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Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Capel Plough Women

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Sunday 20th Oct

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

Action from the Suffolk Women’s County Cup this Sunday on Women’s Football East with a trip east to watch the 1st Round fixture between Beccles Town Ladies and Capel Plough Women.

Sponsored by MH Goals Ltd the Suffolk Women’s County Cup has been dominated by Ipswich Town Women since it’d inception. That ending after a decade as Ipswich climbing up the women’s football pyramid have not entered the competition, that has seen a new dominance emerge with AFC Sudbury Women the current holders, enjoying a healthy rivalry with Needham Market Women. No doubt to two strongest sides in the competition but with the draw sometimes seeing them face-off in the earlier rounds of the competition that means with a favourable draw the other way any other club could potentially go all the way to the final as has been the case with Bungay Town Ladies and Stowupland Falcons Women from the county leagues respectfully. Meaning today’s opponents have a realistic opportunity to go deep into the competition.

Beccles Town Ladies amongst the sides pushing hard at the top end of the old Women’s Division Two last season in Norfolk, before falling away late on to finish 4th in the table. With a host of new sides joining the Norfolk league the women’s section expanded to 3 divisions. Beccles retaining there status in Division Two now featuring 8 sides and amongst the favourites to challenge for the title. Didn’t get the start they were hoping for as they lost 2-1 at home to one of the other title contenders, FC Viking & Valkyries Women. Bounced back well since with 2 wins and a draw to put them into 3rd place. Scarlett Snell and Alesha Tuttle the joint top scorers with 4 apiece with midfielder, Vicky Bloomfield on target for three goals. 

 Capel Plough Women made their debut last season, entering into the Suffolk Women’s Championship, scoring their way to the title, netting 107 in total to clinch the title and win promotion to the Suffolk Women’s Premiership, whilst also reaching the last 4 of the League Cup too. Zara Pike the runaway goal scorer in the Championship scoring a staggering 66 goals in her 20 matches for the club. Maddie Green 2nd in the table for Capel Plough with 11 to her name. With further goals coming from throughout the squad. A 4-4 draw against fellow promoted side Bury Town Community Women to open life in the Premiership this season, hen a humbling 12-0 loss against defending champions Brantham Athletic Ladies. Just 2 league matches on the board has certainly been a stop start opening to the season with the Premiership seeing some withdrawals.

 Beccles Town FC’s, College Meadow the venue for today’s county cup match. The multi sports facility as usual a thriving hub of activity with youth games in both football and rugby taking place before the women’s match. Always good to see. The main grass pitch beside the railway surrounded by trees. The tea hut open serving hot and cold drinks along with snacks. A small covered stand with some seating beside. The cover the important factor with the trailing arm of Storm Ashley blowing in rain across the region. Not overly heavy just persistent but with a strong breeze accompanying it likely to blow through. Making the pitch slick nonetheless the wind from on end to the other could play a role too.

 Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Nixon, Kelly Collins (C), Evie Bailey, Georgia Tiffin, Emily Wilkinson, Vicky Bloomfield, Stevie Potter, Vicky Ottey, Alesha Tuttle, Phoebe Wakefield & Scarlett Snell. Subs – Jessica Wilkinson, Millie Reeve, Charlotte White & Marie Carter.

Beccles Town Ladies

Capel Plough Women starting XI – Chloe Smith, Boni Shepherd (C), Mineezeh Shahid, Tayla Stephenson, Aimee Stephenson, Gemma Foster, Kimberley Edwards, Shannon Cameron, Codie Southgate, Katie Green & Maddie Green. Subs – Daisy Hill, Amelia Burrell & Annabel Sauter.

Capel Plough Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Chloe Nixon signed on this week making her debut in goal, answering the clubs call for a replacement keeper with Annabel Outlaw focusing on her studies. Has plenty of experience in the game and a useful addition to the squad, Acle United Ladies amongst her previous clubs. The rain falling lightly but seeing the wind pick up it’s the visitors Capel Plough to take the kick off first half with the weather at their backs wearing pink shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks, with Beccles lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and socks. Maddie green rolling the ball back to Gemma Foster in midfield she sprays the ball out to the right, launched up the wing Beccles can see the ball out safely for a throw.

 Beccles bring the ball on through the middle Alesha Tuttle on the move lifting a diagonal ball into Evie Bailey in the right channel, attempts to bring the ball inside, closed down by Capel Plough’s Aimee Stephenson the ball lifted forwards for captain Boni Shepherd to take on down the left wing into the corner lifts a cross into the near post met by Katie Green six yards out sends her header wide of the post.

  Play congested in the middle of park as both teams squeeze up, Mineezeh Shahid in to close the ball down at left back for Capel Plough deflecting it over the Beccles defence a high line, sees Maddie Green race in behind, Nixon rushing out to the top of her area gathering the ball first. Alesha Tuttle getting hold of the ball for Beccles making a strong run through the middle before lifting the ball on into the right channel for Scarlett Snell to attack, closing down on the box, Shepherd slides in from behind with a well timed tackle to dispossess the attacker.

Caple Plough captain, Boni Shepherd

  Capel Plough with pace in their attack, turn play around smartly clipped out to the right, Codie Southgate taking the ball on squaring a cross into the Beccles area, cut out by Emily Wilkinson. 

 GOAL! That pace bringing them the opening goal as the visitor press the ball in the middle, Kimberly Edwards into Foster the ball threaded though the Beccles defence central with Maddie Green pulling off the shoulder of the last defender to ace on towards goal, taking on the early strike from all of 20 yards out placing her pacy strike low past the keeper before she can react. 0-1.

Maddie Green opens the scoring for Capel Plough

 A goal inside the opening 5 minutes of the contest for Capel Plough. The visitors looking to impose themselves on the game putting the Beccles defence under pressure, Shephard left with another powerful run on the ball down the left flank her cross cut out by Tiffin. The ball moving forwards quickly skipping up off the slick pitch, Maddie Green causing issues with her pace through the middle. Caught offside this time as Shepherd puts the ball over the top. 

  Tuttle strong with the ball at her feet as she travels on through the middle with purpose, closed down yet squeezing the ball through for Evie Bailey to burst clear in the right channel taking the ball on into the box angling a shot in towards goal, Capel Plough goalkeeper, Chloe Smith getting down to make the save the ball not sticking however, skipped back towards Bailey, but before she can get a 2nd bite at it, Shepherd comes sliding in turn the ball behind for a corner kick. A vicious delivery curled into the six yard box from the right however it goes through everyone to run harmlessly out of play.

Capel Plough’s, Chloe Smith down to make the save from Evie Bailey’s shot for Beccles.

  Tuttle herself in sent clear moments later, breaking into the right channel after the ball, Smith comes racing out of her area to try and get to the ball first, just by a fraction of a second gets it away even as Tuttle slides in to attack it, Smith going over the Beccles attacker, taking a knock, hurt the referee quick to stop play for the goalkeeper to be accessed. Felt it but okay to continue. 

End to end action, Capel Plough moving the ball quickly getting it out to the right for Shannon Cameron to take forwards her cross into the near side intercepted by Tiffin for Beccles. Vicky Bloomfield combining with Stevie Potter through the middle for Beccles, Tuttle taking the ball on, the visitors rushing to close her down, stabs the ball into Bailey’s path out on the right, wrapping her foot around the ball drops her cross onto the penalty spot, Capel Plough defend on Snell, the ball carrying on through to Phoebe Wakefield positioned left of the D, getting her foot over the ball, sends a shot looping in towards goal, the pace taken out of it from a deflection, Smith can get across her line to claim the ball at her right post.

 Maddie Green across to the left to support, Shepherd as she carries the ball on down the line, Bailey outnumbered but manages to get her foot on the ball to turn it out for a throw allow her side time to regroup. 

GOAL! Breaking up a Beccles attack through the middle, Shepherd gets onto the ball catches the hosts with a high line as she threads a superb ball though the middle splitting the defence for Maddie Green to race onto a latch onto the ball, holding off a pursuing defender as she reaches the top of the box, strikes the ball, low past the keepers right, Nixon dives attempting to get to the ball, brushes her fingertips as it travels on into the back of the net. 0-2

Maddie Green breaking clear to fire Capel Plough into a 2 goal lead

Capel Plough racing into a 2 goal lead with 16 minutes on the clock a strong start. Maddie green’s pace a real issue for Beccles. The striker seeing the ball come into her feet from the right dragging a shot wide of the left post from the top of the D. Edwards laying the ball on down the right flank for Southgate to attack, Wilkinson comes racing across to close her down send the ball out for a throw. 

