Tag Archives: AFC Sudbury Women

Cup Final Special – AFC Sudbury Women v Stowupland Falcons Women

Tuesday 21st May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v London Seaward FC

Sunday 11th February

FAWNL South East Division One

League action from the FAWNL this Sunday on Women’s Football East, a trip down into Suffolk for the South East Division One clash between AFC Sudbury Women and London Seaward FC.

Another bout of heavy overnight rain following on from a wet week seeing a large number of this weekends fixtures fall foul to the weather AFC Sudbury FC’s MEL Group Stadium boasting an artificial playing surface one of the games to beat the weather. The flood plains full around Sudbury since last November remain high backing onto the ground with the area behind the home dugout and terraced still partially flooded.

The FAWNL South East Division One table taking shape now as we head into February with the teams fighting at both ends of the table being defined, AFC Sudbury Women unfortunately finding themselves in the relegation scrap at the foot of the table and with Chesham United Ladies edging themselves 6 points clear of the bottom three, it looks to be a contest between Sudbury, Cambridge City Women and Haywards Heath Town Women both in the bottom two to avoid the drop.

AFC Sudbury Women competing in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid for the 1st time in their history as they secured back to back promotions in the ERWFL. The women’s side very much a part of the club as a whole with Sudbury setting up a academy to development young players for the clubs senior teams. Sudbury amongst the leading clubs in Suffolk. Have found it tough playing in the FAWNL coming up against some very strong sides, on the whole featuring in some competitive matches without getting the points on the board with just 6 so far coming from a single win and 3 draws. Games beginning to run out have some crucial fixtures against the sides at the bottom to come and will be looking to make home advantage count. Goals harder to come by in the FAWNL with just 18 racked up so far compared to 69 during their promotion winning campaign in the ERWFL Premier Division. Sophie Jeffery top scorer with 4 goals.

London Seaward FC formed off the back of the Leyton Orient side that had fought their way up to the FAWNL. Leyton Orient choosing to take their women’s side in a different direction, the women’s team became a stand alone independently run club renamed London Seaward FC and have worked had on and off the pitch to retain their place in the league. Facing the many challenges that some with it, building a strong playing squad backed up by a reserves team. Come into today’s match in 8th position having a healthy gap on the sides below them and well placed to make a push for the top half of the table. Shamoy Campbell the clubs to scorer so far on 7 goals with Megan Jarvis scoring 6 and Sam Lanza 5 respectfully.

The MEL Group stadium a hive of activity featuring a busy day of football with 4 fixtures to be played. The clubhouse and bar opening offering a roast chicken dinner and pint for £10. The kitchen open too serving hot food and drinks. Covered standing behind both goals with a seated stand beside the clubhouse and a terraced stand my favoured position on the opposite side behind the dugouts, knew where the flooded area might be so headed off in the opposite direction to get set up. A brighter sunny afternoon after the overnight rain with some cloud cover.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Ronni Harrison (C), Sophie Jeffery, Amy Jarvis, Aliyat Lambe, Leonnie Bezant, Ava Jouvenel, Maisie Goodwin, Eva Frazzoni, Jessica Allen & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Amber Provan, Jodie Donley, Kayleigh Dodd, Chloe Brame & Alex Penny.

London Seaward FC

London Seward FC starting XI – Tia Ginn, Mira Hoteit, Livia Capparelli, Lucy Cockerill, Ellie Finneran, Liz Mulvaney, Maisie Cannon, Megan Burrows, Sarah McDermott, Rea Thomas-Arayo & Katherine Long. Subs – Ylenia Carabott, Sam Lanza & Kelsey Smith.

Captains, Maisie Cannon and Ronni Harrison with today’s match officials

It’s the hosts Sudbury to kick-off the 1st half wearing yellow coloured shirts and socks with blue coloured shorts. London Seaward lined up opposite wearing teal coloured shirts with a swirled pattern on the front, with navy coloured shorts and socks. The back played back to the defence out to Sophie Jeffery on the left, London seaward race forwards to press the ball, Megan Burrows putting in the challenge seeing the ball deflected out for a throw in to the visitors high on the right.

Sudbury’s defence deal with the ball turned into the area cleared long up to the right for Jessica Allen to attack, London Seaward full back, Mira Hoteit getting across her to safely pass the ball back to her goalkeeper, Tia Ginn to control and put out to the right side. Playing the ball confidently across the back line Sudbury have an opportunity to press as the pass forwards is delayed but the visitors move it quickly between one another waiting for the right opportunity to attack.

Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison

Played forwards Amy Jarvis heads the ball clear for Sudbury at the back out to the right for her captain Ronni Harrison to bomb forwards, her cross chipped up, blocked by London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon. The ball played long with Burrows making a strong run forwards on the right, looks to take on Jeffery the defender standing up well as she puts in the blocking challenge.

London seaward making a positive start moving the ball across their back line opening up the pitch with attacker making dynamic runs, Livia Capparelli getting forwards out on the right going beyond Burrows to attack the by-line her cross blocked and carried out of play for a corner by Sudbury’s Aliyat Lambe at the near post. Players up for the corner on the right as cannon plays the ball into the box, Rea Thomas-Arayo heading it from the top of the box back out to Cannon to send in a 2nd cross, cut out by Lambe, Ellie Finneran up for London Seaward right corner of the Sudbury area looking to keep the attack alive getting hold of the ball and trying to power her way inside, closed down the ball deflected off her for a goal kick.

Sudbury’s Aliyat Lambe

London Seward causing Sudbury a few problems in the opening stages their forward runs threatening to cut the defence open, players looking to burst in behind, Burrow in particular. Capparelli on the move with the ball on the right jinks inside 25 yards out pushing into the D, Ava Jouvenel tracking back from midfield in position to tackle and win the ball back for the hosts. Sudbury counter the diagonal ball finding Allen wide on the right travelling at pace sweeps a looping cross into the London seaward area, bouncing far post Maisie Goodwin can’t make up the ground to attack it as it runs safely out of play.

Dropping back London Seaward are comfortable in position with Ginn making it effectively 5 at the back stroking the ball out to her defenders tempting Sudbury to come on, occasionally risky especially with Victoria Leyer playing up top today, dual signed from Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women snapping in looking to force an error take advantage.

Leonnie Bezant getting hold of the ball in the middle for Sudbury chipping the pass out to Allen on the right her cross lifted into the box headed away by Lucy Cockerill for the visitors. Sudbury appealing strongly at the officials as Eva Frazzoni appears to be pushed over inside the D, the appeals waved away.

Leonnie Bezant

Bezant finding Allen out on the right again the cross defended by Finneran at the near post as, Frazzoni jumps in. Cleared back out to the right the 2nd attempt at playing the ball into the area also dealt with by Finneran.

GOAL! London Seaward break out from the back quickly Liz Mulvaney playing a great ball forwards into the path of Capparelli as she surges away down the right wing in behind the full back tracking into the area whips a vicious ball in across the face of goal. players queuing up to turn it in at the far post, Thomas-Arayo with the touch to put the ball over the line to open the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes 0-1.

Rea Thomas-Arayo celebrates after opening the scoring for London Seaward

Sudbury carved open for the goal look to get on the attack from the restart London Seaward closing the ball down played on for Burrows, stays on her feet as her heels a clipped before lifting the ball out to Thomas-Arayo attacking down the left her cross lifted into the area, headed clear by Lambe.

Ginn comes rushing out of her area alert as her defence is caught high turned by a long ball played through the middle. Frazzoni seeing the ball into her feet in the right channel for Sudbury skips on looking to attack the box, stopped by Cockerill inside the D.

GOAL! Sudbury’s defence is cut open for a 2nd time as Capparelli breaks in behind on the right taking the ball all the way to the by-line check inside to flash ball in across the face of goal, goalkeeper Millie Carter goes down trying to grab onto it even as Thomas-Arayo closes it down the ball not claimed bundled over the line, Thomas-Arayo linking up with Capparelli for the 2nd time to double London Seaward’s lead 0-2.

Livia Capparelli

Rea Thomas-Arayo combining with Livia Capparelli for London Seaward’s 2nd goal

Attacking on the right Harrison puts the ball on for Leyer to turn on the angle and strike from 25 yards out, struck with some pace, Ginn reacts sharply plucking the ball down into the ground as she falls back and collecting it cleanly on the bounce. Jeffery looking to get on down the left of Sudbury playing the ball off Goodwin before taking it on towards the area, Finneran tackling to win the ball back for London Seaward.

Maisie Goodwin

GOAL! London Seaward finding the spaces in behind to exploit the Sudbury defence the ball send forwards quickly out to Katherine long on the left side wide of the area, Carter comes rushing out to try and close her down the striker chipping her shot up over the keeper to see it bounce into the exposed goal beyond to make it 0-3.

Katherine Long sending the ball over the advancing keeper to make it 3-0

London Seaward racing into a 3 goal lead inside the opening 20 minutes looking dangerous breaking forwards the ball up towards the top of the area left side knocked down by Thomas-Arayo into the path of Long central to hit from 25 yards out drives her effort wide of the right post. Capparelli playing the ball on for Burrows dribbling into a central area lays the pass on for Long breaking free of the defence on the right channel to attack the goal, on the angle sends her rising shot straight at the keeper.

The visitors threatening to overwhelm Sudbury as they play the ball on through the middle out to the right, Jeffery jumping to try and get her head on the ball can only get a glancing touch seeing in drop in behind with Burrows sprinting after it into the area, Lambe getting back superbly to make the blocking tackle on the by-line holding Burrows off as she gets the ball back for Carter to clear. Carter down for a moment needing treatment a pause for both sides to come to the bench take on fluids get instructions

Sudbury goalkeeper, Millie Carter

Carter back up on her feet is okay and soon called into action as Mulvaney plays Burrows through into the box on the right, Carter coming to close her down saving at her feet the ball deflected out to the left cleared by Harrison. Sudbury looking to find something to get them back into the game build on the right Allen laying it back for Harrison so sweep a high cross into the area, Leyer positioned on the penalty spot looking to strike it on the volley Finneran charging her down to block.

London Seaward defender, Ellie Finneran

GOAL! Sending the ball on through the middle with pace, Long turns to send the ball through for Burrows running in behind into the area twisting and turning, evading a challenge as Carter comes to dive at her feet, can’t get the ball as Burrows takes it to her left and drives the ball into the back of the net 0-4.

Megan Burrow sends London Seaward into a 4 goal lead

Half an hour played and London Seaward are firmly in control of the game, stretching Sudbury the hosts keep going looking for an opening Allen forwards for Leyer, Finneran intercepting the pass for London Seaward. Jouvenel nipping in to win it back for the hosts the pass out to Allen drifting right her dipping cross claimed by Ginn as she drops onto the ball at her near post.

Jarvis taking the ball forwards for Sudbury plays the pass inside for Leyer 30 yards out central turns on the ball to strike a powerful shot wide past the left post. Bezant turning well on the ball to evade a tackle lifts her pass out to Allen on the right 25 yards out on the angle sends her shot straight into the keepers gloves.

Sudbury coming on well enough kept out of the area by a well organised London Seaward defence, Mulvaney, Cannon and McDermott all getting back to win the ball back. Jouvenel moving out to the left win the ball is hauled to the ground Sudbury winning their first free-kick of the game. 35 yards out Jeffery over the ball, sends it in high towards goal with runners positioned top of the area, back on her line though it is a straight forward catch for Ginn.

Coming forwards with purpose the ball played into Long sends it on for Thomas-Arayo attacking on the right, Goodwin getting back on her well to defend of Sudbury 25 yards out the winger then fouled as Thomas-Arayo looks to regain possession. Jeffery looking to get forwards on the left side, pushing down the line Finneran going with her to see the ball safely out of play for the goal kick.

Eva Frazzoni

Allen pressing the ball wins it back high on the right her cross played into the box for Leyer near side, Cockerill defends for London Seaward cleared for a throw on the right the ball floated back into the box, Jouvenel looking to get it down to shoot is closed down quickly her attempt blocked. Sudbury winning a corner on the right off Finneran, an in swinging ball punched clear by keeper, Ginn as she rises amongst the crowd inside her six yard box. Play stretched as Sudbury look to push on seeking something from the first half London Seaward breaking right Capparelli racing to the by-line Goodwin going with her the cross struck hard against the defender Goodwin down in need of treatment, needs to come off, Alex Penny coming on.

Hoteit able to come on with the ball left side for London Seaward striking the ball on the angle from the top of the area wide past the far post. Frazzoni opening up her body to play the pass into Penny looking to get on down the wing, Mulvaney getting her body across the attacker to see the ball back to her keeper. McDermott fouls Frazzoni 25 yards out giving Sudbury a free-kick right of the D. The shot taken on, Ginn dropping low to her left getting behind the ball to save on her line.

London Seaward goalkeeper, Tia Ginn

Capparelli bursts down the right for London seaward to the by-line her cross cut back into the six yard box cut out by Lambe, cleared by Bezant. Jarvis intercepting the cross-field pass intended for Thomas-Arayo breaking in behind on the left. The clock ticking down in the first half Sudbury mounting one last attack Frazzoni through the middle on for Leyer bursting into the area right of the D, Ginn rushing out to close her down saving well at her feet before grabbing the ball into her gloves.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-4 London Seaward FC

A strong first half from London Seaward sees the visitors leading 4-0 at the break. Started on the front foot moving the ball well and the back releasing players forwards finding gaps in behind the Sudbury defence, easy pickings at times taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes before quickly racing into a 3 goal advantage. Sudbury chasing the game creating a few half chances but the London Seaward defence has been organised prepared to pay the ball out from the back starting with their goalkeeper waiting for the right moment to burst forwards. Far from the first half Sudbury would have desired and know they have a mountain to climb in the 2nd half if they are hoping to take anything from the game.

No changes for either side at the break as the floodlights come on the cloud cover a little more pronounced. London Seaward to get the 2nd half underway the ball rolled back to the defence Sudbury operating with Allen now wide left Penny on the right push forwards to press the ball, Penny right with Leyer on Finneran the ball out for a throw played back into the top of the area cleared by Cannon.

Alex Penny

A positive start to the 2nd half from Sudbury Jouvenel linking up with Frazzoni playing the one two on the right Jouvenel taking the ball all the way to the by-line playing it into Leyer at the near post back to goal lays it off for the onrushing Frazzoni to strike a rising shot over the crossbar.

Mulvaney clears the ball for London Seaward up to Long pulling out into the left channel looking to take it on plays the pass inside with the outside of her boot looking to pick out Burrows surging on through the middle, Jeffery going with her getting something on the ball to take it away from her for a throw on the right.

Sudbury lively in the final 3rd at the start of the 2nd half, Leyer inside the box charging down Ginn’s kick out, the ball loose inside the six yard box, Ginn scrambling for it as Leyer attempts to snatch a shot away gets a glove to the ball to haul it into her body. Ginn then holding onto a shot from distance struck from all of 30 yards out. Sudbury pressing well Jouvenel driving for the box left of the D is upended by Finneran a clumsy looking foul, Sudbury appealing the decision a free-kick right on the line outside the area. Jeffery over it left of the D, fires her shot over.

Sudbury’s Ava Jouvenel

Sudbury looking a different side taking the game to London Seaward who can afford to sit back wait for the right moment to attack, Hoteit’s long pass on the left too strong for Thomas-Arayo. Leyer and Penny combining on the right to win the ball for Sudbury off Thomas-Arayo she snaps back at Penny giving the foul away and shown the yellow card is also sent to the sin bin leaving London Seaward down to 10 for the next 10 minutes. Jeffery to curl an inviting ball into the six yard box, however it his claimed high by Ginn unopposed at her far post.

London Seaward bring the ball forwards played on for Long in the left channel has McDermott inside giving her the ball she plays it out to Hoteit getting on down the left, Penny tracking back with Harrison regains possession for the hosts. A competitive 2nd period, Sudbury making a 2nd change bringing off Jouvenel on in her place Chloe Brame. Sudbury attack down the left Jeffery into Allen the cross into the box cleared by Cockerill. Jeffery going beyond Allen to the by-line sees her crossed claimed by Ginn at her near post.

Leyer plays the ball back for Bezant, put out to Sudbury’s left with Jeffery getting forwards her cross looped into the area, Brame central can’t get it down to control, before being closed down by Cockerill. London Seaward making their first change bringing on Sam Lanza to replace McDermott. A host of changes follow as Sudbury make a change sending on Jodie Donley on for Harrison. London Seaward deciding to bring on Kelsey Smith in place of Capparelli. Lanza linking up with Long on the left as the pair look to gain ground, Jarvis getting in to tackle Lanza to win the ball back for the hosts.

GOAL! Sudbury attacking down the left the ball rolled on for Leyer who comes inside the box six yards out, Ginn coming to close her down at her feet as Leyer moves the ball, the keeper failing to get hold of the ball is grounded as it runs on for Brame central, can’t get to her as she strikes the ball into the empty net 1-4.

Chloe Brame getting a goal back for Sudbury

A goal back for Sudbury capitalising on the strong start to the 2nd half positive taking the game on asking a few questions of the visiting defence. Thomas-Arayo re-joining the action London Seaward back up to 11 as Sudbury make a substitution bringing on Kayleigh Dodd for Allen with 67 minutes played. All action Sudbury gaining some confidence pushing players up the ball lifted into the area knocked out to the right Dodd looking to latch onto the ball, Ginn rushing out to make the blocking save at her feet. Ylenia Carabott coming on for London Seaward in place of Long up top.

GOAL! Sudbury have the ball on the right Penny over on that side now combining with, Jeffery the ball lifted into the area into the path of Leyer who has 18 goals this season for Dussindale & Hellesdon, put through on goal she rides Cockerill’s challenge before coolly lifting the ball over the advancing keeper to pull a 2nd goal back for the hosts 2-4.

Victoria Leyer through on goal to score a 2nd for Sudbury

Dodd down after a heavy challenge winning Sudbury a free-kick on the right. From deep Jeffery looks to send it long to the far post over everyone takes a glancing touch off a defender out for a corner on the left. Another in-swinger curled into the crowded near post, Ginn up well to get a fist on the ball to punch it to safety. Sudbury with their tails up the game moving into the final 15 minutes. London Seaward needing to regain their momentum.

Kayleigh Dodd with Liz Mulvaney

Burrows puling away to the left attacking for London Seaward fouled by Jarvis, the defender getting a taking too as Cannon places the ball down ready to deliver into the area, Carter fouled as she goes to claim the ball the host getting the free-kick. Getting a little tasty out there emotions running high, the Sudbury management team unhappy with a few decisions. Carabott taking the ball left has Thomas-Arayo ahead of her making the run into the area the ball rolled in behind, Carter out quickly to make the save at the attackers feet.

London Seaward winning a free-kick wide on the left the ball threatening to go over everyone, Lambe looking to see it out goes behind a corner awarded much to Sudbury’s disapproval. Put in from the left Mulvaney rising gets a glancing header on the ball but can’t direct her effort on target as it runs wide past the right post. Sudbury with another change bringing on Amber Provan for Lambe.

Tempers flaring as Mulvaney is fouled, London Seaward looking to push on take the pressure off their defence keep Sudbury turned the wrong way as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. Hoteit up on the left plays the ball into Lanza who in turn release Thomas-Arayo wide on the wing the flash a cross into the area, goes long across the top of the six yard box Carter after it down to smother the ball before anyone can pounce from the right.

Burrows coming on with the ball left plays it inside for Mulvaney getting on through the middle, she in turn is challenged by Frazzoni top of the D for Sudbury. London Seaward win a corner on the right send players up into the box is a good delivery swung in on goal Carter doing well getting up through a crowd to punch the ball away, Sudbury look to break, Penny through the middle however Lanza does superbly well to stay on her lunging in to steal the ball back keep the momentum with the visitors. The sun setting low behind the goal London Seaward are attacking.

A highly competitive finish to the game London Seaward wanting to keep Sudbury away from their box, Mulvaney winning possession back in the middle, Thomas-Arayo the outlet on the left. The game heading into stoppage time. A free-kick eventually awarded for London Seaward after Thomas-Arayo is fouled by Frazzoni in a central position before gaining no advantage taking the ball out to the left. Emotions running high Sudbury angered by the time taken to make the decision. The free-kick stands Cockerill floated the ball in to the far post Carter comes but can’t reach it as it’s knocked behind for a corner.

London Seaward’s Liz Mulvaney

Swept in towards the near post headed back out to the right the 2nd attempt lifted in high to the far post, Hoteit getting up to head the ball down puts it straight into the keeper.

Provan defending for Sudbury as the ball is crossed into the area from the right. London Seaward getting players forwards in the latter stage Mulvaney out to Hoteit breaking on the left wing her cross in behind sees the offside flag raised. Sudbury moving the ball quickly, Cannon breaking up a move for London Seaward played into Mulvaney out to Thomas-Arayo left side put infield for Lanza, fouled the advantage played as the ball runs on for Carabott top of the area, Jarvis tackling to regain possession for Sudbury, the defender then fouled giving Sudbury the free-kick.

