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Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 28th September

FAWNL League Cup

Heading to St Neots this Sunday to catch some action from the FAWNL League Cup, a new format for the competition this season with the Determining Round that traditionally opened the competition being replaced with a group stage, I’ll explain it all in short order. Today’s game group Group L with Cambridge United WFC taking on Norwich City Women, both flying high in South East Division One have it all to play for in the League Cup.

The Determining Round the opening round of fixtures in the FAWNL in previous seasons was a straight forward one of game with the sides drawn together, the winners progressing onto the League Cup itself the losing sides entering the League Plate. A new format this season with the sides across all 6 divisions cross tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid, the FAWNL along with sides from the WSL Academy’s drawn into 22 groups of 4, regionally to play each other once, the 22 group winners plus 10 best runners-up then going onto compete in the knock-out stages of the League Cup. The other 12 runners-up, plus 2 third placed sides going onto compete in the knock-out stages of the League Plate.

Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women drawn into Group L alongside Midlands Division One side, Peterborough United Women and Real Bedford Women newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division. Playing each other once Real Bedford Women have won both there matches to lead the group are are likely to progress to the Cup itself. Peterborough have lost their opening two fixtures and have it all to do against Real Bedford if they are to stay in the competition. That leaves Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women to fight it out for runners-up spot most likely, Cambridge edging that on goals scored both need to win to have the best chance of being one of the 10 best runners-up.

Group L

Pos	Team	Pl	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Real Bedford Women	2	2	0	0	4	1	3	6
2	Cambridge United WFC	2	1	0	1	3	3	0	3
3	Norwich City Women	2	1	0	1	2	2	0	3
4	Peterborough United Women	2	0	0	2	1	4	-3	0

Cambridge United WFC reaching the final of the League Plate a couple of season’s ago changing their manager over the close season with Sean Greygoose stepping up from coaching the U18s to lead the 1st team. A few changes in playing personnel, the club have recruited well bringing on some useful experience to enhance the squad, most notably bringing in attacker Jade Bell from Northampton Town Women scoring 36 goals last season help Northampton finished runners-up in Midlands Division One, has hit the ground running at Cambridge scoring 7 goals in 7 matches. Kim Farrow and Mia Richards also recruited from Northampton bagging 3 goals each too. Starting the season with an opening day defeat to newly promoted Fulham followed by a narrow cup lost to Real Bedford have since won 5 on the bounce in league and cup climbing to 3rd in the table.

Norwich City Women’s main aim is to win the South East Division One title and clinch promotion to the 3rd tier. Know it isn’t an easy task and finishing runners-up for the past couple of season’s are doing all they can on and off the pitch to find that extra crucial yard. Victory at high flying London Bees last weekend saw them climb to 2nd in the table with an identical record to 3rd placed Cambridge setting both up nicely for this afternoon’s cup clash. Signing a number of players up to professional contracts for the 1st time in the clubs history. A strong group of talented young players with a few experienced heads have bolstered their numbers bringing in, the likes of attacker, Eloise Hall from Spurs Academy. Evie Williams played in defence for Ipswich, goalkeeper, Holly Mears comes form Notts Forest Academy. Grace Riglar with good Championship experience playing for Blackburn. And finally Eloise Page most recently with Billericay, used to terrorise Norwich during her time with Ipswich.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s encounter, the way into the town an ever changing construction site with major works going on redeveloping the area. The stadium itself in a built up area boasting a main grass pitch and 3G beside. Viewing all round with a covered seated stand beside the pitch beyond the clubhouse the bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drink. Raining prior to kick-off not forecast to last the game to be played under bright sunny conditions.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Tally Milles, Lauren Tomlinson, Abbie Jackson, Zoe Wood (C), Mia Richards, Shannon Shaw, Jade Bell & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Sophie Shults, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Josephine Jarvis, Lauren Cullum, Becca Stephenson, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner & Alysia Stojko-Down.

Cambridge United WFC

Norwich City Women starting XI – Holly Mears, Ellie Bishop, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss (C), Evie Williams, Izzy Moore, Sienna Booty, Lauren Hailes, Lara Densley, Poppy Francis & Eloise Hall. Subs – Sarah Quantrill, Holly Kennard, Olivia Cook, Freya Symonds, Natasha Snelling & Drew Wilson.

Norwich City Women

Both sides with good competition on their squad naming strong benches to support the starting XI. Norwich bringing good numbers to support their side a good atmosphere at the ground. The sun emerging as the sides enter the pitch ready for kick-off.

Captain’s Hope Strauss and Zoe Wood with today’s match officials

Cambridge will kick-off the first 45 wearing their amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Norwich in their away colours pink patterned shirts with marron shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to Sammy Edgar in midfield she sends it long into the left channel looking for Mollie Coupar in attack the ball dealt with by Norwich captain Hope Strauss heading the ball away to the left for a throw in.

Cambridge looking to press early on get after the Norwich defence in the final third winning a free-kick out on the left, angled in towards the area, Ceri Flye dealing with it for the visitors, the pressure stays on Cambridge no having the services of long throw specialist, Lauren Tomlinson, at Norwich prior to joining Cambridge they know all about the threat it can pose, the ball into Shannon Shaw inside the box left side hooks it out to the top of the area, Jade Bell looking to bring it down release a shot won’t sit for her before Norwich move in to close her down.

Cambridge continue to press high captain Zoe Wood getting the ball into Bell right channel out to Coupar on the flank, drives on, Ellie Bishop lunging to block her cross the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Swung into the near post cut out behind for a 2nd corner. This delivery sent long across the face of goal, defender Abbie Jackson rising at the far post can’t quite get her head on the ball to make an attempt on goal.

Abbie Jackson heads clear for Cambridge

Norwich having to work hard early on ride out some intense Cambridge pressure, Izzy Moore getting hold of the ball the visitors turn on the counter attack break forwards with pace the ball threaded into Poppy Francis’ path on the right takes the ball on, angling the cross in central, Jackson stretching out a leg to cut the ball out for Cambridge, however the flag is raised for an offside in the middle.

Izzy Moore

Sienna Booty getting hold of the ball for the visitors playing it on for Lara Densley left side has support from Lauren Hailes with Bishops surging on on the overlap to the by-line the cross lifted up to the near post, goalkeeper Lauren Webb claiming it high above her head for Cambridge. The cup tie has a derby feel about it both sides getting stuck in after the ball. Cambridge’s turn to break the ball on the right Mia Richards on for Bell taking it on to the by-line flashes a cross in along the face of the Norwich goal, Coupar throwing herself at the ball far post can’t get a telling touch.

Jackson up to defend a Norwich free-kick flung into the top of the area from the half way line. Both sides hounding the ball in the middle, often popping about skips forwards for Norwich an awkward ball for the Cambridge defence pushed up to try and dealt with Densley rushing in to dispossess, Lauren Rouse runs in behind, closing in on the box right side releases her shot early pulling it wide of the near post.

Lara Densley

Norwich winning a corner on the right as Hailes looks to take the ball on from Bishop. The referee delaying the kick to have a word with the melee of players gathering in a cluster looking to attack. Curled into the near post, Tally Milles turning it behind for a 2nd corner. Lifted high into the six yard box, defender Evie Williams pulling off her marker round the back rising to meet the ball with her head lifting her effort over the bar.

Norwich coming back at Cambridge strong getting the ball into Hailes and Densley making some good runs into the channels, Densley winning a corner on the right. Players up from the back the ball put into the mix top of the box falls to half clear comes out to Flye wide right to cross the ball back in from the top corner of the box, Moore meeting it in the middle her strike blocked by Jackson for Cambridge. Norwich keep players up in the final word press to regain the ball fed into the right wing Flye taking it on her cross cut out by Jackson inside the box.

GOAL! Cambridge are in trouble struggling to get the ball out of their area, Booty snatching hold of the ball for the visitors, lays it back into the area cut out is presented straight to Flye positioned inside the box left of the D, lines up her shot striking the ball back in from 18 yards low through legs, the diving keeper seeing it late past her into the bottom corner 0-1.

Norwich celebrate as Ceri Flye fires them into the lead

Norwich taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour, getting numbers forward to press and create the opportunity. Cambridge looking a little unsettled Edgar coming left as they look to regroup sends the ball on up the flank for Bell to take forwards cuts her cross square into the area left of goal, Coupar attacking it wrong footing her marker to give herself an opening to shoot, Norwich keeper, Holly Mears making a great save off of her legs as she comes to close the angle.

Norwich goalkeeper, Holly Mears

Hall on the attack driving on with the ball left side for Norwich angles a cross-field ball into Densley up top central holding it up attempts to play the cross into the far post with Hall powering on, Cambridge appealing for offside, Hall dragging her shot wide of the post. Both sides crunching in with some strong tackles free-kicks given away the game allowed to flow for the most part, Edgar picking up a heavy knock. Shaw seeing the ball into her feet inside the Norwich half hooking it on on the turn high into the area, Mears taking it down well into her gloves with Bell rushing in to close her down.

Norwich look a real threat from the counter break well as a unit, Hall given the ball from Booty surges down the right on for Francis, getting past one defender, but not the 2nd as Tomlinson on the cover behind Jackson cuts out her cross. Wood coming right with the ball for Cambridge launched up the wing into Bell her cross headed clear by Strauss inside the box. Hall with a strong challenge on Edgar little quarter being given.

Densley shifting the ball between her feet coming in off the left wing for Norwich into the top of the area letting loose a strike angled in low on goal Webb down sharply to save, gloves out to stop the ball does quite get hold of it, Tomlinson round on the cover well clearing off the line.

Cambridge captain, Zoe Wood

Lively as Moore finds Hall on the right pushing on for Norwich sending it one for Densley moving into the right channel her cross into the top of the area sees Hailes running onto the ball, Webb rushing out to close her down sliding in well to make the blocking save as she pulls the trigger.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Norwich fluid through the middle, Moore and Booty getting stuck in after the ball, players making good runs ahead of them. Densley taking it on looking for Hall up top through the middle, Webb out to the top of her area to deal with the threat for Cambridge. Densley’s shoots wide as she id flagged offside as Francis sends the ball into her from the right.

Norwich’s Sienna Booty

Miles putting the ball on for Richards on Cambridge’s right, wins a corner of Bishop as the defender lunges in to challenge. The delivery curled in on the keeper central, Norwich manage to get it clear to the top of the area, Bell collecting it moving it between her feet sending a shot in looking for the top left corner her attempt narrowly wide.

Edgar picking up another heavy knock, needing treatment, a chance for both benches to get their players over to the side-lines take on some fluids and instruction. Up on her feet feeling the knock Edgar is okay to play on. Moving into the final 10 minutes of a fast paced first half Norwich on the ball left side sending a cross into the area from deep, Hall throwing herself at it can’t get a touch as it flies across the face of goal. The visitors retrieve on the right the ball cut back to the top of the area Moore latching onto it her looping effort dipping just over the crossbar onto the roof of the net.

Miles sending a cross from a deep position on the right into the Norwich box, Coupar central can’t quite get her head onto it as Flye clears. Norwich remain a threat on the counter attack, Booty on for Francis right side level with the top of the area squares the ball inside to Hailes on the corner of the Cambridge area, release her shot angling in to the far post, inches wide, had Hall poked her foot at it she would surely have scored coming in behind the defence.

Lauren Hailes

Tomlinson with a throw high on the left for Cambridge into Bell at the near post, turned behind by the defence for a corner kick. A good delivery into the box from the left Shaw rising high centrally heading the ball back down towards goal aiming for the left post, Mears scrambling across her line snatching it up into her gloves before Rouse closing in can divert it home.

Into the closing stages of the first half both sides creating chances, Edgar into Shaw, looking for Bell right channel, Williams closing her down. Shaw given the ball in a central position puts it on for Bell has Coupar to her right, she angles the ball on for Richards wide right, drives on Bishop closing her down, wins the ball, Richards stays on her the pair tussling, Richards winning a corner kick.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

An intense first 45 minutes comes to an end with Norwich holding a narrow advantage, Ceri Flye’s 13th minute strike the difference between the sides. Very much has a derby feel about the cup tie, both sides putting in some robust challenges looking to keep the ball moving and press in numbers. Both keepers called into action with some vital tackles too, chances for both, all to play for 2nd half.

