sides emerged from the dressing room ready to go.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Laura Baker, Lauren Gibson & Gabrielle Whitehurst.

Coventry United Ladies starting XI – Susan Wood (C), Alexandra Buck, Nikki Miles, Natalie Haigh, Maisie Jerrim, Laura Cooper, Helen Dermody, Jade Brook, Amber Hughes, Marie Gauntlett & Alison Hall. Subs – Elizabeth Steele, Jessica Lundie, Lucy Stead & Rosie McDonnell.

Good to see Carrie Bennett back in the starting line-up for Cambridge after suffering a nasty dislocated elbow on the final day of last season. Up front Kelley Blanchflower leads the line for the home side having been out for a period too with injury. For Coventry United Ladies, Nikki Miles is making her 130th appearance today. Cambridge wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks to kick-off the first half the sun in their faces with Coventry wearing red shirts with green shorts and socks attacking up the slope.

The visitors press the ball right from the off Laura Cooper winning it in the middle the ball played out to Amber Hughes on the right her ball in cleared by the Cambridge defence. Maisie Jerrim takes a knock for Coventry as she goes up for the ball with Kelley Blanchflower as Cambridge play the ball long up towards her 25 yards from goal, going after the ball Blanchflower wins a free-kick central for Cambridge play stopped so Jerrim can receive treatment. Off the field Cambridge captain, Laura Bright comes forwards to take the free-kick around 25 yards from goal floats the ball in towards the far post players attack the ball, Coventry winning the header the ball clearing the area comes back to Bright she shifts it and shoots her effort wide of goal.

Amber Cantwell, attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim returns to the field for Coventry, Helen Dermody with the ball in the middle plays it on for Jade Brook ahead of her, Brook passes it on for Alison Hall at the top of the box right side puts a cross into the middle, Bright intercepts clearing for Cambridge. Coventry have started well players forwards, a shot comes in from distance, Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford in the Cambridge goal makes a very good save getting up to tip the ball up over her crossbar. The resulting corner played in from the right a good delivery from Dermody across the face of goal is headed clear by Bright for Cambridge.

GOAL! Coventry’s good start brings an early goal as they open the scoring in the 9th minute. Possession with Marie Gauntlett on the left side powers her way up the line holding off her marker whips in a great cross towards the near post, Hall arriving on cue to head the ball in across the keeper to make it 0-1.

Alison Hall scores the opening goal of the game for Coventry United Ladies

Brave goalkeeping from Burgess soon after prevents Coventry from doubling their lead regaining the ball from the restart push players forwards a good diagonal ball along the ground finds Hughes getting into the box behind the Cambridge defence, Burgess reacting quickly to slide in a smother the ball at the attackers feet. Hughes finding room out wide right again cuts inside sees her shot blocked by Bennett from outside the area.

A strong midfield run from Brook as Coventry come forwards again a corner won on the right another good delivery from Dermody into the six yard box, the ball attacked and headed down towards goal, Burgess from close range making a fantastic double save, stopping the initial effort then blocking the rebound. The home side under pressure early on. Coventry have another corner right side this effort caught up in the breeze dropping near post defended by Cambridge out of the area dropping to Cooper 20 yards out puts her foot through the ball her effort blocked.

Cambridge are struggling to settle early on find any meaningful possession as Coventry quickly move the ball around. Little for Blanchflower to work with up top the striker knocking the ball on as both Lauren Cartwright and Cantwell get beyond her into the box look to pressure Coventry, goalkeeper and captain Susan Wood able to kick the ball clear. Brook carries the ball forwards for Coventry getting a shot away from 25 yards out her low strike gathered cleanly by Burgess.

Kayleigh-Anne Burt bringing the ball on for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim intercepts the ball at the back for Coventry as Blanchflower looks to square a cross from the left along the top of the area, up field for Dermody she tries to release Alexandra Buck on the right the full back fouling Hewitt as she tries to get around her. Not long before Coventry have the ball again moving it on Hall on the right swings a cross into the box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt winning it for Cambridge.

Dermody starts and finishes another attacking move for Coventry bringing the ball up into the Cambridge half plays it out wide for Hughes on the move on the right wing her cut back along the top of the area met by Gauntlett who sends the ball on for Dermody continuing her run pulls the trigger her shot straight at Burgess the keeper holding onto the ball.

Half an hour played and Cambridge have a great chance to pull it back to 1-1 Blanchflower putting pressure on the Coventry defence races onto the ball inside the box left of goal closing down Wood looks to lift the ball over the keeper sees her effort kiss the crossbar ad run out of play. Cambridge opportunities are restricted however as Coventry continue to press players forwards keeping Blanchflower isolated. Between the Bennett and Hewitt stop Hughes on the right getting a cross into the area. Cleared the ball soon comes back an early cross in from the right cleared by Burt at the near post.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Kelley Blanchflower

A free-kick for Cambridge wide left on halfway as Amy Howlett is brought down. Bright on the ball a good delivery up towards Blanchflower at the top of the area, seeing the ball down across her body intends to turn and take it on into the area, Natalie Haigh reads her intentions and not getting too close comes across to put in the tackle. A free-kick up the other end in a dangerous position outside the D for Coventry as Brook is brought down. Cooper over the ball gets her shot in past the wall heading for goal Burgess shuffling across quickly is able to get her gloves on the ball push it away.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp

Gauntlett on the ball for Coventry coming inside to receive the ball from the left splits the Cambridge defence with a great pass as Hall through the middle beats the offside trap, Burgess with a good starting position however is quickly out of her area to win the kick and clear for the hosts. Late into the 1st half Cambridge get the ball forwards Blanchflower taking it down into the left corner the ball played back up towards the top of the area Charlotte Crisp with the header down looking to put the ball into the path of Cartwright inside the box, the Coventry defence getting in front of her to shield the ball back to Wood. One last attack in the 1st half for Coventry Brook with the strike from 20 yards out sees her effort charged down by Burt.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Coventry United Ladies

A strong performance from Coventry in the 1st half. With much of the possession and certainly more chances they will be disappointed not to be leading by a larger margin. Conceding an early goal the game threatened to get away from Cambridge, some excellent goalkeeping from Burgess keeping the score down at 1-0 Cambridge are still very much in the tie however will need to have a much better 2nd half and find some meaningful possession on the ball having not settled at all in the 1st half.

No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half, Cambridge with the kick-off as Coventry attack down the slope the sun settled lower in the sky. Coventry come forwards the ball played up to Hall on the right is clattered into going to head the ball is left in a heap as play goes on the ball taken down the line swung into the box claimed by Burgess at her near post. Hall is back up on her feet.

Coventry United Ladies, Amber Hughes

Cooper with the diagonal ball to pick out Hughes making an attacking run down the right taking the ball on plays her cross in long to the far post attacked the header is narrowly over, either way play is stopped by an offside flag. Gauntlett running with the ball central lets fly from all of 35 yards out her strike sailing over the crossbar. Hall flings her arms up in the air inside the box wanting a penalty for Coventry as the ball into her is intercepted, the referee not interested.

GOAL! As with the 1st half, Coventry score early to double their advantage in the 2nd. Play is over on the left side of the pitch as Coventry build an attack the cross played on towards the area Brook getting to the ball before Burgess can come to clear knocked past the keeper a defender attempts to get back to clear the ball but in vain as it rolls into the back of the net 0-2.