Capel Plough’s Kimberly Edwards

 Beccles put Wakefield way on the left wing taking the ball on cuts inside, before being tackled by Tayla Stephenson. Tuttle getting about the pitch for Beccles picking up a few knocks for her trouble as Capel Plough rush to close her down, sends Vicky Ottey clear on the right wing, drives on, Shahid coming to close her down, tackling to play the ball out for a throw. The throw lifted into Wakefield inside the box nearside, Tayla Stephenson making the challenge to send the ball out for another throw by the corner flag. 

 The hosts pressing well in the final 3rd Wakefield in the right channel knocking it down for Potter to spread play to Tuttle breaking away on the right wing her shot angled into the near post, Smith has angles covered getting down behind the ball to save. Beccles working hard to get hold of the ball in the middle, Capel Plough likewise snapping in to close them down a danger on the counter as they look to turn play around  another clearance put over the defence threatening to set Maddie Green away. Nixon reading it early out of her area quickly to clear the ball.

  Into the final 15 minutes of the first half, Shepherd getting onto the ball for Capel Plough laying a great through ball on for Maddie Green to turn the defence, Tiffin adjusts well however to stay with her and stick her foot out to take the ball away from her as the pair race into the D. 

Beccles defender, Georgia Tiffin

 Tuttle up ended on halfway as she gets on the moves through the middle for Beccles. Bloomfield over the set-piece for Beccles launching the ball up to the top of the Capel Plough area, Edwards winning the challenge as she and Tuttle go for the ball. A lively encounter Wakefield with the ball for Beccles bringing it inside from the left rolled into Snell central looks to turn 25 yards out, Shepherd sliding in to make the blocking tackle, sees the loose ball run out to the right Bailey latching onto it for Beccles driving to the corner cutting inside to cross, cut out by Shahid turned behind for a corner. 

Phoebe Wakefield attacking for Beccles

Mineezeh Shahid tackling Beccles, Scarlett Snell

 Bloomfield on the corner whipped into the box from the right, missed by Tiffin positioned on the penalty spot, races through to Snell quickly beyond the near post, attempts to get a shot away, her effort looping up and falling wide of goal. Beccles pressuring the Capel Plough defence late in the first half, Snell nipping in to steal the ball off Shahid 25 yards out racing towards the area right of the D, Tayla Stephenson moving in to close her down before she can shoot Snell squeezes a cross into Potter up to the left of the D, shoots low aiming for the inside of the far post, Smith diving full stretch across her goal, getting her outstretched gloves around the ball.

  Katie Green seeing the ball into her feet turning it out to Maddie Green on the right, her cross intercepted by Wilkinson for Beccles. Caple Plough with Cameron up with Southgate on the right the ball fired in across the Beccles goal falling to Shephard beyond the far post, snapping at the ball with Bailey coming to close her down, the ball rebounding off Shephard behind for a goal kick. Nixon getting settled in marshalling her defence, ready for Green if she skips in behind quickly out to clear the ball. Wakefield picking up a knock for Beccles replaced by Millie Reeve.

Scarlett Snell

  Bloomfield sends a good ball through for Snell up top attacking through the middle for Beccles, Aimee Stephenson stabbing in with a challenge to get the ball back to her keeper to clear. Capel Plough coming on strong right side Maddie Green with Edwards the shot struck hard into the near post on the angle, Nixon down smartly to save batting the ball away, drops for Katie Green central 20 yards out sends her shot curling wide of the right post. A good contest Bailey snapping on to get onto the ball right side, brought down winning her side a free kick. 

Katie Green

 Bloomfield on the set-piece a teasing delivery into the box, but not attacked at the near post as it runs out of play for a goal kick. Capel Plough winning the ball at the back, Foster up to Southgate, lays the ball on for Shepherd pushing down the right, Ottey in to close her down conceding the corner. Swung into the near post, Tiffin winning the header for Beccles. Tiffin winning the ball in defence again soon after as she tackles Southgate as Foster looks to send the ball on through the middle for Capel Plough.

  Tayla Stephenson coming off for Capel Plough at the back with Annabel Sauter coming on. The visitors with the ball fired up to Southgate making a run into the left channel, Bailey tracking back to defend for Beccles. Capel Plough quick to regain possession the cross-field pass finding Maddie Green on the right crosses, headed clear in the box by Tiffin for Beccles the hosts look to break quickly but Tuttle is flagged offside. 

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies 0-2 Capel Plough Women

  Capel Plough head into the changing rooms holding a 2 goal advantage at the break. Maddie Green’s pace causing Beccles issues early in the game and she capitalised to core twice. Beccles battled on and getting onto the ball in the middle drove forwards to create some useful opportunities in front of goal, forcing two good saves from the opposition keeper, while Nixon was on hand to save herself as Capel Plough threatened to score a 3rd. Alot for Beccles to do to get back into the game, certainly can’t afford to concede a 3rd but will be encourage by the chances they created in the first half. 

 The rain all but blown through now remains breezy with both sides out ready to begin the 2nd half, waiting on the officials. Beccles with the kick-off 2nd half, Daisy Hill on up top for Capel Plough replacing Southgate. The ball rolled back into Tuttle in the middle lays it out to the right the ball fired up the line for Ottey to race after, however the Capel Plough defence can see the ball safely out for a goal kick. 

 The hosts pressing the ball right from the off at the start of the 2nd half winning a throw high on the right. Players drawn the the ball the pass fired long across the penalty area with Bloomfield free to the left, looks to turn inside line up a shot but gets up ended instead, awarded the free-kick. In a dangerous position some 30 yards out, with the winds behind her Bloomfield has an attempt on goal, lifted in high in towards the target is straight at the keeper and Smith back on her line sees it all the way taking a high by tricky catch before bringing the ball down, Beccles appealing that the ball might have carried over the line but nothing doing. 

  Beccles making a positive start to the 2nd half getting players on to support the attackers. Maddie Green attacking on Capel Plough’s right channel taking the ball out to the wing her cross into the box long, incepted by Bailey far side and cleared up the line for Beccles. Foster putting a diagonal ball into the path of Maddie Green as she charges on through the middle, taking the shot on from 25 yards out fires her attempt over the crossbar.

  Tuttle is certainly in the wars for Beccles her strong runs seeing her fouled regularly, brought down on halfway. The hosts attacking down the right Bailey with Ottey the cross defended put behind for a corner. Curled in low to the near post, hits a couple of players as it rebounds through to the keeper to snatch into her gloves, Beccles again appealing for a handball but don’t get the decision. 

Beccles Alesha Tuttle

 Tuttle bursting through the middle lays the pass out to bailey to her right, in turn the ball cut back into the box in to the path of Potter making a near post run, looking to shoot, Foster races back to close her down divert the ball behind for a corner. Beccles pushing hard the corner knocked on at the near post dropping central for Snell in the six yard box, attempts to nod the ball down towards goal her effort blocked, Snell stretching trying to lay the ball on for Tuttle to her right Tuttle can’t quite take it on in her stride out for a goal kick.

  Capel Plough pushed back, looking to get forwards through Maddie Green as Katie Green sends the ball through to her in the right channel, Emily Wilkinson in to close her down for the hosts. Beccles making a change as they bring off Ottey, bring on Jessica Wilkinson who goes in at right back. Snell up with Tuttle on the left the pair pressing the ball, Snell inside for Tuttle to pull the trigger from 25 yards out her shot straight at the keeper.

  Cameron getting hold of the ball on Capel Plough’s left flank drives forwards, her cross though seeing Maddie Green flagged offside. 

GOAL! Beccles capitalise on their strong start to the 2nd half as they push players on down the right the ball played into Bailey who cuts inside from the right across the top of the Capel Plough area, moving to the left instead checks back onto her right to sends her shot back across the keeper low into the bottom right corner to pull it back to 1-2.  

Evie Bailey pulling a goal back for Beccles

 Beccles pulling a goal back on the hour. Capel Plough looking for a response the ball played into Maddie Green in the right channel turns on the ball well to send Cameron away up the wing, Emily Wilkinson moving in to close her down puts the ball away for a throw in. That brings the visitors a corner kick. Players up from the back the delivery dangerous curling in under the bar. Nixon with a strong fist up to punch the ball away to the left. 