Neither side making any changes at the start of the 2nd half as Norwich get the game restarted. The ball played back into the middle, Cambridge move in fast to close the ball down put the visitors under pressure, looking to release it into the left channel, Strauss into defend for Norwich on Coupar heading the ball out for a throw in. Cambridge working the ball into the top of their opponents area, Flye clearing it for Norwich.

Norwich captain, Hope Strauss

Booty coming no with the ball combines with Densley on the left for Norwich getting up the pitch, Miles into close the ball down putting it out for a throw in. Strauss defending for Norwich getting the ball back to her keeper, as Bell hooks the ball on for Coupar up top. Norwich break the ball played out to the left Hall, up with Francis the shot drilled into the side netting.

Norwich’s Eloise Hall

Free-kicks continue to be given away, Cambridge awarded one on the half way line on the left, Tomlinson told to move the ball back as Norwich vocalise their objections to where it is being taken. Both sides are up for it, clipped long into the top of the area, Booty winning it to clear for Norwich. Some good individual battles all over the pitch, Richards and Hailes just one example the latter coming off 2nd best as both challenge for the ball, hurt play is stopped, but time is taken to recover she is up back on her feet.

Mia Richards battling for possession with Lauren Hailes

Cambridge looking to push players on better in the 2nd half looking to get at the Norwich back line a back pass, sliced by the keeper behind for a corner kick. Played into the near post Norwich don’t get it clear Cambridge with numbers up around the ball hooked out to the right, Jackson looking to hold it up does well to buy the free-kick off Bishop.

The set-piece driven into the box, defended turned behind for a corner kick.. Cambridge applying good pressure themselves now. Curled into the six yard box, defended, Mears getting hold of the ball. Densley with a late tackle on Miles. Bishop bringing the ball on left side with a long cross-field pass into Francis pushing on right side onto the by-line stands her cross up into the six yard box, Rouse launching it clear for Norwich.

Cambridge frustrated as they attack, play stopped for an injury Strauss with a blow to the head in the build up needs to be assessed, but thankfully is up okay and comes over to the side-lines to wait to be called back on. Cambridge with a drop ball in the centre circle Edgar into the left, Cambridge with a throw, Moore clearing for Norwich as the ball is helped on into the top of the area, comes out to the right Miles attacking it driving the ball low back into the mix, Norwich with plenty back to block.

Strauss into challenge Coupar as she shapes to shoot as she receives the ball of of a throw in on the left. Flye picking out Bishop moving forwards on the left sends the ball in central, Moore picking it up shaping to shoot from range, Wood charging the ball down for Cambridge.

Ceri Flye

Cambridge pushing hard for a goal to draw the tie level, the ball played into Shaw 25 yards out moves inside from the left and pulls the trigger a wonderful strike beating the diving keeper, cannons down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Bell closing in on the follow up seeing it land at her feet skipping up off the turf tries to direct the ball wide of the grounded keeper, throws her head into her hands as the ball runs wide of the left post!

Cambridge attacker, Jade Bell

Norwich mount an attack on the right Densley running with the ball shooting on the angle, Webb down behind it to save at her near post, beat the ball away, her defence launching it to safety. Cambridge making the first change of the match in the 63rd minute bringing on Alysia Stojko-Down to replace Shaw. Tomlinson powering forwards for Cambridge on the left playing the ball on for Coupar down the line her cross/shot wide at the near post.

Mollie Coupar

Bell getting hold of the ball for Cambridge left side 20 yards out does well to keep possession holding off a challenge to squeeze the ball into the area for Coupar pulling free at the back post goes to send her strike back across goal, Mears saving well beating the ball down and claiming it. Bishop winning the clearance for Norwich as Cambridge win yet another free-kick on half-way.

Norwich making a double change bringing off Moore and Hall on come Natasha Snelling and Drew Wilson. Cambridge hit Norwich with a counter, Stojko-Down into Coupar left plays in forwards for Bell, Williams getting across to defend for Norwich sending the ball out for a throw. The chances mounting for Cambridge, Tomlinson’s throw into the near post defended out to the top of the box Cambridge snapping in to keep it alive comes to Richards free to the right of the D, unleashes a shrike from outside the box in across the keeper, strikes the inside of the left post flies across the face of goal, somehow missing Mears and cannons off the right, straight into the gloves of the keeper, who falls smothering the ball, needing to catch her breath!

Mia Richards seeing her shot cannon off both posts before being claimed by the grateful keeper

Norwich are looking to slow the game down, Cambridge still snapping after the ball, free-kicks given away. Miles with a high ball into the area from the right caught by Mears central. Bell gathering the ball into her feet centrally for Cambridge on the move taking on Strauss, getting in behind, Flye is around well in support to tackle halt the attack. Both sides making a change, Freya Symonds into the action for Norwich replacing Hailes, Edgar off for Cambridge with Becca Stephenson as the game moves into the final 15 minutes.

Norwich well drilled absorbing alot of pressure from Cambridge, not overly committing going forwards. Symonds adding a new threat into the action straight away winning a corner kick. Swung in from the right, Stojko-Down doing the defending at the near post for Cambridge. Norwich with the ball Francis seeing her cross on the right deflected behind off Tomlinson for a corner kick. Lifted in deeper, Rouse defending it for Cambridge.

Cleared up to Bell, she is pulled down by Bishop the defender earning the first yellow card of the game. The free-kick coming to nothing, Norwich build through the middle Booty on for Snelling who is pulled down by Rouse midway inside the Cambridge half. Symonds over the set-piece goes for goal her effort well over.

The clock ticking down little time left for Cambridge to find a leveller, Norwich with fresh legs on the pitch looking to extend the lead. Both benches unhappy with the decisions, Wood the latest player to be hauled down, no card shown. On half way the ball up into the box turned behind for a corner kick. Played into the box from the left comes on to Richards at the far post rising looks to head the ball back in across goal, on target, Williams is there back on the line to head the ball away for the visitors.

Evie Williams on hand to head Mia Richards header off the line

Symonds clears the ball out of the ground all the way onto the railway tracks, a high speed train roared through 30 seconds later so Cambridge may never see it again. Into the final 5 minutes another switch for both sides Miles off for Cambridge Lauren Cullum coming on for her first team debut. Densley being replaced by Norwich with Olivia Cook coming on. A long throw from Norwich high on the right Symonds inside the box back for Francis to put the cross in Snelling nodding it down into Wilson top of the area she puts her foot through the ball striking over the bar.

Not long left and little stoppage time signalled much to Cambridge’s amazement, Norwich sending on Holly Kennard to replace Francis. Wood putting the ball on for Richards who has a pop from range her shot over the bar. Williams leaning into Bell, seeing Cambridge awarded a free-kick wide on the right one last chance to throw players forwards. Stephenson brings it down near side wins her side a throw in the corner, Richards heading it on at the near post Snelling snatching it clear, the ball fired back into the mix, Norwich clear their lines and celebrate as the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

Cambridge pushing hard for a reply in the 2nd half seeing the woodwork struck three times, a draw a fair result however Ceri Flye’s first half strike was enough for Norwich to go on an clinch victory were made to work for it but put in a shift to get the result finish 2nd in their group, enough to progress to the Cup itself I haven’t time to analyse all 22 groups now to work it all out 6 points puts you in with a good shout however. Either way Cambridge finish third and won’t be that upset to go on and compete for the Plate this new format may well favour them. Both will fancy their chances of progress either way. An entertaining game felt like a derby all action robust but in good spirit both riding high in the league the improvement from both is there to see, Norwich now with professional players and you can see the difference.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, it’s another tough one but most of the time they usually are. Good performances from both sides a collective effort in both ranks. Several to mention firstly for Cambridge, Abbie Jackson was strong at the back winning a number of vital challenges got stuck in. Zoe Wood in the middle covered the ground trying to link up play get the ball into the attackers. Mollie Coupar with some good positioning getting into the channels ready for the ball. Mia Richards unlucky not to score worked hard to win the ball got forwards well. Jade Bell lively finding space taking the ball on always looking for an opportunity to score. Norwich with a disciplined performance. Evie Williams strong at the back winning the ball, Ceri Flye getting about the park to win the ball got forwards well to when needed scoring the all important winning goal. Lara Densley and Lauren Hailes moved the ball well creating openings kept Norwich on the front foot for good spells. Izzy Moore in midfield won the ball well back to defend and used it well coming forwards the award goes to Sienna Booty like Moore got about the midfield to win the ball helped drive Norwich forwards and played some great balls forward.

Was all set up to be a thrilling game by two sides in good form and didn’t disappoint, the action rarely let up, two committed sides. Both going strong in the league will fancy their chances of going deep into the cup competitions too, the FA Cup up next, Norwich at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Hutton Women. Cambridge likewise taking on ERWFL Premier Division opposition too away to Atletico London, formerly London Seaward FC. For once I didn’t need to chase down a team sheet once out of 621 games.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 24th August

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading to St Neots this Sunday for my first slice of FAWNL action of the season, from South East Division One, representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid with Cambridge United WFC hosting newly promoted, Luton Town Ladies.

The FAWNL, growing year on year and the pressure on the clubs to compete and grow within it getting stronger as the FA looks to push for clubs further down the pyramid to strengthen their women’s sections the ultimate aim to get clubs within tiers 3 and 4 of the game to take on a fully professional model. I think we’re a few years off that especially tier 4 but no doubt it’s ever more competitive.

Cambridge United WFC are one of the stalwarts of tier 4, playing in the league way back in the old Combination league days right up to the FAWNL as it is now, would dearly love to win promotion and get into tier 3 and in recent seasons have garnered closer links with Cambridge United FC themselves, creating a women’s board at the club. A new era for Cambridge United WFC with the departure of manager, Darren Marjoram after 4 season’s in charge. Also departing the club Liz Pamplin with 25 years service as player and coach and everything else, a big miss, but remains on the women’s board. Sean Greygoose taking over as 1st team manager, having been looking after the U18s side previously along with a spell as assistant coach under different management, is joined by coaches Ben Yeomans and Sam Carrington in the dugout.

A new era, but a relatively stable base to build on, several player departures over the close season, but so too new arrivals brought in a busy summer of recruitment within the club as they prepare for a new season. Midfielder, Zoe Wood returns to the club after a season out during her pregnancy. With another 7 new faces joining the squad. Full back, Lauren Tomlinson joining after a couple of season’s with league rivals Norwich City Women, Shannon Shaw to joining Tomlinson from Norwich both proving themselves at the top end of the league looknig to propel Cambridge forwards. Defender, Tally Miles joining Cambridge having previously played for Royston Town Women and MK Dons Women. Josie Jarvis has been playing her football out in the states for the past 4 seasons. With a trio of players joining from Northampton Town Women who finished 2nd in Midlands Division One last season, largely helped by the goal scoring prowess of Kim Farrow and Jade Bell scoring 53 goals between them, Farrow, with experience too playing for MK Dons netting 17 goals with Bell who had a brief spell at Cambridge before, netting 36! Mia Richards also joining from Northampton scoring twice in Cambridge’s final pre-season game with Billericay. Retain the services of last season’s top scorer, Bella Simmons who scored 14 goals, a 9th place finish last time out but clinched silverware winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Luton Town Ladies are back in the FAWNL, winning the double in the ERWFL to clinch promotion after a 6 season absence. With a single promotion spot available in the ERWFL getting out of the league takes alot of effort, Luton building momentum over the past couple of season’s enjoying some great runs in the FA Women’s Cup along the way, easing their way too top spot in the finish winning 20 of their 22 matches played as well as clinching the League Cup. That success to a large degree helped by Natasha Fensome’s goals netting 32 last season, Luton retaining hr services as they return to the FAWNL.