Sudbury defender, Amy Jarvis

London Seaward doing well to keep the ball away from their area in the closing moments of the match, Provan’s ball from the right headed clear by Cockerill as the referee blows the final whistle to signal the end of the match. London Seaward taking home the 3 points.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 2-4 London Seaward FC

A strong fightback from Sudbury in the 2nd half restoring some pride as they pressed the ball high creating several good opportunities, putting the visiting defence under pressure to score twice to threaten a comeback. London Seaward responded by getting out to take the game to their opponents keep them away from their area look to fin d a 5th goal themselves. Ultimately though the damage done in the opening 20 minutes London Seaward with a strong start to the match racing into a 3 goal lead adding a 4th before the break. Had control of the game. Doesn’t change much at the bottom of the table with Cambridge City losing at home to Ashford and Hayward Heath not playing due to the weather, Sudbury remain 10th out of the relegation zone on goal difference (just) some big games to come. London Seaward stay 8th but right in contention with those in the middle of the table.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual is another tough call some strong performances to consider. A few to mention firstly for Sudbury fought back well in the 2nd half, Alex Penny making a difference coming off the bench. Chloe Brame too with some strong runs forwards, Victoria Leyer getting about up top looking to create an opportunity bringing others into play. For London Seaward, Ellie Finneran had a good game at the back making several important tackles and getting across to win the ball. Liz Mulvaney winning the ball in the middle of the park pushing on finding her teammates with some great passing. Livia Capparelli storming forwards with the ball on the right certainly caused Sudbury some issues leading to the opening goals. Rea Thomas-Arayo attacking down the left getting in behind opening the scoring and was a constant threat. The award though goes to Megan Burrows her runs especially in the first half served to expose the hosts defence and provided a fantastic outlet for the forwards pass getting in behind on a number of occasions and took her goal well.

Another good day out at the MEL Group stadium, very welcoming a tough season for Sudbury but one their young squad will be all the stronger for. Good to catch up with London Seaward too haven’t seen the since before Covid for various reasons. An entertaining contest from the FAWNL thanks to both for all their assistance today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v QPR FC Women

Sunday 5th November

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip into Suffolk this bonfire Sunday to the MEL Group Stadium to watch some match action from FAWNL South East Division One, with newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women taking on Queens Park Rangers Women.

The 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid getting stronger and more competitive season upon season and promotion into is not an easy challenge. AFC Sudbury Women though reaching this level for the 1st time in their history off back to back league title in the ERWFL.

Playing in the 6th tier just two season’s ago the club has undergone a lot of changes in it’s recent history integrated into the club with AFC Sudbury setting up an academy for the girls side of the game as well as the boys, that has seen a crop of very talented young players come through to feature for the club, coming out of a highly competitive ERWFL Division One South with a host of clubs involved all the way to the finish to clinch the title and promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division.

Sudbury’s model very much based on bringing their young academy players through their young side hit the ground running in the ERWFL Premier Division, pushing the title contenders all the way to emerge on top of the pack to claim back to back promotions, top scorers in the league too with Holly Kennard, who has recently joined Norwich City Women netting 25 goals in 25 appearances and Jess Allen returning from a spell in the US notching up 17 from the 16 games she featured in. Back to back promotions to reach the FAWNL for the 1st time in the clubs history a huge step up and a bi test for their young squad, have stuck to their guns however giving them their chance to shine, a steep learning curve taking just a single point from their opening 4 matches before notching up their 1st win at home to Haywards heath Town Ladies. A further 2 draws sandwiched between another loss are starting to find their feet and know what the league is all about.

Queens Park Rangers Women gaining promotion back to the FAWNL in 2021 after having to regroup with their former Development side in regional football following the 1st team’s playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division split that saw the formation of a totally new club. Much of the 1st team staying under the QPR badge to fight their way back into the FAWNL, strong on their return finishing 4th in the table. A mid-table finish last time out winning as many as they lost, that inconsistency has been the feature of this campaign to having played 8, have won 4 and lost 4 with their last 4 league matches all ending in 2-1 scores, winning 2 and losing 2, get a run of wins going and the West London club are well placed in the table to threaten the top 4. Signing Grace Stanley from Cambridge City Women during the last campaign the striker is top scorer so far this season with 9 goals from 9 appearances.

Storm Ciaran bringing yet another wave of heavy rain across the country in the week leading into Saturday the flood plains leading into Sudbury full the river level high, a possible threat to the match, otherwise played on an artificial surface, the rain easing off water encroaching into the stadium behind the terraced stand opposite the clubhouse and onto the walk way and partially the home dug out the pitch raised however so no problem and whereas I usually migrate around that side of the ground to watch the match thankfully headed in the opposite direction so I didn’t have to paddle through the water. The women’s matches popular at Sudbury, the bar open with a special on today, curry and a pint for £10. Still settled for a cup of tea and a cheeseburger with the kitchen hatch open too. The sun doing it’s best to poke through the clouds bright at times, chilly when obscured.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Amelia Carter, Amber Proven, Kayleigh Dodd, Ronni Harrison (C), Aliyat Lambe, Leonnie Bezant, Maisie Goodwin, Phoebe Guiver, Sophie Jeffery, Jess Allen & Kate Edwards. Subs – Jodie Donley, Learna Daniels, Chloe Brame, Evie Creaton & Kiera Harms.

Queens Park Rangers Women

QPR FC Women starting XI – Nicole Melling, Alice Curr, Renai McCrea, Joanna Blodgett, Georgie Lewin, Emily Hill. Katie Akerman, Kasha Petit (C), Izzy Owen, Ellie Searle & Grace Stanley. Subs – Ailish Carolan, Emilia Parsons Frankie Webster, Zoe Cohen & Grace Shephard.

Captains, Kasha Petit and and Ronni Harrison with the match officials

A change of ends before kick-off with Sudbury putting the low sun at their backs the cloud cover disperses. QPR to have the kick-off first half wearing their away colours red and black striped shirts with black shorts and socks with Sudbury opposite in their usual colours, yellow shirts with blue shorts and yellow socks. The ball laid back into midfield, the clipped past long to the left sees Ellie Searle charging on to attack it, Kayleigh Dodd doing the defending for Sudbury seeing the ball out for a throw. The visitors looking to get on the front foot right from the start harrying the ball in the middle out to Renai McCrea on the left links up with Searle and Grace Stanley in attack the cross charged down spins away for another throw.

Sudbury’s Leonnie Bezant with QPR’s Izzy Owen

McCrea getting after the ball central as she tracks inside form the left laid forwards into Izzy Owen plays the ball into the right wing for captain Kasha Petit, Sudbury’s captain Ronni Harrison coming out to close her down defending for the hosts. QPR winning a free-kick on the halfway line, Georgie Lewin to flight a ball long into the area, Harrison putting her foot through it to clear for Sudbury. A lively tempo to the game both sides snapping at the ball Sudbury with Leonnie Bezant playing the pass forwards into Kate Edwards in attack looks for Jess Allen coming inside from the left, Joanna Blodgett getting a foot in to win the ball back the visitor look to counter rapidly with the past long for Searle in the clear on the left, her progress though halted by the raised flag of the linesman.

Sudbury attacker, Kate Edwards

Sudbury release Sophie Jeffery on their right to take the ball on into the corner, doing a step over to shift inside her marker, Lewin gets the challenge in the knock the ball out of her path, Bezant up with play snatching the ball back pushed into Jeffery wide, swings a cross into the QPR six yard box, Blodgett up to head clear. This is a lively game all action both side getting the ball on quickly can’t take your eyes off it for a second. Petit looking to get away on the right but Harrison is across to cut her off again clear the ball for a throw in.

Phoebe Guiver win the ball in the middle for Sudbury, rides the lunging tackle for Emily Hill before being chopped down by Katie Akerman the QPR midfield shown a early yellow card. The free-kick in half-way. The ball lifted forwards seen out safely by QPR, but put under pressure from the goal-kick give away a throw high up the pitch. Sudbury competing well looking to put the QPR defence under pressure as they are drawn out, Edwards and Allen pressuring the ball at the back, Edwards releases Allen the take the ball in behind strikes from distance her shot not troubling QPR goalkeeper, Nicole Melling.

Maisie Goodwin, with Guiver getting the ball on through the middle for Sudbury getting players up around the QPR box rolled into Bezant inside the D, her shot is charged down, the rebound coming to Allen to the left of the box, again her 1st time hit is blocked. Petit down with a knock for QPR a pause in play while she receives treatment. The wind having some bite to it now as the sun disappears behind the clouds. Play resuming with a drop ball, put out to Jeffery on the right, she hooks a looping all into the area, Blodgett getting a slight touch to deflect the ball away from the on coming attack, Melling’s claim it high behind her.

QPR’s Georgie Lewin

Alice Curr advancing on the right for QPR on for Petit, Amber Proven challenging the ball out for a thro high up the pitch the visitors get it down well to cross into the near post, Dodd getting their to clear for Sudbury. A chance for QPR to open the scoring as Sudbury are guilty of giving the ball away in the final 3rd central the through ball putting Searle into the box left of the D, taking it on towards the six yard box the angle closing she pulls her strike wide across the face of goal.

QPR’s Alice Curr

Harrison coming across to close Petit down as she gets clear on the right, the ball going behind Harrison and the Sudbury bench incredulous as a corner is given against them. A looping in swinger put in at the near post Sudbury goalkeeper, Amelia Carter jumping to punch the ball away back out to the right the corner taker rolling it back for Curr 25 yards out on the angle strikes the ball, blocked inside the area.

Getting a little testy out there a few clumsy tackles, McCrea getting the advantage as she is clipped going forwards looking for Searle left, Aliyat Lambe coming out to close her down for Sudbury. Lewin with a vital interception for QPR at the back and Sudbury build quickly through the middle. The QPR centre backs again under pressure as Sudbury turn play around playing it through the middle for Edwards racing forwards, Lewin and Blodgett racing back too, one getting the touch to push it on for Melling to launch clear.

Aliyat Lambe clearing the ball for Sudbury

If anything Sudbury are getting a little too excited as they reach the final 3rd, the final pass not quite on it’s mark giving QPR the chance to claim and get going in the opposite direction. Little time dwelled on the ball. 20 minutes gone a competitive match lively QPR with the ball on the left rolled back to McCrea with Dodd coming to close her down on the touchline the full back tangling as McCrea looks to dart past Dodd both holding onto each other shirt, Dodd thrown onto her back as the momentum is with McCrea. Dodd having the wind knocked out of her opposite the QPR dugout the Sudbury bench not happy as no action is taken against McCrea, the physio treating Dodd, they both had hold of one another, had the momentum been with Dodd then it’d be McCrea on her arse right now. As it is another long pause in play with Owen also needing treatment for QPR, Sudbury questioning the referee about the incident. Play resuming with a throw to QPR.

GOAL! Whether the incident unsettled Sudbury can be argued, but straight away they concede the ball not dealt with as it it threaded down the left wing for Searle to take in behind turning into the area along the by-line plays it into the six yard box with Stanley waltzing in central to tap home her 10th goal of the season to give the visitors the lead. 0-1.

Grace Stanley with her 10th goal of the season opening the scoring for QPR.

Proven feeding the ball on for Allen on the left closing in n the corner tracking inside towards the box, can’t capitalise with the cross as it is cut out by Blodgett. QPR push bodies forwards as they build through the middle Petit putting it right for Curr to lay inside for Stanley taking it on into the box right of the D, angles the ball back in across the penalty spot, played behind Akerman as she surges forwards, Dodd clearing for Sudbury.

Sudbury’s Sophie Jeffery

Sudbury getting caught in possession putting them under pressure at the back, Akerman sending the pass forwards for Searle advancing on the left squared into Stanley top left corner of the box, Bezant tracking back from midfield to challenge for Sudbury, possession though quickly lost the ball back with Searle on the right flashed into the box, Harrison scrambling it clear for the hosts. McCrea coming inside from the left on half-way playing a great threaded ball into Pettit in the right channel that sees her sneak in behind the Sudbury defence, Carter off her line rapidly to slide in and clear at the attackers feet.

Sudbury’s Phoebe Guiver

Again the Sudbury bench are livid as McCrea clatters into Guiver, with on action taken. Petit finding Stanley with the past up top the striker shooting over from outside the box to the right of goal. Lambe and Dodd both making good challenges at the back as QPR press up on the left with McCrea getting on well to support the attack.

Guiver carrying the ball on through the middle for Sudbury passes into Edwards ahead of her she in turn lays the ball into Allen racing in behind the defence on the right channel bearing down on the area, Melling racing out to close her down, going to ground, Allen shoots, the QPR keeping saving with her trailing foot, scrambling back up to her feet as Edwards races onto the loose ball 20 yards out trying to put it into the exposed goal, Blodgett back-peddling into her own six yard box able to intercept. A golden chance for Sudbury to equalise.

Sudbury’s Jess Allen

McCrea fouling Allen giving the hosts a free-kick wide on the right, Dodd to play the ball into the area dropping central Melling leaping doesn’t get much on it the ball out to the top of the area knocked back in Curr with the block for QPR the ball deflected behind, Sudbury furious when they don’t get the corner.

Blodgett is fouled by Allen as she looks to shield the ball out of play from a Bezant pass from the middle. Lewin bringing the ball on from the back for the visitors plays the pass to Searle breaking away wide left her cross whipped into the area defended by Harrison put behind for a corner kick. Sudbury defend the corner and look to break Edwards trying to play Allen in behind, Lewin stretching a leg to intercept the ball.

The Sudbury bench incensed once more as Bezant sends a great ball on for Allen long on the right the attacker getting back to it on the by-line to wrap her foot around the ball to lift in a cross, McCrea tracking back trying to block looks to have struck her arm as it knocked behind for the corner. The corner dropped into the mix drilled wide of the right post. The first half moving into stoppage time QPR on the attack, Hill forwards into Petit plays the ball into the area for Stanley right of goal cuts it back to the top of the area to be hit by the advancing Akerman her strike racing wide of the far post.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-1 QPR FC Women

That was a fast paced and competitive first half some good chances created, QPR getting off to a positive start, getting the ball wide pressing players on taking the lead midway through the half, Sudbury missing a great chance to level. Both sides guilty of having sloppy periods in possession, the game often rushed, Sudbury in particular not quite finding the mark with the final pass, nevertheless competitive has been an exciting first 45 and with a single goal in it all to play for.

Chilly now with the sun low and the floodlights on as the teams emerge for the 2nd half, no changes with Sudbury getting the game restarted the ball rolled back into the middle, the diagonal ball forwards to the right the QPR defence seeing it out. Bezant latching onto the ball driving on through the middle for Sudbury, Akerman tackling, McCrea launching it up to Stanley up top on her own gets up well to head the ball down into the D, but lacking a runner to take it on, Lambe is untroubled as she clears the ball. The visitors snapping at the ball inside the Sudbury half, Hill with Petit out to Searle high on the left her low cross claimed by Carter.

GOAL! QPR with the ball inside the Sudbury half Petit plays it into Akerman who opens up her body to slot an inch perfect pass into the feet of Searle as she steals inside her marker to race into the area left of goal and send it under the advancing keeper as she rushes out to close her down to score, 0-2.

Ellie Searle played through to double QPR’s lead at the start of the 2nd half

The perfect start to the 2nd half for QPR as they double the lead, while delivering a huge blow to Sudbury at the same time. The ball given away inside their own half, Sudbury are on the back foot straight away as Owen drive through the centre towards the D for QPR, Dodd getting the tackle in to take the ball out of her feet send it behind for a corner kick on the right. The corner taken short before the cross is delivered, the ball knocked down towards goal Carter dropping out her left to save it doesn’t know the flag has been raised for an offside.

Allen bursting on right side after the ball striking it on the half volley her angled effort straight into Melling’s midriff. Dodd getting back at Searle on the left to tackle as the winger threatens to run in behind to cross, the visitors snapping back to regain possession, Akerman trying her luck from distance sending the shot over the bar. Sudbury make the first change of the game bring off Guiver, on comes Evie Creaton. The substitute involved straight away in a triangle on the right with Edwards and Bezant, the attempted ball into the area intercepted by Lewin for QPR.

Allen looking to make something happen for Sudbury driving on with the ball on the right before being tackled winning her side a corner kick. Lopped in to the near post, Lewin is up with a firm header to knock it back out towards the taker, then races out to press the ball well. Goodwin linking up with Bezant in the middle rolled on for Edwards who clips it to the right of the D for Creaton, she flicks it into the box turning to chase it wide to the right of goal, Melling sprinting over to throw herself on the ball.

Lewin busy for QPR at the back getting out to close down Allen as she comes left to attack the ball. Another stoppage in play with Creaton going down needing treatment. QPR have won a corner on the right as play resumes played deep towards the far post 10 yards out knocked down towards goal, Carter diving left to get down to save push the ball out past her left post then makes another blocking save on her knees as Owen tries to turn the ball in at the near post.

Sudbury get up the other end with pace as Allen wins her side a corner kick, Creaton allowed back on. QPR defending clearing the ball out of their box, Akerman taking it forwards playing it on into Petit who smashes a shot over from range. Sudbury make a change bringing Edwards off, Chloe Brame coming on. Stanley with the ball right corner of the area sends in central to Hill inside the D, shifts to go left before pulling the trigger, Goodwin blocking for Sudbury the ball deflected behind her, Harrison clearing to concede the corner kick. Played in from the left Bezant clearing near side.

QPR’s Joanna Blodgett

66 minutes played Sudbury making a double substitution taking off Dodd and Lambe at the back Learna Daniels ad Jodie Donley coming on. Harrison defends as Hill bringing the ball on into the left channel looks to play Searle in to cross. Petit fouls Jeffery inside the QPR half the free-kick top of the centre circle the ball defended headed out to the right with Searle then holding of Brame as she looks to gather and drive towards the area.

GOAL! Defending a corner at one end QPR break through the middle Akerman charging on with the ball, has Petit and Stanley ahead of her racing to get clear of the Sudbury defence, the pass putting the ball on into Stanley’s path heading into the box right of the D bearing down on goal. Carter comes rushing out to try and close her down going to ground Stanley slots the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to make it 0-3.

Grace Stanley with her 2nd of the game to see QPR lead 3-0

Stretching their lead QPR making a double change as they take of Petit and Curr, send on Emily Parsons and Zoe Cohen. Sudbury conceding a 3rd goal frustrated haven’t been able to get going in the 2nd half picking up another injury as QPR prepare a triple substitution. Brame needs to come off for Sudbury too, Kiera Harms coming on. Ailish Carolan, Frankie Webster and Grace Shephard onto the pitch for QPR replacing Stanley, Akerman and McCrea. QPR winning a free-kick on the right 35 yards out.

GOAL! Blodgett over the set-piece strikes a high ball into the area, runners breaking in towards the penalty spot to meet it, one of those Parsons only on the pitch for a few minutes she gets her head onto the ball to send a bullet of a header over the keeper before she can react into the goal beyond 0-4.

Substitute Emilia Parsons heading home to make it 4-0

QPR with a strong grip on the game with less than 15 minutes of regular play left, Harrison pushed up into the middle for Sudbury as the hosts win a free-kick 30 yards out, the captain over it herself strikes the ball in towards goal a comfortable catch for Melling. Hill sending the ball up to Parsons back to goal 25 out looks to turn it into the path of Shephard racing forwards, she can’t quite take it in her stride as she enters the box allowing Sudbury to clear.

Harrison playing the ball on for Bezant the midfield lifting a great pass forwards for Harms to bring down under control top of the area, he progress halted though by the offside flag. Webster up ended inside the Sudbury half the set-piece seeing players go forwards, Hill up to knock the ball down into the box, before being struck wide of Carter’s left post. Bezant clipping a neat pass out to the left with Allen taking it down outside the area looking to shift onto her right foot and shoot, Blodgett putting the blocking tackle in.

The game getting a little ragged as it enters stoppage time several niggly challenges QPR playing with composure, hasn’t been Sudbury’ afternoon the hosts frustrated nothing working going forwards, play quickly turned around. The hosts with one last chance to get players up into the area winning a free-kick on the right, the ball won though by Hill cleared for Owen to break forwards pulls up suffering from cramp. The job done however the final whistle blowing QPR leaving Suffolk with the 3 points in the bag.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 0-4 QPR FC Women

The win lifting QPR up into 5th place. Coming out on top in the 2nd half after a reasonably even 1st half. Making a few tweaks to the side came out fast in the 2nd half getting at Sudbury to quickly double their lead, a blow for Sudbury who will want to put that half behind them, never got going, QPR performing well to frustrate them winning the ball and turning play around creating chances Stanley put clear to make it 3, wit substitute Parsons burying her header to make it 4-0.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a tight call yet again with some strong performers out there. A few performances of note to mention. For Sudbury Leonnie Bezant was strong in the middle especially 1st half winning her tackles and showing a good range of pass that on another day would threaten to unlock a defence. Captain Ronni Harrison defending well at the back getting across to defend and read the game as QPR turned play around. For QPR, Ellie Searle was a constant threat out on the left, looking to get in behind to cross the ball, played in to score their 2nd early in the 2nd half. Katie Akerman came into her own in midfield as the game wore on getting into some great positions driving forwards with fantastic assists. Today’s award though goes to defender Georgie Lewin, a powerful display at the back winning the ball and bringing it out of defence, making several interceptions which played a large part in frustrating their opponents.