A change for the visitors Jerrim comes off at the back with Rosie McDonnell coming on. Going in on the left side of defence Miles moves forwards into an advanced position on the right, Hughes coming over to the left. Buck defends well against Blanchflower at the back for Coventry as Cambridge send the ball long for her to attack. Setting up a counter attack the ball helped on by Cooper is picked up by Hall 25 yards out hits a venomous shot in towards goal from 25 yards out the ball skimming the top of the crossbar. Burt clears with her head for Cambridge as Coventry get the ball in from the right wing.

Laura Cooper on the ball in midfield for Coventry United Ladies

A good tempo to the game Coventry continuing to push players forwards a few strong challenges coming in. A corner right side for the visitors flung in near post a crowd up to attack the ball put wide of the post a goal kick the end result.

GOAL! Coventry extend their lead 15 minutes into the 2nd half players up for a corner taken by Dermody on the right the ball cleared out to the left side, Coventry keep possession Cooper with the ball puts in a fantastic cross from the left up jump Haigh in the middle of the box to power her header into the back of the net, Burgess no chance to react 0-3.

Natalie Haigh makes it 3-0 to Coventry United Ladies

Cambridge make their 1st change of the game, Laura Baker coming on for Cartwright. Good link up play between Miles and Hughes on the right the latter putting her cross wide beyond the far post. Baker with a strong tackle stops Gauntlett as the Coventry attacker looks to push on through the centre. Coventry have the ball in the back of the net but are denied a 4th goal by the offside flag following good build up play from Cooper out to Miles on the right the ball squared into the area Gauntlett running onto it puts the ball in just inside the post only for the effort to be ruled out.

Coventry’s Cooper and Cambridge’s Crisp challenge for the ball

Blanchflower is taken down by Buck as she looks to bring the ball on into the Coventry half the set-piece in a central position Cantwell over it looks to lift the ball up into the box to be attack, runners closing Wood down she claims comfortably. A 2nd change for Coventry up top Jessica Lundie comes on to replace Hall in attack.

A brilliant save from Wood prevents Cambridge from pulling a goal back as the ball is played up field into the box the clearance runs straight along the ground into the path of the advancing Baker 25 yards out she hits it straight back in towards goal racing for the bottom corner Wood dives full stretch to her right to push the ball behind her goal. From the resulting corner on the left side it’s Brook who gets her head on the ball to clear for Coventry. Gauntlett passes the ball inside for Dermody to her left 25 yards out central her 1st time shot is charged down inside the box.

GOAL! Cambridge have pushed up as they look to get players forwards are hit on the counter the ball cleared back up field Burgess comes racing out of her area to try and win the bouncing ball getting her head on it fall straight into Brook breaking forwards 40 yards out knowing there is a open goal lobs the stranded keeper sees the ball bounce down over the line 0-4.

Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

Coventry keep coming forwards putting Cambridge under constant pressure, Miles demanding the ball on the right getting onto space linking up well with Brook. Dermody comes close yet again with another strike from distance central her shot striking the crossbar. A free-kick giving Cambridge a chance to get the ball forwards, Bright’s ball is headed on by Baker into Blanchflower looking to turn into the box is again closely watched by Haigh.

Coventry United Ladies, Helen Dermody

Not long left to play now Coventry make their final change Elizabeth Steele coming on to replace Hughes. Cantwell breaks forwards for Cambridge the ball in for Hewitt up the left wing her cross into the box looping up is over Blanchflower making a central run, Coventry clear.

GOAL! Into injury time at the end of the game and Coventry score again, substitute Lundie putting the ball past Burgess from the left inside the box as she receives it from Gauntlett attacking down the right 0-5.

Coventry finish the game as strongly as they started it pressing numbers forwards to the final whistle winning the game 0-5 to set up an FAWPL Cup quarter final away to Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The tie scheduled for Sun 11th February.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-5 Coventry United Ladies

A dominant performance from the visitors today. Coventry getting off to a great start and keep up a superb all round team performance all game. Getting players forwards good runs on and off the ball causing Cambridge problems and cool at the back when their opponents were able to get forwards.

One of those days for Cambridge never really got into the match early on as Coventry prevented them getting forwards, Blanchflower having little to feed on up top. Still keeping the score down to 1-0 in the first half gave them hope of getting back into it 2nd half ultimately not to be as their cup run is over. On to the next game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Interesting one today for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match always a tough choice when you have such a good all round team performance Coventry were strong all over the pitch but particularly in midfield where their attacks often began Gauntlett and Hughes providing good runs left and right, Cooper and Dermody finding them on a regular basis, have all just been edged out by Jade Brook who made some purposeful runs forwards aswell as getting on the scoresheet twice making her today’s Player of the Match.

It’s nice to not feel like a block of ice after a game, roll on summer, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance today is always appreciated.

The Round-Up – 21/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st January

It was another weekend of disruption to the fixture lists across the East with more bad weather seeing a huge chunk of the scheduled games called off, a complete wipe out the the FAWPL in the Southern, South East Division One and FAWPL Cup. A handful of fixtures surviving elsewhere as a wet Saturday was followed by freezing conditions on Sunday morning turning to snow, sleet and rain unpleasant playing conditions for those fixtures that did get played 13 in all so it’s another all inclusive edition of The Round-Up this week.

ERWFL

Two games managed to beat the weather in the ERWFL this Sunday both in Norfolk. In the ERWFL Premier Division, Acle United Ladies were glad just to be playing again after a 7 week period of inactivity through a combination of postponed cup fixtures and teams then unable to field a side. Playing at The Flegg FDC the all weather pitch playable Acle were hosting bottom side Colney Heath Ladies knowing a win would lift them from 5th into 3rd position in the Premier Division table. The hosts taking an early lead, midfielder Laura Holden making it 1-0 in the 9th minute. Had more chances to extend the lead 1st half Colney Heath keeping them at bay until late on in the 44th minute as top scorer Megan Todd made it 2-0 with her 14th goal of the season. Colney Heath were quick to respond getting a goal in 1st half injury time to head into the dressing room 2-1 down, Nicola Hollick with the goal. More chances in the 2nd half but the goals weren’t breached again Acle claiming the 3 points with a narrow win. A game in hand on both 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies and leaders Billericay Town Ladies with the points gap 4 and 5 respectfully.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves travelled to Norfolk on Sunday to take on Wymondham Town Ladies at King’s Head Meadow the home side 3rd place in the table playing just their 8th league game of the season looking to close down the leading pair Ipswich Wanderers Ladies and King’s Lynn Town Ladies. In a rich vein of goal scoring form Wymondham have scored 27 goals in their last 3 league and cup games alone and got off to a blistering start against Cambridge going 3-0 up inside the opening 7 minutes! Kayleigh Holloway setting thing’s rolling with Wymondham’s 1st goal after 4 minutes quickly followed by a goal each for youngsters, Laura Nicholls and Mollie O’Callaghan. Things threatening to get away from Cambridge the visitors galvanised and kept Wymondham from going further in front. 3-0 at half-time it wasn’t until 2 minutes from time before Cambridge conceded again with Nicholls now 1 goal away from taking her tally to 30 so far for the season making it 4-0. The win moves Wymondham to within a point of 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers who have played 6 games more.