Haven’t sat on their laurels either, FAWNL South East Division One a much different and far more competitive league to the one they left behind have been busy off the pitch with player recruitment bringing in 11 new signings to compete at this level and have brought in 11 new faces many with useful experience playing at this level. Striker, Amy McLean their first signing joining from Bedfordshire rivals Real Bedford Women, Emily Wilson previously with Luton’s U18s also re-joining the club from Real Bedford. Summer Gayle also added to the attacking options coming in from Ashford Town. Taylor O’Leary is a midfielder with a wealth of experience to enhance the squad. Another midfielder moving to Luton is Janaye Beaufort. Ellie Sergeant is another player returning to Luton. Goalkeeper, Nicole Mulling was at QPR for the past 2 season’s. Another player joining from QPR with plenty of FAWNL experience is Courtnay Ward-Chambers. Sasha Smith and Kiyana Fryer both join Luton from Chesham United Women. Defender, Lisa Milliken another departing Northampton this summer.

Plenty of new faces brought in by both clubs will take time to settle, whether the league fixtures allow it is another matter, Luton nevertheless hitting the ground running with 2 wins from 2 to start the season, 3-1 at home to Dulwich Hamlet Women in the league on the opening day followed by a good win at home in the League Cup group stage against Spurs Women Academy. Cambridge in contrast suffering two narrow defeats losing 2-1 away to newly promoted Fulham on the opening day conceding in the final 10 minutes there conceded in the 97th minute at home in their League Cup Group game against tier 3 side Real Bedford Women.

The way in to St Neots ever changing with a massive amount of development taking place on the infrastructure and road network leading into the town. Cambridge United WFC continuing to call the Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC home, however once again have number of games planned at The Abbey Stadium, home of Cambridge United FC. Situated in the heart of a built up area, the main stadium with a grass pitch a seated stand on one side, an artificial playing pitch beside. Standing viewing all round, the kitchen hatch open at long last serving hot food and drinks. A hot and sunny day for the summer bank holiday, although a covering of cloud kept the temperature pleasant if a little muggy.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Abbie Jackson, Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood (C), Mia Richards, Kim Farrow, Jade Bell & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Tally Miles, Alysha Stojko-Down, Becca Stephenson & Ella Marden.

Cambridge United WFC

Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith, Fiona Buttigieg, Nicole Farmer, Elizabeth Mulvaney, Janaye Beaufort, Shianne Swarres (C), Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Taylor O’Leary, Shanice Lewis & Natasha Fensome. Subs – Sarah Hudson, Kiyana Fryer, Lisa Milliken, Amber Leighton, Summer Gayle, Emily Wilson & Ami Martins.

Luton Town Ladies

Teams in the FAWNL allowed to name 7 on the bench this season, able to use 5. Both sides with a rarity able to name back up goalkeeper on the bench and both clubs have strong competition in that department. New signings, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Mia Richards, Kim Farrow & Jade Bell starting for Cambridge with Zoe Wood the new captain this season. Likewise Luton’s starting XI full of new recruits with Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith. Janaye Beaufort, Courtnay Ward-Chambers and Taylor O’Leary all on from the start.

Captain’s Shianne Swarres and Zoe Wood with today’s match officials

It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Luton lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with white sleeves, orange shorts and white socks. The ball put back into the middle, fired long into the left channel for Mia Richards racing forwards, Sasha Smith at the back for Luton dealing with the threat.

Luton’s Sasha Smith

The ball out for a throw, Cambridge looking to press high early on getting players up around the ball. Forcing another throw Cambridge work the ball up the line Lauren Tomlinson up the pitch with Richards the cross lopped up into the six yard box, Fiona Buttigieg under it for Luton heading behind for a corner on the left. Swept in with pace through the six yard box an inviting delivery cleared beyond the far post, Luton look to mount a counter attack the ball driven into the middle but find no way through.

Competitive in the middle of the park, Luton captain, Shianne Swarres linking up with Taylor O’Leary on half way the ball clipped on the diagonal out into the right wing for Shanice Lewis to attack, Tomlinson across to close her down defending playing the ball off the attacker behind for a goal kick.

Cambridge’s Lauren Tomlinson

Players getting stuck in Buttigieg winning it at the back on the left putting it forwards onto Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Sammy Edgar coming back at her to close the ball down stealing it as the pair come together, sends it forwards even as Ward-Chambers goes to ground, Luton appealing for the foul don’t get the decision, Ward-Chambers saying something she shouldn’t the referee close by, blowing up straight away, no hesitation showing Ward-Chambers a straight red sent off for dissent with just 5 minutes on the clock, Luton down to 10.

Courtnay Ward-Chambers shown an early red card for Luton

Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the right launched long into the far post area, Nicole Melling coming for it making a good claim high in the air. Jade Bell lively up top for Cambridge getting into the channels looknig for the ball, snapping in to press the defence, taking it on from Kim Farrow central attempts to slide the ball in behind the Luton defence for Mollie Coupar, Melling alert to the danger quickly out to the top of her box to close her down clear the ball away to the right.

Luton goalkeeper, Nicole Melling

Luton hit Cambridge on the counter attack the long cross field ball deceiving a high back line with Natasha Fensome making a perfectly timed run through the middle coming right, goalkeeper Sophie Shults racing out of her area to try and close her down. Fensome thrives on these situations knocks it past the keeper getting in behind lining up a shot back across goal from 20 yards out the Cambridge defence racing back round on the cover, Tomlinson throwing herself to the ground to slice in make the block divert the ball away from goal.

Natasha Fensome

Edgar battling for possession in the middle for Cambridge congested at times, does well to squeeze the ball into Richards drifting in from the left, takes on the shot from range, her effort driven wide of the right post. Cambridge pushing players on Jarvis taking the ball on up the right sending the pass into Bell cuts inside to shoot from the angle 20 yards out with the outside of her boot flashed in low on goal, Melling down smartly getting behind it to knock the ball wide across her goal out the far side for a corner on the left.

Cambridge sending in another dangerous delivery from the corner through the six yard box missing everyone, Luton snatching it away at the far post falls to Edgar top of the area strikes it on the half volley, flies up over the bar, however a corner is signalled taking a nick on it’s way through. Curled into the far post, O’Leary getting up to defend for Luton away for a throw in the corner high on the left. I’ve undoubtedly mentioned this before but Tomlinson does possess a very useful long throw, often a bane for United especially wearing a City shirt, will be a huge asset now, flung into the near post cleared to the top of the area, Bell latching onto it shifting to her right pulls the trigger her shot charged down, the ball deflected out to the right Wood gathering looknig to drive to the by-line, Buttigieg closing her down for Luton winning a goal kick off the Cambridge captain.

Luton defender, Fiona Buttigieg

Luton looking to keep things tight at the back dropping off, but alert to the counter timing their opportunities to get forwards, Janaye Beaufort threading a great pass on through the middle for Lewis to chase, Tomlinson going back with her getting across her well to shield the ball back into her keepers gloves. Brook Cheal-Ferris, intercepting well at the back for Cambridge as Beaufort attempts another through ball on for Fensome central.

Luton captain, Shianne Swarres

Cambridge looking to use their player advantage Tomlinson getting on up the left on for Bell, plays it inside to Wood, cut out by Swarres, Luton look to counter attack, O’Leary up to Fensome, Cheal-Ferris across to defend for the hosts. Richards with a shot from range blasted over a Farrow knocks the ball down into her path.

Cambridge’s Brook Cheal-Ferris

GOAL! Closing in on the 20 minute mark, Cheal-Ferris bringing the ball on from thee back for Cambridge sending it up the wing for Tomlinson the full back keeping the ball in play racing with it up the line before whipping in a threatening ball into the six yard box, on a plate for Farrow closing in centrally, nods it down across the keeper at close range to open the scoring. 1-0.

Kim Farrow meeting Lauren Tomlinson’s cross to put Cambridge into the lead

Luton fighting for the ball, O’Leary with a strong tackle on Edgar, as she looks to get the ball away up the left. Smith in well to close Richards down as she looks to get the ball under control wide left. Edgar feeling her backside, needs treatment, the referee pausing play for both sides to take on fluids. Cambridge lively looking to push on Tomlinson and Jarvis up on the flanks, Bell coming to receive the ball, linking up with Farrow, Richards and Coupar. Luton trying to counter by slowing play down trying to keep hold of it doing well duping Cambridge into forcing the final pass.

Kim Farrow

Josie Jarvis getting forwards for Cambridge

Wood drifting out to the right with Bell the cross put long across the Luton are, Richards trying to keep it alive on the by-line, Smith in to close her down winning the tackle. Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the left Cheal-Ferris high into the area, headed away, Luton look to come the other way, Lewis getting onto the ball driving through the middle, the Cambridge defence converging on her en masse no way through.

Lewis making herself available for the pass on Luton right, looking to take the ball on, Tomlinson in to defend for Cambridge. Jackson sending Jarvis away on Cambridge’s right plays the ball on for Bell up the line her angled cross coming in high at the near post plucked down well by Melling. Luton’s Beaufort winning her fair share of the ball central lifts it on for O’Leary outside the D, a click flick lifting ball over defenders into Fensome making a run in behind, Cambridge have players back on the cover, the pass cut out runs back to O’Leary 20 out puts her foot throw the ball, Jackson turning to block, strikes the defender, Luton appeal for a handball but Jackson had her back to the ball arms by her side the referee not giving it if indeed the arm was struck.

Closing in on the last 10 minutes of the first half, Jackson coming to close down Swarres on half way, the ball does strike her hand this time as the midfielder attempts to scoop the ball over her the free-kick given this time. The ball launched up into the top of the area it’s Jackson with the header away to the left, Buttigieg meeting it on the volley outside the area, fired back across the goal wide past the far post.

Luton working hard gaining a little momentum going forwards, O’Leary cutting the ball out sending a diagonal ball out to the left, Buttigieg getting forwards to knock the ball on into the area Fensome making a run to the near post to attack it, Jackson throwing herself in front of her to make the block, the ball turned away for a throw on the left. The visitors growing frustrated with some on field decisions, as Cambridge clear at the back Jackson with the long clearance up into Farrow charging into the area left of the D, doesn’t quite get hold of her shot as she goes to place it past the keeper into the bottom corner, Melling gathering it safely into her gloves.

GOAL! Cambridge winning the ball well in the middle, Edgar playing a great ball long up into the path of Richards coming into the area from the left, looking to meet the ball as it falls into her path, the keeper starts to come, Richards catching it sweetly to lift the ball up over the keeper and down into the back of the net beyond to double Cambridge’s lead late in the first half 2-0.

Mia Richards doubling Cambridge’s lead

Midfielder, Sammy Edgar with the assist

GOAL! No sooner have they gotten their 2nd goal then Cambridge grab a 3rd, the attack pressing the ball in defence outside the D, Luton loosing possession as Bell steals in on the ball with the keeper, pushed up to the top of her area, takes it away to the right giving herself a yard of space to tee up shot into the open goal beyond to open her account for Cambridge 3-0.

Jade Bell with Cambridge’s 3rd goal opening her account for the season.

Melling hurt in the build up to the goal needing treatment, Luton conceding twice late in the first half deflated. Jarvis slides in to defend on Fensome as she moves to the left looknig to get after a pass laid on by Beaufort. Cambridge winning a corner on the right curled in central on the keeper, Melling getting her arm up to punch the ball on across her goal out behind on the left for a 2nd corner. Swept in high to the far post, Buttigieg getting it away.

Bell seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right side sending the ball on for Wood on the overlap her low cross claimed by Melling low at her near post. Into the final moments of the half Cambridge getting up the pitch, Wood into Coupar right of goal 20 out Bell close by put into her feet Bell returns the pass Coupar screwing her shot wide of the upright.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Luton Town Ladies

Cambridge taking full advantage of their opponents player disadvantage to lead 3-0 at the break. Luton down to 10 after just5 minutes with Ward-Chambers sent off for dissent. Nevertheless the visitors have battled hard to keep Cambridge chances limited, creating a few good opportunities on the counter themselves. Cambridge making it count on 20 minutes with Tomlinson breaking forwards to put an inch perfect cross into the box for Kim Farrow to score. The final ball a little awry a times Cambridge found the back of the net for two more goal late in the first half to hammer home the advantage and put themselves into a very good position going into the 2nd half.

Both sides making a chance at half-time with Emily Wilson coming on for Luton a straight swap for Lewis out on the right in attack. Alysha Stojko-Down coming on for Cambridge in midfield replacing Farrow. Luton to get the 2nd half underway, the ball long out to Fensome on the left, Jarvis in to defend for Cambridge the ball out for a throw in. Luton working the ball down the line the cross fired in from Wilson knocked down back across goal at the far post, Cheal-Ferris snatching it clear for the hosts.