Capel Plough’s Shannon Cameron

 Thing’s getting a little heated a few strong tackles flying in. the referee having a word with Foster for Capel Plough. Cameron with a good challenge to take the ball away from Reeve as the winger looks to get away from her on the left. Foster bringing the ball on for Capel Plough trough the middle sending Maddie Green away on the right, Collins in to challenge for Beccles. 

Beccles captain, Kelly Collins winning the ball

 End to end action, Beccles looking for the equaliser, Capel Plough aiming for a 3rd to restore their 2 goal cushion. Tuttle battling for the ball left fired into Snell up top, turns to attack, Sauter tackling her 25 yards out. Maddie Green beating the offside trap to race away with the ball up the right wing for Capel Plough before firing a vicious ball across the face of the Beccles goal, Hill racing in to attack the far post can’t quite reach it to turn home. 

  Foster with a strike from distance all of 30 yards wide of the left post. Capel Plough making a double change with Shepherd and Hill the players coming off. Southgate returning to the action along with Amelia Burrell. A good contest, Beccles encouraged by their fans competing for the ball better in the 2nd half pushing their opponents back limiting the ball through to Green in attack. That said Maddie Green is a constant threat as she takes on the ball herself on the right knocking it over her marker to run on up the right laying a cross back to Southgate top of the rea central she shoots a low drive for the left corner, Nixon diving across her goal, grabbing it into her body on the line.

  Tiffin intercepting the ball at the back for Beccles, lifting it up to Tuttle on the right, Foster committing the foul to stop her turning inside, is shown the yellow card. Tuttle in some pain, but too pumped up to stay on the ground and receive treatment. Hobbles about for a bit before settling down. Bloomfield over the free-kick. Hits a pacy ball on the angle in towards goal, Smith right behind it saving comfortably for Capel Plough.

 Caple Plough hit Beccles on the counter as the ball fired up to Maddie Green on the right sees three players surging on towards the box! The cross angled in square towards Katie Green on the penalty spot, can’t quite get it under control as it is turned on through to Southgate at the far post 10 yards knocks the ball down and shoots low for the bottom corner Nixon diving getting a glove on the ball can’t keep it out, the visitors turn to celebrate 3-1 kills the game even as Beccles appeal for a handball, the lineman has seen something, the referee going over to consult and the goal is ruled out. 

 The game moving into the final 10 minutes, time running out for Beccles to find another goal and potentially send the tie to a penalty shootout, Capel Plough seeing a 3rd goal ruled out. The hosts making a change with Wakefield back on replacing Reeve. Capel Plough winning a free kick deep on the left. Foster on the ball takes on the shot angling the ball in to the near post Nixon with it covered can see the ball run safely out of play.

  Bailey causing Capel Plough some problems on the left with some mazy runs with the ball sends a cross inside looking to put it into the path of the oncoming Potter, the midfielder not quite able to bring the ball under control as Aimee Stephenson clear for the visitors. Getting scrappy both sides tiring giving free kicks away. 

Capel Plough defender, Aimee Stephenson

 

 Foster sending the ball on for Cameron up on the right lays it inside for Maddie Green, Emily Wilkinson stepping across her to cut the pass out for Beccles. Capel Plough getting the ball forwards looking for a 3rd goal to secure the tie, Cameron sliding the ball through for Maddie Green attacking the box right of the d, Nixon rushing out to try and win the ball first sliding into block the ball deflecting off Maddie Green across the D into Katie Green 20 yards out her strike at goal blocked at close range by Tiffin.

  Beccles counter the ball played down the left for Wakefield, turns inside, Cameron putting in the tackle lunging in the ball deflected on into the middle straight to Potter to have a go from range her shot placed straight into the keepers gloves. Capel Plough winning a throw high on the right Southgate with the lay off for Maddie Green up the line, Bailey turning it behind for a corner. Swung in defended by Tuttle in the six yard box, Beccles look to break but no way through a Shahid reclaims possession for the visitors.

  Bloomfield finding space in the middle for Beccles sending the ball into Bailey out on the right, taking on the shot from the angle struck low into the near post, Smith has the angle covered down behind the ball for Capel Plough. The game open as Capel Plough counter the ball fed up to Maddie Green surging clear on the right fired a cross into the six yard box coming to Southgate beyond the far post, Jessica Wilkinson defending for Beccles getting hold of the ball knocking it safely into her keeper. 

GOAL! The game into stoppage time little time left for Beccles to find an equaliser, Tuttle taking the ball on down the right with aa surging run into the area, is closed down the blocking tackle seeing the ball rebound out of the area, straight to Bloomfield in space 30 yards out, told the fans at half-time she’d score a worldie and deliver, catches the ball well sends it angling back in towards goal high beyond the goalkeepers reach to drop under the ball and nestle in the back of the net 2-2!

Vicky Bloomfield with a screamer to equalise for Beccles

  Beccles joyous as they level the scores with mere seconds left to play. Capel Plough making a change sending Shepherd back on (maybe with penalties in mind) to replace Shahid. The ball rushed up top into Maddie Green racing on into the box her wide right of goal her cross flashed across the face of goal. No time left he game ends and will be settled from the penalty spot. 

Full time Beccles Town Ladies 2-2 Capel Plough Women

  Beccles with a positive start to the 2nd period pressing players on getting the ball out wide and capitalising to pull a goal back on the hour. Encouraged to go on and equalise the game opened up Capel Plough determined at the back waiting to strike going forwards. seeing a goal chalked off for handball would have secured the game. Beccles kept going finding that elusive goal to take the tie to penalties and that then become a lottery.

Penalties

  Beccles up first to take the penalty with central defender Tiffin placing the ball on the spot, trikes the ball hard to the left of goal, Smith though goes the right way throwing her arms out to pluck the  push the ball away 0-0

Chloe Smith saving Beccles opening penalty.

  Shepherd first up for Capel Plough goes for power her strike rising central smashes down up into the air off the crossbar and bounces over the line 0-0

  No score as Snell comes forwards from the middle for Beccles, placing the ball on the spot goes for power too her strike rising to the left hits the underside of the crossbar and bounces down over the line 1-0

  Foster up next for Capel Plough another opting for power strikes the ball high and wide of the keeper to score to the right of goal 1-1

 Tuttle’s not subtle expecting power behind this strike and she delivers as she blasts Beccles 3rd penalty to the keepers right to score 2-1

  Katie Green up next for Capel Plough sends the ball low looking for the left bottom corner, Nixon going the right way diving to grab hold of the ball keep it out 2-1

  Bloomfield up next for Beccles, ecstasy one moment scoring a brilliant equaliser at the death for the hosts, agony moments later as she fires her penalty straight down the middle. low claimed by Smith 2-1

 Maddie Green with Capel Plough’s 4th penalty, as cool as you like slotting it home low to the right 2-2

  Wakefield has to score for Beccles as she walks up to take the 5th penalty, gives the diving keeper no chance as she fires it high to the left to score 3-2

 Edwards on Capel Plough’s 5th penalty has to score to send the shootout to sudden death goes high and finds the back of the net 3-3

The pressure ramped up a notch as Bailey comes forwards for Beccles, composed (well she looked it on the outside) as she fires the ball home low into the bottom left corner 4-3

 Southgate up next for Capel Plough has to score to keep the shootout alive but it’s agony as she sees her high strike rebound against the bar! 4-3

Penalty agony for Cape Plough as the ball hits the crossbar

 Beccles start to rush forwards in celebration but hesitate… have they won the shootout. Nixon tells them they have as they break forwards to celebrate with their new keeper as they win the shootout on sudden death to advance to the next round of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup.

     

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders here once again and a tough one to single out. A few performances of note, firstly for Capel Plough. Maddie Green was a constant threat in attack her pace causing Beccles problems early on too her two goals well. Boni Shepherd with some forceful runs to link up with the attack. Chloe Smith on hand to make some crucial saves during the game. For Beccles, Alesha Tuttle was strong on the ball throughout making some good runs, picking up a few knocks for her efforts looked to get forwards constantly. Georgia Tiffin making some vital challenges and interceptions at the back. Chloe Nixon with an eventful debut for Beccles grew into the game giving her defence good instructions and protection from the threat Capel plough posed making a couple of vital saves. Vicky Bloomfield with  worldie of a strike to equalise used the space well and her set-pieces carried a threat. Today’s award goes to the scorer of Beccles opening goal, Evie Bailey provided a god outlet on the right for Beccles got forwards well looking to score and create chances for others, too her goal well and gave her side the belief to push on.