Great to be back at the MEL Group Stadium to watch Sudbury play in the FAWNL as frustrating afternoon for sure, but still a long way to go and will fight all the way to ensure they retain their new found FAWNL status. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details, the nature of the league this time of year just one more league game scheduled for QPR, Sudbury with too will both be looking to end the year on a positive note.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Needham Market Women v AFC Sudbury Women

Sunday 20th November

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

Back to Suffolk this Sunday to watch a game from the 2nd Round of the County Cup competition, a repeat of last season’s final no less with Needham Market Women draw at home to face AFC Sudbury Women.

The two sides the strong favourites to win the competition again this season. AFC Sudbury Women coming out on top to beat Needham Market Women 3-1 in that final played at Colchester United FC goals from Evie Creaton, Jess Allen and Alex Penny to lift the trophy after a decade of dominance by Ipswich Town Women (now no longer competing in the competition)

The two clubs following a similar path as they have become two of the leading sides for women’s football in Suffolk. With academies and pathways for female players, with top quality 3G facilities. Likewise both promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division having become Division One North and South Champions respectfully last season. Both going strong in the 5th tier too with AFC Sudbury Women 4th and Needham Market Women 5th with identical records having won 4 and lost 2 in a close battle at the top of the table all looking to close down Luton Town Ladies.

Needham Market Women having risen quickly up to the 5th tier in their relatively short history having reached the final of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup on 3 occasions would love to go all the way in the competition. Growing year on year have added quality and experience to their side in bringing in a number of ex-Ipswich players including Eva Hubbard this season who has hit the ground running the defender netting 6 goals so far. So too has Molly Hall another ex-Ipswich player. Lois Balfour with Needham Market from the beginning leading the way in the goal scoring charts with 8 goals too date. Have recently added another player with huge experience in Amber Cantwell playing the the ERWFL and FAWNL with Cambridge United WFC. On Friday Needham Market Women enjoying a memorable and fantastic day out playing at Wembley Stadium in the BT Sport Pub Cup Final representing the The Three Tuns.

AFC Sudbury Women forming stronger ties with AFC Sudbury over recent season’s slowly rebuilding bringing in a host of young players into their academy set-up cumulating in the club returning the ERWFL Premier Division. Enjoying a triple winning season last time out not only winning the Division One South title but also the League Plate along with the County Cup. Are a side with plenty of goals in them, last season’s top scorer Jess Allen moving on to play in the US, Alex Penny is currently top scorer with 9 goals closely followed by Evie Creaton with 8 while Holly Kennard has 6.

Broomfields the venue for today’s cup tie, The Hub cafe and bar situated on the 2nd floor of the new building situated between the main grass patch and 3G pitch with a balcony overlooking the pitches. The changing room housed on the first floor a small seated stand with viewing for spectators along one side. The rain blowing through during the morning leaving it dry for this afternoon’s cup tie, the sun low potentially an issue setting behind one goal a 2:30 kick off the floodlights will be needed come the 2nd half.

Needham Market Women

Needham Market Women starting XI – Daisie Gibbs, Eva Hubbard, Jodie Sharp, Lindsey Cooper, Eloise Ward, Mia Etheridge, Paige Wakefield, Amber Cantwell, Jo Brawn, Ellie Rossiter & Lois Balfour (C). Subs – Charlotte McGrath, Ele Catchpole, Lina Nagib, Molly Hall & Niamh Thomas.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Jodie Donley, Ronni Harrison (C), Teigan McHale, Ali Lambe, Kate Edwards, Emily Smith, Alex Penny, Holly Kennard, Leonie Bezant & Evie Creaton. Subs – Amber Provan, Phoebe Guiver, Kaylee Dodds, Sophie Jeffery & Tye Smith.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

With a game at Wembley on Friday manager Warren Lewis-Claxon making changes including a 1st start for new signing Amber Cantwell. Both sides with 5 substitutes to call upon during the game. Needham Market to kick off the first half wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. Sudbury lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue colure shorts. The visitors looking to press the ball right form the off forcing Needham Market to play the ball back into their defence out to right back Jodie Sharp sends a diagonal ball up to striker and captain Lois Balfour seeing it into her feet well turns to release Jo Brawn breaking forwards on the left, Jodie Donley closing in to challenge for Sudbury the ball out for a throw in.

Leonie Bezant attacking for Sudbury

Sudbury get the ball forwards with pace on the right played inside for attacker Evie Creaton right of the D, Needham Market goalkeeper Daisie Gibbs rushing out to close her down Creaton nudging the ball forwards getting it behind the keeper as she goes to ground, her defence though can see the ball run wide of the right post for a goalkick. Sudbury with a lively start to the game getting on with the ball win a corner on the right, swung in Needham Market defending before the near post. A foul given away in the middle a chance for Sudbury to get players up around the top of the area as defender Ali Lambe looks to play the set-piece in. The home defence heading clear.

Competitive in the middle of the park as both sides go in on the ball Sudbury breaking left as captain Ronni Harrison sends it forwards for Holly Kennard, Gibbs coming out of her goal can see it safely out for a goalkick. A few tackles flying in the referee letting the game flow early on Needham Market attack right Eva Hubbard up for Brawn the diagonal pass up to Ellie Rossiter making an attacking move through the middle intercepted well by Harrison.

Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison

Sharp getting up around the D taking aim as the ball is deflected into her 20 yards out, Millie Carter in the Sudbury goal seeing the shot safely taken into her body. Amber Cantwell getting onto the ball left channel driving into the area Donley tackling the ball out for a throw in. Sudbury pressing the ball high won back into the final 3rd Creaton with a shot struck into the side netting a deflection a corner given, played in near side comfortably cleared by Needham Market.

Amber Cantwell getting forwards for Needham Market

Balfour dropping into midfield to receive the ball into her feet aiming to release it over the top quickly to set either Rossiter or Brawn away the latter the intended target this time, through to attack the box, bar a well timed interception from Lambe at the back for Sudbury. With both sides squeezing up at times is leaving players exposed at the back, Sudbury quick to get the ball forwards, up to Holly Kennard left with Leonie Bezant inside looking to exchange passes get in behind the defence Sharp and Eloise Ward hold their line bravely to catch Kennard offside.

Sudbury’s Holly Kennard with Needham Market’s Jodie Sharp

Both Alex Penny on the right and Kennard on the left have pace to take the ball on past their full backs if they get the opportunity good battles for both with Penny up against Hubbard for Needham Market, Kennard up against Sharp. A clever touch seeing Kennard evade Sharp to run on down the line flashes a cross into the box looking for Creaton in the middle of goal. Ward cutting the ball out and clearing for Needham Market. It’s not a tight game by any stretch both sides going for it play one end to the other, Needham Market clearing Mia Etheridge up into Balfour played out to Rossiter right turns infield her strike from range blocked by Harrison the ball deflected across the top of the area, Donley putting in the block as Brawn strikes the ball.

Gibbs taking a catch high as Penny sends a cross in from deep on the right for Sudbury. Up the other end Carter comes racing out of her box to clear, as Rossiter looks to get after another Balfour flick on only this time the offside flag is raised against her. Balfour is shoved over in the middle presenting Needham Market with a free-kick. Played up to the top of the area cleared out to the left Lambe gives away a silly free-kick in a dangerous position out wide. Well struck the ball races in missing everyone to run wide of the far post.

Needham Market captain, Lois Balfour

Carter with a great ball forwards from the back that sees Penny on the attack right wing for Sudbury, taking on the early strike on the angle, flashed in across the six yard box wide of Gibbs’ far post. Sudbury pressing the advantage right side Creaton moving out to receive the ball laid into Bezant 20 yards out right of the D, puts her foot through the ball angling in, Gibbs diving beaten the ball cannoning off the post before being cleared.

GOAL! 20 minutes gone and the deadlock is broken by a truly wonderful strike, got to see this one go in from behind and it looked a goal even before being struck. Sudbury attacking right side a rapid counter the pitch opening up the crossfield pass flighted into Kennard some 25 plus yards out left of the D, a fantastic 1st touch to get the ball down and turn to strike on the half volley perfectly hit the top corner there to be found, makes no mistake the curling into the back of the net 0-1.

Holly Kennard with a superb strike to open the scoring for Sudbury

Needham Market a little frustrated a couple of naughty tackles flying in need to settle down. Carter rushing out of her area comes together with the advancing Rossiter, the ball loose Rossiter unable to get to it before the Sudbury defence recovers to clear. Kate Edwards looking to dig the pass out wide for Penny on the left pulls up straight away feeling pain in her ankle. A lengthy pause in play whilst she is assessed not risked Sudbury bringing off the midfielder, Phoebe Guiver coming on. Is an entertaining contest the game open Sudbury looking to get the ball to Kennard and Penny on the flanks, Needham Market more effective bringing the ball on through the middle with Rossiter and Brawn getting the furthest forwards.

GOAL! Needham Market get themselves back on level terms in the 29th minute winning a free-kick on the left Sharp hooks it up the line for Rossiter racing in behind getting hold of the ball to fire a cross into the six yard box Balfour beating the keeper to it turning her shot goalwards, Teigan McHale stabbing a foot out of the goal line to send it clear to the left straight at Brawn however the Needham Market attacker blasting her shot home 1-1.

Jo Brawn levelling the scores for Needham Market

Is a contest between Kennard and Sharp on the flank the Sudbury winner looking to exploit her pace get behind Sharp who is vastly experienced isn’t making it easy, Kennard getting half a yard running into trouble as Ward coming to assist Sharp gets her challenge in. Sudbury appealing (well their fans at least) as Kennard’s cross is intercepted inside the box appears to strike an arm the referee waving the protests away play carrying on. Brawn advancing up the left for Needham Market with the diagonal ball into the top of the area for Rossiter, Harrison doing well up against her, then makes another good tackle as Balfour attempts to latch onto the loose ball.

GOAL! Sudbury get themselves back into the lead attacking with purpose down the right Penny forwards the ball crossed into the area, Creaton inside the six yard box central looking to see the ball across her sent it into the far corner doesn’t get the touch she intending however wrong foots the keeper as Gibbs dives to her left, the ball skipping up into the air Creaton stooping into the header to drive the ball in back across the goal 1-2.

Evie Creaton restoring Sudbury’s lead

The clock ticking own in the first half Needham Market looking to get on the attack Rossiter getting in behind on the right to the by-line flashing a cross into the six yard box intercepted by Lambe.

GOAL! Needham Market coming straight back to level the scores for a 2nd time as Cantwell gives chase to a ball on the right whipping a cross in from the by-line into the six yard box missed by Carter, but not by Brawn racing in close at the far post to smash home her 2nd of the game 2-2.

Needham Market pushing up looking to finish the first half strong the ball up into Balfour inside the area right of goal off a throw in, a strong challenge by Lambe winning the ball. Balfour picking up a knock. the ball cleared.

GOAL! Into stoppage time Creaton looking to pressure Ward on the ball at the ball top of her area as she looks to shield the ball back to her keeper, gets her foot on the ball to play her shot wide of the advancing keeper and into the bottom corner 2-3.

Evie Creaton with her 2nd of the match to put Sudbury back into the lead

Cantwell advancing on the left combining with Balfour in attack aiming to drive for the box, Smith going with her for Sudbury putting in the tackle. Smith fouled shortly afterwards by Wakefield who picks up a yellow card in the dying seconds of the first half.

Half-time Needham Market Women 2-3 AFC Sudbury Women

A highly entertaining first half sees Sudbury taking the lead in stoppage time having been twice pegged back by Needham Market. Certainly a competitive game and a surprisingly open one too with both sides looking to take the game to the other commit players forwards risk exposure at the back at times. Good battles all over the pitch competitive in the middle, Paige Wakefield with Mai Etheridge winning the ball well for the hosts Cantwell looking to drive on with the ball. The visitors looking to use Penny and Kennard on the flanks their pace often stretching the pitch. Has led to 5 goals being scored can’t see that being the end of it.

The floodlights on beginning to take effect at the start of the 2nd half appears to be no changes. Sudbury to get the the 2nd period underway straight to penalties if level on the 90. A scrappy start to the 2nd period as both sides rush to close the ball down Smith releasing Kennard on the left her deep cross finding Penny on the opposite side outside the box, Hubbard defending for Needham Market.

Sudbury’s Alex penny with Needham’s Eva Hubbard

Cantwell is brought down by Smith as she looks to carry the ball out from the back, Sudbury though quick to regain possession off the set-piece the ball played up to Creaton inside the area, Cooper with a well timed tackle for Needham Market. A competitive start to the 2nd half Needham Market looking to get after their opponents.

GOAL! The perfect start to the 2nd half as Needham Market come straight back to level the game for the 3rd time in the match and with a wonderful strike too. The hosts attacking down the left Brawn with Hubbard the ball crossed in along the top of the Needham Market area is cleared back out into the midfield. Wakefield gathering the ball some 35 yards out puts her laces through it , arrowing in towards goal, Carter dives to her left but can get no where near it as the shot is buried 3-3.

Paige Wakefield’s thunderbolt making it 3-3

Needham Market making a change straight after the goal bringing on Molly Hall in attack to replace Balfour. The hosts with their tails up the challenges still flying in in the middle of the park Smith bringing down Wakefield and Etheridge. The former over the set-piece to the left of goal midway inside the half, Wakefield taking on the shot the ball curling wide of the far post. Sudbury making a change bringing off Donley for Sophie Jeffrey who slots in at left ack Harrison moving to the right of defence.

Free-kicks continue to be given away at regular intervals, Needham Market with one wide right sent players up into the box, flung in near side, Carter is cleaned out as she goes up for it by an onrushing attacking. Play stopped straight away, Carter down and looking in trouble. Another long pause in play as she is assessed possible alternatives discussed with no recognised goalkeeper on the bench. Looks to be Carter’s elbow is given time to be checked over feels okay to play on the game resumes.

Wakefield strong in the middle winning the ball knocking it on for Hall in attack who flicks it wide to Brawn on the left 25 yards out, aims to open up her body curl a shot in towards the top corner, doesn’t get the necessary height on it an easy take for Carter. Needham Market putting alot into the game at the beginning of the 2nd half winning the ball better preventing Sudbury from finding their wide players. Brawn winning a corer on the left, played deep back to Wakefield central outside the box the ball struck hard racing wide of the left post.

Sudbury defender, Teigan McHale

McHale getting hold of the ball at the back for Sudbury cleared on for Kennard skipping away left side going forwards sweeping a crossfield ball into Penny up on the right slightly behind her Penny after it to strike on the turn 25 yards out can only place her effort into the goalkeepers gloves. Hubbard getting forwards to support Brawn, Penny tracking back with her opens up her knee as she goes to block the ball going down in distress looks in trouble again play is paused players from both sides concerned as the trainer is quickly on. Doesn’t look good a long delay the stretcher brought on, Penny needs to come off, never a nice sight to see and can only wish her well and that it’s not too serious. Kaylee Dodds the player sent on.

Play eventually resuming. Lina Nagib on to for Needham Market on the left replacing Brawn. Sharp putting the ball into the box for Needham Market looking for Nagib, McHale defending for Sudbury the ball deflected away Cantwell latching onto it looking to drive into the box Dodds coming round to defend for the visitors.

Needham defender Lindsey Cooper

Rossiter coming on with the ball attacking for Needham Market on the right, Jeffery getting across her to defend for Sudbury. The ball is like a hot potato pinging around in the middle of the park knocked forwards by Guiver, intercepted by Cooper, Hubbard takes it on for the host driving forwards on the left going on after playing a one two with Nagib her cross deflected behind for a corner kick. In from the left at an inviting height Hall jumping near post can’t quite connect the ball half cleared outside the area struck ack in with place deflected away for a corner on the right.

GOAL! The pressure building from Needham Market the corner played long to the far post cleared, Sudbury looking to clear their area the ball put up to the left won back by Sharp, knocked forwards Hall with a good flick on to send the ball into the path of Rossiter running on right side, strikes the shot on the angle from the top corner of the area lashing the ball in across the keeper to find the bottom corner and put Needham Market into the lead for the 1st time in the game 4-3.

Ellie Rossiter firing Needham Market into the lead

Sudbury a little subdued have been a little flat since losing Penny to injury now find themselves behind in the cup time. Needham Market finding renewed energy as Hubbard gets forwards linking up well with Nagib on the left. Smith lifting the ball on for Kennard on the left, Sharp with a timely header to intercept. Cooper clearing the ball out of the ground as Creaton combines well with Dodds as the pair attack right. Cantwell pressing forwards with the ball releasing it forwards for Nagib her cross field ball aiming for Rossiter breaking right, Jeffery getting her leg out to intercept well for Sudbury.

Still 20 minutes left to play with all the stoppages have no doubt interrupted the rhythm especially for Sudbury. Hall with a turn and hit 25 yards out straight at the keeper. A corner for the hosts on the right defended by McHale at the near post cleared back to the taker the shot blasted back in wide at the near post. Gibbs comes rushing out of her box as Creaton gives chase to the ball colliding with the striker, her defence back on the cover before Creaton can capitalise.

Hall on for Rossiter on the right, Lambe across with the tackle bringing Rossiter down the hosts complain but again their protests are waved away. Creaton bringing the ball down turning to drive for the area tackled by Ward. Dodds attacking right is brought down giving Sudbury a free-kick 25 yards out. Bezant over the ball curled in Gibbs has it covered looks over dips late though to drop onto the cross bar and out of play. Sudbury finding their feet gaining some momentum coming forwards better Bezant with Creaton through the middle the striker chopped down left of the D by Ward, the visitors appealing the free-kick awarded, Ward in trouble, defenders looked to be round on the cover though as a yellow card is brandished. Jeffery on the set-piece sends her shot over.

Sudbury coming back strong Needham market possibly feeling the affects of two games in 3 days. Wakefield winning the ball well in the middle however helping to take the pressure off on for Hubbard bombing on left side winning a throw high up the pitch. 10 minutes left Sudbury bring on Tye Smith to replace Guiver in the middle. Etheridge attempting a shot from distance not troubling the keeper.

Bezant carrying the ball on through the middle for Sudbury up to Dodds on the right, cuts inside Hubbard sticking out a foot to take the ball away from her. The hosts with a rapid counter the ball clipped out wide to Rossiter on the right opts for the early shot angling in low, Carter has her near post covered down to make the save.

Ward defends well on Tye Smith as the midfielder drives on with the ball for Sudbury. Kennard breaking clear in behind on the left shooting from an acute angle the ball racing wide across the face of the Needham Market goal. Needham Market come left the ball into Hall the striker lifting it up the left flank for Nagib to take on holds up edge of the area laid back to Hall some 25 yards out shapes to shoot curling her strike over the crossbar.

Cantwell bundled over not for the first time in the game left of the circle the free-kick flighted in towards the top of the area Hall pulling clear with the header, goes too early the flag up against her. Nagib draws the foul off Bezant to eat up valuable time less than 5 minutes left to play, holding onto a narrow lead. That said the free-kick top of the centre circle Wakefield takes on the shot the ball struck well drops over the bar.

Needham Market press forwards Hall to Nagib inside the box left, tackled by Harrison, Etheridge winning the ball back inside to Cantwell then Wakefield drives forwards stopped by McHale. Sudbury counter Bezant taking the ball on through the middle tackled by Ward.

GOAL! Hall seals the victory for Needham Market in the dying seconds the hosts with one last effort to press the ball inside the Sudbury half comes into the strikers feet some 40 yards out to the left of the D, gets her foot through the ball to send the lob over the keeper to score 5-3!

Molly Hall’s late strike secures the win for Needham Market

Barely time left for Needham Market to make a double substitution before the final whistle blows and the hosts celebrate.

Full time Needham Market Women 5-3 AFC Sudbury Women

A highly entertaining cup tie, a final in itself payed between to committed side alot of effort put in. Needham Market turning it around in the 2nd half with 3 superb strikes to seal the win having been trailing 3-2 at the break. Sudbury getting off to a positive start getting joy on the flanks with the pace of Penny and Kennard. Kennard with a fantastic strike of her own to open the scoring. Needham Market competing for the ball especially in the middle of the park soon coming back to level through Brawn. Sudbury nudging into the lead again with Creaton on target the lead again short lived as Brawn pounced for her 2nd of the game. Creaton restoring Sudbury’s lead in the closing stages of the 1st half. Needham Market making a determined start to the 2nd half a thunderbolt from Wakefield getting it back to 3-3. Injuries taking their toll having already lost Edwards in the 1st half and then a concern for goalkeeper Carter, Sudbury saw Penny stretched off. Needham Market on top at that point capitalising a Rossiter fired the hosts into the lead. The game could have gone either way as Sudbury fought back Hall with another superbly hit ball from distance securing the win for Needham Market 5-3.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Again it’s a tough one a few contenders but one I feel edges it. A few performances of note to mention firstly for Sudbury, Holly Kennard was a constant threat on the left flank with some good runs turn of pace and an excellent strike to open the scoring. Evie Creaton too up top getting into some good positions taking the game to the Needham Market defence scoring twice. For Needham Market, Eva Hubbard was strong at left back dealing with Penny’s pace on that flank limiting her chances. Lindsey Cooper solid in the back line with a number of well timed tackles and interceptions. Elli Rossiter out on the right full of running all game a ready option throughout putting Needham Market into the lead. Amber Cantwell making some great runs with the ball from midfield looking to link with the attack. The award though goes to another midfielder Paige Wakefield. Solid through out strong in the tackle getting about to win the ball back a strike of the highest quality the icing on the cake.