Wilson looking to take the ball on for Luton early in the 2nd half ask Cambridge’s defence some questions, sends a cross in with pace across the six yard box. Playing out from the back Cambridge send the ball on for Tomlinson bursting on down the left linking up with Coupar drifting wide she goes past her on the overlap taking on the return pass before lifting a looping cross into the middle of the six yard box, Melling under it to claim the ball into her midriff.

Cambridge coming on Wood an outlet right channel seeing the ball into her feet coming inside pushed into Bells goes on into the box, Bell looking to roll the ball into her path, Melling comes rushing out to slide in smother the ball before Wood can get hold of it. Cambridge winning the ball centrally Stojko-Down on for Bell in space, rolls it on for Coupar to the right of the D, taking the ball wide into the area shoots firing the ball back across the keeper, too close though Melling can scoop it up into her gloves.

Another coming together between Edgar and O’Leary leaves Edgar on the ground feeling the injury she picked up first half, needs to come off this time, Cambridge making the change with Becca Stephenson coming on, moving into a right attacking position. Buttigieg busy at the back for Luton winning the ball well, cutting out several Cambridge passes, the visitors defending their box well. Farmer too clearing a ball through the middle from Stojko-Down.

Nicole Farmer clearing the ball for Luton

Mulvaney getting on for Luton looknig to link up with Fensome, getting the return pass slips as she goes to pull the trigger from distance seeing the shot run harmlessly into the keeper. Cambridge seeing alot of the ball winning a corner on the left flashed into the area, O’Leary with the headed clearance for Luton back out to the right, Jarvis outside the area latching onto it firing an angled shot in on goal, Melling palming it away to the left.

Bell, Wood and Coupar pressing the ball in the final 3rd, Stojko-Down moving up to put a scooped pass into the box, Farmer getting her head on it to clear for Luton. Cambridge dominating play without really opening Luton up the defence deep winning the ball, have players up top who can do damage if the right pass is picked out. Another strong appeal from Luton not getting the decision.

Cambridge’s Mollie Coupar

Cambridge winning a free-kick on halfway to the left swept long to the right, Wood seeing it down moving forwards to angle a cross into the middle, Coupar running in jumping can’t quite get her head to the ball. Tomlinson bringing the ball on left side, Wood taking it on from her to cross, long to the far post Buttigieg back to win the ball for Luton. Wood back on the right tracking back sliding in to deny Fensome with a robust tackle as she looks to get on the move with the ball. again Luton are frustrated at not getting the decision, O’Leary venting her frustrations going too far earning herself a yellow and shown to the sin bin, Luton down to 9!

Sin bin’s lasting 10 minutes, can Cambridge use the two player advantage to their benefit? Bell winning Cambridge a corner off of a Jarvis throw on the right. Cheal-Ferris to take, before that though some kerfuffle’s in the box to deal with, the referee having a word with Coupar and Farmer. The corner swung into the area, Swarres defending for the visitors back out to the right, Cheal-Ferris onto it her attempted cross blocked by Fensome.

Luton making another change with Lisa Milliken coming on to replace Smith in defence. Richards played in on Cambridge’s left swinging a cross into the six yard area, Melling claiming it. Luton fighting hard but frustrated with on field decisions feeling they’re not getting their share, but remain in the game working hard are finding the positions to win the final ball, Cambridge for all their possession not able to capitalise. Coupar trying her luck from 25 yards out, her shot deflected off, Beaufort away for a corner kick.

Cambridge’s Becca Stephenson with Luton’s Janaye Beaufort

Cheal-Ferris to play the corner in from the right flashed in high, Richards is tall leaping up but can’t quite get her head onto the ball. Jackson is penalised for handball seeing ironic cheers from the Luton supporters as Buttigieg tries to play the ball up to Mulvaney, the free-kick given on half way. Buttigieg clipping a well struck pass long out to the right for Wilson who brings it down well, however to her frustration the offside flag is up against her.

Luton’s Emily Wilson

Cambridge pour forwards the ball into Bell moved on to Wood wide to her right sends a diagonal ball back to the left into Richards path, fires an angled shot in back across goal wide of the far post. Luton loose at the back as Cambridge press hard, Melling rushing in to dive in at Coupar’s feet charging the ball down the rebound from Coupar struck over the bar.

No Goal! Cambridge up on the right Jarvis with the ball at her feet sweeps a deep cross into the corridor, Coupar pulling off the defence leaping for it even as the keeper comes, h=they collide did Coupar get a glancing touch on the ball hard to say the ball sailing on past both into the back of the net but Melling is in a heap in her goal the referee ruling in her favour no goal, hurt in need of treatment another long pause in play. Both sides to their dugouts to take on fluids and instruction.

Melling can’t continue Luton forced into a change, have Sarah Hudson ready to enter the action takes up her position between the sticks. Swarres coming off too, with Amber Leighton. Beaufort winning the ball looking to play Leighton in straight away through the middle, Cheal-Ferris quick to snap in cut the pass out for Cambridge. O’Leary back on for Luton.

Fensome picking up the ball inside the Cambridge half to the left driving on avoiding one tackle is upended by Jackson as she runs across her legs tangling gets the free-kick outside the box. Farmer over it goes for goal shooting over. Buttigieg with a vital touch in defence to nick the ball off Bell as she looks to see the ball into her feet off Wood and turn in behind, 20 yards out. Bell continues to work hard in attack looking for an opening for Cambridge to bring others into contention flicks the ball out to Richards on the left her cross back in looking for Bell’s run into the area, shapes to hit it on the turn, Milliken throwing herself in to make the block for Luton.

Cambridge getting the ball up into Richards win a corner on the left, swept into the near post, Melling punches it away across her goal for a 2nd corner on the right. Lifted into the top of the area, Mulvaney clearing for Luton. The visitors counter the ball coming right into Wilson on for Leighton through the middle, Shults racing out to the top of her area saving at her feet with the blocking save. The game moving into the final 7 minutes Luton bringing off Fensome, send on Ami Martins. Cambridge too making a switch Ella Marden coming on to replace Richards on the left. Marden putting the ball on for Coupar left wing her angled cross into the near post attacked by Bell, Farmer sliding in getting in the way to deny a goal scoring chance.

GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes Tomlinson with the ball in her possession on the left sending a well placed pass into the path of Bell coming in off the wing to race towards the box, Hudson coming to close the angle, Bell shoots sending the ball across her to find the bottom corner 4-0.

Jade Bell scoring her 2nd of the match for Cambridge United

Luton conceding a 4th are undeterred as they fight for the ball after the restart, O’Leary nipping in with the tackle releasing Martins into the box to the left of goal, bearing down on the six yard box under challenge from Jarvis does well to get a shot away Shults out to close her down, staying big to make the save.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

The clock ticking down Cambridge have dropped off in defence a little leaving space for Luton to exploit, keeping a clean sheet might be creeping into the back of their minds. Coupar coming off late on with Tally Miles joining the action for Cambridge. Beaufort winning the ball for Luton teeing up Milliken to shoot from range blasts her effort over the bar.

GOAL! Into stoppage time Cambridge send the ball forwards Stephenson bringing it under control right side playing it inside to Bell top of the area, right of goal has Wood inside her the close pass into her feet, digs the shot out to fire the dipping shot past Hudson to strike the inside of the far post and deflect into the goal for her first of the season 5-0.

Zoe Wood scoring at the death to add a 5th Cambridge goal

Wood opening her Cambridge account for the new season with virtually the final touch of the game, to seal a 5-0 win and get Cambridge’s season up and running after two narrow 2-1 defeats.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 5-0 Luton Town Ladies

No doubt a busy week for all the FAWNL clubs 3 games in 8 days to start the season, certainly going to be interested to digest. Cambridge after two narrow 2-1 defeats winning 5-0 at home against Luton side down to 10 players after just 5 minutes. A 5-0 win in the finish for Cambridge, Luton didn’t make it easy although I feel the clean sheet might mean just as much following their previous games. Luton had to dig deep never easy going down a player earl in a match, fought well, and created some good chances despite it whilst frustrating Cambridge up the other end. Strange as it may seem but this could be a positive, 5-0 defeat aside, will hurt but with soo many new players this was a performance to bring them together and may well prove defining in the end. Both sides with positives and minus’s to take out of their opening 3 matches, one thing’s for certain South East Division One is going to be fun to watch this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, strong candidates on both sides this is by no means an easy call. Full credit to Luton’s ten players worked hard, dug deep and had a frustrating afternoon. Defended well putting in some vital challenges. Fiona Buttigieg in particular won her tackles and looked to get things going in attack. Janaye Beaufort in midfield won the ball well, competed throughout. For Cambridge, Josie Jarvis linked up play well on the right5 winning her tackles and got the ball forwards. Brook Cheal-Ferris intercepted numerous balls and offered a good threat with her corner deliveries. Captain Zoe Wood got into some great positions in the right linked well with Bell up top created several chances scoring at the death. Lauren Tomlinson was strong in defence, winning the ball got forwards well adding to the threat going forwards with two great assists, is close between her and the winner have gone for Jade Bell, looked sharp throughout lively finding some great positions working the defence bringing others into the attack and ready to strike on goal scoring twice with two good finishes.

First slice of tier 4 action of the season, remarked early on about how much the league has grown since Luton were last in it and that is good for the game overall. Clubs have to move forwards support their women’s side or get left behind. Not always easy I know, will be interesting to see who emerges on top but with the talent on show it’ll be a great watch. My thanks to both clubs for their help today, I might know the players but it is always useful to check.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v Histon Ladies

Wednesday 30th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

A cup final double bill from Cambridgeshire this week, with back to back games this Wednesday and Thursday evening. First up the Cambs FA Women’s Invitation Cup Final, being held at Cambridge City FC’s newly built stadium in Sawston, between Cambridge United WFC and Histon Ladies. With the Women’s Junior Invitation Cup being held the following evening at Histon FC’s Bridge Road Stadium featuring Cambridge Rangers WFC and Ely City Women.

The Women’s Invitation Cup

This evening featuring the women’s senior county cup competition final. Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Women the leading sides in Cambridgeshire for nearly the past decade dominating the competition, neither 1st team featuring in last season’s competition won by Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Both back in the competition this season however Cambridge United WFC having to field a side made up of their U18’s and 1st team players.

Turned in a good performance at The Abbey Stadium on Sunday in their final game of the FAWNL season, drawing 1-1 with Chatham Town Women. Finishing 9th has been another frustrating season missing key players through injury not picking up as many points as they would have wanted, nevertheless into another cup final and a chance to end things on a high. Their U18s making it to the final of the Invitation Cup last season this time around it’s a mixed squad mostly U18s again with up to 5 regular 1st team players, players who have played less than 50% 1st team fixtures or been out injured for a sustained period making their return also available. Thus getting the balance right for a mixed squad is a tricky task for manager Darren Marjoram, a good opportunity for the youngsters to impress however.

Histon Ladies having rebuilt somewhat and returned to the ERWFL are enjoying a strong campaign in Division One North currently in 4th spot with three league games left to play, 2 points off 2nd spot with AFC Dunstable the current occupants having played out their fixtures a fantastic opportunity to clinch runners-up spot themselves. Have only lost two league games all season, and both of those against new league champions, Harpenden Town Women. Sophie Hopkin presented with a shirt celebrating 100 appearances for Histon before the game joint top scorer so far this season along with Evie Nicholls on 16. Poppy Smith has 12 goals to her name with Jessica McCrae netting 8 and midfielder, Rachel Pearce on 6.

Sophie Hopkin congratulated by her teammates having made 100 appearances for Histon

Road to the Final

Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Women’s Invitation Cup, were drawn away in the 2nd Round where both racked up double figure wins to progress to the last 8. Cambridge away to Division Two side, Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies, Sarah Wiltshire firing Cambridge into a 2 goal lead with Millie Docking, Rosy Wodhams and Serina Cobb all finding the back of the net to see Cambridge lead 5-0 at the break, Lauren Rouse from the penalty spot extending the lead in the 2nd half before Wiltshire went on to add two more to the tally, 4 for herself with a double from Emelia Reinhardt making it 10-0. Histon away to another Division Two side, March Town United Ladies the goals flying in there too with Poppy Smith on the scoresheet for 5, Evie Nicholls and Sophie Hopkin firing home 4 apiece with Rachel Pearce also scoring in a crushing 14-0 result.