Norfolk

A piece of sad news to bring you from Norfolk before we get into the weekends match action. Aylsham Ladies have withdrawn from the league having struggled to field a side this season. A real shame such a prominent member of women’s football in Norfolk in recent season’s certainly in the short history of the SWF Blog and Women’s Football East have some fond memories their 4-3 against Bungay Town Ladies a thrill to watch. Division One Champions too, a County Cup Final appearance aswell as winning the League Cup with 2 last gasp goals. Wishing everyone involved with the club all the best for the future and hopefully one day we will see Aylsham back in the NWGFL.

Aylsham Ladies winning the League Cup in 2016

The withdrawal of Aylsham from the league sees their results expunged from Norfolk Women’s Division One meaning a change at the top with Bungay Town Ladies taking over from Sprowston Ladies who drop to 3rd place in the table. The two sides scheduled to meet in the league this Sunday the pitch at Malting’s Meadow in Bungay passing a late inspection. Bungay Town Ladies are in great form their only loss in the league coming back at the start of October visitors Sprowston are themselves unbeaten in the league going into the match. Emily Leach putting Bungay into the lead in the 1st half Sprowston drew level from the penalty spot. Bungay went on to retake the lead a goal from Selina Rowland putting them 2-1 up at half-time. The home side further extending their lead in the 2nd half with Nicola Hazell scoring along with Leach getting her 2nd to make it 4-1. Sprowston struck late on to reduce the deficit losing for the 1st time this season in the league 4-2 the 3 points taking Bungay 5 points clear at the top of the Division One table.

One game played in Division Two this Sunday with leaders FC Sprowston Ladies extending their lead at the top of the table to 6 points. Awarded an away win from a game in December came into the match at home to 2nd bottom Toftwood United Ladies looking to extend their 100% to 9 matches. Scoring plenty of goals in the process too, Charlie Head recently signed scoring 5 goals in the match, elsewhere the goals were spread out amongst Katie Fray, Tammy Graves, Rebecca Kirby, Nicole Read and Rosie Wickenden in an 11-0 win.

Cambridgeshire

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and that was where Women’s Football East headed knowing the all weather pitch at The Ridgeon’s Stadium in Newmarket might hold up better than others. Passed inspection it was nevertheless a horrid and bitterly cold day with Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in the table taking on 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development. Newmarket started the better of the 2 sides pressing Cambridge for the ball pushing forwards opened the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes Antonia Smith on hand inside the box to put the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Abbi Griffin just 18 years old making her 50th appearance for Newmarket this Sunday celebrated with a goal to make it 2-0. Jordanne Sillitoe making the lead 3-0 at half-time.

Into the 2nd half and Newmarket extended their lead going 4-0 with Jess Linger putting home a free-kick from outside the box. Cambridge were better 2nd half getting the ball higher up the pitch and a headed goal from Rachel Littlewood pulled it back to 4-1. The win lifting Newmarket above St Ives Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the table with games in hand on leaders Netherton United Ladies.

Elsewhere in Cambridgeshire it was the beginning of their County Cup competition the Women’s Invitation Cup. 2 ties beating the weather, ERWFL Premier Division side playing on 3G hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side ICA Sports Ladies. It was the lower league side who struck 1st blood Lorna Hart putting ICA Sports 1-0 up before Cambridge City went on to equalise and go on to win the game 5-1. Bella Simmons netting 4 goals in the match with 16 year old Anna Kanz scoring her 1st goal for the senior team.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies were at home in the Invitation Cup taking on Championship South side, Cambridge Rangers Women. Goals from Stephanie Ransome, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Amy Seymour-Shove and Georgia Stancombe seeing St Ives Town progress with a 4-1 win.

Essex

In Essex it was quarter finals weekend in the Women’s County Cup 3 games to be played with holders C&K Basildon Ladies receiving a home walkover following the folding of Colchester Town Ladies. Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies game at home to Corringham Cosmos was postponed. That left 2 quarter finals to be played in less than pleasant conditions.

Harlow Town Ladies from ERWFL Division One South were taking on Premier Division side Writtle Ladies at the Harlow Arena. A goal in each half from Hannah Mold and Sophie Vale seeing Writtle through to the semi-finals.

2-0 was also the winning margin in the other Essex Women’s County Cup semi-final an all ERWFL Premier Division clash this one with two in form and local rivals locking horns once again, Billericay Town Ladies hosting Brentwood Town Ladies. A brace from Georgia Holdaway seeing the visitors progress the the semi-finals Brentwood with the 2-0 win.

Was also quarter finals weekend in the Essex Women’s Trophy competition however just 1 of the 4 ties beat the weather with Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers at home to ERWFL Division One South side, Hutton Ladies. The higher league side progressing to the semi-finals with a narrow 2-1 win goals from Hayley Critchell and Rianne Dimmock enough to see Hutton through despite Laura Bunton scoring for Collier Row Tigers.

There was also some league action in Essex albeit restricted due to the weather in the Essex Women’s Premier Division, Lawford Ladies move back into 3rd position in the table with a 5-0 win at home to Eastern Avenue on Sunday. Jasmine Cox scoring twice with a goal each for Daisy Canny, Tyler Christou and Claire Gauntlett.

One game also on in Essex Women’s Division One and a big win away from home for Hullbridge Sports Ladies sees them return back to the top of the table with their 10th straight league win. Taking on FC Clacton Ladies, top scorers Broghan Kelly added another 5 goals to her season’s tally with a brace each for Patricia McWeeney and Christina Fragnito. With Sophie Fraser, Karley Hunt and Julia Setford all getting a goal each in a 12-1 win.

Beds & Herts

Just the one game to bring you from Beds & Herts in Division One 2nd placed Northwood Ladies moving to within 2 points of leaders St Albans Ladies with a big home win over bottom club Watton Ladies on Sunday. 3 players scoring a brace for Northwood Leanne Jones, Scarlett Keightley and Francesca Webster, there were goals to for Zamina Rehemtulla, Aliyah Ahmed and Emma Steele in a 9-0 win.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies Development

Sunday 21st January

Having seen no live action last weekend I was keen to get a game in this Sunday, the weather forecast however meant that was likely to be a challenge. Had a game in mind that I was pretty sure would beat the weather over others and held out as the games started to fall one by one. Hit the road heading to Newmarket hoping to see the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership game between Newmarket Town Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies Development.

Over night rain followed by freezing conditions with snow and sleet preceding rain for Sunday afternoon a pretty gloomy forecast a pitch inspection at The Ridgeons Stadium at 1:15pm saw a light dusting of snow covering the pitch but okay to play an all weather surface state of the art cork based it was in good shape. More importantly the ground provided cover for spectators. Game on. I was a bit early for kick-off as I didn’t know it had been put back to 3pm but seeing’s as I’d written zero pre-match notes this wasn’t time wasted.

Netherton United Ladies currently lead the way in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Peterborough based side getting off to a great start winning their 1st 7 matches, have 27 points from 11 games played in total. 2 defeats giving hope to those chasing who all have games in hand 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies who can overhaul Netherton yet should they win their 4 games in hand having played 7. So to have today’s opponents Newmarket Town Ladies in 3rd place at home to 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development.