  Penalties are a lottery, no doubt Capel Plough missing out couldn’t find the 3rd goal that could have killed off their opponents resilience. Make for an entertaining cup tie between two evenly matched sides. Good to see Capel Plough in action and will look on with interest to see how they fair in the Suffolk Women’s Premiership this season. Based on today’s game they’ll do okay. Beccles progress in the cup will be looking forwards to the draw. My thanks to both sides for their help today as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match report – Beccles Town Ladies Development v Bure Valley Ladies

Sunday 17th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Heading east this Sunday to catch some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Two with the title race really hotting up as we move into the final few weeks of the season with 5th placed Beccles Town Ladies Development hosting 2nd placed Bure Valley Women.

Into mid March and the title battle in Norfolk Women’s Division Two shaping up nicely. Talked about it at the start of the year with the top six sides all looking to challenge for top spot, Bure Valley Ladies along with fellow new side Mundford FC Ladies the early pace setters with Stalham Town Ladies and Beccles Town Ladies Development regrouping well after suffering relegation at the end of last season pushing hard along with FC Viking & Valkyries. Beccles losing their first league game of the season that day have since lost a bot of ground in the title battle yet with games in hand could force their way back into contention. Stalham Town Ladies losing just one this term taking over at the top 5 points clear of Bure Valley who have a game in hand. Shrublands Ladies too emerging as a dark horse up to 3rd off the back of 7 straight wins. All to play for with some big matches to come.

Bure Valley Ladies reforming a women’s side this season, having always had a strong youth set up. Ironically it was Beccles they were playing when I saw them back in 2018 at Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. That team eventually folding with there young players moving on to university and so forth. Back now with a vengeance taking the new 14 strong Norfolk Women’s Division Two by storm. Winning their opening 6 league matches before suffering their only league defeat of the season a 5-3 loss at home to Beccles. Another run o 6 wins following before playing out a 1-1 draw with fellow title contenders Mundford.

A highly positive return to the NWGFL, Bure Valley were 3-1 winners at Beccles just last Sunday to clinch a spot in this season’s League Plate final where they will face FC Viking & Valkyries on Sunday May 12th. Captain Emma Macmillan fast approaching 30 goals for the season with 29 currently to her name from 16 appearances, with Maisie Redgrave and Willow Nye scoring 17 and 16 respectfully. Giving them a healthy goal difference in the title contest with vital games against Stalham (twice) Shrublands, Mundford and today’s match against Beccles to come.

  Beccles Town Ladies adding the Development part to their name to enable them to drop out of Division One where they struggled last season to regroup with a fresh group pf young players added to their squad. The development part of the club very much in mind in that thinking to better enable their players several stepping up from the U16s into the senior squad. Made a fantastic start to the season with 4 straight wins unbeaten going into the Christmas break, and with plenty of games in hand on those above them looked in a strong position to challenge in the new year. 

 Suffered their first loss of the season 2-0 away to Mundford and have since lost a 2nd to Shrublands seeing them fall back on the leading pack, yet with those games in hand and a very busy final few months of the season to come can certainly play their way back into contention and have a strong say in determining where the title might eventually go. Libby Elder top scorer with 13 goals to her name with Saffron Jones-Yates on target for 11 goals and Vicky Bloomfield on 10.

  The Alan Hutchinson Filed home of Beccles Town FC the venue for this afternoon’s league encounter, the football club part of a multi sports facility on the outskirts of Beccles. Didn’t get lost coming to the ground this time despite the many road closures in the city. A good sized grass pitch offering lots of width. A covered stand with some seating on one side opposite with the tea hut open beside selling drinks and snacks. Getting tired of all this rain and it was yet another damp one with the rain blowing across the county over night into the morning. Not overly heavy just persistent unlikely to threaten the match and was suppose to blow over before kick-off but annoyingly lingered. 

Beccles Town Ladies Development

Beccles Town Ladies Development starting XI – Anabel Outlaw, Emily Wilkinson, Evie Bailey, Georgia Tiffin (C), Lola Middlemass, Saffron Jones-Yates, Stevie Potter, Megan Sergeant, Tilly Bowen, Alesha Tuttle & Millie Reeve. Subs – Sophie Runnacles, Eliza Hanson, Phoebe Wakefield & Lauren Brewster.

Bure Valley Ladies

 Bury Valley Ladies starting XI – Dannielle Barnes, Lily Norman, Madeline Frost, Jasmine Snelling, Abbie Cushion, Eva Heald, Megan Swain, Maisie Gibbs, Emma Macmillan (C), Willow Nye & Maisie Redgrave. Subs – Maddison Woodcock & Emily Addison.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Georgia Tiffin and Emma Macmillan walking out to meet this afternoon’s match official Tony Wickenden.

  Three players in the Bure Valley squad who featured for the previous woman’s side, goalkeeper, Dannielle Barnes, Abbie Cushion and Maisie Gibbs (previously Redhead). Made use of the stand to keep my beleaguered camera out of the elements with a steady drizzly rain blowing across the pitch as captains, Georgia Tiffin (Beccles) and Emma Macmillan walked out onto the field to greet referee Tony Wickenden. Beccles to have the kick-off first half laying into the rain wearing white coloured shirts with black trim upon the shoulders and sleeves along with black shorts and socks. Bure Valley lined up opposite wearing navy coloured shirts with a red upper portion. navy shorts and red socks. The ball played back to Stevie Potter making her first start for Beccles, clips the ball out to the left for Megan Sergeant on the right, Madeline Frost dealing with it for Bure Valley.

 GOAL! Bure Valley pour forwards with possession on the left Willow Nye getting hold of the ball driving inside across the top of the box and pulling the trigger shooting low across the keeper, Annabel Outlaw diving down to save at full stretch, getting her gloves to the ball knocked up, Maisie Redgrave racing in on the follow-up connecting with the loose ball to fire it past the keeper before she cane recover 0-1. Bure Valley taking the lead inside the opening minute.

Bure Valley celebrate their early goal, scorer Maisie Redgrave is there I promise just hidden…

.. there she is Maisie Redgrave

  The visitors taking an early lead pressing on early in the match Nye lively out on the left in attack the ball lifted on for her to attack, Evie Bailey stretching to make the tackle at full back for Beccles. Bure Valley pushing on to regain possession cutting across the top of the area the low shot in towards goal gathered cleanly by Outlaw. Beccles needing an outlet get themselves a foot hold in the game have Megan Sergeant driving forwards on the left, Alesha Tuttle sending the ball out to the wing, Sergeant turns infield, closed down by Bure Valley’s Abbie Cushion.

  Bure Valley captain, Emma Macmillan with the ball at her feet running on through the middle 25 yards out attempts to slide it into the path of Nye breaking into the area off the left channel, the pass a little too strong giving Outlaw time to get out to claim the ball first. Beccles captain Georgia Tiffin with a well timed tackle to deny Redgrave as she looks to take the ball on off a Maisie Gibbs pass into her from the right.

Beccles captain, Georgia Tiffin

  Saffron Jones-Yates takes the ball forwards driving all the way into the Bure Valley area before being held up by defender Jasmine Snelling keeping possession looking for support Tuttle providing the run looks to tee her up on the penalty spot, Cushion sticking a foot out to take the ball away from her. The hosts with a period of sustained pressure around the Bure Valley box Millie Reeve winning her side a corner on the left. 

  Winning a throw high on the right taken quickly into Sergeant, the Beccles winger hooking a high ball on into the area, Tuttle looking to get it down, is tackled by Snelling the defender launching the ball clear. The width offered means both sides have space to attack if they can find their passes, Nye looking to get away on the left is keeping Bailey busy, Lola Middlemass coming across from the centre of defence to help her full back out.

Beccles defender, Evie Bailey

GOAL! Bure Valley comfortable on the counter to exploit either flank with Macmillan conjuring a goal out of nothing as she carries the ball out to the right down the line before shooting on the angle a venomous shot from distance that whips across the keeper into the back of the net at the far post to double the visitors lead 0-2.

