Match Report – AFC Dunstable Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Sunday 4th February

A trip to Bedfordshire this Sunday to watch a game from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division with AFC Dunstable Ladies hosting league leaders, Billericay Town Ladies.

The ERWFL proving to be a very competitive league across all 3 divisions this season, any given team in the Premier Division capable of beating the other on the day. 10 sides contesting the league now following the sad withdrawal of both Lowestoft Town Ladies and Colchester Town Ladies both having struggled to find enough committed players at this level. That has see some points adjustment during the way.

AFC Dunstable are currently in 7th place in the ERWFL Premier Division table, very tight in the middle of the table with just 3 points between 7th and 4th placed Writtle Ladies. A win today could take AFC Dunstable Ladies as high as 4th with the right result. Their form has yo-yoed this season like a few other sides in the middle of the table. More than capable of putting a good run together on the back of a strong league campaign last season that saw them push the top sides all the way eventually finishing 4th. Have brought in a few players form Offley & Stopsley Women who folded over the close season, Kelly Moss, Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend -Brown. A 2-0 win over Sharnbrook WFC last weekend saw Dunstable reach the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup.

Billericay Town Ladies are often amongst the side competing at the top end of the table during recent times finishing runners-up for 4 out of the last 5 seasons. 6th last campaign began this season strongly setting the early pace matched by Essex rivals Writtle Ladies. Cambridge City Ladies promoted last season going on a great winning run to took over top spot for a little while before Christmas. Billericay have added a few new faces to their squad, Dempsey Favell joining from Harlow Town Ladies, whilst Lauren Bourne, Nancy Butler and Georgia Box were with Colchester at the start of the season. Box hitting the ground running at Billericay the striker scoring 10 goals from 8 appearance. Plenty of goals already in the side before her arrival with captain Lindsey Morgan netting 15 so far and Paris Smith top scorers with 22 goals. Opened up a 4 point lead at the top after coming back from 1-0 down at half-time against 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies last weekend and with Cambridge not in action this Sunday an opportunity to open up a 7 point gap at the top.

The venue for today’s game, Creasey Park a council run sports facility home to several clubs, aswell as AFC Dunstable Ladies, AFC Dunstable FC and Dunstable Town use the ground. Is a very nice ground newly built offering several training pitches including a 3G surface aswell as the main pitch. A clubhouse with bar and hot food and drinks available laid out well the changing room adjoining leading out onto the main pitch a good size offering plenty of width a little worn in places has seen alot of action. Only been here before for night games so nice to see it it the daylight. A small seated stand, and a good sized carpark beside the ground. A few postponements in the area but the game was on frosty earlier wet before but the pitch had dried out well, chilly but the sun was doing it’s best.

AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI – Hannah Payne, Jodie Patterson, Lauren Chimes (C), Elly Wade, Stephanie Fisher, Rachel Moffat, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Samaira Khan, Rianne Townsend-Brown & Charlene Moreton. Subs – Rebecca Langthorpe, Beth Stanton, Claudia Attenborough & Kelly Moss.

Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Robyn Strauss, Rachel Armstrong, Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Sally Appleton, Lindsey Morgan (C), Nancy Butler, Lauren Bourne, Lauren Knight, Dempsey Favell & Georgia Box. Subs – Hope Strauss.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Billericay were without top scorers Paris Smith today, Hope Strauss an U18 player on the subs bench. Both sides have blue as their home strip, today Billericay were playing in their red away kit. It’s Dunstable to get the 1st half underway. Billericay press the ball straight from kick-off captain Lindsey Morgan bringing it forwards the ball played out wide right to Lauren Knight getting forwards her progress halted by Dunstable captain Lauren Chimes at left back. The visitors keeping possession inside their opponents half.

Lauren Bourne and Nancy Butler combine on the left side for Billericay bringing the ball on down the line the cross swept into the box knocked down by Georgia Box at the far post into the path of Butler her low shot blocked by Stephanie Fisher at the back for Dunstable the visitors keep the ball inside the final 3rd a cross sent in long from the left Lauren Knight coming in right side sees her looping strike fly up onto the roof of the net.