Newmarket Town Ladies are on 16 points from their 7 played having won 5 with a draw and a loss so far in this campaign, amongst the front runners to challenge for the title this season a run in the FA Women’s Cup playing a factor in the number of league matches they have yet to play. A busy 2nd half to the season looms are in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup and have reached the League Cup semi-finals too. Like St Ives Town they can catch Netherton if they collect maximum points from their games in hand. A win today moves them into 2nd position in the table.

Cambridge City Ladies Development are into their 2nd season having won promotion to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership in their debut season with the Championship South title. A strong youth set up at Cambridge City the 1st team currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division the Development side has several players setting up into adult football from youth level aged 16. Like Newmarket have played just the 7 league games so far with 3 defeats and 4 victories to date the latest last weekend seeing them come back from 3-2 down against Cambridge University Women to win the match 6-3, with 16 year old Yasmin Crow scoring her 1st senior hat-trick.

The Ridgeons Stadium the venue for today’s match, as mentioned earlier boasting a state of the art artificial playing surface. A clubhouse (a warm one too) hot drinks and food available. A small seated mainstand covered along with further covering in front of the clubhouse along side the pitch. Still out in the elements a bitterly cold day, the snow stopping before kick-off a bit of rain in the air with a biting wind that would grow stronger as the afternoon progressed. Good job I love the game or I’d have stayed at home.

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Jess Linger, Brooke Wickens, Yasmin Woodfield, Beth Woodfield (C), Laura Bailey, Chloe Slater, Antonia Smith, Abbi Griffin, Lauren Deller & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Ellie Marshall, Cindy Ponder, Dominika Szary, Sarah O’Rourke & Cassandra Carvalheiro.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Jenny Jamieson, Tegan Wyman, Eline Sorbye, Ellie Todd, Gemma Clare (C), Kayleigh Whitehead, Rachel Pearce, Molly White, Lucy Hurst, Yasmin Crow & Ellie Cullum. Subs – Aneila Luxford, Erin Fox, Rachel Littlewood, Amy Ozakpinar & Laura Mills.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Cambridge to kick-off the match wearing white shirts with black upon the shoulders, black shirts and black and white hooped socks. Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and yellow socks. An array of gloves worn too by both sides very cold out there. Despite the earlier snow fall and general wetness the pitch is in great shape no signs at all of players losing their footing. Newmarket press in the middle winning early possession of the ball Chloe Slater with the diagonal ball out to Lauren Deller over on the left wing the ball knocked on down the line she can’t keep it in play.

Jess Linger bringing the ball down for Newmarket Town Ladies

The home side have started the brighter pushing forwards Jordanne Sillitoe up front moving into space on the right receiving the ball whips a cross in along the face of goal from the byline is headed behind for a corner kick at the near post by Cambridge’s Eline Sorbye. The ball played into the area by Newmarket’s Jess Linger is headed back to her coming inside slices her low cross behind for a goal kick. Newmarket have possession on the right inside the Cambridge half a well worked triangle between Sillitoe, Abbi Griffin and Antonia Smith brings the home side a 2nd corner. Put in from the right headed out of the area falls to Chloe Slater 25 yards out Cambridge captain Gemma Clare goes in to block the shot goes wide.

GOAL! An early goal as Newmarket capitalise on their good start going 1-0 in the 7th minute. Pressing the ball high up the pitch the diagonal ball is put out to the left for Deller taking it on whips a great cross in towards the near post Griffin having made the run challenged by a Cambridge defender neither get any meaningful contact on the ball as it drops down inside the box Smith having made a midfield run is up with play first the ball and strikes it low across goal into the bottom corner. 1-0.

Antonia Smith opens the scoring for Newmarket Town Ladies

Newmarket are first to any loose pass and pressing the 2nd ball making it difficult for Cambridge to get out of their own half Laura Bailey with the tackle for Newmarket the ball knocked on picked up by Griffin 30 yards out takes on the strike a lobbed effort that has goalkeeper Jenny Jamieson scrambling across her goal the ball dropping just wide of the top corner. Cambridge look to send the ball long down the left for attacker Ellie Cullum to give chase, Yasmin Woodfield across from centreback for Newmarket to clear the threat putting the ball out for a throw.

Molly White wins the ball in the centre for Cambridge plays an early pass forwards for Yasmin Crow peeling away to the right up top taking the ball on into the box shoots her effort straight into Eloise Hope the goalkeeper back covering her near post claiming the ball. The action quickly switches to the other end the ball played out to Griffin wide right, Sillitoe already on the move into space in behind the Cambridge defence the pass picking her out into the area strikes the ball races wide across the six yard box.

Cambridge captain, Gemma Clare winning the ball ahead of Newmarket’s Jordanne Sillitoe

Clare coming further forwards into the middle wins the ball for Cambridge sending it long drops to Cullum back to goal 25 yards out tries to see the ball down into her box and turn into the strike is closely marked by Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield who prevents any strike the ball spinning loose is played long as Newmarket launch a counter the ball out wide right the cross fired into the area Clare puts her foot through the ball to clear for Cambridge drops straight to Smith just outside the area her first time strike flying over the crossbar.

Hope is quick to come out of her box to clear the ball as White almost ties up Crow again with a good through ball. Kayleigh Whitehead wins the ball plays it on for Crow right side wins the away sides first corner of the game as Yasmin Woodfield puts in the challenge. A brilliant pass from Bailey up the other end for Newmarket the midfielder sliding the ball on into the area with Griffin providing the run Tegan Wyman going with her for Cambridge does well to deny her a shooting opportunity. Sillitoe comes close again as she puts a low shot across the Cambridge goal from the top of the area. A change for Newmarket at the back Yasmin Woodfield coming off Ellie Marshall coming on.

Midfielder Laura Bailey getting into an advanced position as Newmarket push players forwards

Newmarket bring the ball forwards down the right on for Sillitoe to chase down on the byline cuts her cross back along the face of goal evading Jamieson at the near post runs on no one gambling with a far post run, Cambridge can clear their lines. A piece of lax defending from Newmarket presents Cambridge with an opportunity in attack as White runs on through the middle getting hold of the ball, Hope comes racing out to meet her just outside the area going to ground the pair come together enough from the goalkeeper to stop a strike coming in the ball deflected to the right White goes after it plays the cross in Marshall back tracking blocks back to White lifts it over the central defender this time both Cullum and Lucy Hurst coming in from the left inside the six yard box won’t come down for Cullum to get a clean strike away Hurst can put her foot through the shot smashes it straight against Hope who makes a great stop from close range having gotten back into position.

Molly White getting forwards for Cambridge is challenged as she attempts t play the ball into Ellie Cullum

Cambridge make a double switch full backs Wyman and Sorbye coming off with Erin Fox and Aneila Luxford coming on. Whitehead with Pearce bring the ball on for Cambridge, White wanting the ball right side attempts to play it through for Crow, Brooke Wickens getting to the ball ahead of the attacker. Newmarket make a change Cindy Ponder joining the action on the half hour for Deller. Cambridge win the ball from a Hope goal kick the ball knocked on through the middle sees Cullum unmarked 25 yards out the ball coming to her unexpectedly her shot lacks any power is gratefully claimed by Hope.