Bure Valley captain, Emma Macmillan firing her side into a 2 goal lead

  Two goals to the good inside the opening 10 minutes Bure Valley showing their intend right from the off. Beccles backs to the wall need to regroup quickly. Tuttle looking to take the game to Bure Valley on the charge through the centre with the ball at her feet, Snelling putting in the challenge as she arrives at the top of her area. 

GOAL! Having conceded two quick goals at the start of the match Beccles get on the attack and find a welcome reply attacking up the left Jones-Yates with Reeve the ball crossed into the top of the Bure Valley area isn’t dealt with as it runs on for Tuttle who hits it first time sending a looping shot in high on goal dropping out of the grey sky goalkeeper Danielle Barnes back peddling struggling to reach it as it drops over her skimming the cross bar as it bounces down over the line 1-2.

Alesha Tuttle pulling a goal back for Beccles.

  Game on Beccles pulling a goal back the ball rarely still, Megan Swain tackling in midfield for Bure Valley lifted on for Nye racing away on the left. Bailey getting back at her. Back in midfield Macmillan getting hold of the ball pushing left on for Nye down to the by-line Middlemass in to close her down gives away the free-kick outside the box. Taken by Macmillan driven into the side netting.

   MacMillan runs in behind the defence to attack the ball as it rebounds into the area of a competitive midfield tussle, Outlaw comes out to close down the angle Macmillan stretching to lift the ball over the keeper, sees the ball bounce wide of the right post. Bure Valley lively turning play around Swain out to Nye on the left taking the ball in behind, Middlemass coming across to challenge put the ball out of play for a throw. 

Bure Valley’s Willow Nye

Macmillan on the move with the ball out to the right linking up with Redgrave the shot on the angle claimed comfortably by Outlaw at her near post. Potter sending the ball through for Tuttle in attack driving out plays the pass wide for Sergeant up on the right, she swings a cross in along the top of the six yard box, Reeve can’t reach it cleared by Lily Norman for Bure Valley. 

Tuttle coming inside from the left 25 yards out for Beccles fires a low drive wide of Barnes’ left post. Sergeant taking the ball on from Bailey up the right for Beccles travelling into the corner, Frost staying on her the full back, blocking her cross the ball behind for a corner. The ball delivered into the near side Tuttle looking to bring it down and shoot from six yards out sees her effort blocked by a combination of defender and goalkeeper before Barnes drops down to smother the ball end the move. 

  Bure Valley quick to get the ball down the other end stretch play Redgrave on the right downing well to win her side a corner kick. Taken short Nye back to the taker lifted back in Beccles clearing back to the right, Bure Valley with players up pressing the ball fired in near post Redgrave looking to attack it, Outlaw though close in to grab hold of the ball. The game open at times one moment Beccles are on the attack, Bure Valley a threat on the counter. Cushion intercepting at the ball as Tuttle looks to put Sergeant on behind. 

  Nye and Redgrave swapping flanks for Bure Valley, Beccles making a change off comes reeve on comes Phoebe Wakefield. Bure Valley also making a change bringing on Emily Addison the 16 year old making her debut replacing Nye. Bure Valley winning a corner on the right into the area put back to the corner taker lifted back into the area headed clear by Middlemass back out to the right before a shot is fired in on the angle wide at the near post.

Beccles midfielder, Stevie Potter

   Bure Valley making a 2nd switch bringing on Maddison Woodcock with Gibbs coming off. Potter taking the ball forwards through the middle for Beccles played on for Sergeant pulling into the box right of goal seeing the ball across her path fires her cross/shot behind at the near post. Bure Valley patrolling down the right the cross clipped in high into the area, Outlaw has to come for it with Redgrave making a run for the ball, knocks it behind for a corner.

Megan Sergeant

  The in swinging delivery defended at the near pot by Wilkinson behind for a 2nd corner. Beccles dealing with the threat looking to get forwards late in the first half Jones-Yates on for Sergeant pushing up the right, Cushion across to put in the challenge for Bure Valley. Bailey does well in defence for Beccles up against Redgrave top of the area as she looks to get onto a superb flick on from MacMillan off a Barnes free-kick. 

Megan Swain with Megan Sergeant

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies Development 1-2 Bury Valley Ladies

  An entertaining first 45 minutes draws to a close with Bure Valley holding a 2-1 lead over Beccles as the two sides gather by their respective dug-outs for the interval. Bure Valley racing into the lead 1 up inside the opening minutes threatening to turn the screw as they quickly made it 2. Beccles under the cosh fought back well getting a goal back quickly to settle the ship, the game opened up after that. Bure Valley seeing more of the ball not capitalising with Beccles having a couple of good opportunities up the other end. Just a goal in it still all to play for.

  A shortened half-time break with the teams keen to get on with it the rain starting to ease up, not that it’s been pouring, just a persistent drizzle. Changes at the break, positional as well as personnel. Eliza Hanson on for Beccles replacing Potter going to the left. Bure Valley to get the 2nd half underway with Nye back on the field for Norman. Swain with the ball forwards for Macmillan, Tuttle in to close her down get possession for the hosts, looks for Hanson out on the left, drops her shoulder to drive on down the wing, Frost lunging in with the challenge to send the ball out for a throw.

  Beccles looking to be aggressive at the start of the 2nd period get the ball out to the flanks attack the area, Hanson sending a high ball in on the angle to the far post, Woodcock under pressure from Wakefield doing well in defence to clear for the visitors. Jones-Yates coming left has Wakefield moving into the channel the pass played into her Frost tackling to deflect the ball out for a throw.

Beccles, Eliza Hanson

 The steady rain making the pitch and the ball slick as Swain slips as she winds up a strike from range her effort from all of 25 yards out bouncing up as it arrives at Outlaw the keeper mishandling it to see the ball run behind for a corner kick. The corner flashed into the six yard box rebounds of a couple of players before running behind a goal kick signalled. 

 Beccles break through the middle Tuttle carrying the threat on the ball lifting it out to the right for Sergeant looking to run in behind, Wakefield with her the ball played into the area just out of Wakefield’s reach, Frost the last defender has to get there and takes the ball away from the attacker to kill off the threat. Beccles pushing on the right Bowen into Sergeant the cross into the area cleared by Barnes. 

Bure Valley goalkeeper, Danielle Barnes

GOAL! Bure Valley win the ball at the back come on down the left Nye taking on possession powering her way up the pitch turning inside 25 yards out playing the ball into the area looking for Redgrave central, Middlemass getting a toe on the ball as Outlaw comes rushing out to claim the ball knocked away from her out to Addison top of the D, keeps her composure to lift the ball back in over the stranded keeper and defence to plant the ball into the back of net, celebrates as she mark her debut with a goal 1-3.

Emily Addison scoring on her Bure Valley debut

  Bure Valley winning the ball in midfield Swain linking up with Macmillan the ball threaded on into the area Redgrave the target, looking to connect with it, Wilkinson back peddling doing well to trap the ball between her feet dig out the clearance for Beccles. Macmillan looking dangerous for Bure Valley every time she sees the ball into her feet and travels forwards, attempts to pick out Addison on the move up the right, Tiffin cutting out the pass for Beccles.

  Frost coming on up the right for Bure Valley with Swain ahead of her taking the ball to the by-line works the cross into the six yard box, Outlaw claiming it high. Hanson pushed over on the left winning Beccles a free-kick, players forwards into the area as Tuttle sends it in for post, a corner won. Whipped in low to the near post from the left, Barnes dropping forwards onto it to claim.

 Nye moving with the ball at her feet on the left checks inside as she arrives in the box stabbing it inside for Redgrave, taken off her toes by Tiffin, the loose ball runs straight to Swain 25 yards out sends the dipping shot in straight at Outlaw but skipping up viciously as she goes down to gather does well to adjust pluck it back down and grab.

Beccles goalkeeper, Annabel Outlaw

  Beccles regain possession on the left as Wilkinson steps in to tackle Addison the ball lifted on for Hanson who sends a cross field ball on looking to release Jones-Yates bombing on through the middle, the hosts frustrated as the attack is halted by an offside flag.

GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half Bure Valley are looking strong going forwards, swain and Macmillan providing strong back up for the attacking trio, Macmillan with the ball in the left channel powers forwards coming inside the D, getting the ball onto her right foot, connects with the strike to rifle her shot into the top corner 1-4.