Enjoyed my trip to Bloomfields a thoroughly entertaining cup tie could have gone either way and was as competitive as expected. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today as always much appreciated. Hoping the injuries to Kate Edwards and Alex Penny are not too severe wishing both players all the best for a speedy recovery.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sunday 4th September

ERWFL Premier Division

Back to the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday after a midweek derby double from the FAWNL. A trip to Suffolk to the MEL Group Stadium to watch AFC Sudbury Women newly promoted to the league taking on Norfolk side King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

The ERWFL Premier Division representing the 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. 12 sides competing looks to be a highly competitive league already with just 2 weekends played so far.

AFC Sudbury Women promoted to the league along with fellow Suffolk side Needham Market Women after clinching the Division One South title last season. Coming out on top of what proved to be an intriguing 5 way battle at the top. The league title part of a treble as the club also won the League Plate and lifted the Suffolk Women’s County Cup after a long period of dominance from Ipswich Town Women. A young squad striker Jess Allen top scorer last season with 21 goals, has moved on to America to play her football this season.

Fully integrated with AFC Sudbury FC and their academy the women’s section features two women’s sides, with their Reserves also stepping up to the ERWFL this season playing in Division One South. Looking again to be one of the leading women’s clubs in the county. Lifting the County Cup last season a huge banner to wave in that regards, will be aiming to retain it this season as they look to establish themselves in the Premier Division. Unlucky on the opening day as they lost out at home to Stevenage FC Women, 3-2 with Evie Creaton netting both goals. A trip to Essex last Sunday playing early leaders Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, Sophie Jeffery scoring the only goal of the game to see Sudbury come home with their 1st 3 points of the campaign.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies enjoying a strong debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division last year. Picking up some good results going on to finish comfortable in mid-table. That despite there being a change of manager through the season with Joe Simpson now at Wroxham stepping down. Alex Cook taking over as 1st team manager. Playing the majority of their games at The Walks stadium are themselves rapidly establishing themselves as one of the leading women’s side in the county. Supporting the Pandora Project, a local charity that offers advice and support to women and children affected by domestic abuse and will be wearing t-shirts promoting that initiative during their pre-season warm-ups.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies wearing their ‘Say No to Domestic Abuse’ t-shirts in support of the Pandora Project.

A few changes of personnel over the close season with last season’s captain, Tiffany Forshaw, Zara O’Neill and Mary-Ann Hoy following Simpson to Wroxham. Forshaw one on the joint top scorers last season with 9 goals along side Ella Gavaghan who has also moved on and Amy Magnus. Have brought in Norwich development striker Samara Nche with midfielder Deva Rawlings returning to the club. Steph Powell a vastly experienced defender coming in towards the end of last season. Jodie Hopkins taking on the role of captain this season with Fran Peeling vice-captain.

AFC Sudbury’s, MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’s game, the artificial pitch a decent size seeing plenty of action. Hot and cold refreshments available on the way to the clubhouse and bar area with a seated stand beside the changing rooms behind. Covered standing behind both goals with a terraced stand on the opposite side between the dugouts my preferred position from which to watch the game. A pleasant afternoon bright and warm a little cloud cover but still otherwise.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Jodie Donley, Ashtyn Newley, Ronni Harrison (C), Teigan McHale, Kate Edwards, Emily Smith, Phoebe Guiver, Alex Penny, Holly Kennard & Evie Creaton. Subs – Jess Egan, Alice Bartlett, Aliyat Lambe, Caitlyn Charles.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Alice Collins, Sam Davies, Jodie Hopkins (C), Fran Peeling, Steph Powell, Kim Fairweather, Deva Rawlings, Lily Porter, Rachel Skinner, Oksana Imanalijeva & Amy Magnus. Subs – Tilly Sands, Olivia Skinner-Pelaz & Katie Ward.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A few players unavailable for King’s Lynn, including new signing Samara Nche and goalkeeper, Christina Vivas. Outfield player Alice Collins donning the gloves for todays match. The visitors wearing their away colours this afternoon and all pink kit with yellow numbering isn’t the easiest to read and am going to have to fall back on my knowledge of the squad as back up. Looks nice though. Sudbury with the kick-off first half wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The ball played back into midfield, Kate Edwards putting the pass long to Holly Kennard getting on on the left flank, working her way forwards her cross squared in low 20 yards out, intercepted and cleared by King’s Lynn’s Kim Fairweather.

Oksana Imanalijeva gets hold of the kick out of the back from Sudbury goalkeeper, Millie Carter 35 yards out looks to try and release Amy Magnus in behind the defence, Teigan McHale getting her foot on the ball putting it back to her goalkeeper to clear. Rachel Skinner taking the ball on right side for King’s Lynn, Magnus across offering support, Jade Donley getting a challenge in to take the ball away for Sudbury. The hosts looking to break quickly early on looking for Kennard on the left at every opportunity, Sam Davies up against her defending for King’s Lynn,

Ronni Harrison, captaining Sudbury steps out of the back line to tackle King’s Lynn midfielder Lily Porter as she attempts to make ground through the middle. Sudbury’s manager, Luke Mallet wanting his side to get the ball out to the right side as they come left once again, Evie Creaton in attack taking the ball into the left channel backed up by Phoebe Guiver exchange passes before the crossfield pass is whipped across the top of the King’s Lynn area, Alex Penny out on the right latching onto it blasting a shot goalwards, Collins behind it to save at her near post.

A fairly even start to the game, players from both sides snapping in to win the ball, a few late challenges but this is more from players releasing the ball quickly than anything else. Sudbury getting the ball out to both flanks now with Kennard and Penny looking to get on. Porter threading the ball into Magnus top of the D, attempts to flick it past Harrison close in on her, Ashtyn Newley around on the cover well getting her foot on the ball to help out her captain. Cleared up the left Sudbury break forwards Kennard racing onto the ball taking it on travelling all the way into the box goes down looks like a push Sudbury are certainly questioning it but the referee waves play on seeing a touch to win the ball.

King’s Lynn midfielder, Lily Porter

Magnus seeing the ball into her feet well right channel spinning the pass out to Skinner wide right turning into the area as Skinner crosses for King’s Lynn, McHale clearing the ball for Sudbury. Kennard winning a throw for Sudbury high on the left inside to Creaton she looks to put Kennard in as she runs into the area, Davies tackling well for King’s Lynn. 10 minutes played and Sudbury are finding some momentum quicker to the ball playing it out to their wide players Penny crossing in wide right, Collins claiming at her near post. Both Kate Edwards and Emily Smith in the middle playing the diagonal ball out to the wide players for Sudbury.

Sam Davies with Evie Creaton

Fairweather on for Porter she sends the ball through to Skinner right side, taking the ball on looks to plough her way through the Sudbury defence is eventually outnumbered. Imanalijeva up on the left getting King’s Lynn a corner. Is a teasing delivery in across the six yard box everyone drawn near side drops far post and out of play.

GOAL! King’s Lynn frustrated after play is brought back for a free-kick wide left close to half way with McHale clipped coming forwards, with Sudbury making no headway in attack. McHale to play the ball in as players go up into the box a great delivery angled in across goal, King’s Lynn’s defence getting a head on it knocking it back down to the top of the box right side 25 yards out, comes to Penny gets her foot up over the ball to lash a powerfully hit ball in back across goal into the back of the net 1-0.

Alex Penny opening the scoring for Sudbury

Sudbury getting their noses in front with 15 minutes on the clock. King’s Lynn certainly not happy, quickly concede another set-piece on the edge of their box to the left, played in across the penalty spot captain Jodie Hopkins getting hold of it to clear beyond the far post. Another rash challenge giving Sudbury another free-kick a little further back from where the opening goal came from. McHale putting the ball into the box right of the D, a scramble to clear before it pops up for a Sudbury body to smash goalwards driven wide of the far post.

Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison

The goal giving Sudbury confidence are looking sharper to the ball popping about in midfield the rebound comes on for Kennard drifting central from the right 20 yards out gets control shifting it inside, Fran Peeling coming out to close her down, blocking the shot well for King’s Lynn.

King’s Lynn’s Fran Peeling setting up to block Holly Kennard’s attempt on goal

Plenty happening King’s Lynn losing it going forwards put up field rapidly, dropping into the top of the area Collins getting up to claim it as Creaton closes her down, coming together as Collins drops the ball escapes her gloves, Creaton instinctively attacking it, play stopped with Collins down hurt. The goalkeeper okay to continue after treatment. Magnus again seeing the ball into her feet well spinning inside off her marker presenting the ball at the feet of Imanalijeva inside the D, shifts it to her eft before pulling the trigger, not a strong hit, runs through safely to Carter to collect.

Alice Collins going to claim the ball with Sudbury’s Evie Creaton closing in

Penny fed the ball on the left, doing well riding a couple of rash tackles the advantage played as she drives on into the area firing in a shot close on the angle Collins with a sharp blocking save at her near post the ball spinning out on across the six yard box Creaton after it stretching annoyed as she turns it wide of the far post. Sudbury stretching their opponents Smith with a great pass wide for Penny to bomb on right side her cross in missed by Collins near side, Creaton retrieving the ball beyond the far post looks to turn inside back to goal, Fairweather getting a foot in to clear taking a painful blow in the process.

Creaton linking up with Penny on the right as the pair come forwards for Sudbury exchanging passes before Penny strikes one over from the angle outside the box. King’s Lynn on the back foot finding it difficult to get their attackers into the game. Sudbury with possession at the back a sloppy ball from McHale off her goalkeeper in the six yard box is presented straight to Skinner 20 yards out right of the D, charges into the box, McHale charging forwards to put in the blocking tackle the hosts very nearly gifting an opportunity to their opponents. .

Sudbury living dangerously, the ball out on the left lost as Hopkins gets up with Imanalijeva to pressure he full back, Imanalijeva turning goalwards powering on into the area, Carter coming missing the ball as it is fired in across the six yard box, Magnus closing in but comes to Donley to put her foot through it her attempted clearance striking the on rushing Magnus could go anywhere for Sudbury’s sake it rebounds wide of the right post for a goalkick. Half an hour played Sudbury very sloppy at the back messing around in possession putting themselves under pressure another loose pass from the box snatched by Porter 30 yards out fed into Magnus right of the D turns aiming to plough a hole though the defence, McHale solid in her challenge as she comes to block.

Teigan McHale in to win the ball for Sudbury

The game opening up Sudbury with a rapid break the ball cleared up to Kennard takes the ball on though the middle, Collins coming to close her down lifts her shot from all of 20 yards over the advancing keeper, drops over her to strike the base of the post spinning inside across goal, Collins scrambling back to lay claim to the ball before it can creep over the line. King’s Lynn gift possession straight back to Sudbury laid into Kennard left on the left into the box, closes in on goal smashes it in low, Collins with a sharp save down to block the ball cleared away for a corner. Played in long clear beyond the far post.

King’s Lynn goalkeeper, Alice Collins

Imanalijeva in the middle lining up with Skinner inside right giving her back the return pass as she drives on through the middle. Hopkins bursting down the left flank to get into the box, Newley doing the defending for Sudbury. Peeling on the ball going on into midfield for King’s Lynn playing a good ball on into Imanalijeva 20 yards out left of the D, tries to lay it on into the path of Magnus breaking into the box right side, Carter alert quickly out to snatch the ball into her gloves. King’s Lynn have changed formation getting more players Imanalijeva finding a pocket of space between midfield and defence sees a pass from Rawlings into her clips it on into the box for Magnus making the run in behind left of goal wants to strike the ball as it drops across her, Donley racing round on the cover going to clear collides with Magnus as Carter gathers the ball.

Sudbury’s Ashtyn Newley

Skinner with the ball 30 plus yards out cuts inside looking for an opening strikes the ball on the run with the outside of her boot the effort bouncing wide of Carter’s left post. Is a physical encounter, Sudbury especially not happy with some of the challenges. Rawlings striking a shot wide from distance for King’s Lynn as Porter and Magnus pressure the defence right side. Guiver with a clever turn on the ball central looks to send Penny through on the right is a vital interception from Hopkins at the back.

A little over 3 minutes left in the 1st half Sudbury have been guilty of giving the ball away in their final 3rd this is giving King’s Lynn opportunities they shouldn’t have had as they look to find a reply. Skinner getting forwards nicks the ball off McHale in the box as she attempts to play it out, the attacker driving for goal closing in on Carter at the near post pulls the trigger, Carter getting down quickly getting hold of the ball well. King’s Lynn knocking on the door late in the 1st half Hopkins up on the left catching the ball on the turn a half volley from 25 yards out that drops wide of Sudbury’s goal.

King’s Lynn’s Rachel Skinner

Sudbury with a late corner on the right put in by Penny, cleared behind for a 2nd corner this one put back to the taker, Penny playing it back in Guiver at the far post, the ball not cleared sent wide. A late charge from Sudbury Kennard over on the right now with Guiver squared inside for Edwards, lining up a shot on goal, Fairweather rushing out to charge the ball down.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 1-0 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Alex Penny’s strike on 15 minutes the difference between the sides at the break. The hosts growing into the game after a fairly even start. Taking confidence from the goal came on well finding their wide players Penny and Kennard strong going forwards right and left. King’s Lynn struggling to get any rhythm until the hosts became a little sloppy in their play mistakes at the back presenting opportunities, a change of formation seeing King’s Lynn get players on better half chances created. Sudbury with a strong appeal for a penalty turned down creating some good chances of their own unfortunate not to hold a bigger lead. At 1-0 though it remains very much everything to play for.

Sudbury out for the 2nd half early appear unchanged. King’s Lynn with a double change with Davies and Fairweather the players off, Katie Ward going to right back on, along with Tilly Sands joining the attack. King’s Lynn to get the 2nd half under way the ball in the centre before being released to Skinner on the right, her early cross into the box dealt with by Harrison. King’s Lynn pushing on right side Magnus out wide with Skinner linking up the pass into Sands right of the D 20 yards out, takes on the shot angled in low towards goal Carter down to get her body behind the ball.

A good start to the 2nd half from King’s Lynn coming right the ball swept into the area left side collected by Imanalijeva her touch seeing her shift inside looking to turn into the shot, the ball striking Harrison as she blocks, the referee pointing to the spot for penalty, Harrison adjudged to have handled the ball.

Magnus over the penalty a chance early in the 2nd half for King’s Lynn to level up the scores, hit low lacks the power to beat carter as she goes the right way makes the save. A let off for Sudbury with the half 3 minutes old, break down the left Kennard, Ward getting in to make the challenge as she attempts to push past her. The foul count is stacking up Sudbury not happy with some of the challenges. Harrison with a timely interception to stop Magnus stealing in on goal through the middle off a Porter through ball.

Millie Carter saves the penalty for Sudbury

GOAL! Moments after King’s Lynn see a penalty saved to equalise then Sudbury get up the other end to double their lead attacking on the right Penny inside, Guiver pressuring the King’s Lynn defence on the ball, stealing possession inside the box right side strikes a rising shot in, Collins throwing her gloves up to block might have gotten a glancing touch the ball beyond her cannoning down off the cross bar dropping far post, Creaton attacking it, Collins across sliding down attempting to block stops her initial attempt the ball loose Creaton grounded does well to swing out a leg to cut the ball back over the line to score 2-0.

Evie Creaton double Sudbury’s lead

A blow for King’s Lynn get on the attack from the restart, Rawlings on through the middle looking to pick out Magnus, Harrison blocking to stop her getting into the box. Carter alert to take the ball at her near post as Skinner flashes a cross in on the angle from the right. Hopkins on the move with the ball left for King’s Lynn up with Imanalijeva the crossfield pass cut out by Sudbury’s Smith. A change for Sudbury, Aliyat Lambe entering the pitch. Harrison continuing to frustrate King’s Lynn at the back as she cuts out another attempted ball through the middle.

King’s Lynn attacker, Amy Magnus

An hour gone by no means a classic both sides sloppy at times, Sudbury guilty of over playing at the back, whilst King’s Lynn cannot find any rhythm at all, leaving them frustrated as decisions go against them. Smith on the ball through the middle for Sudbury forwards well for Creaton peeling off Powell at the back, racing on, Powell reading the move giving herself room to make the recovering run take the ball away from the striker. Kennard racing on with the ball left side getting all the way into the box closing in on the six yard box before Peeling gets across to clear behind for a corner, which is successfully defended at the near post.

Sudbury’s Emily Smith

Penny over on the right racing onto a cleared ball from the back digging the cross out from the by-line, back across the top of the area is just over Creaton rising centrally cleared by the King’s Lynn defender beyond Sudbury immediately go up in protest claiming a handball, not a penalty in the referees opinion. Mallett getting a talking too for voicing his protests too loudly. McHale coming on down the line for Penny, Powell getting back on the right sided player to tackle put the ball out for a corner. The ball put into the six yard box headed back out to the right by Magnus, Penny back on it as Magnus’s momentum sees her close the winger down bringing her down just outside the box, earning her a yellow and a free-kick to the hosts. Same result though Penny’s delivery cleared by Magnus’ header for another corner.

Aliyat Lambe

Olivia Skinner-Pelaz

Penny sending her corner arrowing in low to Lambe top of the area, no shot on lays it back to Penny wide her 2nd attempt cleared back to her in the corner where she sends a dangerous looping ball in across the face of goal dropping far post both Creaton and Kennard there bounces over. Sudbury livening up pressing the ball better winning in on the left of the box 25 yards out a shot racing in has Collins diving across her six yard box, the ball though runs wide of the far post. Kennard running at the King’s Lynn defence on the left rides one challenge then another, play brought back for the first challenge. An inviting ball in drops wide past the far post.

Alex Penny with King’s Lynn captain, Jodie Hopkins

20 minutes left on the clock Sudbury make another change with Jess Egan coming on for Newley. McHale putting in the tackle as Sands and Skinner look to combine right side for King’s Lynn. Imanalijeva off for the visitors, Olivia Skinner-Pelaz coming on. The game stretched at times as King’s Lynn taking a few risks get on looking to find Skinner on the right. Davies and Fairweather being prepared to come back on Rawlings and Magnus coming off. Penny finding space to run into on the right after a spinning clearance whips a ball in across goal Davies putting it behind for a corner. A great ball in from the left through everyone in the six yard box no one gambling at the far post.

Oksana Imanalijeva

King’s Lynn have a player down far side, Ward I think is struggling, Imanalijeva sent back on with a little over 10 minutes to play.

GOAL! The game is stretched players tired on both sides, Sudbury’s diagonal balls have been a threat all game, Kennard now over on the right side seeing a good delivery into her find inside the box, her control seeing her beat her marker, shift inside to shoot, rising into Collins quickly doesn’t get hold of it as it slips out of her gloves to run on into the goal behind 3-0.

Holly Kennard scores Sudbury’s 3rd goal, Caitlyn Charles in the background

Straight on the attack, King’s Lynn out to Skinner racing forwards right shoots on the angle fired in low Carter saving low at her near post. A triple change from the hosts with Creaton, Edwards and Harrison coming off. Caitlyn Charles, Alice Bartlett and Newley the players coming on. Kennard full of running for Sudbury moving right with the ball her cross cut out by Peeling. A brief rest for Edwards and Creaton for Sudbury as they return to the field, Smith and Penny giving way.

GOAL! Into the final minute of regular play Kennard racing clear to the by-line on the right has the legs to get to the ball flashing in a ball across the face of goal has teammates lining up to meet it inside the box, turned home from close range, Caitlyn Charles with the all important touch 4-0. On late so I don’t have a better picture of Charles than the one with Kennard above.

Carter out well to claim at the feet of Skinner late on a King’s Lynn send it long to her on the right. Imanalijeva’s ball in from the right put behind by McHale for a corner. Carter with another acrobatic save off Skinner as the ball is blasted into her from the right turned behind for the corner. Carter up well to claim from the set-piece.

Sudbury’s Jess Egan

Deep into stoppage time King’s Lynn flat having conceding twice late on to see the game slip away. Sudbury continue to snap into their challenges, Imanalijeva coming on right side sending a cross into the area won well by Egan conceding a late late corner. Sudbury clearing push out celebrating as the final whistle blows.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 4-0 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

A 4-0 win lifting Sudbury up into 3rd spot in the early Premier Division table. Rode their luck at times and know it wasn’t their best performance, a bright start to get their noses in front in the 15th minute. Fell away first half with some poor play at the back giving King’s Lynn encouragement as they changed thing’s around. 1-0 at the break an early penalty giving the visitors a chance to level the scores early in the 2nd half, Carter saving, a further blow as they went on to concede a 2nd. Sudbury having an appeal for a penalty themselves 1st half with another strong shout 2nd didn’t get it but with their wide players a threat through out looked goo for their lead adding a 3rd and 4th goals late on to claim the 3 points. A disappointing afternoon for King’s Lynn struggle to get going find any rhythm that said created opportunities and weren’t totally out of the game until the final 10 minutes.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time for this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, a relatively easy decision except for the fact there were two very strong contenders for it. A few performances to mention though. For King’s Lynn, Oksana Imanalijeva did well finding some good pockets of space between midfield ad defence and on another day she sets up a goal or two. Amy Magnus up top providing a good target to put the ball too got others into play with her hold up play. For Sudbury, Teigan McHale and Ronni Harrison put in some great challenges to stop King’s Lynn getting in behind. Emily Smith in midfield broke up play well shoeing a great range of passing. Evie Creaton strong in attack. It comes down to splitting two players for Sudbury, Alex Penny and Holly Kennard both where excellent on the flanks getting into good positions for the hosts taking the ball on and setting up openings both scoring too. Comes down to who got the most mentions in my notes and that is Holly Kennard well done.