GOAL! Newmarket double their lead the goalscorer Abbi Griffin the 18 year old making her 50th appearance for the club today. Newmarket bring the ball on with purpose left side played into Griffin in a central position just outside the box left of the D puts a low shot in towards goal, Jamieson diving to her right can’t quite keep the ball out as it squirms under her and on into the back of the net 2-0.

50 appearances and a goal for Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

GOAL! Newmarket have been quicker to the ball all 1st half and are soon further ahead is another fantastic ball from midfield from Bailey splitting the Cambridge defence Sillitoe timing her run to perfection into the box can pick her spot Jamieson no time to close her down the ball is slotted low to her right to make it 3-0.

Cambridge make another double switch bringing on Rachel Littlewood and Amy Ozakpinar for Todd and White. Cambridge continue to be restricted in attack Newmarket defending a high line confident they can stop any threat getting in behind. Hurst looks to go beyond Cullum left side Linger tackling the winger breaking up the move.

Griffin latches onto the ball from a Cambridge throw in on the the right once again it’s Sillitoe ready to go makes the run into the channel the ball into her feet takes it on into the box closing in on goal, Jamieson has her near post covered and Ozakpinar gets across Sillitoe between them the ball is stopped spinning behind for a late corner. The ball played in towards the top of the area falls to Ponder her shot is straight at Jamieson the keeper with a comfortable save.

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 3-0 Cambridge City Ladies Development

A good first half performance from Newmarket taking a 3-0 lead into the changing rooms, pressing the ball high and winning alot of 2nd balls getting players forwards and as a result limiting Cambridge’s chances going forwards. Difficult conditions to play in the pitch okay but bitterly cold with a biting wind getting stronger.

The sides are soon out for the 2nd half as the floodlights are switched on the gloomy sky starting to darken. Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd period. Cambridge wheeling out the big gun have Laura Mills on the bench plenty of FAWPL experience is dual signed with Cambridge City with Milton Keynes Dons and takes up a midfield role in place of Whitehead. Marshall is off for Newmarket with Ponder dropping into defence. Sarah O’Rourke currently Newmarket’s top scorer with 12 goals is on up top along with Cassandra Carvalheiro and Dominika Szary. Slater, Smith and Griffin the players off. Newmarket get thing’s underway.

An early attack for the home side the ball played deep into the left channel with Sillitoe after it has support from Szary to her left the ball laid back to her plays the cross into the area falls just behind O’Rourke making a run at the far post. Cambridge get the ball forwards long from Pearce out to Littlewood on the left wing her early cross into the area headed clear by Woodfield.

Cambridge’s Rachel Pearce

Picking up the ball 25 yards out from goal Sillitoe jinks left then right knocking the ball on for O’Rourke to her right into the box, Jamieson making the save low at her feet the ball deflected wide O’Rourke after it tries to life the ball over the keeper, Jamieson producing a great save.

GOAL! A more even start however Newmarket go further ahead early in the 2nd half as the home side is awarded a free-kick wide in the right top corner of the area. Linger, Newmarket’s set piece specialist coming forwards to take goes for goal plenty of pace on the all across the area to nestle in the bottom corner 4-0.

Jamieson makes a fantastic stop with her feet to deny Newmarket a 5th goal moments later as possession is lost the home side getting the ball out to O’Rourke on the right her cross from the byline cut back into the area Carvalheiro with the run a good strike from close range Jamieson doing well to stop it. Luxford with the ball right side for Cambridge inside to Crow looks to pick out Fox getting forwards from the left, the through ball intercepted. Mills giving Cambridge a focal point in the midfield they are getting the ball forwards with more purpose and getting players up around her wanting the ball. Newmarket sitting back more have a comfortable lead.

Cambridge’s Erin Fox playing the ball forwards

GOAL! Cambridge pull a goal back on the hour coming forwards the ball played long into the right wing Crow giving chase evades a clumsy challenge in the corner before putting a great all into the six yard box centre of goal Littlewood having moved in from the left is there under the ball close with the keeper a glancing header taking it past her into the back of the net 4-1.

Cambridge come again soon after the restart the ball won at the back up the line Mills helping it on for Crow down the right her early diagonal ball into the box is a threat Hope has two runners closing her down the ball falling favourably in between them she is able to deal with the threat get it away. Newmarket make a change Slater returning to the pitch in place of Szary.

Carvalheiro makes a run across the top of the Cambridge area as the ball is squared into her from the left screws the shot up over the bar. Winning a corner on the left Newmarket bring players forwards the ball is defended near post behind for another corner this delivery aimed near post squeezes through sees a shot come in from inside the six yard box the defender covering the post for Cambridge making the block resulting in a 3rd corner this one taken short with Sillitoe coming for the ball she turns and strikes the ball from outside the box Hurst charging the ball down.

Hurst comes off for Cambridge with Sorbye coming back on with Newmarket winning a corner right side the ball getting through to Sillitoe at the near post her shot blocked by Cullum at close range. A run from Mills on the right side for Cambridge cuts the ball back in field for Pearce coming forwards her looping ball comes for Cullum in a central position outside the area aiming to get the ball down and turn and strike it Newmarket are quickly on her to nullify the danger.

A brave piece of goalkeeping from Jamieson with Newmarket hitting Cambridge on the counter the ball played low through the middle finding Carvalheiro running clear towards the box and one on one situation Jamieson comes rushing out sliding it to smother the ball at the attackers feet just inside the box, is hurt for her efforts but after treatment is okay to continue. Is a more even contest 2nd half Cambridge playing with a little more urgency starting attacks higher up the pitch enabling more players to get forwards. Newmarket defending a 3 goal lead can afford to sit back a little with around 15 minutes left to play.

Very cold out there, Jamieson comes racing out of her area to clear the ball with Sillitoe giving chase as Bailey plays it on. Newmarket push players forwards in the next attack the ball won on the left taken to the byline the cross whipped in across the six yard box dropping at the far post Griffin arriving throws herself at hit making contact with her boot the ball striking the post!

Deller returns to the field for Newmarket in place of O’Rourke. Todd and White are also back on for Cambridge. Bailey with a crossfield run cuts the ball back looking to play it over the top for Deller, Cambridge push up the striker caught offside. A free kick awarded to Cambridge in an inviting position right of the D, Pearce on the ball sends her shot up over the bar.

Bailey moving left with the ball squares her cross along the top of the area the ball cut out by Luxford. Late into the match Crow wide plays a ball into the area from the right Ponder heading it away, the home side counter attack the ball forwards into Bailey a great slide rule past sending Deller in behind, good positioning from Jamieson the keeper able to get out of her area and come to clear the threat before Deller can get hold of the ball.

Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 4-1 Cambridge City Ladies Development

A 4-1 win for Newmarket takes them into 2nd position in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership table on 19 points. The game won in the 1st half a dominant performance Newmarket starting the better closing the ball down higher up the pitch players making forward runs to cause Cambridge problems and go 3 goals in front, further extending the lead as Cambridge rallied in the 2nd half playing with much more confidence pulling a goal back a young and talented side that are only going to get better. Newmarket now 8 points behind Netherton with 3 games in hand.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

A good display from Newmarket especially first half getting themselves into a 3 goal lead a few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, Griffin and Bailey both doing well, up top it was her runs and movement that caused Cambridge the most problems as well as pulling players out of position capping it off with a goal so have given it to Jordanne Sillitoe.