Billericay continue their good start Morgan busy in the middle of the park winning the ball sends the pass forwards for Box ahead of her the striker holding the ball up lays it back to Morgan 25 yards out she sends a shot in towards goal straight at Hannah Payne a comfortable catch for the Dunstable goalkeeper. Jodie Patterson brings the ball on for Dunstable up to Moreton central she looks to release Khan on the right Lauren Armstrong intercepts the ball.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Jodie Patterson

Dunstable’s Danielle Carty bringing the ball in finds Rianne Townsend-Brown on the left driving on with the ball wins the home side the 1st corner of the game. A good delivery in from the left Samiara Khan get’s up highest near post puts her header wide of the goal. Butler plays the ball long up the pitch for Box moving into the right channel to chase down, Chimes sliding in to put the ball out for a throw in. Billericay work the ball across the top of the area, players drawn across Bourne his looking to get in behind, Khan doing well around on the cover to put in a vital tackle. A good race on between Box and Dunstable centre back Elly Wade as Morgan plays the through ball on for her. the defender getting to the ball 1st plays it back to Payne to clear.

GOAL! Billericay capitalise on their good start taking the lead 15 minutes into the game pressing forwards players racing to get into the area as Bourne carries the ball on down the left whips in a great cross along the six yard box met at the far post the shot comes in Payne makes an outstanding save to take the ball away across her goal back out to the left is knocked back out to towards the top of the area with Bourne latching onto it from 20 yards out smashes a stunning strike into the top corner no chance of stopping it 0-1. Bourne’s 1st goal for Billericay too.

Lauren Bourne opens the scoring for Billericay Town Ladies

Dunstable look to respond the ball played on through the middle by Charlotte South on for Khan coming central takes it on has Townsend-Brown making a run to her left rolls the ball on for her into the area left of goal goes to shoot, Kirsty Knight in the way making the block for Billericay the ball spinning behind for the corner. The ball played in towards the top of the Billericay box his headed over the crossbar.

Morgan with a couple of efforts at goal for Billericay the 1st from a wide right position held low at the near post by Payne. The second as Sally Appleton plays the ball forwards from the back Morgan running onto it 20 yards from goal her strike right flashes wide across goal out at the far post. Payne with another top draw save for Dunstable this time however off one of her own defenders as Hayley Piggott getting forwards right side for Billericay puts a great cross into the box met by a blue shirt the header up heading goalwards threatening to dip under the ball Payne throws herself at it tipping it wide.

An excellent save from AFC Dunstable Ladies goalkeeper Hannah Payne from one of her own players

Butler receives the ball central from Morgan turns and plays it on for Dempsey Favell getting in behind the Dunstable defence a little too much on the ball allows Payne coming quickly off her line to get their 1st to clear the ball. A competitive game Appleton needed to come off to clean up a bleeding nose. Carty and Favell slid in for a 50/50 ball the Dunstable player aggrieved as the decision goes against her. A long ball played on is cleared by the Dunstable defence falls straight to Butler 30 yards out strikes the ball 1st time her effort swerving away from goal goes wide.

Billericay Town Ladies captain, Lindsey Morgan

Morgan taking the ball into the area for Billericay sees her shot blocked at close range by Wade another opportunity to put it in towards goal this time Fisher is in the right place to clear. Piggott with an ambitious effort from all of 40 yards out sees the ball fall just wide of goal. Charlene Moreton operating up front for Dunstable has been tracking back in order to win possession of the ball doing so has Khan making a break on the right wing the ball played up the line, Rachel Armstrong prevents her from getting a cross into the area. Counter attacking the ball played up to Morgan surging forwards into towards goal Box ahead of her right inside lays the ball back to her, Wade racing out charging down her shot.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Elly Wade

Dunstable make a substitution Beth Stanton coming on to replace Khan. Billericay press forwards Box picking up the ball 40 yards from goal sends it on for Favell looking to get onto it inside the box, Chimes coming around slides in to win the ball. Another change for Dunstable Khan’s stay on the bench short lived comes back on for Carty in the middle. Wade with another great defensive tackle gets across inside her box to prevent Morgan unleashing a shot as she is played on into the area.