Another enjoyable trip over to the MEL Group Stadium, is a nice venue and improving all the time a warm welcome from the club. My thanks to both clubs for the help with the team details today. More ERWFL Premier Division action to come on Tuesday evening with a trip to the Lamex Stadium home of Stevenage FC as there women’s side host Colney Heath Ladies.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – AFC Sudbury Women v Needham Market Women

Friday 6th May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

Back down the A12 for my 2nd Suffolk cup final of the week. Following Tuesday’s SGWFL League Cup Final season climax won by Holland Ladies it’s the turn of the County Cup. The showpiece event in the women’s football calendar being played at The JobServe Community Stadium home of League Two side Colchester United FC between AFC Sudbury Women & Needham Market Women.

This evening’s prize

The competition dominated by Ipswich Town Women since the Suffolk and Norfolk County Cups became separate competitions in 2010. Have featured in 9 of the last 10 finals victorious in all including a 7 game streak before withdrawing from the competition as their excellent growth saw the club reach the 3rd tier of the women’s game. Several sides aiming to be as successful in Suffolk as the game continues to grow at pace and this evenings finalists chief amongst them. Both emerging as a leading force in the game, Needham Market Women winning the ERWFL Division One North title to win promotion to the Premier Division the 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid. AFC Sudbury Women aiming to join them as they make a late charge to claim the Division One South title.

Sudbury the only other side bar Ipswich to have won the Suffolk Women’s County Cup since it’s inception in 2010. AFC Sudbury Ladies as they were back then beating Brandon Town Ladies 5-0. Is a very different Sudbury side now, AFC Sudbury Women now fully integrated with the men’s club and academy with a Reserves side backing up the 1st team playing in the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division. Goal scorers throughout the side Jess Allen is leading the way with 17. ERWFL Division One South proving a strong league this season with new sides joining was a 5 way battle for the title for a long period Sudbury with games in hand remaining the dark horse now with their rivals having completed their fixtures in 4th Sudbury are 8 points behind leaders Cheshunt FC who have finished on 35 points. Sudbury with 3 games left will be Champions if results go their way. Are also in the final of the ERWFL Plate.

Needham Market Women burst onto the scene reaching the County Cup Final in their debut season just 4 season’s ago. Like Sudbury are fully integrated with their men’s club and academy set-up. Establishing a Reserves side to back up the 1st team that has gone from strength to strength joining the ERWFL have gone on to win Division One North with ease this season winning 10 of their 12 league matches scoring gaols by the bucket load, Lina Nagib with 26 to her name from 20 appearances. Have recruited a few ex-Ipswich players adding valuable experience to the squad with both Molly Hall and Ellie Rossiter having prolific seasons with 19 and 16 goals respectfully. Lois Balfour too celebrating her fair share of goals on 16 too. Made their 2nd County Cup Final appearance last season again losing out to Ipswich. Now making back to back finals like Sudbury will be fancying their chances.

Road to the Final

The early rounds of any county cup competition can see some eye watering results as teams across all tiers are drawn together. In Sudbury’s case it was a walk over for both the 1st and 2nd Rounds seeing them into the quarter finals. Needham Market were at home to Mildenhall Town Women in the 1st Round back in September, Racked up the goals against the Cambs Division Two side winning 20-0. A similar score line in the Round as they were away to Halesworth Town Women bottom of the Suffolk Women’s Championship 22-0 this time around.

Both sides were strong in the quarter finals as they came up against sides in the Suffolk Premier Division. Sudbury away to Brantham Athletic Ladies winning the game 10-1 to progress to the last 4, Georgia Sleep netting 4 goals. While Needham Market were 9-0 winners at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies with Molly Hall also on target for 4 goal. Into the semi-finals played at neutral venues Sudbury taking on a rejuvenated Haverhill Rovers Ladies. Luiza Silva on target to score a hat-trick seeing them into the final courtesy of a 3-1 win. Meanwhile Needham Market were taking on Sudbury’s reserve side in the other semi-final, Lina Nagib with a brace and Jodie Sharp with a hat-trick seeing the club into their 3rd final in 4 seasons winning 5-0.

The JobServe Community Stadium, home of League Two side Colchester United FC the venue for this evenings final. Great to see more County Cup finals taking place at venues such as this, Portman Road also hosting the women’s finals previously. Has hosted a women’s county cup final before aswell as a Lionesses match. Situated just off the A12 with alot of parking the main stand open to fans with sections for both the Sudbury and Needham Market support the large grass pitch looking great. Suffolk FA putting on a fantastic event to showcase the game one of 6 finals being played here. The weather again warm and dry little chance of a shower.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Boni Shepherd (C), Ronni Harrison, Amber Provan, Teigan McHale, Kate Edwards, Phoebe Guiver, Isabella Crawford, Alex Penny, Evie Creaton & Jess Allen. Subs – Faith Candice, Sophie Jeffrey, Tye Smith, Kaylee Dodd, Luiza Silva.

Needham Market Women

Needham Market Women starting XI – Dani Clarke, Nicole Pannifer, Niamh Thomas, Laura Bloomfield, Ele Catchpole, Nicola Henderson (C), Abbie Fisher, Mia Etheridge, Ellie Rossiter, Lina Nagib & Lois Balfour. Subs – Eloise Ward, Paige Wakefield, Jo Brawn, Jodie Sharp & Molly Hall.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The crowd in good voice before the match both sides with great support, it’s Needham Market to get this season’s County Cup final underway kicking off 1st half wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts, Sudbury lined up opposite in an all yellow kit. The ball played out to the right side with Ellie Rossiter looking to get forwards for Needham Market, Boni Shepherd defending, Sudbury’s captain seeing the ball out for a throw in. The ball contested over on the far side of the pitch as both sides jostle for possession in the early exchanges.

Ex-Sudbury player, Mia Etheridge tackling to win the ball on the right sending it forwards for Lois Balfour to attack edge of the box, Teigan McHale getting the challenge in to win the ball back for Sudbury. Lina Nagib, through the middle with support from Etheridge and Abbie Fisher the ball spread out to the left wing as Niamh Thomas looks to get on from full back, cutting inside, Amber Provan comes to face her tackling to see the ball out for a throw. Good distance on it into Etheridge inside the box controlling the ball down into her feet looking to turn and shoot, Provan close on her getting her foot on the ball to send it out for another throw.

Amber Provan winning the header for Sudbury

Needham Market making the brighter start going forwards with the ball Sudbury keeping a good shape readily regaining possession, Nagib battling her way through in the left channel eventually outnumbered, Ronni Harrison getting hold of the ball for Sudbury. Fisher central lays the ball back to centre back Ele Catchpole who sends a long diagonal ball out to the right Rossiter and Etheridge playing a one two finding no way through the Sudbury defence. Sudbury launch a quick counter offensive with a diagonal pass forwards finding Alex Penny running in behind clear on the right running on sends the cross into Jess Allen inside the box turns the ball goalwards, Needham Market goalkeeper, Dani Clarke down smartly to her right to save push the ball behind for a corner kick. Fired in with pace low at the near post Allen turning to strike it can’t get a touch as the ball runs on for Needham Market to launch clear.

Both sides taking advantage of the pitches width Etheridge strong on the right moving forwards whipping a cross into the top of the Sudbury area is cleared by Harrison at the back. Pushing up almost to half way at times there is space in behind for Sudbury to exploit and they have pacy players in their side, Penny sending it on through the middle for Allen running clear into the left channel, Clarke has to come running out of her box to deal with the threat. Balfour plays a great pass on for Rossiter racing in behind through the middle into the box, McHale getting back to slide in and tackle as goalkeeper Millie Carter closes the gap, Rossiter amongst those appealing to referee Nick Ward but no penalty the ball out for a throw on the left.

Catchpole playing the ball on for Thomas away on the left for Needham Market, Harrison closing her down the ball gone for a throw, good distance reaching the area, Provan up to head the ball away.

GOAL! On 10 minutes the deadlock is broken Sudbury’s turn to press a high line the middle of the park congested Kate Edwards winning the ball plays a fantastic ball in behind for Evie Creaton to run onto breaking clear in the left speedy travelling towards the box shoots on the angle the ball driven forwards, Clarke down sharply gets something on it but not enough to deflect it wide as the ball nestles in the back of the net 1-0.

Evie Creaton opens the scoring for Sudbury

Needham Market get on the attack from the restart captain Nicola Henderson on for Nagib left side a powerful run forwards getting into the box, slowed up by Harrison, lays it back to Balfour 20 yards out who curls a shot narrowly over the crossbar. Nagib looking to get the ball into her feet run at the Sudbury defence at every opportunity sends it across the top of the area picking out Balfour who sees her low shot blocked by McHale. Catchpole at the back with a timely interception as Harrison coming on up the right attempts the through ball to put Allen away in behind the defence.

GOAL! Sudbury double their advantage the ball won in the middle by Edwards her pass defence splitting pass sending Creaton clear as she breaks inside from the left closing in on the area left of the D, Clarke coming out to close her down makes a blocking save as Creaton’s shot shrikes her body, the ball spinning loose central, Allen is alert snatching onto it a stabs the ball goalwards 2-0.

Jess Allen firing Sudbury into a 2 goal lead

A great start for Sudbury getting into a 2 goal lead inside the opening 16 minutes. Showing lots of energy Sudbury hustle the ball centrally put on for Penny on the right side, looks to driven on, Thomas tackling to deny her. Rossiter providing the outlet for Needham Market on the right wing pace runs on with the ball sending a shot in on the angle 25 yards out, Carter behind it with a safe pair of hands any spills and Nagib was closing her down fast. Penny taking the ball on right flashing a cross into the six yard box, a the ball sliced goalwards off a Needham Market boot, Clarke reacting instinctively down to save the ball.

Isabella Crawford finding Penny on the right, up against Catchpole looking to spin in behind the defender, Catchpole gets her tackle right to put the ball out for a throw. Penny is away in the clear on the right as a defensive clearance from Shepherd at the back finds her running on wide her shot/cross flies across the face of goal Clarke unconcerned. Harrison strong up against Nagib as she is put in on the left by Catchpole carrying the ball out from the back for Needham Market.

Rossiter out on the right springs the offside and takes the ball on towards the box, Shepherd recovering after her sliding in as she reaches the by-line to send the ball away for a corner. In from the right twice Sudbury defend putting it out for another corner the 3rd coming in more central, Catchpole under it inside the six yard box heading her attempt over the bar. Closing in on half an hour played Needham market press forwards Nagib out left crossfield to Rossiter on the right has Etheridge ahead of her takes the ball on slotting a cross into Balfour inside the area, Harrison seeing the threat emerging getting in tight on Balfour to stop her getting a shot away.

Needham Market’s Mia Etheridge

Allen pressing the Needham Market back line steals the ball 25 yards out and bursting in behind right of goal flashes a cross in Clarke down on it well with Creaton running in far post. Nagid sends Rossiter away with the ball on the right for Needham Market running on her touch into the box a little heavy as Carter comes to save sliding in Rossiter leaves the ground with a somewhat reckless challenge feet up as she attempts to get the ball Carter holding onto it despite being hurt in the collision. Play paused whilst she recieves treatment but is up and okay to play on.

Needham Market’s build up play is slower than Sudbury’s giving them time to get back into their positions whereas when Sudbury regain possession they are rapid in their counter play with Creaton, Allen and Penny all breaking. Provan winning it at the back for Sudbury clipping the ball into Allen 30 out who sends it through to Creaton running in behind her left she plays an early cross out to the right looking for Penny, this time though their progress is halted by the offside flag.

GOAL! 5 minutes left to play 2nd half and a much needed goal back for Needham Market, as Nagib ploughing her way forwards is fouled halfway inside the Sudbury half. Fisher on the ball looks to go for goal a long way out but connects well getting the ball up and down dipping dangerously for Carter back on her line, the ball smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box with players closing in, Catchpole getting her head to it as it bounces up to turn home 2-1.

Abbie Fisher’s free-kick on its way to hit the crossbar

Ele Catchpole with the header to pull a goal back for Needham Market

Sudbury aggrieved feeling it wasn’t a foul in Nagib in the first place. Attack on the left Guiver on for Creaton, drives on tackled by Pannifer for Needham Market. Rossiter bringing down a crossfield ball on the right well moving forwards top of the area strikes a vicious shot wide across the face of goal. The game moving into stoppage time in the first half Needham Market encouraged by their goal getting forwards scrapping for the ball left with Fisher supporting Nagib lifted on into the area for Balfour her attack halted by a raised flag.

Needham Market striker, Lois Balfour

Balfour with good hold up play on the left shielding the ball has Thomas racing forwards on the overlap puts the pass into her path taking it on Thomas moves inside, looking to get around Harrison, the full back flicking out a leg to win the ball back.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 2-1 Needham Market Women

A good contest so far a 2-1 lead for Sudbury at the break with a good start inviting Needham Market on finding gaps in behind to get their attacking players in on goal opening the scoring on 10 minutes a 2nd added on 16. The ball hotly contested throughout Needham Market on the back foot finding some joy on the right with Rossiter with Nagib too running at the defence needed the next goal and found it with 5 minutes left to play in the half, setting it up nicely for the 2nd 45.

Sudbury to get the 2nd half underway, no changes for either side as of yet the ball played left Edwards with the ball, on for Creaton but comes to nothing.

GOAL! A fantastic start to the 2nd half… if you’re a Sudbury fan as they win the ball back in defence left side Shepherd on for Creaton racing away on the wing travelling into the box fires a cross into the six yard box, Allen her target, up against Catchpole the defender challenging the ball deflected out to the right and is blasted into the back of the net by Penny to make it 3-1!

Alex Penny puts Sudbury into a 3-1 lead early in the 2nd half

A blow for Needham at the start of the 2nd half, restart the game going left Nagib with Balfour, the Sudbury defence keeping a solid shape. Allen getting to the by-line on the left with the ball is challenged by Pannifer eventually winning a corner. The ball put into the area, Clarke comes a long way out of her six yard box has to get something on it a fist knocking it down away to the right a shot blasted back in to the angle is blocked. Needham Market make a change early in the 2nd half bringing off Pannifer, with Jodie Sharp on.

Sudbury have looked to be more energetic right from the start and a lively at the start of the 2nd half. Creaton attacking on the left has Allen up with her on her inside squares the ball to her goes into the box, Bloomfield, closing her down to defend for Needham Market. Henderson in the middle passing the ball out to Rossiter on the right has Sharp with her pace going past her taking the ball on as she drifts infield. Sharps cross fizzed into the six yard box his headed clear at the far post landing right of the D, Rossiter is arriving to curl a low shot in towards goal can only find Carter who saves comfortably.

Needham Market’s Ellie Rossiter

Shepherd defends against Rossiter on the right a throw high up the pitch, helped on into the box the cross comes in but no one attacking it as Carter catches unhindered. Bloomfield with a great ball forwards for Rossiter on the right wing travelling with it Shepherd back with her forced to concede a corner. In from the right the delivery is met by Etheridge at the near post her header put wide. Half chances created for Needham Market, Sudbury make their first change bringing on Kaylee Dodd for Shepherd, Edwards donning the armband.

Nagib holding off challenges turning inside from the left to centre attempts to find Rossiter on the right, Sudbury giving away the throw. Needham Market winning a free-kick inside the Sudbury half similar to the one they had first half. Fisher on it again and again she goes for goal well struck this time though Carter can see it drop safely wide of her left post. Sudbury looking to keep it solid at the back not willing to break as often that said when they get an opportunity they’ll take it Edwards putting Allen on left cuts inside as Needham Market get bodies back into their box her shot cut out by Etheridge.

The game stretched opens up as Creaton is sent away on the left towards the area Clarke comes rushing out to charge her down the ball landing in the middle, Guiver taking on the shot from distance with the Needham Market goal exposed, Clarke though back peddles enough stretching up her arm to push the dropping ball down to the right Dodd latching onto it seeing her strike charged down. Sudbury win a corner on their right curled in over the penalty spot Edwards rising at the back post can’t get a touch.

Nagib as picked up an injury and is struggling for Needham Market, a blow can’t continue, helped off far side, attacker, Jo Brawn comes on. Sudbury too with another change Tye Smith on in attack replacing Allen. 20 minutes left to play players tiring, more changes with Molly Hall coming on, an attacker for a defender with Thomas coming off. Smith straight away flagged offside as Guiver with Edwards look to turn play around in the middle of the park.

Hall on halfway with a good flick on for Etheridge right cuts inside looking to get in behind her marker, Penny doing well against her getting the ball back for Cater to clear. Luiza Silva comes on for Sudbury replacing Guiver. Smith with the ball turning in from the right attacking the box her shot sliced away to the left Penny looking to chase it down, not before Bloomfield clears. Needham Market looking for a goal pushing players on gaps at the back, Edwards finding Creaton dropping deep for the ball left, Henderson across to tackle for Needham Market, Etheridge then winning her side a free-kick wide on the right in the corner. Fisher over to take flashed into the six yard box headed outside falling to Rossiter hits the shot takes a deflection robbing it off it’s venom as Carter scoops it up into her gloves.

Sophie Jeffery on for Sudbury as the game moves into the final 10 minutes replacing Creaton. A double substitution for Needham Market, Catchpole and Balfour off replaced by Paige Wakefield and Eloise Ward. Sharp over on the left now bombing forwards looks to thread the ball in for Brawn, Carter racing out to the edge of her box getting to the ball first. Faith Candice comes on for Sudbury replacing Harrison at the back. Penny defending top of the D as Brawn looks to turn on the ball. Needham Market pressing on in search on a goal, Sudbury back soaking it up. Sharp getting on left side overruns the ball.

The clock ticking down alot of tired legs out there Needham Market leaving gaps as they risk pushing players on, Smith with fresh legs ready to run on with the ball turn the Needham Market defence. Playing in Jeffery to her right, Bloomfield defends for Needham Market. Guiver back on for Edwards late on with stoppage time about to be played. Guiver is fouled 20 yards out left of the Needham Market box trying to bring a ball down from a throw in. Penny on the ball goes for goal her effort landing on the roof of the net.

Needham Market come left Henderson with Sharp on for Brawn wide sees her cross charged down. Shepherd back on for McHale in the closing stages for Sudbury. One last attack for Needham Market, Hall laying the ball out to Sharp on the left wing makes a run into the box, Sharp down the line to cross in low Hall meeting it close in near post turns it goal wards, Carter dropping on it smartly, snatching it into her body as Hall follows up. That’s it the final action of the game as the final whistle blows players from the bench rush on to celebrate Sudbury’s victory.

AFC Sudbury Women celebrate at the final whistle

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 3-1 Needham Market Women

An entertaining final between two strong sides. Sudbury the better on the night solid with plenty of energy taking the lead inside 10 minutes 2 up just 6 minutes later. Looked dangerous on the counter throughout. A goal back five minutes from the end of the first half giving Needham market encouragement going into the 2nd half, the worst possible start however as Sudbury raced into a 3-1 lead and from there looked to keep a good shape and limit opportunities for Needham Market who will feel they didn’t play their best this evening created some chances, Sudbury though had the quicker build up play and threat in attack.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match and this is not an easy one at all several great performances out there. A few of note to mention, firstly Needham Market. Ele Catchpole making a number of vital tackles at the back getting the goal to narrow the gap at the break. Lina Nagib strong with the ball at her feet driving on, looking to set up chances. Ellie Rossiter carrying the biggest threat out on the right always available with some pacy running. For Sudbury the side was solid from back to front Millie Carter in goal, Teigan McHale and Ronni Harrison in defence with some great tackles and cover play. Kate Edwards winning the ball in the middle with the front three lively throughout, Jess Allen central with Alex Penny on the right both scoring. Pipping them all too it though the award goes to Evie Creaton. With some incredible runs took the game to Needham market right from the start and helped set the tone ran herself into the ground always ready to get on the attack.

Congratulations to AFC Sudbury Women on winning the 2021/22 Suffolk Women’s County Cup. Still plenty to play for yet this season.

Both sides back in action again on Sunday with Sudbury in league action at home to Billericay Town Women Development and Needham Market at home to Barking FC Women in the ERWFL Challenge Cup.

An enjoyable trip to Colchester (admittedly the journey home wasn’t so good with both the A12 and A14 shut but I got home in the finish). A fantastic attendance with 566 fans treated to a great event. Full credit to Colchester FC and Suffolk FA. Thanks for all you help this evening much appreciated. I suspect this is the beginning of a long rivalry between AFC Sudbury Women and Needham Market Women and there with be many more exciting games to come.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Barking FC Women

Sunday 3rd April

ERWFL League Plate

A trip down into Suffolk this Sunday to watch another match from the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Plate, with AFC Sudbury Women taking on Barking FC Women for a place in the last 4.