Onto the quarter finals, Cambridge drawn at home to the side that beat the u18s in the final last season Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, now promoted to the ERWFL, Cambridge securing a 1 goal lead at the break, new signing Becca Stephenson grabbing her 1st goal for Cambridge in the 2nd period to help secure a 2-0 win see Cambridge progress to the semi-finals. Histon also at home in the quarter finals taking on newly crowned Cambridgeshire Division One Champions, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Evie Nicholls on target for a brace with a goal each for Rachel Pearce, Hannah Seymour-Shove and Katie Levitt sealing a 5-0 to see the club advance to the last 4.

An intriguing line up in the semi-finals Histon and Newmarket both riding high in ERWFL Division One North along side Cambridge City Women and Cambridge United WFC. United away to Newmarket in their semi-final. Becca Stephenson picking up where she left off in the quarter final scoring twice in the 1st half to see Cambridge 2-0 up at the break, Emelia Reinhardt coming on in the 2nd half bursting forwards to put Cambridge into a 3-0 lead and see the club into the final. Histon hosting Cambridge City Women now playing in the ERWFL Premier Division. Jessica McCrae bagging herself a brace along with goals for Rachel Pearce and Poppy Smith seeing Histon clinch a 4-1 victory to book the place in the final.

The new main stand at the Cambridge City FC Community Stadium

The final this season being played at Cambridge City FC’s brand new Community Stadium in Sawston, long planned and finally becoming a reality. An impressive main stand running alongside a large grass pitch with smaller terraced stands on the other 3 sides of the ground. Ample carparking around the stadium. A 3G pitch beside the main pitch. Work still to be completed on the interior but fantastic to see it becoming a reality after so much waiting. Hosting this evenings final April ending with a mini heat wave unusually warm up to 26 degrees today the heat retained into the evening. A food truck and stall offering some delicious looking cakes leading into the ground. The bar beyond open too. A good sized grass pitch offering plenty of width.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, Olivia Welham, Gisela Otten (C), Lauren Rouse, Sammy Edgar, Serena Cobb, Rosy Wodhams, Charlotte Gillies, Becca Stephenson & Emelia Reinhardt. Subs – Katie Walter, Sydney Daniels, Millie Docking, Natasha Coe & Erika Lempek.

Cambridge United WFC

Histon Ladies starting XI – Tara Fitzjohn, Freya Goddard, Mollie Childerley, Laura Leyland (C), Molly Banks, Jess McCrae, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Rachel Pearce, Sophie Hopkin, Poppy Smith & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Belle Howard, Eloise Page, Evie McCulloch, Claire Krueger & Katie Levitt.

Histon Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the score be level after 90 minutes the final goes straight to penalties.

Captain’s Laura Leyland and Gisela Otten with this evenings match officials referee, Austin Robichaux and assistants Dominic Cameron and Theresa Robichaux. Carlton Joseph the 4th official.

Histon taking Cambridge back-up keeper, Sophie Shults on loan for the past 7 matches to help see out the season, are without her this evening as she is in goal for the opposition, with long serving player, Tara Fitzjohn donning the gloves for this evenings final. Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten is playing her last game for Cambridge retiring at the end of the season, having played over 100 games for the club a good portion of those wearing the captains armband. The sun setting behind the main stand may cause a few issues to the players, Histon having it at their backs as Cambridge get the first half underway wearing light blue floral patterned shirts with light blue shorts and socks. Histon wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back into Lauren Rouse in defence sent long up to the right for Charlotte Gillies to chase, Mollie Childerley getting across her path to shield the ball out for a goal kick.

Cambridge pushing up to press the ball inside the Histon half early on, Serena Cobb sending the ball into Gillies on the right fired into the top of the area with Emelia Reinhardt looking to take it inside right of goal, Jess McCrae in to defend seeing it out of play for Histon. Rosy Wodhams snapping in to win the ball for Cambridge fed out to Becca Stephenson wide right her attempted cross cut out by Rachel Pearce. Stephenson quick to get the ball back pushing down the line, Freya Goddard putting in the tackle to see the ball out for a throw in the corner.

Cambridge getting players up around the area the throw coming into Wodhams inside the box top left corner seeing in down into her feet, turns to strike the ball, Histon captain, Laura Leyland charging the ball down. Cambridge appealing for a hand ball but get no where. Cambridge winning the ball eager to get forwards use the width Gillies picked out on the right wins a corner kick. Curled into the six yard box, claimed by Fitzjohn.

Histon look to get the ball up field into Poppy Smith on the left flank, taking the ball on, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner diving in with the challenge, the full back then fouled as she attempts to get the ball moving the other way. Wodhams onto the ball making a run across the top of the D, moving left 25 yards out feds it into Stephenson wide left she in turn lays it back to Olivia Welham advancing from left back takes on the shot from range, her shot flying straight into the keepers gloves.

Evie Nicholls seeing the ball into her from Sophie Hopkin breaks away on the right channel for Histon looking to get into the area, racing forwards Shults going to ground getting hold of the ball as the ball is over hit.

Wodhams driving on with the ball at her feet for Cambridge across the top of the area cut back to the right, Childerley cutting the pass out for Histon, Cambridge though are quick to regain possession keep the pressure on, Sammy Edgar up with Serena Cobb central played wide to Stephenson left her cross swept into the area, cleared by McCrae. Wodhams with another strong run from midfield sees another shot charged down the ball out to the left, Goddard in to challenge Stephenson as she looks to get in behind to cross.

GOAL! The pressure building from Cambridge at the start of the game the Histon defence pushed back busy building from midfield the ball in rolled forwards into Wodhams moving into the left channel, Stephenson makes a run across her going central Wodhams laying the ball into her path, Stephenson 25 yards out wraps her right foot around the ball catching it sweetly to send a superb strike up and over the keeper to nestle into the back of the net to put Cambridge into the lead. 1-0.

Becca Stephenson firing Cambridge into the lead

Cambridge on top early on taking the lead on 9 minutes competing well for the 2nd ball, Edgar central spotting Stephenson’s left channel run as she attempts to get in behind, Goddard stretching out a leg intercepting the ball for Histon. Smith left and Nicholls right needing to be patient up top be ready to receive the ball, Leyland’s clearance from the ball coming to Nicholls on the right, looks to take it in behind, Cambridge captain, Otten across to close her down put in the tackle.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten tackling Histon’s Evie Nicholls

Cobb on for Wodhams bursting forwards left channel played on for Reinhardt ahead of her outside the box sees her shot charged down the rebound coming to Wodhams central hits it first time 20 yards out drags the ball wide of the target. Is a big pitch Cambridge with time on the ball looking to exploit it as Lauren Rouse on halfway lifting it forwards towards the top of the area, Leyland winning the header for Histon.

Reinhardt getting hold of the ball looking to charge across the D get into the box, Histon’s Hannah Seymour-Shove looking to go with her pulls up suddenly appearing to jar her knee as her foot catches in the turf. Play continues as Reinhardt finds Stephenson wide left her cross defended by Leyland as play is stopped for Seymour-Shove to receive treatment. Unfortunately doesn’t look good the stretcher called for needs to come off, Histon forced into a change send on Claire Krueger going into the defence along side Leyland with McCrae pushed forwards.

Freya Goddard moving in to tackle Becca Stephenson

Wodhams latching onto the ball high up the pitch from a goal-kick lays it to the right for Hjaltun-Rayner pushing forwards from full back her early cross into the area dealt with by Leyland. Out of no where Histon spring the counter attack, Cambridge pushed up the ball given to Hopkin in midfield slides it through for Smith in the left channel, races forwards Shults racing out to the top of her area to try and get to the ball, Smith just getting there first taking it around the keeper on into the box left of goal, looks to slot it home, however, Welham racing round on the cover gets in the way to block and turn it behind for a corner kick.

Olivia Welham getting back to clear the ball for Cambridge

The corner lifted in to the near side, Krueger up from the back for Histon getting her head on the ball sending the ball over the crossbar. A warning for Cambridge not to get complacent at the back.

Edgar into Wodhams for Cambridge attacking through the middle moves left laying the ball back inside for Welham as the full back bombs forwards, looking to get into the box, Goddard closing her down winning the ball back for Histon. McCrae defending for Histon as Stephenson looks to spin in behind on the left the ball hooked upfield by Leyland. Histon absorbing alot of pressure battling for the ball pushed back in defence but determined.

Wodhams too determined with the ball at her feet for Cambridge on the drive going all the way into the box right of goal closing in on the six yards box, closed down squeezes in on for Gillies to her right inside the six yard box, the angle acute takes on the shot flashing the ball wide across the face of goal past the far post.

Rosy Wodhams driving forwards for Cambridge

Leyland making the decision to step out of the back line to deal with Wodhams next marauding run getting the tackle in before the midfield can set Reinhardt loose on goal. The clearance straight back with Cambridge, Cobb lifting the diagonal ball into the area, Krueger heading clear for Histon.

Rachel Pearce looking to get hold of the ball for Histon

Play mostly in the Histon half the defence pressed back continue to work hard to stop Cambridge finding a way through, Hopkin finding Pearce on the right tries to get it on for Nicholls in attack, Otten moving in to close the attacker down. Edgar snapping in to regain possession for Cambridge in the middle tries to thread the ball in behind for Reinhardt pulling off the defence, Fitzjohn moving forward to grab hold of the ball.

Emelia Reinhardt

Pearce is fouled deep on the right picking up a knock in the process the free-kick awarded. Histon with an opportunity to get players forwards. Hopkin over the ball launches it in towards the crowd at the top of the area left of the D, the ball knocked down across the D to the right, Pearce free, moving in to strike the ball first time with her left foot, pulls her strike wide of the right post, had more time than she realised but a great chance for Histon nonetheless.

Cambridge lively Cobb breaking on with the ball rolled on for Gillie right, Childerley lunging in to take the ball away from her for a throw. Histon forced into another change, Pearce having picked up a knock coming off, with Evie McCulloch. Reinhardt with little room to work with as Histon defend their area, driving on with the ball looks to fight her way through on goal, Molly Banks getting a foot in to slow her down, allowing Childerley to bring the ball away from danger.

Stephenson moving across the top of the area up top for Cambridge sees the ball rolled into her right channel by Hjaltun-Rayner shoots from distance the ball straight at Fitzjohn. Cambridge getting players forwards at will, Wodhams and Stephenson exchanging passes in front of the D, laid back to Cobb to clip a diagonal ball into Welham advancing on the left wing the full back whipping a cross into the area just behind Reinhardt making a near post run, Krueger cutting it out beyond to clear.

Shults is almost on the halfway line herself such is the pressure Cambridge are being allowed to exert, Smith and Nicholls patient ready to attack should the opportunity fall to them still have alot to do. Otten into Reinhardt going left closing in on the corner with Goddard the air clashing as the ball is seen out of play by the defender, the referee talking to both, the yellow card coming out too.

Hopkin getting the ball back for Histon central looks to send Nicholls away up top, Cambridge hold their high line however catching her offside. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half, for all their dominance Cambridge still leading by just a single goal, Histon backs against the wall determined to keep it that way. Pushed up through the middle, Stephenson inside with Wodhams cross runs the ball on into Cobb inside the D shifts it right for Stephenson to strike, fires wide of the right post. A nick on the way through however a corner signalled.