Billericay Town ladies, Georgia Box

Billericay finish the half strongly getting on down the left the ball is fizzed inside towards Box the striker controlling well her 1st touch taking the ball in towards the area escaping her marker gives chase just a little too much on the ball again gives Payne time to get out to come kick the ball to safety. Dunstable break in the dying moment of the 1st half Khan with the ball right plays it into the centre with South getting up the pitch has Townsend-Brown to her left making a run into the area lets fly as she receives the ball, Billericay goalkeeper, Robyn Strauss coming to close the angle is able to hold onto the rising shot.

Half-time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

A good 1st half from the visitors dominant on the ball leading 1-0 thanks to Lauren Bourne’s stunning 15th minute strike. More chances to extend the lead, Payne with some crucial saves the defence working hard for Dunstable keeping the lead down to just a single goal. Dunstable with little opportunity up the other end are far from out of the game as the sides emerge from the changing rooms for the 2nd half.

Changes for both sides at half-time, Rebecca Langthorpe on for Dunstable, Khan pushed up into an striking role alongside Moreton. Hope Strauss on for Billericay, replacing Armstrong. Operating wide right, Morgan dropping deeper, Favell into midfield Lauren Knight joining Box up front. Billericay to kick-off the 2nd half. The half getting off to a competitve start both sides looking to close the ball down quickly. Townsend-Brown getting away on the left for Dunstable her cross gathered at the near post by Strauss.

Billericay Town ladies, Dempsey Favell

Lauren Knight putting the Dunstable defence under pressure as the ball is played into the corner on the right, Butler getting forwards to offer support Knight plays the ball to her then back to Knight her cross fired in towards the near post run Box threatening to nip in ahead of Payne coming towards the ball the striker getting a touch but only to take the ball out of play. Dunstable starting the 2nd half much better South getting the ball forwards into Khan back to goal right side has Stanton on the move on the wing the diagonal pass into her taking the ball on to the byline wins a corner kick.

Stanton getting forwards on the right again her cross fired in across the six yard box knocked out to Moreton positioned at the top of the area her strike charged down by Appleton. Dunstable good start has given them plenty of confidence are winning the 50/50 balls getting players into advanced positions, Billericay know they could do with a 2nd goal to quieten things down. Hope Strauss with the ball right plays it on for Butler making a run forwards her through ball into the box looking for Bourne, Payne reaching it 1st.

Nancy Butler passing the ball for Billericay Town Ladies

Wade doing well at the back for Dunstable across to block Morgan’s cross the ball out for a throw Billericay have players forwards Morgan with another opportunity to put a cross in deeper this time cut out by Fisher coming back out to Morgan this time her cross flies across the six yard box Bourne coming in at the far post can’t quite get onto the end of it. The game is lively the action end to end Dunstable get forwards Khan picking the ball up has a run at the Billericay defence, Kirsty Knight putting the challenge in to win the ball take it away from the attack at the top of the box.

Stephanie Fisher clearing the ball for AFC Dunstable Ladies

Winning the ball at the back Wade looks up playing the ball into the middle his helped on out to the left side into the feet of Moffat taking the ball on down the wing fires a cross into the side netting. Moffat is replaced soon after with Carty returning to the field for Dunstable the home side sure they can find an equalising goal have the momentum. The ball is passed on into Khan peeling away to the right of goal in behind driving into the box Strauss comes racing out to close her down the attacker getting her shot past the keeper the ball heading towards goal the Billericay defence regrouping quickly are back on the cover Kirsty Knight clearing the ball off the line.

Samaira Khan on the attack for AFC Dunstable Ladies

Townsend-Brown with the ball left side sees her cross into the area cut out by Knight away for a corner, Dunstable on top with around 20 minutes left to play. Langthorpe is fouled as she brings the ball into the Billericay half. Carty over the free-kick in front of the centre circle a good ball lifted into the area dropping for South 8 yards out looks to see the ball down across her body turn into the shot, Kirsty Knight reading it closely marking her blocks the attempt. Billericay make a change Armstrong returning to the pitch in place of Favell.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Charlotte South

Carty seeing the ball down tries her luck from distance for the home side, on target Strauss is well placed in the Billericay goal to take the ball low into her body. Knight is shoved over by Khan as the Dunstable striker looks to get past her after the ball, despite winning the free-kick a few verbals from Knight booked see her booked. Billericay having to work hard to keep their lead in tack, Dunstable continue to press forwards. Dunstable with a free-kick inside the Billericay half Carty up into the box cleared Townsend-Brown has it left cuts the ball inside Carty forwards strikes the ball goalwards her shot looping up and dropping on target is taken high by Strauss.