A credit to the players for braving horrible conditions to play today’s game bitterly cold a ball strike hurting just a little bit more. Played with plenty of energy and in good spirit. Freezing myself took a while to warm up but good to get a game in. My thanks to both clubs for their help today.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts – 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

A weekend of cup action in Beds & Herts with the quarter finals of the League Cup taking place along with the 1st Round of the Chris Renshaw Cup being played some exciting games amongst them too.

In the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup quarter finals defending cup holders Houghton Athletic Ladies are through to the semi-finals of this years competition with a comfortable home win over fellow Division One side Flitwick Ladies. A brace for both Shakeela Hussain and Emily Wilson in the match with a goal to for Louise Spendelow to see Houghton advance with a 5-0 win.

Also through to the semi-finals of the League Cup with a 5-0 win are Northwood Ladies in their debut season. Were away in the quarter finals taking on Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three side, Evergreen Ladies. Scarlett Keightley putting the Division One side into an early 5th minute lead, Zamina Rehemtulia and Emma Steele making it 3-0 before half-time. Leanne Jones extending Northwood’s lead on 59 minutes. Keightley getting her 2nd of the match with 20 minutes left.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One leaders St Albans Ladies are into their 2nd semi-final of the season having already reached the semi’s of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup. At home in the quarter finals of the League Cup taking on fellow Division One side Garston Ladies. A single goal enough to send St Albans through coming late in the 1st half, Ellen Slater scoring.

An eventful game in the final League Cup quarter final going all the way to extra-time. Division One side Sharnbrook WFC hosting Division Two leaders, Garston Ladies 2nd XI. Lauren Berryman scoring a hat-trick for Garston. Sharnbrook netting 3 up the other end to force extra-time Emma Butler scoring in the 1st half with Hoffi Pursey scoring early in the 2nd half Butler scoring again in the 84th minute. Into extra-time the match was closing in on penalties when Gemma Franklin (pictured) found the back of the net for Sharnbrook with 3 minutes left to send them through to the semi-finals.

The draw for the semi-finals of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup is as follows date to be arranged:-

St Albans Ladies v Sharnbrook WFC

Houghton Athletic Ladies v Northwood Ladies

The Chris Renshaw Cup

Into it’s 2nd season The Chris Renshaw Cup began this weekend with 8 1st Round ties featuring those sides knocked out of the League Cup in the early stages, plenty of action with three ties going into extra-time two of which feature Welwyn Pegasus.

Division One side Sherrardswood Ladies were drawn at home in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup taking on Division Three side, Bedwell Rangers Ladies. A 7 minute hat-trick from Laurie Marris in the 1st half putting Sherrardswood in control of the tie, could find no more goal 2nd half Bedwell pulling one back with 15 minutes left Jessica Sullivan scoring. 3-1 the final score.

Plenty of goals in the 1st Round tie between Watton Ladies and Welwyn Pegasus Azures 11 in total as the game went all the way to extra-time finishing 4-4 after 90 minutes. Janiece Allen scoring a 1st half hat-tick for the visitors Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Division One side Watton getting 4 goals leading late into the match Sophie Clarke netting for Welwyn in 2nd half injury time to take the tie into extra-time. Watton found another goal in the extra period of play but it was Welwyn who progress as they scored twice more to win an incredible game 6-5. Anja Fletchman Brown and Clarke with her 2nd of the game sending them through. Both Beth Wilding and Laura Agnew claiming a brace for Watton with Gemma Penny also on target.

Hitchin Town Ladies also progress in the Chris Renshaw Cup with a 1st Round home win over fellow Division Two side Evergreen Eagles. Jessica McNamara scoring a hat-trick with Mandy Cain-Murnane also getting a goal in a 4-0 win.

4-0 was also the winning margin in the all Division Three 1st Round tie between, Potters Bar United Ladies and Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. It was the visitors Shefford who progress in the competition with goals from Chloe Tate, Louise Grocott and Sarah King along with an own goal.

Another all Division Two 1st Round tie saw Letchworth Garden City Eagles hosting Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues on Sunday. Natalie Moey scoring a hat-trick for Letchworth with Katie Smith also on target in a 4-1 victory. Chloe Martin from the penalty spot scoring for Woburn & Wavendon.

Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies in form in Division Three were away to Division Two side Hitchin Belles in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Laura Bocking and Shannon Page scoring the 2 goals for Hitchin Belles they were knocked out of the competition with Wheathamstead netting 3 up the other end Sophie Pidgeon getting a goal with Libby Quinn scoring twice in a 3-2 win.

An all Division Three clash in the 1st Round of competition saw Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets hosting league leaders Bedford Ladies Development. The visitors in trouble 2-0 down at half-time, Emma Payne netting twice for Woburn & Wavendon. Bedford mounted a come back in the 2nd half to force the tie into extra-time. Captain Jessica Bunnage making it 2-1 on 67 minutes. Catalina Costas with her 1st goal for the side 8 minutes from time making it 2-2. In extra-time Bedford went on to take an early lead Bunnage with her 2nd of the game as Woburn & Wavendon looked for a goal at the other end the visitors scored again late on Cayleigh Jackson on target to make it 4-2 the final score 5-2 with Joanne Makin scoring a late minute penalty.

Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires 2nd in Division Two were hosting 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies Reserves in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup another high scoring tie that went all the way to extra-time on Sunday. Megan Kaba with her 1st goal for Royston and a brace from Grace Leslie seeing the visitors score 3. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires also on target with 3 goals in the regulation 90 minutes to see the game extended by 30 minutes. A different story in extra-time as Welwyn Pegasus dominated to power their way into the next round netting 4 more goals to win 7-3. April Spang getting 4 goals in the match with Chemise Huitson, Sophie Mandel and Katherine Calvert with her 1st goal for the club also scoring.

8 sides advancing into the quarter finals of The Chris Renshaw Cup they are as follows date to be arranged:-

Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies v Sherrardswood Ladies

Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires v Shefford Town & Campton Ladies

Hitchin Town Ladies v Bedford Ladies Development

Welwyn Pegasus Azures v Letchworth Garden City Eagles

The Round-Up – Essex 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

Essex Women’s Premier Division

A busy Sunday of football across Essex with action from the league and league cup. Hatfield Peverel Ladies keep their 7 point lead at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division winning away from home on Sunday taking on bottom side Harlow Town Ladies a 1st half hat-trick from top scorer Yasmin Cowley seeing the 3 points go home with the visitors.

2nd placed Frontiers Ladies hadn’t played since the end of November their 1st game of 2018 saw them start with a win to resume their pursuit of Hatfield Peverel. Away on Sunday playing Runwell Sports Ladies the sides were drawing 1-1 at half-time before Frontiers went on to score 3 goals in the 2nd half to win the match 4-1. Sharon Ferguson scoring a hat-trick in the game with Jill Bartholomew on target with a goal. Bobbi Cubberley with the goal for Runwell Sports Ladies.

Chelmsford City Ladies were at home to Eastern Avenue on Sunday the two sides having to settle for a point a piece with the result 0-0 after the 90 minutes. A point enough to move Chelmsford City back into 3rd position in the Premier Division table.