The Plate competition featuring the sides from ERWFL Division’s One North and South. Involvement in other cup competitions seeing this quarter final delayed the winners of today’s game be at home to fellow Division One South side Leigh Ramblers. With Whittlesey Athletic Ladies of Division One North against Hutton Ladies from Division One South.

ERWFL Division One South has been highly competitive at the top all season with 5 sides all in contention for the title for months and with 4 of the top 5 now with 2 games left looks certain to go all the way. Cheshunt FC Women in pole position behind Herts Vipers, with Barking FC Women and Leigh Ramblers Ladies 3rd and 4th respectfully both mathematically still in it but more likely to be one of the top 2 or today’s hosts.

AFC Sudbury Women currently 5th in the ERWFL Division One South table, have been playing catch up for most of the season with games in hand on their competitors an now with the top 4 all with 3 left Sudbury have 5 left with 3 games in hand the simple equation is win them all and they are champions the gap 8 points to leaders Cheshunt it could well be Sudbury’s away trip to Cheshunt in two weeks time will go along way to deciding the title. The women’s setup very much a part of AFC Sudbury as a whole with 40 players in the academy playing for both the 1st and Reserve team. The senior woman side also reaching this season’s Suffolk County Cup final where they will play Needham Market Women for the trophy at Colchester United FC on Friday 6th May. Plenty still to play for in what is sur to be an exciting end to the season.

Success already this season for Barking FC Women as they were victorious in the final of the Essex Women’s Trophy last weekend, defeating Stanway Pegasus Ladies 2-0.

Barking FC Women, celebrating winning the Essex Women’s Trophy last weekend (photo credit Barking FC Women)

Amongst the influx of new faces joining the ERWFL this season. A relatively new name although Barking has featured a side in the ERWFL previously. This one having previously been Collier Row Tigers who dominated the Essex Women’s Premier Division in the season before and during the pandemic. Those who remember when I still wrote the Round-Ups will know that Laura Bunton featured heavily in the goals scored for Collier Row and the same continues under the Barking badge, runaway top scorer in the league so far netting 31 goals in just 17 appearances helping Barking to a solid debut at regional level.

AFC Sudbury’s MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’ cup encounter. The artificial playing surface overlooked by the new clubhouse and seated stand with kitchen hatch. Another stand opposite with a mix of terracing and seating at the front. Covered viewing areas behind both goals. The weather again very good, mild, if a little cool in the shade. Some cloud around by no chance of rain, perfect playing conditions. Pot Kiln Primary girls todays mascots led out onto the pitch by the Sudbury players, as part of their matchday experience. Sudbury very much looking to grow the support and participation of girls into the game in Suffolk and beyond.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Faith Candice, Eboni-mae Shephard (C), Ronni Harrison, Teigan McHale, Kate Edwards, Bella Crawford, Luiza Ferdinand Da Silva, Alex Penny, Kaylee Dodd & Jess Allen. Subs – Evie Creaton, Ash Newley, Phoebe Guiver, Georgia Sleep & Amanda Short.

Barking FC Women

Barking FC Women starting XI – Amy Lewington (C), Juliet Thomas, Lauren Taylor, Rachel Daltrey, Rebecca Killington, Rebecca Gajewska, Kiera Colthart, Grace Holt, Emma Harrison, Sarah Finch & Laura Bunton. Subs – Mia Zorbas.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A few players missing for Barking today, including regular captain, Daisy Cook with just the one substitute on the bench. Sudbury with a full bench to pick from. Sudbury to get the cup tie underway kicking-off 1st half in a all yellow kit with Barking lined up opposite wearing an all blue kit. The ball put back into Bella Crawford in midfield Barking immediately press the ball contested comes back to centre back Teigan McHale to send long upfield to the right with Alex Penny running down the Sudbury right the ball though safely in the gloves of Barking goalkeeper and captain, Amy Lewington.

Play compact in the middle with both sides squeezing the ball, Keira Colthart looking to thread a ball through for Laura Bunton up top, runs out for a goal kick. Kate Edwards picking up the ball in the middle for Sudbury drives forwards with it tight to her feet, is fouled top of the D, no advantage as the ball spins away to the left, brought back for the set-piece. Luiza Ferdinand Da Silva over the ball, takes on the shot sending her effort up over the crossbar. Sudbury get players up the pitch pressing the Barking defence in possession, Ferdinand Da Silva on the left with a great diagonal ball clipped into the box over the defence for striker Jess Allen brings it down before sending in a low strike on the angle, well held by Lewington.

Penny running away with the ball down the line on the right fires a cross in knee height towards the near post, Allen with the touch looking to turn into the shot her effort blocked by Barking’s Rachel Daltrey. Sarah Finch taking the ball on from Juliet Thomas on the right for Barking sends it on for Bunton peeling into the right channel, strong on the ball moving into the box, Sudbury’s Ronni Harrison going with her lunging in to make the blocking tackle deflecting the ball behind for a corner. The corner driven in near side, Barking’s Rebecca Killington coming on to meet it turning the ball behind at the near post.

Juliet Thomas clearing the ball for Barking

Thomas stealing in on the ball right side getting on up the pitch with Finch the pair exchanging passes before Finch pulling wide lifts a cross into the box, easily gathered by Sudbury keeper, Millie Carter. Edwards in the middle with Ferdinand Da Silva who sends a cross field ball out to the right for Penny to take in her stride moving down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Kaydee Dodd arriving centre of goal not able to get a telling touch as the ball bounces wide. Ferdinand Da Silva top of the box right driving a shot wide as the ball is clipped high into her from the right.

GOAL! Opportunities coming for Sudbury it is the hosts who concede the opening goal on 11 minutes, Barking’s midfield 3, Rebecca Gajewska, Colthart and Grace Holt working the ball well between them sending it long up to Bunton shifting into space on the left takes the ball on before shooting on the angle her strike fired in across the keeper nestling in the bottom corner 0-1.

Laura Bunton opens the scoring for Barking FC Women

Thomas doing well on the right winning the ball for Barking gets up the pitch in support of Holt, going into a 50/50 challenge with Sudbury captain Bonni Shephard the right back comes off the worse going down in some discomfort. A pause in play so she can receive treatment. Is up tentatively as allowed back on as play resumes. Shephard defending on Finch as Colthart central winning the ball stabs on from the left into her, forced wide, Shephard keeps on her tackling to put the ball out for a throw in.

Sudbury captain Bonni Shephard

Following a Sudbury corner, Thomas is down again struggling with her injury Barking forced into an early change bring on Mia Zorbas in a straight swap at right back. Allen peeling off the back of the Barking defence into the area right of goal latching onto the ball and striking it over the bar on the angle. A competitive opening 20 minutes, a little frantic at times Sudbury seeing more of the ball in the final 3rd. Zorbas in a contest with Dodd on the left has to stab the ball out for a throw as Dodd battles to get in behind.

Edwards linking up with Shephard on the left moves inside going on towards the area before being tackled by Barking’s Killington. Sudbury pressing the ball well forcing errors from Barking keeping the ball inside their opponents half. Shephard left lifts it on for Dodd to run down into the corner, keeping the ball moves back to fire in a low cross near side, cut out by Gajewska then put out for a corner kick. Put in to the near post cut out by Zorbas comes back to the taker to lift back into the box knocked back central at the far post Ferdinand Da Silva coming on can’t get a touch before Barking scramble it away.

Keira Colthart in the middle for Barking

GOAL! Edwards out on the left flanks keeping the ball in play getting on down the line crosses into the box, Finch looking to cut it out not getting it away the ball cleared beyond her charged down by Ferdinand Da Silva left of the D, lifts the ball into Allen right side her touch knocking the ball down into her feet inside the six yard box to prod pass the keeper and level the scores 1-1.

Jess Allen levelling the scores for Sudbury

Edwards making some strong runs on the ball through the middle for Sudbury taking the game to Barking, passes to Dodd on her left her cross lifted into the six yard box claimed by Lewington. Sudbury coming on in numbers Allen’s cross cleared straight to Ferdinand Da Silva out to Penny right side her cross scooped up landing on the roof of the net. Another pause for treatment, Sudbury making their first change Ash Newley on for Ferdinand Da Silva who has taken a knock.

Barking’s Rachel Daltrey

Play brought back for a free-kick for Barking after Colthart is fouled in the middle. The ball floated up into the area Bunton up well to head the ball down to her left for Finch to take on moving towards goal the blocking tackle again comes in defecting the ball out for a corner. Goes long through everybody at an inviting height. Sudbury come right on for Allen driving on cuts the ball back to the top of the area, Edwards picking it up powers into the box forced out right to the by-line nevertheless screws a cross back in along the face of goal, cleared. Sudbury creating plenty of opportunities going forwards winning the ball back in the middle.

GOAL! Sudbury pressing the ball on the right winning a corner with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half. The ball fizzed in with pace near side, Crawford there to met it turning the ball goalwards, neither Zorbas back on the line for Lewington can keep it out as it squeezes in between them 2-1.

Bella Crawford putting Sudbury into the lead

Barking players voicing their frustration with a few decisions going against them, the referee having words. Edwards over a free-kick 25 yards out to the left of goal. Goes for the shot on target bouncing once Lewington set right behind it can see safely into her gloves.

GOAL! 3 minutes after taking the lead Sudbury add a 3rd goal. Allen out on the right side winning the ball high driving forwards with it into the box striking it low and hard towards goal, Lewington with an instinctive save with her legs the ball spinning away to the right, straight to Allen who makes no mistake the 2nd time 3-1.

Sudbury finishing the half strong confident coming back from a goal down to lead 3-1 have a throw in high on the left Edwards into Allen left of the D some 20 yards out, her shot swerving as it rises towards Lewington the goalkeeper knocking it down and falling onto the ball. Bunton hasn’t seen much of the ball operating up top Holt finding her on the right sends a cross in on the angle looking for Finch running in from the left, Teigan McHale cutting the ball out for Sudbury.

Rebecca Gajewska on the ball for Barking

Finch on the left now striking a shot on the angle from 20 yards out rising, taken high by Carter in the Sudbury goal. Edwards with Dodd on the left looking to play a one two get into the area Zorbas cutting it out putting the ball behind for a corner kick. The set-piece delivery dropping inside the six yard box a stooping head turning it goalwards is blocked on the line cleared out wide left to corner taker Penny lifts a high ball in towards goal, dangerous threatening to drop under her cross bar Lewington back on her line taking the ball down.

Sudbury’s Kaylee Dodd

Penny into the corner with the ball on the left putting a cross into the area helped on across goal, comes back in off the far post before being scrambled away. Edwards with a fantastic cross field pass out to Penny on the right taking it in her stride sends her first time strike over the bar. Barking with few opportunities to get into the Sudbury box Emma Harrison on the right taking the ball on has Bunton ahead of her turning inside from the line to power into the area attempts to find Colthart making a central run, McHale with another timely interception.

GOAL! Into first half stoppage time, Barking’s defence dwell on the ball outside their area, Allen charging it down after it in behind as it deflects into the box right of goal, blasts it past the keeper into the back of the net to score her hat-trick 4-1.

A 1st half hat-trick for Jess Allen

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 4-1 Barking FC Women

A late blow for Barking at the end of the 1st half, going into the changing rooms trailing 4-1 despite scoring the opening goal on 11 minutes. A cagey start from both sides Sudbury taking a little while to settle, were getting players on well pressing the ball and forcing errors from Barking who have been a little slow to move the ball. Hit with an early injury blow, Thomas needing to come off had looked a threat supporting Finch on the right. Bunton with a clinical finish to open the scores. Sudbury coming back to level midway through the 2nd half going onto score 2 quick goals to take the lead Allen with a 1st half hat-trick making it 4-1 in stoppage time. A mountain for Barking to climb if they are to get back into this tie and you feel the next goal scored has to be theirs.

Thomas still showing signs of discomfort is unlikely to make a return meaning Barking will have to press on with the 11 they have on the pitch, having seen Sudbury before they like to rotate players regularly in the 2nd half and being a young side have plenty of energy in reserve. Barking to get the 2nd period underway. Back into the middle played out to Finch on the left, Faith Candice winning the ball back for Sudbury.

Sudbury defender Faith Candice

Allen on the right pressing the ball forcing a corner kick to be conceded. The ball sent long through the area reclaimed far side lifted in to the far post Dodd meeting it knocking it down towards goal striking the base of the post, play stopped however with an offside flag. Barking sloppy at the back at the start of the 2nd half as Sudbury press hard Dodd on the left nicking the ball firing a cross into the area cut out by Taylor.

GOAL! 47 minutes played and Sudbury add to their tally the ball with Crawford in the middle presented to Edwards ahead of her takes the ball on stealing in through the defence bearing down on goal one on one with the keeper has time to pick her spot and calmly slots it to her left into the bottom corner to score 5-1.

Kate Edwards with a goal early in the 2nd half for Sudbury

A huge blow to Barking at the start of the 2nd half their task becoming all the more harder. Finch on the left looking to move the ball is tackled by Candice sliding in, comes off the worst down for a moment needing treatment but is okay. Newley central for Sudbury races on with the ball lifting it on for Dodd who with a great touch brings it down attempts to thread it in behind for Allen peeling away right, just a little too much for her to win the race with Lewington coming out to claim.

Holt on the move through the middle with the ball for Barking laying it on for Bunton into the area, Ronni Harrison getting across the attacker to shield the ball out for a goal kick. Dodd on the right playing a one two with Newley who continues her run down into the corner with the ball checking back on the by-line to fire in a cross towards Allen at the near post she sends it in across goal, Lewington down low with a smart save.

Ronni Harrison winning the ball for Sudbury

Barking continue to battle for possession in the middle are frustrated, Colthart riding a challenge on for Bunton 20 yards out unleashes a shot, lacking power runs through safely to Carter in goal. Bunton is a busy player in attack getting about the back line opportunities limited so far pulling away to the right blasts a shot behind on the angle from 25 yards. Taylor from the back for Barking on to Finch left whips a cross into the box, Ronni Harrison there to clear for Sudbury unopposed. The break is on a diagonal ball finding Allen top of the D shoots early but can’t place it wide of the keeper.

Barking’s Sarah Finch

A heavy collision on the touch line between Dodd and Killington. The Sudbury winger coming off the worst down with a bloody mouth. A sore one needs to come off let it get seen to, Evie Creaton coming on in her place. Allen moving left cutting the ball wide into Penny she takes it on into the area unchallenged, firing in a shot sees her effort come back off the base of the post. Sudbury keep coming forwards Zorbas defending for Barking in the corner before Penny finds Newley right of the D her shot sent wide.

Sudbury’s Ash Newley

Barking attack Colthart with Bunton on the right on for Finch back to Bunton her shot deflected wide at the near post for a corner kick. A change before it’s take for Sudbury Georgia Sleep on for Candice, going up front Allen somewhat miffed at being moved to the right side. The corner in from the right comes to Gajewska can’t get it down into her feet in time before her shot is charged down the ball cleared.

GOAL! Allen right playing the ball on for Sleep gets the better of Killington to break into the area right of goal her shot rising on the angle smashing against the crossbar coming down to the left side with Penny arriving unmarked to push the ball into an empty net to make it 6-1.

Alex Penny on the score sheet for Sudbury

Time for another change from Sudbury as they bring on Phoebe Guiver for Crawford. Zorbas fouled Penny out on the left a free-kick for Sudbury 25 yards out. Allen over the ball takes on the shot angled in Lewington punches it down and scrambled to smother the falling ball. Sudbury coming on at will Barking struggling to clear there lines keep possession in the middle. A diagonal ball lifted into the area from the left finds Allen running in far post sends her first time effort wide as it clips the upright.

GOAL! Sudbury are able to come on at will Edwards with Newley in the middle on for Allen right of the D inside to Sleep who lays it out to Penny wide she in turn lifts it up towards the right post with both Sleep and Allen providing the run falls to Allen to slot home for her 4th of the match 7-1.

GOAL! Soon after much to Barking’s dismay Sudbury go on to add another. The ball with Barking in the middle pressed hits the referee unable to avoid it. A drop ball the result Sudbury putting on to Penny left channel she plays a diagonal pass in behind for Allen running in on goal right side smashes her strike in over the keeper to score 8-1.

Jess Allen bringing the ball down

20 minutes left to play Sudbury on a high Barking reeling conceding 8 goals still look to be positive Finch with Bunton on the left side of the D tries to pick out Harrison running through the middle, can’t quite pick her out the ball cleared. Edwards stealing in on the ball top of the area taking it to the by-line right cutting it back to Sleep on the penalty spot her shot in low held by the keeper.

The hosts break through the middle up to Allen with Sleep in attack Sleep on into the box one on one with the keeper tries to pick her spot Lewington with a superb save with her feet to deny her. Barking moving the ball well in burst short passes but lacking a cutting edge. Crawford and Dodd ready to return for Sudbury with Edwards and Penny coming off.

GOAL! Pressure high up the pitch from Sudbury all game, brings them a 9th goal. Attacking left the ball cut out in the box by Taylor is closed down pinging back and forth rebounds through to Allen clear on the right side the smash a shot in low across the keeper for her double hat-trick 9-1.

A free-kick to Barking top of the circle Emma Harrison decides to have a crack at goal put through on target Carter takes it on the bounce central even as Bunton rushes in on her. Carter then out to her right side to slide in and claim at the feet of Bunton as Emma Harrison sends the ball on. Guiver with good foot work playing the ball out to Sleep left inside the box Zorbas getting across her well to see the ball back to her keeper. Allen with help from Guiver on the right drives on before flashing a cross into the box just behind Sleep central.

Evie Creaton

Guiver shifting the ball between her feet again playing a one two with Allen on the wing getting the return ball 20 yards out curls a shot in caught by Lewington. Dodd 25 yards out left of the D allowed time to shoot sees her effort come down off the crossbar. Sudbury dominating play through the middle Newley into Sleep inside the D Daltrey tackling the ball running behind for a corner. Sudbury making another change with 7 minutes left to play McHale coming for for Amanda Short.

Barking’s Rebecca Killington battling for possession with Sudbury’s Evie Creaton

Taylor with a vital interception at the back as Sudbury break left the diagonal ball meant for Allen racing clear in behind. Lewington holding onto a shot at her near post driven in by Dodd out wide. Guiver outside the box getting hold of the ball working it well between her feet before skipping inside and driving a low strike wide of the goal.

GOAL! Guiver makes it double figure moments later as a tired Barking don’t clear their back line latching onto it left of the D Guiver controls shifting the ball before curling a shot wide of the keeper 10-1.

Penny comes back on for Sudbury to see out the closing minutes replacing Allen. Finch dropping back to assist the defence late on Taylor on the left as Barking come on the right Emma Harrison with Bunton ahead of her crosses into the box Taylor looking to get hold of the ball tackle by Short. Edwards and McHale back on replacing Ronni Harrison and Shephard. Sudbury regularly bringing on fresh legs Barking with none to bring on. Emma Harrison left for Barking getting the ball down off a throw in sees her shot blocked by McHale.

Finch at the back defending well against Sleep as she looks to turn and shoot after seeing the ball into her body off cross on the left. A inswinging cross claimed well by Carter in the Sudbury goal as Holt feeds Bunton in down the left. Into stoppage time Guiver lively on for Sleep left into the box, Zorbas and Finch defending for Barking.

A double hat-trick for Sudbury’s Jess Allen

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 10-1 Barking FC Women

Full time and a big win for Sudbury sees them progress to the last 4 of the ERWFL League Plate to face Leigh Ramblers Ladies at home date to be confirmed. A dominant display 2nd half having led 4-1 at the break and early goal 2nd half killing off and Barking hopes of a come back goals coming at regular intervals afterwards with fresh legs coming on against an 11 who were tiring. Coming on at will took advantage of a dispirited opponent to hammer home the advantage giving them plenty of confidence going into their final games. No doubt this isn’t the Barking side that has acheived so much this season a brutal defeat can only regroup and go again.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A good all-round performance from Sudbury a few performances to mention. Firstly for Barking, Kiera Colthart worked hard in the middle to try and win the ball get it into Bunton up top. Sarah Finch on flanks with some useful runs when she was able to get forwards. For Sudbury Teigan McHale was assured at the back. Kate Edwards in midfield was sensational with some great ball winning tackles and driving runs forwards. The award though goes to double hat-trick scorer Jess Allen. Was a constant threat in attack peeling of the defence and finding goal scoring opportunities a first half hat-trick putting Sudbury in control of the game. Carried on in the same vein 2nd half albeit moving to the right of attack didn’t slow her down as she went on to add 3 more goals some great finishes.

An enjoyable trip to the MEL Group Stadium, a warm welcome from a club who is trying hard to give their female players the opportunities they deserve in the game. My thanks to both for sides for their help with the team details always appreciated, plenty of goals in this one after to extremely rare 0-0’s.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Herts Vipers

Sunday 31st October

ERWFL Division One South

A road trip down south this weekend into Suffolk to watch a game from ERWFL Division One South for the first time this season with AFC Sudbury Women hosting one of the leagues newcomers Herts Vipers.