Is tense out there the game moving into the latter stages Dunstable on top in attack, Billericay defending well can’t get the ball into their own attackers to counter the game very much in the balance. Lauren Knight picking up the ball from a throw in on the right turns inside tries to get into the area, Langthorpe putting in the tackle to win the ball back for Dunstable. The home side with a late corner right side, put in near post Strauss comes in amongst the crowd to put the ball out for a 2nd corner delivered again to the near post a head puts in in at goal from close range, blocked saved or strikes the post I don’t know before being put behind for a 3rd corner as appeals for handball are made but nothing is given.

Khan on the attack the ball passed to Townsend-Brown who sends it out to Chimes out wide her high ball into the area is met by South breaking clear of the Billericay defence her effort turned over the crossbar wouldn’t have counted to flag up for offside. An exciting 2nd half comes to an end the final whistle seeing Billericay hold on to their 1-0 lead to claim the 3 points that takes them 7 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division table.

Full time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

A cliche I know but very much a game of two halves, with Billericay strong in the 1st half dominating the ball and creating plenty of chances scoring from one giving them a slender lead. A 2nd goal early in the 2nd half would have made things more comfortable, Dunstable coming out strong in the 2nd half regrouping and growing in confidence felt they could find an equaliser and it was Billericay who needed the strong defensive display in the end grinding out the win 3 point well earned.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

A game of two halves makes picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as hard as ever several good performances out their Billericay dominating the 1st half Morgan strong in the middle along with Butler, Kirsty Knight at the back particularly 2nd half. Overall it comes down to a consistent display for the entire game and today that goes to a player from the losing side, Elly Wade for Dunstable Ladies reading the game very good positioning and marking, covering when needed is today’s Player of the Match.

Fancied a game form the ERWFL today, the regional leagues are often overlooked but an integral part of the women’s football pyramid, plenty of good players on show producing good quality entertaining and committed football if you haven’t checked out the league before I’d highly recommend it. My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams today.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

3 games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and with the league leaders Netherton United Ladies not in action it was another opportunity for the chasing sides to try and close the gap at the top.

St Ives Town Ladies moved back above Newmarket Town Ladies into 2nd spot with a home win against March Town United Ladies on Sunday. Winning the game 3-0 thanks to goals from Hannah Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe and Tierney Coulson. Move to within 6 points of Netherton United with 3 games in hand on the leaders.

Newmarket Town Ladies closed the gap on Netherton United Ladies too on Sunday but by just the single point after they were held to a goalless draw away to ICA Sports Ladies, the Peterborough based side steadily improving picking up some useful results. Newmarket are 7 points back from Netherton United with 2 games in hand.

Also in the Premiership, Cambridge City Ladies Development were at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday the visitors taking an early lead through Amanda Wainwright. Cambridge City had goalkeeper Jennifer Jamieson to thank for keeping the scoreline down to a single goal at the break and although Cambridge University pushed hard for more goals in the 2nd half, Cambridge City’s young players found the resolve to keep them out and counter to score an equaliser to take a point from the game, Yasmin Crow on target scoring to make it 1-1.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

2 matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday. Riverside Ladies building on last weekends opening win made it 2 from 2 with a big away result against bottom side Orton Rangers Ladies. A Peterborough derby this one Sophie Harris top scoring for Riverside netting 5 goals. Samantha Woodham and Jade Ramm both scoring a brace with Zoe Lenton, Jess Hill and Jordan Sampson also on target in a 12-0 win.

4th placed Hungate Rovers Ladies move onto 10 points as they secured their 3rd win of the season away to Spalding United Ladies on Sunday. Kelsey McKenna scoring twice in the game (one from the penalty spot) with Ewelina Jerzak also getting on the scoresheet in a 3-0 win.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup with Histon Ladies home match against Wisbech Town Ladies postponed for a 2nd Sunday and Wisbech St Mary Ladies awarded an away win against Burwell Tigers. Championship South leaders, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were hosting Premiership bottom side Park Ladies for a place in the next round. Marie Stubbings is in blazing goal scoring form for Fulbourn and she continued to find the back of the net this Sunday getting another hat-trick to move her onto 30 goals for the season. Stacey Kemp was also on target for two goals with Marcela Mundz also getting a goal in a 6-1 win to see the home side progress.