Put in to the near post Krueger winning it for Histon cleared out of the box and launched up field for Nicholls to chase, Shults out of her box needs to win the clearance with the attacker bearing down on her and gets her foot up over the ball to see it away safely. Smith getting her tackle in on Reinhardt as she looks to turn in the middle the ball poked out to Stephenson wide left pushes on with the ball her cross into the box intercepted by Krueger.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Histon Ladies

Cambridge go into the changing rooms at the break leading the final by a single goal, Stephenson’s superb strike on 9 minutes over the keeper from 25 yards out putting them in front. Have applied plenty of pressure seeing more of the ball getting players on, Histon in contrast defending deep inside their box getting bodies back allowing no space through on goal, that in turn limiting their attacking opportunities up the other end but have created two good chances themselves will be pleased to have gotten to this stage with the score as it is. Have lost two key midfielders to injury in the process however. Cambridge winning the 2nd balls keeping play in their opponents half. Could be a question of can Histon keep up their determination in defence 2nd half or will the continued pressure take it’s toll, one goal in it the longer they can keep it that way the better but can they find a goal up the other end?

No changes at the break it’s as you were at the end of the 1st half the floodlights taking full effect now, remains mild, the burgers, chips and cakes going down well with the gathered supporters, 285 in attendance. Histon to get the 2nd half underway, Cambridge rushing on to immediately close down the ball, get it out to Gillies on the right takes on the early cross squaring it into Reinhardt top of the D, her 1st time strike racing wide of the far post.

Rosy Wodhams constantly taking the ball on for Cambridge

McCulloch snapping in to win the ball for Histon central forwards into Nicholls, Rouse tackling for Cambridge. Histon getting the ball out to the right McCulloch playing the ball into the near post six yards out, Nicholls and Smith closing in to try and get a touch the ball knocked wide of the post for a goal kick.

Histon attacker, Evie Nicholls

Lively in the middle, Edgar into get hold of the ball fed on for Gillies down the right wing, Childerley back onto her shoulder challenging to put it out for a throw. Cambridge busy players making runs to try and open up space, Histon stay deep in defence protecting the box, Wodhams winning it off Hopkin in midfield, out to Gillies right, running into the corner with Childerley the defender conceding a corner. Stephenson with a vicious delivery flashed in through the six yard box at an inviting height through everyone however cleared beyond the far post.

Wodhams influential for Cambridge making some strong midfield runs Gillies and Stephenson looking for provide outlets right and left. Pushing up as they are sometimes leaves Cambridge exposed at the back as Histon snatch the ball back left side the ball threaded into Nicholls in the channel breaks in behind Rouse charging towards the area, the rest of the Cambridge defence looking to recover, Otten sliding in top of the area brings Nicholls down, the free-kick awarded a decision to be made, both full backs were round on the cover the referee showing Otten a yellow card. Hopkin over the free-kick left of the D, gets the ball in past the wall through on goal, but Shults moving across her goal can claim it into her mid-riff.

Cambridge for all their dominance need to be careful they don’t get caught out at the back, another goal puts them in a much stronger position probing Histon are not making it easy for them to find a way through. Cambridge making a chance bringing off Gillies on the right send on Natasha Coe who had a spell with Histon before coming to Cambridge, goes over to the left with Stephenson moving across the pitch.

10 minutes played in the 2nd half, Edgar up with Wodhams in midfield, plays it left for Welham advancing on the left plays in on for Coe to take on down the line, Goddard diving in to put it out of play for Histon. Off the throw dropped into Wodhams outside the box on the angle sends a shot in on target, Fitzjohn has the angled covered getting hold of the ball.

Cambridge’s Sammy Edgar

A double change for Histon with Belle Howard and Katie Levitt introduced to the game, Nicholls and Hopkin coming off. Hjaltun-Rayner looking to get the ball on right side for Cambridge, Wodhams coming across to receive the ball, Banks diving in to challenge to get hold of the ball for Histon looks for Levitt on the left, Rouse cutting out the pass for Cambridge. Cambridge making another switch, Erika Lempek coming on to replace Reinhardt in attack.

Histon’s Katie Levitt

Coe played on down Cambridge’s left wing curling a cross into the box, Leyland getting under it to head clear for Histon. The game starting to open up a little as Histon look to commit a little more in attack fresh legs on the pitch. Cobb getting the ball into Lempek’s feet out on the right, Levitt in to win it back for Histon comes away with the ball, Hjaltun-Rayner sliding in with a heavy tackle taking her out, shown the yellow as Levitt is quickly back on her feet.

Histon captain, Laura Leyland

Otten putting the ball on for Cobb left channel shifted to Coe left played back inside to Cobb up with Stephenson outside the box left of the D, the ball played across to the right for Wodhams in space, shots, a nick off a defenders leg on it’s way through to the keeper taking the sting off the ball, Fitzjohn grabbing it up for the large part despite the pressure in front of her untroubled in terms of needing to throw herself into a save.

Welham and Coe doubling up on the left as they build an attack for Cambridge, Coe shifting the ball inside looking to get into the box Leyland coming to close her down. Rouse called into action at the back for Cambridge as Histon attempt to put a long ball into Smith in attack, the defender bringing it down well.

Histon’s Poppy Smith

Cambridge getting a corner on the right Stephenson curling the ball into the six yard box knocked in towards goal at the far post Histon have players on the line to block cleared out to the top of the area, Cobb putting it back out to Stephenson top right corner of the box, her low cross smashed back in, blocked by Howard. The flag going up against Stephenson as she makes a run in behind right to left across the D, as Lempek seeing the ball into her feet right channel attempts to play her in. Stephenson from all of 30 yards out central firing a strike wide of the left post. Cambridge pressing as the game enters the final 15 minutes.

GOAL! Cambridge winning a corner out on the right, players up from the back the six yard box packed as Stephenson drops the delivery right into the mix, down amongst feet an orange boot stabbing it towards goal, fired past the keeper, belongs to Hjaltun-Rayner as she is mobbed by her joyous teammates having doubled Cambridge’s lead. 2-0.

Flo Hjaltun-Raynor with the touch to double Cambridge’s lead from the corner

Histon making a double change with Eloise Page coming on along with Nicholls replacing, Goddard and Childerley. Much needed breathing room for Cambridge the 2nd goal coming at last. Press right Stephenson on for Lempek back inside for Cobb lifted forwards into Wodhams looking to turn top of the area, Leyland closing her down for Histon.

Serina Cobb

Welham forwards for Coe on the left her cross blocked by Page going away for a corner kick. Another vicious delivery put in across the face of goal, no one getting a touch scrambled clear beyond the far post. Hopkin coming back onto the pitch late on replacing Banks. Cambridge getting on down the right Stephenson’s cross turned behind for another corner. Taken short rolled back into Stephenson the corner taker her cross lifted into the area, won and cleared by Hopkin.

Sophie Hopkin

Histon looking to try and get on with the ball fed into Howard on the left looks to release Nicholls in behind through the middle, Welham running around on the cover spotting the threat lunging in to win the ball back. Lempek seeing the ball into her feet putting it on for Wodhams moving right finds Stephenson on the move down the wing her cross into the box blocked by Krueger behind for a corner. Curled into the six yard box headed over the crossbar.

Claire Krueger

Sydney Daniels and Millie Docking coming on for Cambridge with Edgar and Welham coming off with 6 minutes left of regular time. Cobb picking out Stephenson on the right for Cambridge has Hjaltun-Rayner racing past her on the overlap down the line fires her cross in on the angle takes a nick off a Histon boot as it crashes into the side netting a corner given. Another short on rolled into Coe coming to the ball near post back to Stephenson to cross from the top of area, hooked clear by Leyland.

Goddard back on for Histon with McCulloch coming off. Into the last 5 minutes. Daniels defending at the back for Cambridge as Smith looks to take the ball on. The ball played back to Shults her clearance doesn’t get any height goes between Nicholls and Smith as they look to close her down, comes onto Goddard in midfield tries to hit it first time knowing the keeper is off her line but doesn’t catch it clean the ball put wide right of goal.

Lempek with a good touch to see the ball down turns to play it forwards almost sending Docking through on goal, the flag though halting her advance. McCrae lining up a strike from range, Otten putting in the block away for a throw on the right, Histon looking to press crossing into the box, defended near side, Shults bringing it down safely into her gloves. Katie Walter coming on to see out the closing stages of the final for Cambridge replacing Hjaltun-Rayner.

Docking played in down Cambridge’s left, gets on the move driving forwards all the way into the box eventually stopped by Krueger. Into stoppage time, Cambridge winning a throw in the left Coe crossing the ball into the top of the area, Leyland getting her head on the ball, Cobb pushing on win the ball back played back to the left, the cross dropped into the six yard box, hooked clear.

Lempek on for Cobb through the middle send away to Stephenson right her cross low into the area cut out by Leyland. Cambridge keep coming late on Histon tiring winning a corner on the right, Whipped in with pace past Coe at the near post on for Rouse central lifts the ball up over the crossbar. Docking on the dribble with the ball looking to get into the box from the left sends a cross into the area, Goddard clearing for Histon. The final whistle blows and Cambridge are victorious winning this season’s Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 Histon Ladies

A dominant attacking display from Cambridge who were made to work hard for the win taking an early lead it wasn’t until they had entered the final 15 minutes of the game before they found a way through to double their lead. Got forwards well winning the 2nd balls and using the pitch. Histon with a battling defensive display made Cambridge work for the win defending deep leaving little room to exploit inside the area, at 1-0 were never out of the game although they had few chances to find a goal themselves eventually tiring can be proud of their effort. Have 3 big league games left to play 2nd spot in the league very much the goal. Cambridge’s season done now, ending with silverware time to enjoy the rest, be ready for next season, FAWNL South East Division One will be more competitive than ever.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, plenty of fine performances but one clear winner for me. Credit goes to the entire Histon squad for their battling defensive display had to keep it tight as a unit to keep Cambridge at bay, captain Laura Leyland and Claire Krueger in particular putting in a number of blocks and crucial tackles. Molly Banks and Jessica McCrae pushed back on the defence winning the ball. Mollie Childerley and Freya Goddard out on the flanks having alot to do throughout but kept at it. For Cambridge, Serina Cobb and Sammy Edgar get stuck in in midfield to win the ball back keep the pressure on continuously. Charlotte Gillies linking up well with Hjaltun-Rayner on the right, likewise Olivia Welham on the left pushing on to support Becca Stephenson whose movement on the left and coming central caused problems throughout made some fantastic runs opening the scoring with a superb strike. The award goes to midfielder, Rosy Wodhams was a threat throughout the game taking the ball on with numerous marauding runs linking up with the attack and getting into some great positions.

Cambridge United WFC 2024/25 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup winners

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Gisela Otten’s final game for Cambridge has been fantastic for the club since her arrival a pleasure to have sponsored her for one of those seasons. Sophie Hopkin a legend in her own right for Histon making 100 appearances for the club, congratulations. my thanks to both clubs for their help with the starting line-ups this evening. One final down straight back at it with the Junior Invitation Cup at last the finals are here in abundance but I’ve still get maybe 10 games to go before I can rest…

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Newmarket Town Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 16th March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

A busy weekend last time out meant the football got squeezed out of the schedule after a late call off, so good to be back at it this Sunday was we move well and truly into the business end of the season, with the cup final places up for grabs, headed to Newmarket to watch one of the semi-finals of this season’s Cambridgeshire Fa Women’s Invitation Cup as Newmarket Town Women played host to Cambridge United Women.

On paper a good looking last 4 in the competition with Histon Ladies hosting Cambridge City Women in the other semi-final. like Newmarket, Histon are enjoying a strong season in ERWFL Division One North 3rd and 4th in the table respectfully, having both reached the Invitation Cup final themselves in recent seasons, could prove tough opposition to their Cambridge opponents who have been dominant in the competition.

Newmarket Town Women reaching the Invitation cup Final for the 1st time back in 2022 losing at the Abbey Stadium to Cambridge City Women. Are enjoying a decent season in ERWFL Division One North, now the longest established side in the league, up into 3rd spot among a trio of sides hoping to chase down leaders, Harpenden Town Women who hold a decent advantage. A Development side backing up the first team along with an U18s side Newmarket have a proud history of bringing through youth players into the senior women’s sides.

Have advanced into the last 4 of this season’s Invitation cup without kicking a ball, granted home wins over Manea Sirens A team and Leverington Sports Ladies respectfully in the previous rounds. Millie Docking, Newmarket’s leading scorer, dual signed with Cambridge United with 14 goals from her 20 appearances this season. Katie Spiers close behind on 12 from her 18 games with Holly Corley, captain Katie Walker and Abbi Griffin (another ex-Cambridge United player before returning to Newmarket) all on 5 a piece.