Tier 6 of the women’s football pyramid seeing an influx of new sides following the previous two seasons disruption due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. The ERWFL aiming to reach it’s full capacity in the near future as the county leagues below continue to expand. A total of 7 sides promoted to the regional set-up this season with 4 of those joining ERWFL Division One South, Essex sides, Billericay Town Ladies Development and FC Barking Women along with Hertfordshire pair Cheshunt FC Women and Herts Vipers.

A great start to life in tier 6 for 3 of those sides with Herts Vipers, Cheshunt and Barking 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectfully in the table. With just 5 points separating the top five right now with Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies setting the pace. All five of those sides losing just the one match so far so the league looks like the title race will be hard fought.

AFC Sudbury Women currently in 5th spot in the ERWFL Division One South table having played 5. With 3 wins an draw and one loss. Started the season strong with 7 points from their opening 3 fixtures. Defeat in the FA Women’s Cup and their 1st loss of the season at home to Barking following before Sudbury returned to winning ways at Suffolk rivals East Bergholt at the start of the month. An extended period without a game return to action with successive home fixtures against 2nd place Herts Vipers followed by leaders Leigh Ramblers next weekend.

Phoebe Guiver currently top scorer with 4 goals so far this season with both Alex Penny and Jessica Allen having 3 goals apiece. AFC Sudbury with an academy set-up for both boys and girls with the Women’s 1st team backed up by a Reserves sides playing in the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division. AFC Sudbury as a whole looking to push the women’s game forwards including giving experience to young female referees, one running the line for today’s match.

Herts Vipers burst onto the scene at the beginning of the 2019/20 season entering a women’s side in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three. Right from the off the squad assembled looked too strong for that division surging to the top of the table off the back of a number of high scoring wins. Didn’t get to celebrate a title win however as COVID came along to see the season ending null & void. Were promoted straight into the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division the following season whilst setting up a new Development side. Again were making good progress with Nicole Jancey in particular scoring plenty of goals which would see her go on to play for London Bees in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. The 20/21 season of course following the same fate as the previous season the Beds & Herts league adapting their season into a mini-league formant where Herts Vipers went on to win Group A alongside fellow Premier Division sides, Oakland Wolves Ladies, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies & Garston Ladies.

Applying for promotion to the ERWFL regional set-up Herts Vipers are an ambitious club and have started life in tier 6 very well winning their opening 3 matches. A draw and first defeat of the season at home to Hutton following before they bounced back to win 3-1 at home to Billericay Town Women Development a fortnight ago. Making history too in the FA Women’s Cup beating East Bergholt 4-3 last weekend to reach the 1st Round Proper of the competition where they will be at home to FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women. Kelsey Millen top scoring so far this season with 5 goals with, Georgia Royall, Rachel Wall and Natalie Powell hot on her heels with 4 goals each.

The MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’s match, the weather as much of a factor for determining today’s game as anything else. An artificial pitch inside the main stadium with a training pitch beside the carpark. A new build clubhouse with seated stand along side one side of the ground another terraced stand on the opposite side, covered areas behind both goals. A wide pitch, plenty of volunteers about the place getting the stadium ready for the clubs upcoming televised FA Cup clash against Colchester United. Heavy rain moving across the region to start the day leading to several postponements. Forecast to clear by early afternoon had stopped by the time I arrived at the ground and the sun was forcing it’s way through which with the clocks going back this weekend would pose an issue setting behind one goal.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Becky Platt, Jodie Donley, Amber Provan, Teigan McHale, Bonni Shephard, Kate Edwards, Phoebe Guiver (C), Bella Crawford, Evie Creaton, Alex Penny & Jess Allen Subs – Brandi Whymark-Broyd, Georgia Thorpe, Emily Smith, Tye Smith & Georgia Sleep.

Herts Vipers

Herts Vipers starting XI – Sasha Tucker, Rebecca Edge, Ciara Meeking, Eva Ramsey (C), Rebecca Scott, Katie Moule-Betell, Sarah Payne, Georgina Royall, Kesley Mullin, Natalie Powell & Rachel Wall. Subs – Maisie Threadgold-Smith, Danielle Cliffe, Chloe Clay & Ellie Stammers.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Bright sun by the time kick-off arrived behind one goal is definitely going to pose an issue as the game draws on. Sudbury with the kick off in the 1st half wearing an all yellow kit with Herts Vipers lines up opposite in an all light grey strip. The ball lofted forwards cleaned up by Herts Vipers centre back and captain Eva Ramsey, play spread out to the left the forwards pass infield for the advancing Sarah Payne, looks to thread it through into the box for Rachel Wall, Becky Platt quickly out of her six yard box to gather for the hosts.

Herts Vipers making a positive start to the game the ball fed up the right for Natalie Powell to run onto wins the visitors and early corner, players coming up into the box the delivery by Kesley Millen whipped invitingly across the top of the six yard box is Powell rising at the far post narrowly missing the header.

A high line defensively for Herts Vipers, striker Jess Allen caught offside as the hosts attempt to move out quickly from the back. Millen winning the ball on halfway for Herts Vipers passes it forwards early with both Wall and Powell after it as Teigan McHale finds herself under pressure heading for her own goal, keeps her composure though playing it safely back to her keeper, Platt launching it up the pitch. Herts Vipers get players up to support Georgina Royall on the left inside to Payne 25 yards out shoots on the angle the ball skipping along the surface gathered by Platt covering her near post.

Herts Vipers Katie Moule-Betell

Powell runs in behind on the right side, Bonni Shepherd getting back on her forcing the attacker wide, holding the ball up Millen gets down the line in support the ball laid back to her she attempts to return it to Powell making a move into the box the pass too heavy runs out of play. Payne links up with Powell central 30 yards out the ball put out to the right as Millen bursts forwards towards the area her shot blocked by Jodie Donley. Herts Vipers keep the pressure on in the final 3rd won back on the left Wall turns 25 yards out striking the ball on the angle in low towards goal, Platt behind it once again.

Kelsey Millen attacking for Herts Vipers

Herts Vipers are applying pressure to the Sudbury defence early in the game, Powell central hooking the ball over the top for Wall to go after Platt comes racing out to meet her Wall attempts to chip the ball over the keeper can only put it straight into her gloves.

GOAL! For all their bright start to the game Herts Vipers are undone on 10 minutes as captain Phoebe Guiver plays the ball through on halfway from Allen to run onto driving forwards central bearing down on the box getting inside the centre back sets her sights slotting the ball low past the standing keeper before she can react into the back of the net 1-0.

Jess Allen opens the scoring for Sudbury

A mix up at the back almost presents Herts Vipers with a quick reply as Powell goes after a hopeful pass long into the box right of goal with both centre back and goalkeeper coming for it, Platt out of position rapidly back peddling as Powell gets hold of the ball on the by line the angle very much against no one else in the box plants the ball into the side netting. Powell a threat up top getting away on the right off a throw in the Herts Vipers attacker cutting it back towards Wall top of the area right side of the D, looking to turn into the shot as the ball run across her doesn’t get a clean connection the ball deflected off a defender out to Powel who fires it back in on the angle, Platt down to get behind it make the save.

Natalie Powell attacking for Herts Vipers

Alex Penny taking the ball on down the left for Sudbury whipping a dangerous cross into the six yards box headed clear by Herts Vipers, Rebecca Edge. Up the other end Powell latches onto a poor goal kick taking the ball out to the right wrapping her foot around the ball flashed in across the penalty spot, Payne has gambled breaking from midfield arriving the cross narrowly beating her. The ball being hotly contested in midfield, Guiver winning it plays an early ball forwards for Allen, the raised flag halting her progress. The wind picking up behind Herts Vipers back hindering there forward play ball running on form both Payne and Millen.

Sarah Payne looking to win the ball for Herts Vipers

The visitors pressuring the Sudbury defence, Amber Provan gets it clear, on for Guiver right side she sends it long for Allen making a run into the right channel takes on the shot early 30 yards out blazes her effort over the bar. Guiver influential in the middle of the park is down having picked up an injury, is unable to continue Sudbury making the change bringing on Emily Smith with Kate Edwards taking the armband.

Powell is upended wide on the right Herts Vipers awarded a freekick. Millen over the ball angled in towards the far post runners closing in the ball knocked back down across goal comes back out to Millen on the right clips a high ball back into the area dropping down at the far post Platt gets up well to claim high taken a blow as she is clattered into. A pause in play as the goalkeeper recieves treatment but is okay to continue.

Sudbury’s Alex Penny

Penny forwards on the left for Sudbury has help from Allen the pair pressuring the Herts Vipers defence forcing a corner kick. Put in from the left, Shepherd hooks it in towards goal from the top of the area, the ball headed clear inside the six yard box. Wall fouled on the left presenting Millen with another set-piece opportunity 30 yards out, plenty of pace on her strike racing through the area, Wall closing in far side can’t reach it as it runs wide of the far post.

Herts Vipers attacker, Rachel Wall

A change for Herts Vipers with Ellie Stammers coming on up top for Wall. Teigan McHale winning the ball at the back for Sudbury plays it upfield for Allen moving out to the left wing, looks to take it in behind, Ramsey getting across to slide in on her put the ball out for a throw in. Shepherd getting up on the left to support Penny on the wing the pass inside looking for Edwards well placed 25 yards out, Payne throwing out her leg to intercept for Herts Vipers.

Millen finds herself out on the eft running onto the ball left of the D prods it on into the box for Powell to see into her feet, Shepherd close on her the striker attempting to turn get inside her marker, Shepherd doing well to prevent an attempt at goal knocking the ball away runs back to Millen who has moved back to the right takes on the strike from distance Platt saving pushing the ball out to her right.

GOAL! Half an hour played and the hosts go onto double their lead similar to the opening goal it is a fantastic pass from midfield by Edwards opening up her body too release Allen in attack taking the ball on in behind the defence to run at the box can’t be caught and once again keeps composed to slot it low under the keeper to score 2-0.

Jess Allen through on goal to score her 2nd for Sudbury

Herts Vipers respond with a double change, bringing off Powell and Royall on come Chloe Clay and Danielle Cliffe. Rebecca Edge with a crucial tackle on Allen as she moves into the left channel seeing the ball into her feet looking to shift and spin in behind Edge timing her challenge perfectly to come away with the ball.

Allen is put through on goal central for a third time by Edwards running over halfway, out pacing the defence bearing down on the area, goalkeeper Sasha Tucker out quickly to the edge of her area getting down low to make the blocking save as Allen attempts to slot it past her, denying Allen her hat-trick. The second goal denting Herts Vipers confidence, giving an obvious lift to Sudbury as they close the ball down higher up the pitch, Crawford onto Edwards plays it forwards for Allen peeling away into the left channel shooting from outside the box, Edge blocking her effort deflected to Crawford 25 yards out right of the D her attempt at goal put over the bar. Katie Moule-Betell brings the ball forwards for Herts Vipers playing it on for Millen right side taking it on into the area hasn’t many options doing well to win a corner.

Herts Vipers, Ellie Stammers

Millen playing a good ball into the six yard box, an inviting height, Stammers up well centrally can’t direct her header on target. Into the final 5 minutes of the first half Rebecca Scott challenging for the ball in the middle for Herts Vipers on for Payne who looks to thread it through for Clay inside the D, McHale intercepting for Sudbury. Allen bats the offside flag for Sudbury for a moment looks to be away but Ramsey recovers superbly to slide in take the ball away from her before being fouled herself.

Millen getting a throw deep in the Sudbury half played into Stammers turning on the by-line in near post Clay attacking it, doesn’t get hold of the ball, hurt as she turns needing treatment. A frustrating half so far for the visitors the final ball just not happening. Creaton taking the ball on down the right for Sudbury moves infield pushed on to Allen, turns but runs straight into Edge who tackles well for Herts Vipers setting up an immediate counter attack finding Millen on the right plays it on early through the middle with both Stammers and Clay after the ball the wind though favouring the advancing goalkeeper as Platt gets to it first.

Creaton powers on with the ball right side for Sudbury strikes the shot in on the angle, Tucker down to her left with a sharp save the ball pushed away across goal, for a moment Allen looks certain to turn the ball into an empty net but can’t get the ball down before the Herts Vipers defence get back on her to scramble clear. Sudbury finishing the half strong, Edwards on for Creaton comes inside from the right clipping a shot over from 20 yards out.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 2-0 Herts Vipers

Arguably Herts Vipers have created more chances but it’s the visitors who find themselves trailing 2-0 at the break. The difference being Sudbury and particularly Allen have been clinical with their finishing when through on goal. Sudbury have dropped deep inviting Herts Vipers on at times but that has left room for Allen to run into whenever play is turned around. Frustration too for Herts Vipers as the final ball evades them. A confident start pressure early on a blow to concede. The 2nd goal seeing Sudbury grow in confidence finishing the half the stronger. You feel Herts Vipers need to score early in the 2nd half to get themselves back into the match.

No change for either side at the break. The sun dipping low in the sky now the Herts Vipers defence with have that to content with too in the 2nd half. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway. Herts Vipers sloppy from the restart giving the ball away inside their own half out to Creaton on the right pressing forwards coming inside turning into the box, Ramsey tackling for Herts Vipers before Edge scrambles the ball away.

Herts Vipers captain, Eva Ramsey

Creaton flagged offside moment later as Sudbury close the ball down, Edwards winning it in the centre. Cliffe left links up with Moule-Betell for Herts Vipers central looking to lift the ball forwards, Edwards snapping in on her to regain possession for the hosts. Payne bringing the ball on has Millen ahead of her central pushing the pass on Millen reverses the ball putting it into Stammers left of the D, head down drives for the box, Provan standing up against her defending well for Sudbury.

GOAL! Denied her hat-trick in the first half it doesn’t take long for Allen to claim it at the start of the 2nd half, the ball played out from the ball by Sudbury finding Creaton free on the right she helps it on quickly central in behind the Herts Vipers defence, Allen out paces Ramsey in the race for the ball taking her shot early smashing it high into the back of the net 3-0.

A hat-trick for Sudbury’s Jess Allen pictured with Herts Vipers Ciara Meeking

Platt saving at her near post off Cliffe as the Herts Vipers player gets a shot in close to the by-line on the right. The game becoming a little feisty free-kicks being given away as both sides try and close the other down on the ball, no one afforded any time to settle on the ball. No doubt Herts Vipers are frustrated. Creaton looks to plough her way through the Herts Vipers defence from the right but is stopped by Ciara Meeking. Creaton then gets back well to defend on Cliffe as she attempts to take the ball on down the right off a midfield pass from Scott.

Sudbury turn play around left side on to Allen up top she squares it to Creaton on her right the winger looking to come inside, goes with a left footed strike from inside the D the be swerving away from the far post. A little bit of rain in the air as Herts Vipers on the back foot press to get the ball, Payne looking to release Millen coming inside from the right, Platt though quickly off her line to slide in and take the ball on the edge of her area. Herts Vipers make a change with Cliffe coming off, Wall returning to the action.

GOAL! Creaton’s shirt pulled the hosts awarded a free-kick wide on the right players sent up into the box as the set-piece by Creaton comes in the ball looping in under the bar Herts Vipers fail to deal with it at the far post knocked across the face of goal a scramble ensues bodies flying in from both sides, deflected towards goal, Tucker gets her gloves around it on the ground hooks it away but by then it has already crossed the line, possibly and own goal, Donley with a touch claiming it for Sudbury 4-0.

A huge blow for Herts Vipers conceding a 4th goal. Sudbury on top leaving the visitors with a mountain to climb if they hope to get anything from the game. Powell returns to the action for Herts Vipers replacing Payne. Meeking with a good ball forwards from the left up the wing for Wall, getting down the wing squares it into the box but behind Powell as McHale intercepts and launches clear for Sudbury. Herts Vipers taking risks pushing players on trying to pressure Sudbury at the back, Clay nipping in to take the ball outside the D, Edwards is back on her sliding in to tackle before a shot can be unleashed.

The ball being hotly contested in the middle pinging back and forth deflects favourably for Allen up top after it, Edge comes round on the cover with a good challenge. Sudbury with a corner on the right defended at the near post behind for a 2nd corner. Dropping at the near post Tucker comes to catch, the ball kicked out of her gloves, she is smartly down to smother it inside her six yard box. The game opening up suddenly the Sudbury defence drawn out Clay seizes the opportunity lifting it over the top for Powell to chase looks to be one on one with the advancing keeper but for McHale her recovers her ground excellently sliding in with a well timed tackle.

Sarah Payne bringing the ball out for Herts Vipers

Clay is caught hard on the ankle by a mistimed tackle out on the left, play brought back with no advantage for the free-kick. Clay though is in alot of pain, after lengthy treatment has to come off carried off the pick by her coaches. Royall coming back on. Edge on the set-piece long up into the area, Platt calls and coming through bodies claims well. A double change for Sudbury with Creaton and Allen coming off in attack. On come Georgia Sleep and Tye Smith. The low sun is making viewing difficult behind the Sudbury goal. Shepherd sliding in to block on Millen as she breaks into the box from the right a corner conceded. Donley defending for Sudbury.

Sudbury’s Tye Smith with Herts Vipers Katie Moule-Betell

Sudbury are content to sit back invite Herts Vipers onto them the visitors with Scott on the ball out to Millen on the right, Shepherd out to her tackling to give away the throw. The hosts regaining possession off the throw moving the ball on up the left Sleep with the cross in along to top of the box cleared by Edge. Frustrations increasing the referee showing a card to the Herts Vipers bench as Crawford is fouled by Meeking on the right.

Millen driving inside from the right pushed into Wall inside the box plays it back to Moule-Betell to strike over from 25 yards out for Herts Vipers. The visitors pressing Stammers on the right plays it central for Royall top of the area heads it into the box, Platt down on it before Powell can pounce. Scott central out to the right for Stammers has support form Millen the pair exchanging passes before Stammers flashes a shot over the bar. Sudbury making a change with a little under 15 minutes left to play Georgia Thorpe coming on for Crawford.

Stammers getting down to the by-line well sends a cross along the face of goal only no one has gambled for Herts Vipers. McHale halting Millen’s progress as she looks to power her way through the Sudbury defence. Brandi Whymark-Broyd coming on in defence for Sudbury late on replacing Donley. Edwards out to Tye Smith on the left taking the ball on towards the box looses possession but quickly regains it squaring it inside for Sleep, Ramsey in well to defend for Herts Vipers.

Seems no matter what Herts Vipers try nothing will fall their way in the final third 2nd balls more often than not claimed by a Sudbury shirt. Payne comes back on for Meeking. Whymark-Broyd defending in the box for the hosts against Powell as Stammers crosses from the right. Scott central on for Stammers she spins the ball away to the advancing Millen’s on the right from a tight angle smashes a strike in Platt throwing herself at the ball a sharp safe tipping the ball up and away to the left. Herts Vipers pushing on winning a corner on the left defended for a 2nd corner, Shepherd clearing that behind at the near post for a 3rd corner. This delivery longer to the far post headed down into into the mix blasted over the bar from 10 yards out.

Late in the game Sudbury continue to soak up the pressure as Herts Vipers push on trying all they can to find a goal. Whymark-Broyd sliding into a challenge to stop Stammers advance. The ball inside the box pinging about a tackle, Platt picks it up, judged to be a back pass Herts Vipers are awarded a late indirect free-ick inside the box. Left of the goal 10 yards out Millen on it to tee up Edge. Sudbury slow to get players into there wall, gaps as Edge runs onto Millen’s nudge hits it hard through the fragmented wall giving Platt no chance as it’s hammered home for a late consolation goal 4-1.

Rebecca Edge with a late consolation goal for Herts Vipers

Too little too late the clock ticking down, Sudbury make a change bringing Creaton back on for Tye Smith. The home defence frustrated at conceding so late in the game the ball out on the right as Herts Vipers attack Millen fouled picking up and injury is brought off there’s seconds left no sub is made as the ball is played upfield to Sleep the final whistle blows and the 3 points go to Sudbury.

Kate Edwards contesting the midfield for Sudbury

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 4-1 Herts Vipers

A convincing win in the finish for Sudbury who climb above Herts Vipers on goal difference into 2nd in the Division One South table. A poor start to the 2nd half from Herts Vipers seeing Sudbury capitalise to double the 2 goal advantage they had at the break. After that the Suffolk side was prepared to sit back and soak up the pressure ready to hit on the counter attack. The defence all making crucial tackles. A frustrating afternoon for Herts Vipers who I am sure can play better. Created opportunities making a good start to the game. A sucker punch from Sudbury to take the lead. Allen clinical for her hat-trick. Rarely did Herts Vipers open up their opponents.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances to mention first. For Herts Vipers, Rebecca Edge made a number of crucial tackles in defence and carried the ball out from the back well. Kelsey Millen on the right looked a threat and looked to set up a number of opportunities for the attackers. Overall it was a solid all round team performance from Sudbury hard to single a player out. Jess Allen of course was clinical in her finishing to net her hat-trick. Creaton was a constant threat on the right. Teigan McHale with some fantastically timed tackles at the back. The award though goes to midfielder Kate Edwards enjoyed the battle in midfield getting after the ball rising up after being handed the armband, played a number of excellent forwards passes.