The Round-Up – Essex 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Essex Women’s County Cup

Cup action all the way in Essex this Sunday with weather affecting the County Cup and Trophy competitions last weekend rearranged along with action from the 2nd Round of the League Cup too.

In the Essex Women’s County Cup, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies, 2nd in ERWFL Division One South were hosting Essex Women’s Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos. A 1st half hat-trick from Georgia Fraser seeing Little Thurrock leading 3-1 at the break. Corringham coming back against their higher league opponents in the 2nd half to level the scores at 3-3. Into stoppage time and Eloise Ives found the back of the net to win the game 4-3 for Little Thurrock and send them through to the semi-finals.

The semi-final draw for the Essex Women’s County Cup is as follows:-

Brentwood Town Ladies v Writtle Ladies

C&K Basildon Ladies v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

Both semi-finals scheduled to be played Sunday 18th February

Essex Women’s Trophy

Hutton Ladies were already through to the semi-finals of the Essex Women’s Trophy competition beating Collier Row Tigers 2-1. Also advancing through to the semi-finals are ERWFL Division One North side Silver End United Ladies after Hutton Ladies Reserves side couldn’t field a team.

That left 2 quarter finals to be contested. Essex Women’s Trophy holders Frontiers Ladies were at home drawn against fellow Essex Women’s Premier Division side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Goals from Sharon Ferguson and Kelly Holsworth along with and own goal sealing a 3-1 victory for Frontiers to put them into the semi-finals. Sarah Taylor scoring the Beacon Hill Rovers goal.

In the other quarter final tie in the Trophy competition it was an all Essex Women’s Division One affair with Rayleigh Town Ladies taking on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. A tough day at the office for Chelmsford City up against a side in hot goal scoring form. Holly Gash pipped by a single goal to top scorer spot last time out wasn’t outdone this time around as she netted herself 4 goals in the game. Captain Isabelle Wallings wasn’t far behind however getting a hat-trick as did teammate Lily Aungier. Eleasha Reeves getting a brace, their were goals too for Francesca Browne, Anna Winfield and Megan Hurley in a 15-0 win to put Rayleigh Town onto the semi-finals.

That sees the draw for the semi-finals of the Essex Women’s Trophy look as follows again the games scheduled to be played Sunday 18th February:-

Silver End United Ladies v Frontiers Ladies

Hutton Ladies v Rayleigh Town Ladies

Essex Women’s League Cup

A disrupted fixture list in the 2nd Round of the Essex Women’s League Cup with a few ties rolled over due to last weekends County and Trophy postponements. 3 ties were played however with last season’s beaten finalists Collier Row Tigers at home to fellow Essex Women’s Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies on Sunday. The hosts scoring through,Laura Bunton, Emma Harrison and Helen Moreira to win the game 3-1 to reach the quarter finals. Georgia Sleep with the goal for Chelmsford City.

Two sides with plenty of goals in them as Premier Division side Lawford Ladies faced a potential banana skin at home to Division One high flyers, Leigh Ramblers Ladies. As it was a brace from Jasmine Cox moving her onto 14 goals for the season was enough to send Lawford through to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a 2-0 win.

Essex Women’s Division One side, Benfleet Villa Ladies went into half-time in their home 2nd Round League Cup tie against Premier Division side with a goalless scoreline under their belts. in the end just a single goal was enough to win the tie going in the end to the visitors Harlow Town Ladies Reserves getting the result to send them through to the quarter finals, Tegan Burling getting the all important goal.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Suffolk Women’s League Cup

Just the 2 games in Suffolk this Sunday but they were HUGE! The semi-finals of this season’s Women’s League Cup, won by Ipswich Town Ladies Development last season a new name will be on the trophy this time around.

East Bergholt United Ladies reached the final last season at the expense of there semi-final opponents this Sunday Bacton United Ladies. A contest between 1st and 2nd in the league too with East Bergholt the host side. Leading 2-0 at half-time East Bergholt United went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to reach their 2nd successive League Cup final with a 4-0 win. Jessica Clark scoring twice in the match there were goals to for Annie Northwood and Millie Wilding.