Essex Women’s Division One

New leaders in Essex Women’s Division One after this Sundays results Leigh Ramblers Ladies go top winning at home with leaders Hullbridge Sports Ladies in League Cup action. Away from taking on Walden Ladies, Leigh Ramblers won the game 5-2 to move a point clear at the top of the table. Kim Jeffery with the Walden Ladies goal.

Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies move back into 3rd position in the Essex Women’s Division One table winning away from home on Sunday playing 5th placed Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves, goals from Daisy Theobald and Fran Pridie securing a 2-0 win.

That loss for Brentwood Town coupled with a big away win for Rayleigh Town Ladies sees them climb above them into 5th in the Essex Women’s Division One table. Taking on Waltham Forest Ladies, Holly Gash scored 5 times in the match to move her onto 14 for the season. Gash didn’t top score in the game however with captain Isabelle Wallings wading in with a double hat-trick to move her past 30 goals for the season. Eleasha Reeves, Aaryanna Simonelli and Anne Winfield also getting a goal each in a 14-0 win.

Benfleet Villa Ladies are off the bottom of Essex Women’s Division One as they earned a point at home to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Lauren Brumpton getting the goal for Benfleet in a 1-1 draw.

Essex Women’s League Cup

The 1st Round of the Essex Women’s League Cup was completed this weekend with 4 ties played. Was a big win away from home for Lawford Ladies then 3rd in the Premier Division against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves 2nd bottom in Division One. Daisy Canny continuing to find the back of the net with another hat-trick 3 players got a brace in the match Ella Boyden, Sofia Serghiou and Gemma Issacs with a goal each for Tyler Christou and Jamie Newstead in an 11-0 win.

A big away result too for Premier Division side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies taking on Division One side FC Clacton Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup. Rarely does a write up about Beacon Hill Rovers not feature Jo Smeaton and this one is no exception as she top scored in the game with 5 goals to her name. Marie Hall getting 2 goals, Louise Oliver, Sarah Taylor and Xanthe Davis were also goalscorers in a 10-1 win. Lauren Lucas scoring for FC Clacton.

Essex Women’s Division One leaders Hullbridge Sports ladies were away in the League Cup 1st Round on Sunday taking on Premier Division side, Hutton Ladies Reserves. All square at half time the sides drawing 1-1. Both going on to score again in the 2nd half it was Hullbridge Sports who progress edging the result 3-2. Captain Danni Dorrington scoring a brace with top scorer Broghan Kelly also getting a goal.

A great result for Alresford Colne Rangers in the 1st Round of the League Cup as they knocked out fellow Division One side Southend United Ladies. A narrow 1-0 lead at half-time Alresford went on to score 3 more goals in the 2nd half as Southend looked to respond to win the game 4-2. Joanne Harvey netting twice with a goal each for Lucie Stanbury and Jasmine Warner for Alresford. Emily Pert and Georgia Raby with the Southend United goals.

That sees the 2nd Round draw of the Essex Women’s League Cup look as follows:-

Eastern Avenue v Corringham Cosmos

Benfleet Villa Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies Reserves

Collier Row Tigers v Chelmsford City Ladies

Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies v Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies

Runwell Sports Ladies v Frontiers Ladies

Alresford Colne Rangers v Hullbridge Sports Ladies

Lawford Ladies v Leigh Ramblers Ladies

Hatfield Peveral Ladies v Walden Ladies

Ties are scheduled to be played Sunday 28th January with a 1:30pm KO

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Two games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday, 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies on the road taking on bottom of the table Park Ladies who hadn’t played a game since the 19th of November. Games in hand on runaway leaders Netherton United Ladies, Newmarket need to convert those into points if they wish to challenge for the title. A comfortable win for the visitors with Abbi Griffin netting a brace, 2 goals too for Sofia Mae Armitage in her 1st start for the club. Chloe Slater, Laura Bailey, Jennifer Gray, Antonia Smith, Brooke Wickens and captain Beth Woodfield were also on the scoresheet in a 10-1 win that moves Newmarket 2 points behind 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies. Amy Newell with the goal for Park Ladies.

Cambridge City Ladies Development move up to 4th in the Premiership table winning at home against Cambridge University Women. The hosts coming back from 3-2 down to clinch a 6-3 win. 16 year old Yasmin Crow scoring her 1st senior hat-trick, Ellie Cullum also getting 2 goals with Lucy Hurst also finding the back of the net. Amanda Wainwright and Emma Mcloughlin on the scoresheet for Cambridge University.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

Two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North at the weekend with league leaders Ketton Ladies opening up a 5 point lead at the top of the table scoring plenty of goals along the way too averaging over 5.5 a game in league and cup. A high scoring win on Sunday at home to Spalding United Ladies, Emma Ward netting a hat-trick with Sascha Smith scoring twice , a goal each for Fran Kavanagh and Estelle Bonnamour in a 7-0 victory.

The 1st game of the season for Riverside Ladies… really. A new and late entrant to the league have been listed in the table for sometime however just hadn’t played till today. Dropping down into the Cambridgeshire league after struggling for numbers in the EMWFL, an unusual move midway through a season but better they survive and regroup rather than fold have alot of games to fit in however. Started with a win at home to Pinchbeck United Ladies. Sophie Harris scoring twice for the hosts their were goals too for Michelle Bark, Diana Olohova, Hannah Stubbs, Jade Ramm, Samantha Woodham and captain Stacey Schreiber in an 8-1 result.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Histon Ladies Reserves were playing at the Glassworld Stadium for their league match against Isleham United Ladies looking to close the 6 point gap to league leaders Fulbourn Bluebirds Institute in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South. Kirsty Lemmon Sparkes getting 2 more goals for Histon to take her onto 18 for the season from 7 played. Philippa Hayden-Evans moving on to 12 goals also scoring in the match with Samantha Cousins also on target and a debut goal for 16 year old Destiny Robinson a 5-1 win. Laura Todd getting the goal for Isleham.

The match between Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves and St Ives Town Development was abandoned after minutes with the score at 1-1 due to a serious injury to one of the Newmarket Town players. Wishing the player involved all the best for a speedy recovery.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Two matches from the group stages in the Division One Cup this Sunday. In Group A Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were away to Burwell Tigers a comfortable win for the side leading the Championship South. Sharon Pinner getting a hat-trick with goals for Katie Luddy, Emma Clark Cara Deal and Sarah Gee in a 7-0 win.

In Group C the 1st match played in the mini league was a Wisbech derby with Wisbech St Mary hosting Wisbech Town Ladies. After the 90 minutes it was the visitors who had all 3 points in the bag. Jordan Turner scoring her 1st goals for the club getting a brace with a goal each for Chloe Riches and Sophie Gutteridge in a 4-1 win. Amy Magnus on target for Wisbech St Mary.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

Suffolk Women’s Division

4 games played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday as leaders East Bergholt United win 7-0 for the 2nd successive Sunday to go 8 points clear at the top of the table continuing their 100% winning run. Away to Ipswich Athletic Ladies this Sunday were leading their opponents 3-0 at half-time before going on to add 4 more in the 2nd half. Annie Northwood getting a brace their were goals too for Jessica Quinsee, Millie Wilding, Pippa King, Jessica Oxlade and Cara Savage.