Another enjoyable trip to the MEL Group Stadium. I can see how much the club is looking forwards to their FA Cup encounter with Colchester and I wish them all the best of luck. Good to see both sides in action. Been wanting to tick Herts Vipers off the list for a while but like always this only means another side I want to see again. My thanks to both sides for giving me the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 1st November

ERWFL League Cup

Cup action this Sunday in the featured match on Women’s Football East with a trip down into Suffolk to watch a game from the 2nd Round of the ERWFL League Cup, AFC Sudbury Women v Newmarket Town Women.

The two ERWFL Division One sides meeting at the Kings Marsh Stadium a little under a month since a dramatic game in the FA Women’s Cup that saw Newmarket edge Sudbury out 4-2 on penalties after the 90 minutes finished all square at 3-3. Victory today for either seeing them reach the last 16 of the ERWFL League Cup one o 4 sides from Division One to join the 12 Premier Division sides in the next round.

Has been quite a while since I last saw AFC Sudbury Women in action were still Sudbury Ladies in fact. Has been something of a rebuilding of the side since it was relegated from the ERWFL Premier Division. Playing in ERWFL Division One South this season having been in the North previously. AFC Sudbury football club featuring an academy for both boys and girls have been one of the leading forces for women’s football in Suffolk in recent seasons and Suffolk as a whole has seen a healthy grow for women’s football of late. A strong start to the season for AFC Sudbury Women despite a narrow 3-2 defeat on the opening day are 3rd in ERWFL Division One South are unbeaten since 5 league and cup matches if you don’t count the penalty shootout loss to Newmarket. Two league wins out of three lay 3rd in the table a point behind title contenders Millwall Lionesses and Hutton Ladies. Beat Suffolk rivals East Bergholt United Ladies 5-0 in the 1st Round of the League Cup. A new Reserves sides entering the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division this season.

That penalty shootout win part of a fantastic run for Newmarket Town Women in this season’s FA Women’s Cup beginning with a memorable win in the extra preliminary round over higher league opponents Wymondham Town Ladies form the Premier Division, again drawing after 90 minutes winning the resulting shootout. Advancing through two more rounds with wins against Bungay Town Ladies and Sudbury before the run was ended by FAWNL South East Division One side Norwich City Women. One of just six sides now competing in Division One North is a league where all six sides are capable of challenging for the title, have won one and lost twice in the 3 games played so far. A strong youth section within the club, with a Development sides several players have stepped up to the first team in recent seasons. Won 4-1 away to Division One South side Stevenage FC Women Development in the 1st Round of the League Cup.

The game being played at AFC Sudbury’s, King’s Marsh Stadium. The large 3G pitch surrounded on all sides a large newly built clubhouse and kitchen to one side with a covered seated stand, a terraced stand opposite with the viewing area’s behind both goals covered. Covid restrictions well in place. A youth game taking place as I arrived an hour before kick-off a nasty injury in the game seeing it running late delaying the kick-off for today’s cup clash. Alot of rain recently but I didn’t think the ground would be affected. Dull and overcast with a little rain in the air a stiff breeze blowing across the pitch would affect the flight of the ball.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Ciara Roberts, Faith Candice, Jodie Donely, Amanda Short (C), Brogan McHale, Maisie Goodwin, Megan Partridge, Georgia Thorpe, Amber Provan, Amy Thompson & Tye Smith. Subs – Teigan McHale, Hannah Stephenson, Rebecca Stephenson, Evie Creaton & Isabella Crawford.

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Layla Weston, Beth Woodfield (C), Rebecca Towler, Jess Linger, Chloe Slater, Katie Webb, Katie Hayes, Gemma Moore & Annabel Cuthbert. Subs – Tash Patten, Kaitlin Elsey, Liv Caffarelli, Hannah Doyle & Megan Spurrell.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The game eventually able to get underway a little after 2pm, it’s Newmarket to get the first half in their change strip as both sides wear yellow, the visitors in an all red kit today with Sudbury in their all yellow kit featuring an array of squad numbers from 3 to 57. Annabel Cuthbert playing the ball back to midfielder Chloe Slater she plays it long out to the left looking for the run of Katie Hayes, Sudbury full back Faith Candice in quickly to close her down prevent her skipping in behind her challenge taking the ball out for a Newmarket throw. A positive start from the visitors Newmarket pressing high closing the Sudbury defence down forcing a throw deep on the right.

Newmarket’s Katie Webb fresh from riding her first winner at Leicester Races earlier in the week combines with Gemma Moore up the line on the right exchanging passes before Moore attempts to pick out Cuthbert making a near post run, the Sudbury defence blocking can’t get it clear Newmarket push numbers into the final third, Cuthbert central 20 yards out unable to get a Jess Linger ball down under control and hit on the turn as Brogan McHale closes her down for Sudbury, Slater pressing keeping the attack alive the ball played out to Layla Weston getting forwards on the right the full back sending in a cross from 25 yards out Cuthbert getting hold of it this time inside the area takes it to her right intending to shoot, Sudbury captain Amanda Short at centre back getting on her shoulder tackling to send the ball behind for a corner kick.

Sudbury defender, Brogan McHale

GOAL! Newmarket hammer home there fast start opening the scoring inside 4 minutes. The corner put in by Linger from the right defended by McHale at the far post, the hosts can’t break however as Newmarket are quick to close the ball down turn play around the ball played out to the left side nudged on for Cuthbert finding space inside the box top left corner, opens up her body to send a curling effort high across the diving keeper into the far corner of the net 0-1.

Annabel Cuthbert with the early strike to give Newmarket the lead

Sudbury yet to have any meaningful possession inside their opponents half fire a warning shot across their bow straight from the restart the ball out to Amy Thompson running clear on the left has support from Tye Smith the ball put across the top of the Newmarket box, Georgia Thorpe running with it before putting her foot throw the ball from the top of the D, her shot straight at Dominika Szary, the Newmarket keeper catching it cleanly. Newmarket left back Holly Dryland finding herself in space strikes the ball across field as Webb makes the run on the opposite flank, picks her out superbly (if catching her on the side of the head and sending her sprawling was the intention) nevertheless having been poleaxed Webb is okay to continue.

Newmarket’s Holly Dryland playing the ball forwards

Newmarket regain possession in the middle Slater taking it on with Moore ahead of her peeling right attempts the diagonal ball into the box for Cuthbert, Candice intercepting setting up a Sudbury attack forwards for Maisie Goodwin taking it on plays it forwards towards Smith, Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield defending at the back, plays it long for Hayes away to the left her touch knocking it on gets in behind before checking back inside to take on the strike from the angle 20 yards out lifts her strike over the crossbar. A good battle shaping up in the centre of the park Linger winning it for Newmarket passes to Hayes out on the left, crosses early too close to the goalkeeper, Ciara Roberts with a confident claim high at her near post.

Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield clearing the ball ahead of Sudbury attacker Tye Smith

Goodwin’s turn to get the better of the midfield battle coming away with the ball at her feet into the Newmarket half lays it on for Thompson left side, a clever touch seeing her take the ball in behind the Newmarket defence into the area but can’t win the race to the ball before Szary can come off her goal line lay claim to the ball. Newmarket continue to press the Sudbury defence on the ball McHale with limited options as she is closed down by Cuthbert outside the box turning back into the box the striker nipping in to take the ball off the centre back 8 yards out gets a shot away but is a tame effort along the ground Roberts down to smother it inside her six yard box.

Gemma Moore looking to get away with the ball for Newmarket in attack

Goodwin tracking back tackles Webb inside her box bringing the ball away plays a fantastic long range pass up to Smith in attack the striker getting hold of the ball looking to take on the Newmarket centre backs Rebecca Towler slowing her progress as Woodfield comes in to make the tackle. Candice stepping up wins the ball intended for Hayes from Dryland at the back space to run into has good vision to pick out the run made by Smith peeling off Towler’s shoulder to get into the box right of the D, pulls the trigger early her strike racing wide behind at the left post.

Sudbury’s Amy Thompson

Thompson with a powerful run with the ball on the left in attack does well to win Sudbury a corner kick. A cluster of players gathered at the top of the box Newmarket keeping 3 up to occupy the Sudbury defence. The delivery from the left in central Thorpe jumping nodding it down towards goal, Weston defending the post scrambling the ball away to safety. 20 minutes played the game starting to level out Sudbury finding more time on the ball have to stay alert, Jodie Donley doing just that at left back as Cuthbert coming deep to receive the ball into her feet turns brilliantly to send it forwards for Webb attempting to run clear on the right side, Donley cutting it out.

Newmarket’s, Katie Webb

Newmarket having make a fantastic start, unsettling Sudbury the hosts starting to get hold of the ball centrally, Goodwin tenacious supported well by Megan Partridge locking horns with Linger and Slater. Goodwin’s pass long for Thompson left plays it inside for the advancing Smith who in turn plays a diagonal ball into the area looking for Thorpe far side, running in with Dryland on her shoulder the Newmarket left back defending well. Thompson and Smith combining as they come forwards for Sudbury left side Thompson inside to Smith bombs on up the wing Smith picking her out gets into the area near post to receive the cross flashes a ball across the face of goal Thorpe running in far post can’ t quite get there.

Newmarket’s Jess Linger and Chloe Slater combine to win the ball

Partridge getting forwards to the edge of the area as Sudbury win a throw high on the right sees the ball rolled into her feet lets fly from 20 yards out right of the D fires her shot over the bar. Amber Provan nips in to regain possession for Sudbury 30 yards out, attempts to play in Thorpe to her right, goes on into the area, Dryland lunging in with and outstretched leg taking the ball away from her.

GOAL! Newmarket double there lead on the half hour getting forwards win a corner on the left. Push players forwards into the box the delivery put in across goal into the six yard box Cuthbert, Webb and Slater all gathered at the far post the ball knocked down to the floor is loose for a second, Woodfield closest the quickest to react stabbing the ball in over the line at close range 0-2.

Beth Woodfield (5) quickest to the loose ball to put Newmarket 2 nil up

Sudbury ring the changes using all five substitutes as Evie Creaton, Hannah Stephenson, Teigan McHale, Isabella Crawford and Rebecca Stephenson enter the game coming on for Smith, Provan, Brogan McHale, Candice and Thompson. Other players moving position too the intent to cause an impact Sudbury are on the attack Creaton central onto the ball rolled out to Crawford on the right side firing in an early cross into the box, Woodfield tracking back clearing inside her own six yard box. Newmarket clear their back line left side long with Cuthbert moving into the channel does well getting the bouncing ball under control holding it up as team mates races forwards in support slipping inside lifts a cross into the area, Slater arriving on the penalty spot stooping to head the ball wants to loop it over the keeper, not easy and succeeds in dropping it into Roberts gloves instead.

GOAL! The substitutes having the desired effect as Sudbury pull a goal back injecting pace into side clear there defence the ball played on into the middle Crawford racing onto it taking it on plays a superb ball through to Partridge leading the attack now having peeled into the right channel sees the ball into her run sets herself and lets fly from inside the box keeping it low races pass Szary into the back of the net 1-2.

Megan Partridge moving into attack pulls it back to 2-1 for Sudbury

Sudbury have sharpened up are pressing Newmarket at the back as much as the visitors were to them at the start of the game forcing errors. Goodwin in the middle tackling to get another attack going comes left on for Creaton, looks to go on Weston getting back on her doing well to force her run away from goal Creaton still managing to square a cross into the six yard box, Szary at full stretch diving to get her gloves on the ball with both Partridge and Crawford coming in.

Newmarket bringing players forwards for a corner Sudbury defending look to break Thorpe outside the area getting hold of the ball taking it forwards covering alot of ground before sending it out to Partridge away to her right, 25 yards out comes back inside closing in on the area, strikes the ball her shot angling wide across the face of goal. Into the last 5 minutes of the first half. Teigan McHale blocking a cross fired into the box from the left fired in by Dryland as she goes beyond Hayes. The game intense both sides closing each other down looking for openings both defences being kept on their toes. Rebecca Stephenson bringing the ball under control centrally 25 yards attempts to thread it through for Partridge, Towler throwing a leg out intercepting outside the box.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 1-2 Newmarket Town Women

Newmarket with a fast start putting Sudbury under pressure at the back closing the ball down capitalising with an early goal. Unsettling the hosts took Sudbury a while to find their rhythm, before the game settled into a more even contest Newmarket continuing to create chances doubling their lead on the half hour. Sudbury responding with 5 changes, making an immediate impact pulling a goal back setting up an intriguing 2nd half.

Maisie Goodwin bringing the ball away in midfield for Sudbury

Newmarket’s turn to ring the changes at the start of the 2nd half making 4 substitutions, on come Kaitlin Elsey, Tash Patten, Hannah Doyle and Megan Spurrell, replacing Webb, Moore, Hayes and Linger. Sudbury to get the 2nd period underway. Look to get the ball left, find no joy as Weston gets control of the ball plays it inside for Woodfield to launch upfield. Elsey peeling into space on the left for Newmarket in attack checks back inside to attack the box her cross cut out the loose ball gathered by Doyle 20 yards out central hits it hard, Short with the block.

The visitors pressing at the start of the 2nd half keep the pressure on in the final 3rd Doyle into the box left side shooting on the angle Roberts on her line down to make the save. Short does well inside her box defending against Elsey as the Newmarket attack looks to take her on entering the box left of the D.

GOAL! Defending one end Sudbury get straight on the attack the ball out from the back wide to Crawford in space attacking right side plays a great diagonal pass into the box for Partridge making the run in behind advancing on the keeper, slots the ball along the ground wide of her to equalise early in the 2nd half 2-2.

Megan Partridge equalises for Sudbury early in the 2nd half

Tash Patten is brought down in a dangerous position for Newmarket 25 yards out from the Sudbury goal the referee awarding a free-kick. With Linger off, it’s Slater on the set piece takes on the shot over the wall dips too soon making it a straight forward catch for Roberts. Minutes after equalising Sudbury are celebrating once again thinking they’ve taken the lead, almost a carbon copy of that goal today Crawford racing clear on the right sending the ball through to Partridge inside the box in behind the defence, the flag is up straight away however even before the ball nestles in the back of the net, the celebrations cut short.

Crawford and Creaton lively on the right side for Sudbury, the former pushing on into the area from the wing, Towler coming across to slide in take the ball away for a corner. Defended Newmarket attempt to break, Sudbury close the ball down well centrally press the attack to win a corner on the right. Rebecca Stephenson with an inswinging delivery trying to use the wind to her advance goes long through the crowded six yard box to strike the far post, rebounded out towards the top of the area a shot fired back in is blocked spins away for a corner on the left. Another good delivery inswinging towards the near post, Szary with a good leap punching it away to safety.

Patten with a risky but nevertheless good sliding tackle just inside the box against Partridge denies the attacking a shot on goal as the ball is send into her feet from the left. Sudbury with the brighter start 2n half keep the ball inside the Newmarket half Goodwin onto Rebecca Stephenson. A free kick awarded 30 yards out to the right of goal, Rebecca Stephenson on it blasts over. The host pressing well in the final 3rd win a corner on the left, the delivery long over everyone retrieve by Goodwin beyond the far post flashes a cross through the six yard box Partridge far post can’t get a telling touch runs through to the corner taker, Rebecca Stephenson shifting it onto her right foot inside the box shoots on the angle the ball bulging the side netting.

Sudbury’s Rebecca Stephenson coming forwards with the ball

An hour played a lively contest between two battling sides no let up from either, Patten on the wrong end of a strong challenge in the middle, Slater to play the free-kick into the box taking a deflection on it’s way past goal winning Newmarket a corner. Elsey up attacking the far post can’t get her header on target. Sudbury ring the changes once again, Brogan McHale, Provan, Candice, Thompson an Smith back on for Goodwin, Partridge, Short, Thorpe and Donely. Newmarket making a change too Woodfield off at the back on comes Liv Cafferelli. The flood lights coming on as the light starts to fade.

Newmarket’s Chloe Slater

Newmarket get on the attack Slater on for Cuthbert getting clear in the middle running clear on goal opening up for her has Elsey running with her to the right opts to cross set her up the weight of the ball a little to heavy evading her. Patten having picked up a couple of knocks for Newmarket is replaced by Linger. The visitors get an attack going the ball out to Spurrell on the right peeling off the shoulder of the last defender into the box shoots low Roberts well placed to drop onto the ball make the save. A triple change for the visitors Newmarket bringing off Weston, Cuthbert an Slater, Webb, Hayes and Moore retuning to the action.

Creaton getting hold of the ball well for Sudbury causing Newmarket problems on the right sees the ball into her feet off a throw in turns inside to play in a cross to Smith centrally outside the area, Cafferelli getting in front of her well to win the ball back. Creaton skipping on past her marker right side sends a diagonal ball into the area long for Thompson far side, closing in on goal from the left, Szary closing down the angle down smartly to save low, her defence scrambling the loose ball away.

GOAL! Into the final 20 minutes Sudbury have upped their game 2nd half pushing on in attack win another corner on the left, players gathering at the top of the area to make runs as Rebecca Stephenson places the ball, flights it in towards the near post six yards out, Creaton has snuck in unchecked leaping to nod the ball down into the ground and bounce up over the line into the roof of the net 3-2.

Evie Creaton scores to put Sudbury into a 3-2 lead

It’s competitive there are some strong challenges out there a little niggle too creeping into the game. Elsey is hurt in one such challenge and needs to come off, Cuthbert retuning to the action as the game enters the final 10 minutes. Provan gets back well to tackle Hayes as she looks to gather the ball into her feet in attack on the left drive at the defence for Newmarket. The host win a free-kick in a dangerous position left of the D a yard outside the box, Rebecca Stephenson placing the ball, strikes it well racing in on target, a superb attempt, an equally superb save by Szary getting across her goal diving to her right throwing out a glove to palm the ball behind conceding the corner.

The corner defended Newmarket can’t get the ball forwards Sudbury are closing everything down working hard to regain possession. Hayes threatening to run in behind catching Sudbury with a high line, goalkeeper Roberts comes running out of her box to win the race and clear the danger. Szary at the other end has to come racing out to the top of her box to as a looping ball is played forwards, to risky to attempt handling it ha to get her head on the bouncing ball cleared but not far Crawford 30 yards out attempts to take advantage catch the keeper off her line the shot however off target dropping wide of the post. Dryland across to dive in halts a Sudbury attack as they press numbers on through the middle.

Moments later Dryland pulls up looks like cramp but very painfully the Sudbury bench helping her off the pitch, Slater is sent back on with 5 minutes left to play. Rebecca Stephenson a threat in any dead ball situation Sudbury are drawing their fair share of free-kicks aswell as giving them away. This though is adding up to time lost as Newmarket frustratingly cant get the ball into their attackers late on. Creaton on the ball good close control as she dribbles towards the Newmarket area taking players on is clipped right on the edge of the area. Rebecca Stephenson placing it right of the D, strikes it early, Szary not set but the attempt is wasted racing wide past the left post. Stoppage time being played Rebecca Stephenson left rolls it on for Smith in attack, puts Cafferelli under pressure as she attempts to shield it back to Szary, the clearance put straight to Stephenson she strikes it wide across goal. Creaton holding it up in the corner as the final whistle blows.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 3-2 Newmarket Town Women

Sudbury come back from 2-0 down to win the game 3-2 in the 2nd half to reach the last 16 of this season’s ERWFL Cup. A highly entertaining contest between two evenly matched sides. Newmarket quick out of the blocks taking an early lead going 2 up on the half hour. Sudbury ringing the changes pulling a goal straight back to trail 2-1 at half-time scored early in the 2nd half and maintained there strong start to the 2nd period to go on and find the winning goal whilst doing well to limit Newmarket’s opportunities up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Again another tough one to decide, rarely are they easy, but that’s the nature of the game. A few contenders for Newmarket, Beth Woodfield was strong at the back making several important tackles as was Chloe Slater in the middle, getting forwards well too. For Sudbury Megan Partridge came into her own taking over in attack getting into some great positions, scoring twice to level the scores. Evie Creaton too with a great performance getting hold of the ball setting up numerous attacks and keeping the momentum with Sudbury scoring the winning goal. The award though goes to Maisie Goodwin had an excellent game in midfield, battling hard winning the ball and when she did having the vision and range of passing to find her attackers.

If it is to be my last game for a while an excellent match to leave it one highly entertaining from the first minute to the last plenty of talent on display a great advert for the ERWFL. My thanks to both sides for the all important teams details as always much appreciated.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Tag Archives: AFC Sudbury Women

Cup Final Special – AFC Sudbury Women v Stowupland Falcons Women

Tuesday 21st May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

sponsored by MH Goals Ltd

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v London Seaward FC

Sunday 11th February

FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v QPR FC Women

Sunday 5th November

FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – Needham Market Women v AFC Sudbury Women

Sunday 20th November

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sunday 4th September

ERWFL Premier Division

Cup Final Special – AFC Sudbury Women v Needham Market Women

Friday 6th May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Barking FC Women

Sunday 3rd April

ERWFL League Plate

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Herts Vipers

Sunday 31st October

ERWFL Division One South

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 1st November

ERWFL League Cup