In the other semi-final Coplestonians Ladies were hosting AFC Kesgrave Ladies new to the league this season both looking to reach the League Cup final for the 1st time. The visitors scoring through Ashley Bustos, Jade Fox and Daisy Starsmoore to win the game 3-0 and see Kesgrave reach the final in their debut season.

Date and venue for the Suffolk Women’s League Cup final to be announced. Usually a mid-week affair will update as soon as I have the information. Well done to both East Bergholt United and AFC Kesgrave Ladies.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

Semi-finals time in the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup, delayed a week due to the poor weather affecting the region last weekend. It was a repeat of last years final with Stevenage Ladies winners last season at home to Royston Town Ladies. A league between the sides FAWPL South East Division One side, Stevenage had the better of the 1st half but were unable to find the back of the net against their ERWFL Premier Division opponents. A goal early in the 2nd have set Stevenage on their way to victory, Ashleigh Deacon putting the ball into the back of the net, more chances followed before Stevenage doubled their lead, Leah Littlechild getting the goal. A penalty scored by Chloe Gunn sealing a 3-0 win and sending Stevenage into their 4th successive final the aim this year to try a successfully defend the trophy.

Stevenage’s opponents in this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup final will be Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies reaching the final for the 1st time. The ERWFL Division One South side at home to Beds & Herts Women’s Division One leaders, St Albans Ladies in the semi-finals. St Albans 8 months unbeaten going into the match. Two goals from Natasha Crick with a goal each for Kristina O’Connell, Rosy Wodhams and Charley Handley seeing Hoddesdon win the game 5-2 to reach the final. Eleanor Lovelock and Jordan Williamson with the 2nd half strikes for St Albans.

The Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final will be played on the 11th March at the County Ground in Letchworth. Women’s Football East will be there.

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

It was quarter finals weekend in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup competition again delayed due to the poor weather last weekend. Bedford Ladies already through due to Sandy Ladies folding earlier in the season that left 3 ties to be contested.

It was as far apart in the women’s football pyramid as you could get in one quarter final with Luton Town Ladies, Bedfordshire’s premier women’s side playing in FAWPL South East Division One and holders of the County Cup away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets on Sunday. Luton winning comfortably to progress, Natasha Fensome top scoring in the game with 5 goals. Nicola Henman netting a hat-trick, there was a brace each for Kim Farrow and Dionne Manning. Also getting a goal each in the game were, Lisa Nixon, Rachel Kosky, Jess McKay, Stephanie Gale and Zara Carroll the final score 17-0.

Luton Town Ladies Development side were also in action in the quarter finals of the County Cup drawn away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies. Luton were leading the game 1-0 when the game was stopped due to a serious injury to Houghton’s Ciara Craig an ambulance called the game abandoned. Terrible news and Women’s Football East wishes Ciara all the best for a speedy and full recovery. The game rescheduled.

ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Dunstable Ladies were also taking on Beds & Herts Women’s Division One opponents in the quarter finals of the County Cup, Sharnbrook WFC the visitors to Creasey Park. Goals from Danielle Carty and Charlene Moreton securing a 2-0 win for Dunstable to send them through to the semi-finals.

The semi-final draw for the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup is as follows :-

Luton Town Ladies v ADC Dunstable Ladies

Bedford Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies or Luton Town Ladies Development

Both games scheduled to be played Sunday 18th Febraury.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this Sunday with 3rd placed Sherrardswood Ladies playing their 1st game of 2018 at home to bottom side Watton Ladies. Both Laurie Marris and Laura Cousins getting 2 goals each in the 1st half before going on to complete their hat-tricks in the 2nd. Manjinder Atwal also on target in the 2nd half with Sherrardswood running out 7-2 winners, moving them 5 points behind 2nd placed Northwood Ladies with 2 games in hand.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

It was 3rd v 4th in Beds & Herts Division Two on Sunday with Royston Town Ladies Reserves away to Hitchin Town Ladies. It was the hosts who opened the scoring Jessica McNamara putting them 1-0 on 11 minutes. Just past the half hour Royston came right back into the match equalising then going into the lead just 3 minutes later scoring from two free-kicks, Grace Leslie and Harriet Smith the scorers. Hitchin were quick to reply however the lead lasting just 4 minutes as Emma Chaffey got it back to 2-2. That the half-time score. One the hour Hitchin retook the lead Dani Friel scoring. The 3 points made safe 2 minutes from time Megan Franklin scoring from 30 yards to make it 4-2 the 3 points enough to move Hitchin above Royston into 3rd on goal difference.