A 7 goal thriller between 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies and 3rd placed Bacton United Ladies on Sunday, Sophie Crabtree, Lucy Dunnett and Kirsten Hutchings with the goals for away side Brantham Athletic it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Bacton United hit 4 goals up the other end to take all 3 points, Francesca Rainbird netting a brace with a goal each for Kirsten Spooner and Lauren Jacobs. The victory moves Bacton United above Brantham Athletic into 2nd spot.

Walsham Le Willows Ladies are well positioned back in 5th to push the sides at the top of the table as they recorded a big win away from home on Sunday against bottom side Hadleigh United Ladies. Walsham Le Willows playing just their 5th league game of the season Norma Locker top scoring in the match getting a hat-trick, there were braces for Lisa Pratt, Laura Brame and Kirsty Pollard with Gemma Carter, Debbie Greeves and Mia Banbury all getting a goal each in a 12-0 win.

Leiston St Margarets ladies recent good form continues as the 4th lace sides moves level on points with 3rd placed Brantham Athletic winning at home on Sunday taking on AFC Kesgrave Ladies. Michelle Stanborough scoring a hat-trick in the match their were goals too for Lucy Eagles and Sarah Cooper in a 5-0 win.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Quarter finals weekend in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup this Sunday 8 teams vying for a place in the semi-finals. Six in the end as for the 2nd successive Sunday Acle United Ladies progress in a cup competition without kicking a ball awarded an away win this time over Aylsham Ladies.

Norfolk Women’s Division One side North Walsham Angels Ladies were at home in the quarter finals of the County Cup taking on ERWFL Division One North leaders, King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The higher league side holding the advantage at half-time with a slender 1-0 lead. King’s Lynn doubling the lead 56 minutes into the 2nd half. North Walsham with a quick reply pulling it back to 2-1 with Hope Middleton on target. The win only secured 5 minutes from time with a goal in the 85th minute. Elle Bocking and a brace from Tiffany Forshaw the scorers for King’s Lynn.

Fakenham Town Ladies also from Norfolk Women’s Division One were also at home to ERWFL Division One North opposition in the quarter finals of the County Cup taking on free scoring Wymondham Town Ladies the visitors with a potent attacking line up had an early lead, Nadine Basson scoring in the 6th minute. Hannah Waters made it 2-0 just 2 minutes later. Two more goals for Waters in the 26th and 32nd minutes saw the lead extended to 4-0 as she completed a 1st half hat-trick. Youngster Mollie O’Callaghan getting a goal with the half-time score 6-0 Basson scoring from the penalty spot. More goals came in the 2nd half for the visitors Laura Nicholls wading in on the goal scoring netting the 7th on 58 minutes. 4 goals then added in 10 minutes as both O’Callaghan and Nicholls completed their hat-tracks. Waters scoring another in the 75th. Not done there Wymondham wrapped up a 15-0 win with 3 goals in the last 5 minutes Alice Ladbrooke and Brooke Cheal each scoring with Basson the 4th Wymondham player in the game to claim a hat-trick.

A strong semi-final line-up is completed by Sprowston Ladies who will see themselves as the underdogs despite leading the way in Norfolk Division One. Were at home in the quarter finals taking on Division Two side, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies, a dominant 1st half seeing Sprowston leading 6-0. Bure Valley having a better 2nd half restricting the hosts to just one further goal 7-0 the final score. The draw for the semi-finals of the County Cup will be made on Friday.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Bungay Town Ladies move to within a point of leaders Sprowston Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division One after beating bottom side Long Stratton Ladies away from home on Sunday. Nicola Hazell scoring a hat-trick along with a goal a piece for Selina Rowland and Samantha Walker securing the 3 points.

Wymondham Town Ladies were hosting Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday 5th and 6th in the table a point between the sides that remains after the sides played out a 1-1 draw a rare Amii Andrews goal for Stalham Town.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

In Norfolk Women’s Division Two there was just the one match played on Sunday with 3rd placed Tavern Ladies travelling to play Freethorpe Ladies. 2 goals each for Sophie Fuller and Lucy Kean see Tavern consolidate 3rd with a 4-1 win. Rebecca White netting the goal for Freethorpe.

The draws for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup (semi-finals) & Plate (quarter finals) competitions have also been made this weekend and are listed below:-

Norfolk Ladies League Cup semi-finals

Stalham Town Ladies v FC Sprowston Ladies

Thorpe United Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Norfolk Ladies League Plate quarter finals

Sprowston Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies

Costessey Sports Ladies v North Walsham Angels Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves v Gorleston Rangers Ladies

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies – Bye

The Round-Up – ERWFL 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

ERWFL Premier Division

Billericay Town Ladies return to the top of the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday after a big win on the road against fellow Essex side Writtle Ladies. New signing Georgia Box moving onto 10 goals from just 6 appearances hitting the back of the net 4 times. Captain Lindsey Morgan takes her own tally to 15 for the season scoring a brace with Nancy Butler also recently signed netting her 1st goal in a 7-1 victory.

Cambridge City Ladies slip to 2nd in the Premier Division after they salvaged a point late on at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday the visitors taking the lead with Megan Partridge netting her 11th goal of the season. Cambridge City created plenty of opportunities 2nd half Sudbury keeping them out until late in the game Carla Penny getting the goal to make it 1-1 and win a point.

Brentwood Town Ladies are up to 4th on the ERWFL Premier Division table having recovered from a slump in form that saw them plummet down the table late in 2017. A mid-table clash at the weekend the Essex side were at home taking on Bedford Ladies. A close contest the sides drawing 0-0 as the match moved into the final 5 minutes Paida Dedza making her 1st appearance of the season getting the winning goal to see Brentwood claim all 3 points. 5 wins from their last 6 games in league and cup for Brentwood now.

ERWFL League Cup

One last tie from the 3rd Round of the League Cup was played this Sunday with Royston Town Ladies at home to Colney Heath Ladies . The sides drawing 0-0 at half-time Royston Town went on to dominate the 2nd half to progress to the quarter finals, Francesca Smithers scoring a hat-trick in the game with a goal each for Sammy Tinsley and Becky Shephard to see the hosts win 5-0.

The quarter finals for the ERWFL League Cup are scheduled to be played Sunday 25th February the draw as follows:-

Bedford Ladies v Brentwood Town Ladies

Royston Town Ladies v Acle United Ladies

Billericay Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

AFC Dunstable Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

The draw for the ERWFL League Plate quarter finals has also been made again to be played on Sunday 25th February as listed below:-

Cambridge United WFC Reserves v Hutton Ladies

Histon Ladies v Hertford Town Ladies

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

ERWFL Division One North

One game played in the ERWFL Division One North this Sunday with Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies travelling to Essex to face Silver End United Ladies. Goals from Katie Seagrave and Siobhan White seeing the visitors leading 2-0 at half-time. Both players getting another goal each in the 2nd half. Silver End United getting a goal through Megan Jiggins the final score 4-1 see Histon Ladies move back into 4th place in the table.

ERWFL Division One South

A couple of postponements in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend, leaving just the one game being played and that saw the Stevenage Ladies Reserves juggernaut continue their 100% winning record now into 11 matches. Away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Daniela Martucci claiming 2 goals in the game with Hannah Marshall, Emily Scofield, Mary Lisle and Emma Marshall all on target with a goal each in a 6-0 win. Now 64 scored and still 0 conceded.