Emma Macmillan about to pull the trigger to make it 4-1 to Bure Valley

  Beccles falling a further goal behind remain positive looking to get the ball forwards Tuttle with Jones-Yates clipped out to Sergeant on the right wing takes the ball to the by-line her cross stabbed in towards goal, Barnes dropping to claim doesn’t get hold of it loose in front of goal Bailey’s shot is charged down.

  Outlaw needs to make the claim take the ball high inside her six yard box as Macmillan lifts the cross in from the left, Addison ready for any mistake, Outlaw takes it cleanly. A pause while an injury is dealt with Beccles make a change bringing off Bailey on comes Sophie Runnacles at right back. Middlemass intercepting at the back as Swain slides the ball on through the middle.

  Norman back on for Bure Valley on the right of defence intercepts as Middlemass looks for Hanson on the left. Beccles winning a free-kick on half way play up to Tuttle outside the box looks the bring the ball down off her chest and hit on the volley as she turns her shot dipping but straight at the keeper, easy for Barnes. 

  Beccles making a double change bringing off Jones-Yates and Hanson, on come Lola Brewster and Reeve. The game moving into the final 15 minutes. Heald on for Swain out to Addison wide right into the corner her cross lifted into the box cleared by Outlaw punching the ball away with Gibbs making a run to the back post.

  Tuttle with a pop from distance, saved by Barnes. Sergeant up on the right for Beccles winning a corner. The in swinging ball cleared out of the six yard box back to the corner taker, the return ball into Tuttle near side sends her shot wide. Snelling up to head the ball clear top of her area as Sergeant crosses from the right. The game stretched Bure Valley pressing forwards comes right Addison crossing low into the box, Redgrave looking to attack it Tiffin defending for Beccles.

Madeline Frost coming forwards for Bure Valley

  Heald on for Macmillan through the middle Bure Valley’s captain letting fly from 25 yards out her effort bouncing just in front of the keeper, Outlaw down to gather has it safely in her grasp. Frost coming on well with the ball for Bure Valley on the left late in the game her cross aimed into Redgrave on the penalty spot cut out by Middlemass. 

 Macmillan taking the ball forwards strong on for Redgrave into the box, just over runs it allowing Wilkinson to nick it and clear for Beccles. The hosts willing to give it a go late on press on Brewster with the ball forwards into Wakefield, Gibbs tackling for Bure Valley the visitors quick to counter, Addison through to attack the box a vital interception from Tiffin. 

Megan Swain with the incoming tackle on Lola Brewster

Swain with the tackle on Brewster to keep her side in possession inside their opponents half Addison on the right crossing into the area Redgrave attacking it six out, Outlaw with the blocking save the ball rolling out to Macmillan outside the area, looks to curl a shot back in, Outlaw across to claim it safely. Tiffin across to tackle Addison as Swain looks to send her in on the right wing. Outlaw claiming the cross inside her six yard box off the resulting throw.

  Bure Valley looking for a 5th goal late in the match pushing players on Norman joining the attack on the left her looping cross into the area dealt with by Middlemass. Time for one last Beccles attack as the ball is sent on the diagonal out to Sergeant on the right, joined by Wakefield the cross angled in at the near post can be seen safely out of play by Barnes.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies Development 1-4 Bury Valley Ladies

  Bure Valley celebrate at the final whistle winning another 3 points the 2nd placed side keeping the pressure on leaders Stalham Town the gap still 5 points with their title opponents winning 3-2 away to Mundford this afternoon. With a game in hand on Stalham and yet to play them this season, have two crucial games to look forwards too. Bure Valley on top right from the off this afternoon, racing forwards to take the lead inside the opening minute quickly adding a 2nd, Beccles needed a response and Alesha Tuttle provided it pulling it back to 2-1 created chances after that yet Bure Valley carried a threat all game. Beccles wanting to make a positive start to the 2nd half attacking yet they were to fall a further goal behind, Emily Addison scoring on her debut before Macmillan rifled in her 2nd of the match to make it 4-1.   

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. There’s more often than not several contenders, but I’d be lying if that was the case today still some performances of note to mention first. For Beccles, Lola Middlemass made a number of vital challenges at the back limiting Bure Valley’s opportunities from inside the box. Megan Sergeant got forwards well on the right as ready outlet for the hosts throughout the match. Alesha Tuttle looking to make thing’s happen for Beccles got forwards well with some determined running took her goal well. For Bure Valley, Willow Nye was a danger attacking on the left and right, as was Maisie Redgrave playing wide and through the middle 2nd half. Emily Addison making an impact on her debut. Megan Swain strong in the middle tackling and coming forwards with the ball. Today’s award though goes to Bure Valley’s captain Emma Macmillan. Ran the show getting hold of the ball driving forwards creating chances for herself and setting up other, two superb goals.  

 An entertaining contest today between two young talented sides that are only going to get better. Enjoyed my visit over to Beccles, long for a dry game but then so do we all. Good to catch up with both sides, my thanks for all their help today and I will be as intrigued as anyone to see how the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table finishes up. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Mundford FC Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies Development

Sunday 14th Jan

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

A short trip this Sun day to watch a top of the table clash form Norfolk Women’s Division Two. An exciting title race emerging as we enter the 2nd half of the season. 4 sides making a strong start to the season with 3 tied at the top on 24 points, it’s to one of those I travel today, Mundford FC Ladies as they take on 4th placed Beccles Town Ladies Development hot on the heels of the leading trio.

A host of new sides joining the NWGFL this season with Costessey Sports Ladies going straight into Division One and 8 others joining Division Two seeing it grow to 14 sides. A large league with plenty of fixtures to cram into the season, newcomers Bure Valley Women and Mundford FC Ladies hitting the ground running with Stalham Town Ladies relegated from Division One last season all vying for top spot level on points with identical records having played 9, won 8 with just the one defeat. Behind them with games in hand a new look Beccles Town Ladies side undefeated to date having won 6 of their 8 matches played to date. Some big fixtures at the top of the table to come.

 Mundford FC Ladies formed over the summer, joint mangers Rob Johnstone and Dan Ellis recruiting players from the area to compliment the core of players joining from the Thetford Bulldogs playing in Division Two last season. Started the season with a 10-0 away win away to fellow league newcomers Martham FC Ladies with a further 4 wins on the spin to propel them to the top of the league before suffering their only league defeat to date away to fellow title chasers Stalham Town Ladies. Bounced back to win the following 3 league games scoring 19 goals along the away while keeping 3 consecutive clean sheets. Livvi Hodges top scoring so far this season netting 18 goals in 10 matches with Ellen Kerbey on target for 9 goals and Lauren Roberts scoring 8. 

  A new look Beccles Town Ladies to compete in Division Two last season, a new era with Alan Runnacles stepping down as coach, The club loosing a lot of their experienced players as they struggled for points in Division one last season. With a handful of last season’s players left and the club bringing through several of their U16s players they weren’t keen on staying in Division One which was a proposal with the new leagues taking shape this season. With a young squad coaches Konner Carter and Gary Elder going straight into women’s football set up with a new title effectively as Beccles Town Ladies Development.

 A wise call in my opinion having seen how tough life in Division One can be for a young side as others have suffered in the past. That said Beccles have began life in Division Two well, the only undefeated side winning 6 of their 8 matches played including wins against title chasers Bure Valley and Stalham Town Ladies. Have a lot of football to play with just 8 of their proposed 26 games played to date haven’t played for 7 weeks for various reasons and have a busy 2nd half of the season to come. Libby Elder top scorer with 10 goals from 8 matches while Vicky Bloomfield and Alisha Tuttle have 7 each.

 The Glebe, the venue for today’s match home of Mundford FC situated beside the cricket ground just off the A134. For once a game I can travel to in under 20 minutes. The changing rooms situated by the carpark leading out to some grass training pitches with the main grass pitch and stadium further down by the road. Railing all around a small terraced stand behind the dugouts housing a tea hut serving hot drinks. The cold weather blowing in overcast with a few spots of rain in the air with the sun doing it’s best to break through which setting low behind one goal might pose some issues. 

Mundford FC Ladies

 Mundford FC Ladies starting XI – Sharn Thompson, Sophia Price, Kiara Dale, Beth Seymour, Ruby Wilson, Tiff Seymour, Iris Jaggard, Gabi Varanaiciute, Stevie Malkinson, Ellen Kerbey & Lauren Roberts. Subs – Lynn Fuller, Amber Briggs, Jess Todd & Shae Malkinson.