Evergreen Eagles also move up a place in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two table after winning at home on Sunday going above opponents Hitchin Belles into 6th. Samantha Takis putting Evergreen 1-0 on 20 minutes it was 2-0 2 minutes later Samantha Feeney getting the goal. Holly Williams making it 3-0 on the half hour. Abbey Williams extending the lead 20 minutes into the 2nd half. Takis scoring her 2nd of the game 20 minutes from time to seal a 5-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, 2nd placed Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies cut the gap to leaders Bedford Ladies Development to 5 points with a comfortable home win on Sunday. Taking on Shefford Town & Campton Ladies the winning margin 6-0. Sophia Pidgeon scoring all 6 of Wheathamstead’s goals moving her on to 24 goals from 10 appearances. Wheathamstead in good form have 2 games in hand on the leaders.

Also in action on Sunday in Division Three were the bottom two Bedwell Rangers Ladies looking to extend the gap from bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies. Holly Walker scoring in the 10th minute for Bedwell. Jessica Sullivan also getting a goal in the 1st half went on to complete her hat-trick in the 2nd half. Leah Tomlin and Faye Prout also getting a goal each with Bedwell winning the game 6-3 their 3rd win of the season moving them 8 points ahead of Potters Bar United, their goal scorers Carly Gilbey and Mandy Morgan who scored a brace.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

3 games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday as leaders Bungay Town Ladies win their 6th straight league game to keep their 5 point lead at the top of the table. On the road taking on mid-table Stalham Town Ladies. Lauren Purling opening the scoring, Samantha Walker scoring her 14th of the season making it 2-0. Walker then missing a penalty Bungay leading 2-0 at the break. The visitors extending their lead early in the 2nd half new signing Abbie Everson making her debut scoring. Nicky Hazell made it 4-0 before Everson found the back of the net for a 2nd time. Emily Leach sent home a 25 yard free-kick to make it 6-0 to the visitors. Walker getting her 2nd of the game with Selina Rowland rounding off the goals to see Bungay win 8-0.

Sprowston Ladies previously leading the Division One table had dropped to 3rd following the withdrawal of Aylsham Ladies. Were at home on Sunday taking on Fakenham Town Ladies. Sprowston holding a comfortable lead in the 1st half going in 3 goals to the good. A closer 2nd half seeing the sides draw 1-1 Sprowston moving 3 points clear of Thorpe United Ladies into 2nd spot in the table. Victoria Leyer, Rebecca Russell, Nicole Smith and Abbi Nobbs scoring the goals for the hosts.

A 2nd league win of the season lifts Gorleston FC Ladies up to 5th place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. Away to North Walsham Angels Ladies this Sunday the two sides contesting a goalless 1st half. 2nd half strikes from Samantha Hunn and Molly Sims seeing the visitors claim all 3 points with a 2-1 win.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Two matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday with both the Dereham based sides at home suffering different fortunes. Tavern Ladies 3rd in the table close the gap to 2nd placed Beccles Town Ladies to just 2 points with a big win against Gorleston Rangers Ladies. Leading 2-0 at half-time the goals flew in 2nd half as Tavern ran out 12-2 winners. Sophie Fuller top scoring in the match with a double hat-trick. Both Megan Carmichael and Lucy Kean got a brace each with Katie Hart-Copsey and Emily Bell also getting their names on the scoresheet. Zoe Waite and Abigail Bell scoring for Gorleston Rangers.