Cambridge United WFC long established in tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid, now enjoying closer ties with the men’s club, the leading club women’s football in the county. Have enjoyed success in the Invitation Cup, Cambridgeshire’s Senior County Cup competition, dominating it along with Cambridge City Women. The senior team not always taking part in the competition, their U18s entering the competition last season, reaching the final missing out to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Enter this season’s competition with a mixture of U18s who play in the JPL league set-up and first team players. Allowed 5 regular first team players, plus any who have played less than 50% of the clubs fixtures, or have been out injured for a month or more.

9th in the FAWNL South East Division One table, amongst a cluster of sides jostling for mid-table places in what has proven to be a highly competitive league this season. Bella Simmons top scorer with 14 goals from her 20 games, attacking midfielder, Alysha Stojko-Down, has 9 goals from her 18 matches. Ran out 10-0 winners away to Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies in the Invitation Cup before going onto beat holders Whittlesey Athletic 2-0 at home in the quarter finals.

The Tristel Stadium, home of Newmarket Town FC the venue for today’s semi-final, the cork based artificial pitch seeing alot of action, hosting a number of teams and training sessions. overlooked by a covered seated stand beside the changing rooms and clubhouse with the bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drinks. Spring is almost here and the weather calm and pleasant, overcast with some cloud cover but no rain forecast during the match.

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Ellie Sturgess, Ailie Rennie, Liv Caffarelli, Abi Gibson, Katie Walker (C), Abbie Corbyn, Abbi Griffin, Niamh Bridgeman & Katie Spiers. Subs – Holly Corley, Eden Kirby-Cook, Evonne Yerrell & Kara Wayman.

Newmarket Town Women

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, Olivia Welham, Lauren Rouse, Gisella Otten (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Becca Stephenson & Erika Lempek. Subs – Millie Docking, Emelia Reinhardt, Katie Walter, Holly Plummer & Sydney Daniels.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Ironic that Newmarket’s leading goal scorer, is on Cambridge’s bench this afternoon, but such is the nature of a dual signing. The hosts themselves bringing players through to the 1st team from the Development and U18s this season, have a good blend of youth and experience, while for Cambridge the set-up of the side calls for the same balance. Newmarket to kick-off the 1st half wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks with Cambridge lined up opposite in their away kit, a floral patterned sky blue shirt with sky blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle hit long bouncing into the opposition box for Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults to get an early touch.

The ball played out to defender, Lauren Rouse moving right launches it forwards down the wing for Charlotte Gillies to chase down, knocks it on pace as she drives forwards squaring the ball across the top of the D, picking out the run of Becca Stephenson, recently signed on dual registration from Needham Market, left of the D 20 yards out, gets her shot away as a defender lunges into to try and block, the ball swerving wide of the left upright.

A lively start to the match, Cambridge looking to press Newmarket on the ball, get play turned around quickly, Gillies and Stephenson making positive runs in the flanks, Holly Dryland tackling Stephenson as she attacks on the left lifting the ball forwards, looking for Niamh Bridgeman in attack, the pass intercepted by Cambridge’s captain, Gisela Otten at the back.

The ball being pinged about the park a high tempo start to the game, Newmarket come left, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, moving in to tackle, Abbie Corbyn on the wing, getting it forwards into Erika Lempek, another new signing for Cambridge, out on the wing looks to control the ball spin off her marker, is instead fouled by Liv Caffarelli winning the free-kick. Stephenson getting about the final third looking for the ball for the visitors shifting play out to Gillies running in behind on the right wing clips a cross long across goal, collected safely by Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary.

Caffarelli at the back for Newmarket getting a foot in to dispossess Stephenson as she gathers the ball into her feet inside the left channel. The Newmarket defence busy as Cambridge regain possession in the middle, come back at them. Hjaltun-Rayner on the right playing the ball forwards for Gillies, Ellie Sturgess getting back on her to slide in take the ball out for a throw-in.

Newmarket’s Liv Caffarelli and Cambridge’s Erika Lempek challenging for the ball

Serena Cobb linking up with Alysha Stojko-Down in the middle for Cambridge the ball fed forwards into Lempek back to goal left of the D, turns well on the ball driving towards the box, attempting to lob Szary as she comes racing out to close her down, the goalkeeper getting something on the ball. Newmarket captain Katie Walker carrying the ball on through the middle has Corbyn ahead of her, giving her the ball, plays in on for Katie Spiers up top pulling away to the right trying to get into the box, Olivia Welham the 3rd of Cambridge’s recent signings putting in the tackle at left back to deny the shot.

Newmarket captain, Katie Walker

Walker sending a shot over from all of 25 yards out as Newmarket get players forwards probing the top of the Cambridge area. The ball rarely still, Cambridge nipping in to win the 2nd ball, laying it forwards Cobb on for Gillies right side driving down the line Sturgess with her sliding in to play the ball out for a corner kick. The corner put into the near post cleared back to the corner taker, fed back inside to Rouse, top of the area, Dryland going in to close her down in a 50/50 challenge, comes back to Gillies out on the right, flashes a teasing cross through the six yard box, missed by two Cambridge players running in at the far post.

The ball, zipping about the pitch, Gillies with pace out on the right, Sturgess closing her down to prevent the cross. Ella Marden linking up with Stephenson on Cambridge’s left flank, sending the ball down the line for Stephenson to chase down, racing to the by-line turns into the box, her cross, blocked by Caffarelli turned behind for a corner kick. A fantastic ball curled in from the corner, Cambridge unable to get a head on it at the far post to turn home, the hosts bring the ball down and launch a rapid counter the ball fired long up the left with Spiers pulling into space to receive the ball, Cambridge stretched at the back, Welham does well to get across to tackle Spiers send the ball out for a throw.

Cambridge’s turn to break getting the ball into Stephenson moving left linking up with Marden and Lempek, top of the box, challenged by Caffarelli, the ball cleared back to the left won back by Cambridge the shot blasted in on the angle, wide at the far post. A lively opening 15 minutes to the tie.

Cambridge midfielder, Serena Cobb

GOAL! Cambridge get the ball forwards into Stephenson’s feet on the left wing a burst pf pace to drive on down the line squaring a cross into the area, near side Lempek looking to hold off a defender back to goal, Szary making the call to come and lay claim to the ball doesn’t get there as the pass is squeezed inside for Gillies to take a touch central and stroke the ball into the empty net 0-1.

Charlotte Gillies opening the scoring for Cambridge United

Abi Gibson on the ball through the middle for Newmarket sends it on for Spiers in attack, looks to turn off, Otten, Cambridge’s captain, stretching out a leg to deny her the ball. Quick to get the ball forwards a long pass finding Stephenson breaking away on the left, taking the shot on from the angle, rising, Szary throwing up her gloves tipping the ball over for a corner kick. The visitors remain lively in attack, Stephenson moving across the top of the box taking the ball on for Gillies on the right forwards for Lempek right of the D, the flag up however as she strays offside.

Newmarket’s long clearances posing an issue for Cambridge to deal with, Spiers looking to capitalize in attack for the visitors pull into the channels, Rouse challenging as she links up with Corbyn on the left. Spiers letting another long ball run on past her in behind to see Bridgeman bursting clear into the box right of goal, sends her shot straight at Shults for a comfortable save, a warning for Cambridge nevertheless.

Newmarket attacker, Niamh Bridgeman

Newmarket pressing high get caught on the counter attack, the ball lifted on for Gillies to break clear away to attack on the right, racing for the box, Sturgess does brilliantly to recover having the pace to get back at the winger chase her down and clear the ball. Newmarket advancing on the right Abbi Griffin putting a long angled cross into the area, Corbyn racing in beyond the far post, does well on the volley stretching out a leg to deflect the ball onto Hjaltun-Rayner to see it behind for a corner kick.

Ellie Sturgess barely in the frame does well to get back to deny Charlotte Gillies a shot on goal

Curled into the six yard box from the left, Shults rising amongst the crowd to punch the ball away to the right, hurts herself in the process, but after a pause in play is able to continue. Walker winning the ball in midfield for Newmarket playing it out to Griffin on the right swings a dangerous cross into the Cambridge box, Spiers stretching for it in the middle can’t quite reach it, Corbyn running in beyond the far post, throwing out a leg and direct the ball back across goal, out for a goal kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

Walker chips the ball up to Corbyn out on the left outside the area, closely marked by Hjaltun-Rayner, the ball escaping beyond the pair loose inside the box, Bridgeman alert in behind to try and attack it, Shults getting down to gather the ball into her body before she can get a touch.

A defensive coming together from Newmarket high up the pitch on the left sees, Lempek race away with the ball at her feet into the channel striking the ball from 20 yards out her effort racing wide of Szary’s left post. Stephenson getting hold of the ball centrally for Cambridge looking to travel with the ball moving in field, Griffin putting the tackle in for Newmarket.

Cobb getting forwards to win the ball for Cambridge keep the pressure on in the final 3rd out to Stephenson on the left up with Marden, inside for Lempek, Walker back to defend for the hosts.

GOAL! Approaching the half hour mark and Cambridge double their lead the ball from Cobb rolled into Lempek, back to goal in the left channel feds it out to Stephenson racing past her on the left bearing down on the area, Szary rushing out to the corner of her box to try and close the angle, Stephenson knocking the ball past the keeper, running on beyond her to fire the ball into the goal beyond to net her 1st Cambridge goal. 0-2.

Becca Stephenson doubling Cambridge’s lead

Newmarket conceding a 2nd goal look to get the ball forwards quickly their long balls still causing Cambridge a few issues, Hjaltun-Rayner enjoying a good battle with Corbyn as she looks to get on down the hosts left wing, the Cambridge full back winning the ball twice in quick succession.

Cambridge winning a corner on the left, have played in some teasing deliveries, again curled in Otten rising centrally to head the ball down towards goal, Szary with a sharp save stopping it on her goal line.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

Sturgess has been kept on her toes by Gillies on Cambridge’s right, stretching out her leg to take the ball from the winger as she looks to power forwards. Cambridge with a corner on the right in short to Gillies top of the area fired into the six yard box, blocked, Newmarket launching it clear, high up the pitch, Welham the last defender has to win it, or risk, Spiers going through one on one with the keeper, the defender composed to win the ball.

Newmarket defender, Ellie Sturgess

Cambridge getting Stojko-Down onto the ball central, plays a through ball up to Stephenson making a central run in behind, Szary comes racing out of her box needing to get there, just about snatching her clearance into the middle, Cambridge snapping back to win the ball out to Gillies on the right 25 yards out tries to capitalize on the keeper being out of position, fires her angled shot wide across goal.

Late in the first half Cambridge winning a free-kick deep on the left, fired in long to the far post, Gillies trying to meet it on the volley a difficult chance can only turn the ball behind for a goal-kick.

Half-time Newmarket Town Women 0-2 Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge leading 2-0 at the break getting forwards well to keep the Newmarket defence busy, winning the 2nd ball in the middle and turning play around quickly. The barely rarely still. Charlotte Gillies opening the scoring in the 16th minute, Becca Stephenson put through to double the lead on the half hour mark. The game played at a high tempo Newmarket’s long clearances causing a few issues defenders on both sides putting in a number of crucial tackles and interceptions. Cambridge in a good position will be looking for an early goal in the 2nd half to take full control of the semi-final, Newmarket still firmly in the game however will be looknig for the early break through themselves to put themselves right back in the game.

Changes for both sides at half-time, Newmarket bringing on Holly Corley for Bridgeman. Cambridge making a double switch in attack bring in Millie Docking and Emilia Reinhardt in place of Gillies and Lempek. Cambridge to kick off the 2nd half, the ball rolled into Otten, sends it long, Szary gathering it into her gloves for the hosts. Walker bringing the ball on for Newmarket central playing a diagonal ball forwards looking for Spiers, pulling left, the pass cut out by Rouse at the back for Cambridge.

Newmarket’s Katie Spiers

Otten stepping in to tackle Spiers as the Newmarket attacker attempts to drives forwards with the ball through the centre. Rennie with the ball at her feet at the back for Newmarket sending on long up the right for Dryland breaking forwards on the flank driving on with the ball clips a cross low into the near post, caught by Shults.