Beccles Town Ladies Development

 Beccles Town Ladies Development starting XI – Annabel Outlaw, Kelly Collins (C), Sally Schug, Lola Middlemass, Evie Bailey, Megan Sergeant, Vicky Bloomfield, Millie Reeve, Libby Elder, Alesha Tuttle & Marie Carter. Subs – Georgia Tiffin, Saffron Jones-Yates, Erica Hansen, Sophie Runnacles & Emily Wilkinson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Kelly Collins and Gabi Varanaiciute with match referee Tom Miles

  Mundford to get the match underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Beccles captained by Kelly Collins who has plenty of experience playing in the NWGFL for both Beccles and Bungay lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black trim, black shorts and socks. The ball played back to Ruby Wilson in defence she sends it long up the right for Stevie Malkinson to attack, Marie Carter clearing for Beccles at the back 

  Evie Bailey gathering the ball in the middle for Beccles getting on the move looking to end it on for Millie Reeve looking to get in behind on the right flank, Mundford captain Gabi Varanaiciute sticking out a timely leg to intercept the ball to prevent Reeve racing clear. Beccles temporally down to 10, someone forgetting (I won’t mention who) to put their shin pads on. Beccles lively in the opening exchanges pressing the ball in the final third Alesha Tuttle up with Evie Bailey top of the D the snapshot flashed in wide of the right post.

  Pushed up Beccles pressing the advantage on Mundford’s goal kicks winning the ball clipped in from the right, Wilson stepping out of the backline to win the challenge clear the ball for the hosts. Mundford yet to get the ball into their opponents half as a Beccles cross from the right is deflected behind for a corner. The in swinging delivery into the six yard box claimed confidently by Mundford goalkeeper, Sharn Thompson. 

  At last Mundford get hold of the ball in the middle and attack with purpose, Ellen Kerbey carrying the ball on before laying on on for Malkinson running clear wide on the right gets her foot over the ball to lift a cross in towards the near side of the Beccles goal, Lauren Roberts trying to adjust to get her head to the ball as it drops slightly behind her, the chance gone as the Beccles defence scramble it away for a throw. Beccles winning a series of throws up the left side of the pitch win a free-kick inside the Mundford half, wide to the left a good way out midfielder Vicky Bloomfield over it goes for goal, not a bad strike plenty of power behind the ball just too high as it flies over Thompson’s crossbar. 

Beccles midfielder, Vicky Bloomfield

  Iris Jaggard getting hold of the ball for Mundford in the middle linking up with Kerbey the ball forwards for Malkinson breaking on the right pace to get herself ahead of the Beccles defence, lets fly from all of 30 yards out, a low strike racing into the near post, Beccles goalkeeper Annabel Outlaw has her angles covered gets down to see the ball into her body. Both sides looking to get rid of the ball getting players turned run at the defence.

  A hopeful clearance from the Beccles defence sees the ball launched forwards with Libby Elder looking to break clear race after it into the box, Thompson though alert out to the top of her area quickly to get to the ball first. Roberts playing the ball into Malkinson’s path 30 yards out from goal, takes a wicked bobble as she goes to strike it, half catching the ball her shot swerves well wide of Outlaw’s left post. After a slow start Mundford are gathering a head of steam building through the middle looking to get players forwards en masse.

  Mundford’s turn to capitalise from a poor goal kick won on the right by Roberts has Malkinson up with her tracking wide to cross the ball back into the area a vital interception by Collins to clear the ball for the visitors. The Beccles defence pushed up Mundford regain possession central look to turn play around lifted on for Roberts driving on through the middle, Lola Middlemass racing back with her doing the defending prodding the ball back to her keeper Outlaw to clear.

Beccles Lola Middlemass

  The game even now Beccles making a change bringing Cater off on comes, Sophie Runnacles. Middlemass back to defend inside the box for Beccles as Malkinson attacks down the right the cross put behind for a corner kick. Lifted in towards Kerbey coming towards the ball from the near post knocked up into the air, Beccles rush in to try and scramble the ball away falls to Malkinson outside the area to the right of goal, strikes the ball her shot racing wide of the far post.

Mundford’s Ellen Kerbey

  Beccles clearances from the back looking a promising form of attack as they turn the Mundford defence caught high, Elder right channel after the ball, Beth Seymour recovering well for the hosts getting back at Elder to slide in with the tackle the ball deflected off Elder for the goal kick. Reeve attacking with the ball on Beccles right wing squares a cross in towards to D, the foul won to the right of goal as Elder is brought down 20 yards out. Bloomfield over the set-piece, over cooks it this time sending the shot high over the bar.

Beccles, Libby Elder

 Emily Wilkinson coming on at the back for Beccles, replacing Reeve. The game a more even contest now, Mundford with more possession central pushing players on, Beccles lively capable of launching a quick counter. Kerbey’s run clear on the left side halted by the offside flag, as Jaggard plays the ball through to her, a very tight call. Jaggard fouling Bloomfield 25 yards out from goal as she looks to shift the ball onto her right foot to shoot. Bloomfield picking herself up to take the free-kick strikes it wide of goal.

  Mundford come through the middle, Tiff Seymour with Roberts threaded through to Kerbey pulling off the Beccles defence into the area left of the D aiming to send her low shot back across the keeper, Outlaw get down smartly to make the save. Mundford pressing the attack getting players up to press the ball high, Malkinson from the angle right of the box flashing a shot wide across goal.

Beccles goalkeeper, Annabel Outlaw

  Beccles making another switch sending Saffron Jones-Yates on replacing Elder. Outlaw with an unorthodox save with her legs as she throws herself forwards to stop the cross from Malkinson chipped in from the right. Collins does well at the back for Beccles tackling Roberts as the striker turns to attack drive at the box from 25 yards out as she receives the off a throw from the left. Roberts in again to attack the area central as she runs onto a through ball, Wilkinson racing back with her the defender seeing Roberts shoot over.

   Mundford strong as they advance through the middle the ball lifted out to Malkinson on the right her cross lifted into the area, Middlemass tracking back well there to intercept the ball ahead of Roberts lining up to attack the ball. Beth Seymour rushing across to tackle Jones-Yates in the box as she breaks into the area from the right a strong challenge as Jones-Yates goes over but well timed no penalty.

  Bailey coming out to the right for Beccles whipping a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Beth Seymour cutting it out at the near post behind for a corner. Played in towards the top of the area, Beccles lose possession Mundford countering, Middlemass tracking back to defend conceding a corner up the other end. Beccles with a player down needing treatment as Mundford make a change bringing of Varanaiciute for Jessica Todd. Swung in near side Outlaw comes for the ball and misses it, falls unexpectedly at Kerbey’s feet, little time to adjust, knocks it into Todd in close proximity who fires over from close range. 

  Elder back on for Beccles, races forwards to attack the ball right channel, Kiara Dale coming across to slide in clear the threat for the hosts. Jaggard coming off for Mundford with Lynn Fuller entering the game. The clock ticking down in the first half a competitive tussle Beccles bringing Reeve back on for Sergeant. Bailey on the right for Beccles up with Tuttle who shoots over from 25 yards out. Beccles finding some extra energy late in the half pressing forwards Bailey winning a free-kick inside the Mundford half to the right, Bloomfield to float the ball in towards the top of the area the shot taken from the left of the D blasted wide across goal.

Sally Schug clearing the ball for Beccles

  Into stoppage time, Dale winning the ball at the back for Mundford carrying it forwards before threading a great ball through the middle for Roberts to attack racing on towards the area Collins tracking back with her the striker looks to chip the ball over the keeper, not enough on it however as Outlaw standing tall plucks the ball down to make the save. 

Lauren Roberts seeing her stoppage time shot saved by the goalkeeper.

  GOAL! Deep into first half stoppage time Mundford coming away with the ball wide left on halfway knocked forwards into Roberts up top runs onto the ball left of goal into the box, Collins going with her the attacker makes no mistake this time as she goes to chip the keeper, Outlaw agonisingly getting her fingertips to it but not enough to stop the ball traveling beyond her into the back of the net 1-0.

Lauren Roberts opens the scoring for Mundford right at the end of the first half.