Toftwood United Ladies were hosting Freethorpe Ladies at Northgate High School on Sunday (my old high school!). Keira Squires scoring twice in the 1st half to give 5th placed Freethorpe a 2-0 lead at the break, Eden Simmonds getting another goal in the 2nd half to secure a 3-0 win Freethorpe’s 3rd of the season moves them into double figures a point behind 4th placed Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies. The game overshadowed however by injury concerns for players from both sides one of Freethorpe’s players suffering a broken leg whilst an ambulance was needed to aid a Toftwood United player suffering from a serious asthma attack. Wishing both the best for a speedy and full recovery.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

ERWFL Premier Division

A big game to start this weeks round-up in the ERWFL Premier Division a clash between the top two in the league with 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies travelling to Essex to play leaders Billericay Town Ladies just a point between the sides. Stacey Fullicks with her 5th goal of the season giving Cambridge City a 1-0 1st half lead. Billericay dug deep and came back in the 2nd half to score twice to win the game 2-1 and move 4 points clear at the top. Paris Smith with her 21st and 22nd goals of the season seeing the 3 points won.

Bedford Ladies ha suffered 3 straight defeats in the league before heading into Sunday’s home game against Brentwood Town Ladies who had been one of the sides to beat them 1-0 in the reverse fixture 2 weeks ago. Dropping down to 7th in the table a different story this time around as Bedford returned to winning ways. Goals from Hannah Bodily, Maya Sidhu and Carissa Kaczorowski securing a 3-0 win for the hosts that moves them up two places in Premier Division table into 5th above Brentwood and AFC Dunstable Ladies.

Elsewhere it was a clash between the bottom two with Colney Heath Ladies hosting the side immediately above them AFC Sudbury Ladies. Colney Heath looking to close the 5 point gap. It was the visitors from Suffolk who were leading at half-time Megan Partridge top scorer moving onto 12 goals netting the goal. Colney Heath had chances 2nd half but Sudbury kept them at bay whilst unable to extend their lead late into the game Colney Heath found a levelling goal Holly Sheridan making it 1-1. Five minutes from time the hosts conceded a penalty kick, striker Stacey Teager stepping up to take put the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to win the game 2-1 the 3 points pulling Sudbury well clear of the bottom up a place into 8th.

ERWFL Division One North

Wymondham Town Ladies 3rd in ERWFL Division One North were at home on Sunday taking on the league leaders and fellow Norfolk side King’s Lynn Town Ladies for the 1st time this season the gap between the sides 8 points going into the game Wymondham however with plenty of games in hand and undefeated in the league, King’s Lynn themselves losing just the once in the league. Wymondham opened the scoring early in the game with Kristen Hummel heading home from a 6th minute corner to make it 1-0 her 1st goal for Wymondham. Mollie O Callaghan making it 2-0 before 15 minutes were completed. Wymondham went further in front as they were awarded a penalty in the 36 minute top scorer Laura Nicholls stepping up to score. Nadine Basson making it 4-0 3 minutes later with her 16th goal of the season. The half-time lead 5-0 as King’s Lynn gave away another penalty at the end Nicholls once again putting the ball into the back of the net.

Laura Nicholls

King’s Lynn’s woes continued early in the 2nd half as they conceded and own goal to see Wymondham extend the lead to 6-0. Brooke Moreno struck from distance to make it 7-0 before substitute Hannah Waters scored to make it 8-0. 15 minutes left and King’s Lynn conceded a 3rd penalty. Nicholls once again the taker putting it away for her hat-trick from the spot taking her to 32 goals for the season. The win moving Wymondham into 2nd place 5 points behind King’s Lynn with 3 games in hand.

Ipswich Wanderers Ladies were 2nd in ERWFL Division One going into Sunday’s matches. Had an away trip to Cambridge United WFC Reserves. The visitors losing out in a close game as Cambridge edged the result 3-2 to take all 3 points and climb back into 4th place in the table. Goals from Ellen Green, captain Ebony Rule and Liz Pamplin securing the win. Jade Horne and Tanya McKew on target for Ipswich Wanderers.

ERWFL Division One South

Two games played in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday, 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies were up the road away to Bishops Stortford Ladies 5th in the table. The visitors winning their 5th league game of the season with Tayla Handscomb scoring twice for Harlow. There were goals too for Lily Bruno, Karys Paton, Abbey Dell and Chloe Bassett in a 6-0. The home side reduced to 10 in the game with Faye Callaway shown 2 yellow cards.

4th placed Hutton Ladies also won on Sunday at home to bottom side Hertford Town Ladies. Goals from Laura Allen, Danielle Cliffe, Amy Crumpler, Kaitlin Sugg and Katie Lowen securing a comfortable 5-0 win.

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.