  Half-time Mundford FC Ladies 1-0 Beccles Town Ladies Development

  Mundford with the goal late in the first half to go into the half-time interval leading the game. Finishing the half strong after an unsettled start that saw Beccles press the advantage in the opening exchanges putting pressure on the ball in the final 3rd. Took their foot off the gas to allow Mundford to gain some momentum with some strong runs through the middle the hosts creating a few opportunities while Beccles defended well at the back looking a threat on the counter with a couple of half chances themselves. A blow to concede so late in the half some adjustments to be made at the break to get themselves back into the match, a single goal in it still very much all to play for.

  Georgie Tiffin coming on for Beccles at the start of the 2nd half with a quick turn around with both sides staying out on the pitch during the break. Beccles to get the 2nd half underway the promise of a little sun having gone the cloud cover firmly in place the ball clipped long out to the right bouncing on sees Bailey spin in behind looking to get after the ball into the box, Thompson rushing out to the corner of her area sliding in well to make the blocking save.

Mundford goalkeeper Sharn Thompson

 Malkinson bringing the ball out to the right for Mundford winning a free-kick. The ball chipped into the near post, dealt with by Outlaw. 

Stevie Malkinson taking the ball on for Mundford

  GOAL! The Mundford backline pushed up to half way as Beth Seymour gets hold of the ball surges forwards before knocking it wide to Malkinson, continuing her run pointing to Malkinson to lift the ball over the top as she powers in behind the Beccles defence running onto the pass taking the ball wide down to the by-line running out of room wraps her foot around the ball as she slides onto it sending a venomous ball past the keeper into the goal beyond to double Mundford’s lead 2-0.

Beth Seymour breaking forwards to score Mundford’s 2nd goal

 Beccles quickly conceding a 2nd goal early in the 2nd half look for a reply Tuttle holding onto the ball as she brings it on central played on for Reeve, who crosses the ball in towards, Jones-Yates top of the D, Tiff Seymour stepping in to cut the pass out clear for Mundford. Tuttle making some useful runs with the ball for Beccles driving on into the right channel tackled by Mundford’s Fuller. 

Alesha Tuttle on the attack for Beccles

 Beth Seymour covering a lot of ground at the back for Mundford coming across to tackle Reeve as she attacks with the ball left corner, taking it out for a throw in. Mundford imposing themselves on the game getting after the ball. Sergeant returning to the action for the visitors replacing Reeve. Bailey on the right with Sergeant who knocks the ball forwards a little too much on it but does well to pressure the defence win a corner kick. The in swinging ball flashed across the face of goal through every one Bloomfield lunging at it far post but can’t turn it home as it goes out for a goal kick.

  Tiff Seymour with the ball at her feet bringing it on through the middle laying it out to Malkinson moving right looking to turn into the box, Middlemass getting back to challenge stabbing the ball behind for a corner. Beccles frustrated a Tuttle looking to evade Tiff Seymour as she looks to get away on the right gives away the free-kick the bench unhappy with the decision. Tempers flaring between the coaches as Dale comes in with a strong challenge winning the ball between the dugouts a few words exchanged the referee looking to calm thing’s down, Malkinson however says one thing too many and as a consequence is shown the yellow card and sent to the sin bin.

  Mundford down to 10 players for the next 10 minutes. Beccles making a change bringing Wilkinson back on for Hansen. Beccles need to settle if they are to try and press the player advantage however they give away a free-kick inside their own half to the left of the centre circle, the ball angled n towards goal dipping in front of the keeper, Outlaw does well to save getting down to punch the ball away to her right, the ball cleared.

 The hosts winning another free-kick wide on the right, struck in towards the far post Todd 10 yards out knocking the ball up back in towards goal Roberts going up for it with the keeper, fouling Outlaw as she gets her gloves on the falling ball. Amber Briggs coming on for Mundford replacing Todd. The game scrappy the ball pinging about in the middle of the park. Beccles bringing Elder back on for Tiffin. 

  Beccles getting players forwards, Bailey out on the right laying the ball back for Sergeant to cross in near post Collins bringing the ball down turning to send her strike over the bar. Malkinson’s 10 minutes up she returns to the game Mundford back up to their full compliment.

  Beccles winning a corner on the right played short into Tuttle, looks to turn inside but is closed down by Price the ball cleared. Malkinson coming off now with Varanaiciute back on. 

 Beccles applying some pressure as Mundford drop back into their area playing the ball across the area Tuttle lively looking to make something happen the ball struck wide from 20 yards out. Wilson playing the ball long from the back helped on through the middle for Kerbey pulling left with Roberts the back cut back into the middle for Tiff Seymour getting up to join the attack, Middlemass out to close her down for Beccles.

  Mundford attacking left price on for Roberts to turn and strike the ball on the angle racing in low to the near post, Outlaw behind the shot to make the comfortable save. A free-kick for Beccles a good 40 yards out, Bloomfield can get some power behind the ball as she tries her luck from range the ball running wide of Thompson’s left post. The game moving into the final 10 minutes, Beccles pushing on trying to find an opening Mundford settled at the back working well together to limit openings.

  Tuttle evading a challenge wide on the left taking the ball on for Beccles Hansen back on ahead of her crossing inside for Wilkinson top of the area left of the D looks to play it forwards for Elder, Beth Seymour though can get across the path of the ball to shield it out safely for a goal kick.

 Play stopped Beccles having had a player go down unexpectedly off the ball, concern as she lays unmoving as teammates and coaches rush onto the pitch. Appears to have fainted a pause in play as she is accessed and eventually helped of the pitch carried to the bench somewhat groggy, hoping it’s nothing too serious as play resumes Beccles bringing Runnacles and Reeve back on, Hansen also coming off. Mundford bringing Shae Malkinson on for Briggs.

Kiara Dale dealing with the ball at the back for Mundford

  The clock ticking down Beccles pushing on a little disjointed with players out of position as they look to pressure the Mundford defence late on try and take something from the game. Sergeant getting hold of the ball 25 yards out driving on into the area, Beth Seymour stretching to tackle her winning the ball. Launched up to Roberts has Kerbey up in support as they look to keep the ball in their opponents half with the referee signalling the game has entered stoppage time. 

 Tuttle running onto the ball played out to the right inside looking for Elder, Wilson challenging to clear the ball for Mundford as the final whistle blows and Mundford celebrate winning the 3 points. The result taking them 3 points clear of 3rd placed Stalham Town who were in county cup action this afternoon, remain neck and neck with Bure Valley Women who won 1-0 away to SWFC Lingwood Ladies. 

Full time Mundford FC Ladies 2-0 Beccles Town Ladies Development

  Two goals either side of half-time the difference between the sides in the finish. Mundford recovering after a slow start to create opportunities in the first half. Lauren Roberts played trough into the box to score in first half stoppage time and despite goalkeeper Sharn Thompson being called into action early in the 2nd half Beth Seymour broke forwards to score a wonderful goal to put the hosts 2-0 early in the 2nd half. Mundford settled back then comfortable defending their lead working hard to ensure a 4th consecutive clean sheet. Beccles frustrated as they suffer their first league defeat despite a strong start to the game and some promising attacks didn’t really get at Mundford 2nd half and will be looking to put things right next weekend as they host Mundford in the return fixture. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. Rarely an easy decision although I did have a strong favourite in mind as I left the ground today and the notes only confirm that. Several strong performances to mention first though. For Beccles. Alesha Tuttle was good in attack making some strong runs with the ball looking to take the game to Mundford bring her teammates into contention. Emily Wilkinson and Kelly Collins making some vital challenges at the back getting back to win the ball. Lola Middlemass superb covering the ground in the middle and getting back to help the defence. For Mundford, Lauren Roberts made some great attacking runs strong on and off the ball scoring the opening goal. Stevie Malkinson providing a great outlet attacking down the right flank. The back line strong, Ruby Wilson and Kiara Dale with some great interception and tackles the award though goes to Beth Seymour was strong at the back getting back to make some well timed tackles covering the ground well the icing on the cake her burst forwards to score the 2nd goal. 

 Great to catch a top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division Two remains an exciting title race. My first look at both sides in competitive action and both look in great shape. Mundford with a good setup with a decent squad. Beccles with plenty of youthful talent in their ranks too will only get better as they grow as a team. My thanks to both for their help today and wishing Beccles poorly player all the best for a speedy recovery

by Darren Gilham