Cambridge continuing where they left off first half looking to get the ball forwards with pace, Docking and Reinhardt looking to break in behind, Stojko-Down looking to play in Marden in the left channel, Caffarelli getting her foot in to cut the pass out for the hosts behind for a corner eft side. Another vicious delivery curled in centrally just over Otten rising in the middle of the six yard box, Szary beyond pushing the ball out to the top of the area.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten

Cambridge lively Reinhardt with pace to burn bursting in behind the defence top of the area, Szary rushing out to try and close her down, Reinhardt attempts the lob Szary getting a glove up well to deflect it away to the right, caught out of position as Reinhardt goes after it right of goal, defenders racing back to cover the exposed goal, Reinhardt shoots low for the bottom left corner, the shot blocked on the line turned behind for a corner kick.

Curled into the six yard box, dropping down into the mix scrambled away to the left. Cambridge pushing hard Otten winning the ball high laying it into the left channel for Marden looking to get away down the wing, Dryland back to challenge, however the attack halted by a raised flag.

Newmarket full back, Holly Dryland

Reinhardt’s pace a threat for Newmarket as she races through in behind as the visitors capitalise on a poorly struck free-kick, Szary again out to close her down sliding in Reinhardt stabbing the ball past the advancing keeper, but so to the right post.

Millie Docking on the attack with Emilia Reinhardt for Cambridge

GOAL! No sooner has Reinhardt had one opportunity to score she is presented with another for Cambridge as Welham wins the ball at the back for the visitors, played forwards into Reinhardt looking to pull off the Newmarket defence right channel racing into the box, let’s fly before Szary can set herself sending the ball past her into the back of the net to add Cambridge’s 3rd on 57 minutes 0-3.

Emilia Reinhardt firing home Cambridge’s 3rd goal

Cambridge getting the ball back in the middle Cobb combining with Stojko-Down on for Stephenson advancing down the right wing to the touch line puts in the cross, Caffarelli turning it behind for a corner kick. Swung into the near post from the right cut out cleared to the top of the area Cobb inside the D getting hold of it for the visitors sliding the ball forwards for Stojko-Down breaking clear right side of goal, Szary out to close her down sliding in the pair colliding the ball knocked on across goal, cleared off the line. Both Stojko-Down and Szary up okay after their collision.

Newmarket making a treble change bringing off Caffarelli, Corbyn and Spiers, with Bridgeman back on along with Eden Kirby-Cook and Kara Wayman on the hour mark. Reinhardt up top for Cambridge charging in behind inside the right channel, forcing Szary to come racing out of her box to try and close her down just about gets there the ball skipping up off her turned on into the box eventually put behind for a corner even as Cambridge complain to the referee over a potential hand ball outside the area but no given.

The corner fired into the near post met by Stojko-Down who heads it wide. Cambridge’s turn to make a treble switch bringing off Hjaltun-Rayner, Rouse and Welham, on come Katie Walter, Sydney Daniels and Holly Plummer. Stojko-Down playing the ball forwards to Marden left side, Rennie defending the ball out for a corner kick. Swung into the six yard box, Szary up well amongst bodies to punch the ball clear.

Alysha Stojko-Down

Walker sending the ball out to Griffin pulling right for Newmarket knocks the ball forwards before clipping a cross into the box, Shults up to claim it centrally. Griffin winning Newmarket a free-kick out wide on the right, takes it herself a great delivery in across the six yard box at an inviting height but no one can get a touch as the game moves into the final 20 minutes.

Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

Stephenson caught as she looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Cambridge. Stojko-Down with a effort from range struck wide of the right post. Newmarket fighting hard getting bodies up looking to find a way through on goal, Walker getting onto the ball pressing forwards left channel, Walter coming in to close her down for Cambridge. Dryland coming off for Newmarket, as they send on Yvonne Yerrell. Griffin looking to link up with Gibson for the hosts taking the ball right Plummer tackling for Cambridge.

The game entering the final 10 minutes Cambridge making a double substitution bringing Gillies and Lempek back on in place of Marden and Stephenson. Lempek involved straight away as she looks to break clear off the defence on the right channel, it’s Gibson who gets back to make the challenge for Newmarket.

Newmarket midfielder, Abi Gibson

Newmarket not sitting back trying to keep Cambridge contained feel they can get something from the game pushing players on Griffin right linking up with Bridgeman the ball helped inside to Corley top of the D, moves to the left unleashing a shot, Shults getting down to make the save.

Rennie at the back for Newmarket with a well timed tackle on Lempek as the Cambridge attacker drives for the box left of the D. Reinhardt coming to the left sending the ball inside for Lempek initially missed by the defence Rennie is around on the cover to get to the ball first roll it back to her keeper to clear.

Newmarket defender, Ailie Rennie

Stojko-Down with another strike from distance powered wide of the left post as the ball is cleared up to her. Spiers back on for Newmarket late on. Reinhardt fouled on the left as she brings the ball forwards. Stojko-Down over the set-piece launched towards the far post, Szary up well to claim the ball.

The crowd appealing for a hand ball as Newmarket attack on the left the cross turned behind inside the box for a corner instead. Curled into the near post Cambridge cleared to the top of the area 25 yards out Spiers onto the ball looking to tee up Walker left of the d 20 yards out leaning back as she shoots fires her effort high.

Into stoppage time Stojko-Down is fouled by Walker picks herself up to take the set-piece to the left angling the ball in towards the far post Otten pulling off the defence misses it as it flies past the keeper out for a goal kick.

Full Newmarket Town Women 0-3 Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge advancing to the Invitation Cup Final, where they will face Histon Ladies as the tier 6 side beat Cambridge City 4-1 to reach the final. Being played at Cambridge City FC’s new ground in Sawston on Weds 30th March. Cambridge leading 2-0 at the break, making a strong start to the 2nd half looking for an early goal to extend their lead and settle things down. The game nevertheless played at a frenetic pace, the ball never still. Newmarket battled well tried to get themselves a foot hold back into the game but Cambridge had the experience on the pitch to keep things tight in defence.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. plenty of contenders once again. Several performances to mention, first up Newmarket captain, Katie Walker, fighting for the ball in the middle of the park looked to get forwards link up with the attack. Ellie Sturgess had a battle on her hands with Charlotte Gillies on the right but got in a number of tackles and covered the ground well. Abi Gibson too winning her fair share of tackles in the middle. For Cambridge their captain too with a strong game, Gisela Otten winning the ball at the back, reading the game well. Serena Cobb and Alysha Stojko-Down pressing the ball winning it high in the middle keeping Cambridge constantly on the front foot. Charlotte Gillies carrying a threat on the right with her pace driving with the ball opening the scoring. Flo Hjaltun-Rayner at full back winning her fair share of the ball, played some great balls forwards. Emilia Reinhardt made a real impact coming on 2nd half her pace troubling the Newmarket defence and gave Cambridge the momentum going on to add the 3rd goal. The award today goes to Becca Stephenson, already has one for Needham Market this season. Got Cambridge on the front foot early on getting hold of the ball and driving forwards whether it be down the left channel on centrally looked to make things happen link up her fellow attackers and getting her 1st Cambridge goal too.

An enjoyable afternoon at the Tristel Stadium at fast paced game my thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always much appreciated, entering the business end of the season the cup finals beginning for me this coming Sunday.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Seaward FC

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL South East Division One

A late start to 2025 for myself, but so too for many clubs with the weather at the start of the year leading to two successive weekends of substantial postponements. Thankfully today’s planned match is on, albeit relocated to the neighbouring astro pitch as Cambridge United WFC look to continue their recent good form as they take on London Seaward FC in FAWNL South East Division One.

Representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid FAWNL South East Division One has proven an intriguing league to follow in the first half of the 2024/25 season with 9 of the 12 sides staying in close contention with no one able to break away and it will certainly be interesting to see who can emerge on top come the end of the season.

Cambridge United WFC amongst that pack, a frustrating run of defeats seeing momentum stalled towards the end of the year, injuries to key players at the start of the season and early into the season not helping, have gradually got back to full strength and a positive run to end 2024 picking up to huge wins against Actonians and Norwich City saw the club rebuild momentum and get back at amongst the cluster of sides above them, earning manager Darren Marjoram a nomination for FAWNL Division One manager of the month along the way.

Striker Sarah Wiltshire back at the start of this season after having her 3rd child breaking her arm, on season’s eve. Bella Simmons has stepped up to provide the goals in her absence netting 12 so far this season, and with Wiltshire now back and scoring herself Cambridge have a potent attack along with Alysha Stojko-Down in midfield who has 6 goals to her name to date. Defender, Ella Finneran, joining from London Seaward FC over the summer another suffering injury in pre-season has taken her a while to return to match fitness, no playing a keen to show what she can do.

London Seaward FC formed from the old Leyton Orient side that gained promotion to the FAWNL a few season’s back, Leyton Orient FC pulling their support and name for the women’s side they became an independent women’s football club, with a strong squad and young manager in Dan McKimm who quickly earned a high reputation, eventually leading to him being offered the London Bees management role, that has seen several London Seaward players move across the capital to join him.

The loss of manager and a good portion of players over the summer saw something of a rebuild take place at London Seaward, possessing a healthy squad of players, nevertheless have had to bring several new players in, amongst those, goalkeeper, Alex Baker a vastly having played for Billericay Town Women and defender, Beatrice Rogers who started last season with Cambridge United WFC. An unsettled spell the managers role now taken on by Jason Murray as the club looks to beat the drop. Despite starting the season with a win London Seaward FC find themselves in a battle to avoid relegation along side Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and Chesham United Women, with 2 of the 3 going down. Just a single point earnt since, have nevertheless been working hard, fighting for points encouraged in recent games a narrow 1-0 loss at home to Norwich last weekend felt they could have taken something from the game. Katherine Long top scorer with 5 goals to her name.

With the freezing weather looking to put pay to the action on the grass pitches this weekend, Cambridge had a back-up playing at St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the site has an astro itch situated behind the main stadium. Permission sought to relocate the game to get it on. Have covered a few games on the pitch not recently however, the fenced pitch now having a small covered area by the side for spectators as well and standing viewing behind one goal. A few layers on to protect from the cold, felt quite pleasant actually, if just above freezing a warm cup of tea helping. A large pitch offering good width.

Today’s game relocated to the Premier Plus Stadium’s astro pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb Lauren Rouse Abbie Jackson, Elle Finneran, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Eva Hubbard (C), Serena Cobb, Alysha Stojko-Down, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten, Sammy Edgar & Rosy Wodhams.

Cambridge United WFC

London Seaward FC starting XI – Alex Baker, Mia South, Rochelle Mayne, Niamh McKevitt, Beatrice Rogers, Sharne Harris, Maisie Cannon (C), Suzy Davies, Laila Malcolm, Leila Awan & Cloe O’Brien. Subs – Lily Aungier, Emma Cianter & Zainab El-Mouden.

London Seaward FC

Captain’s Maisie Cannon and Eva Hubbard with today’s referee, Sarah Tonks

Cambridge getting back to full strength have Elle Finneran in a defence making her 2nd start of the season. The hosts having the kick-off in the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. London Seaward lining up without top scorer Long opposite wearing light blue shirts with a navy swirl design, navy shorts and light blue socks. Cambridge launching the ball out to the right wing for Charlotte Gillies to attack as she bursts forwards, Sharne Harris under it to win the header for the visitors the ball out for a throw in.

Cambridge looking to press the ball high up the pitch in the early exchanges Gillies on the right in to close the ball down inside for Sarah Wiltshire she looks to release Gillies down the line, held up by Harris knocked back up the pitch to be crossed into the box, Niamh McKevitt heading clear inside the box for London Seaward. The visitors regain possession in the middle look to counter attack, Suzy Davies taking the ball forwards through the middle with a powerful run threading it out to the right flanks for Leila Awan, looks to take the ball on, Cambridge defender Abbie Jackson moving out to close her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw.

London Seaward’s Leila Awan

Both sides competitive looking to win the ball, Cloe O’Brien up top for London Seaward moving about the ground looking to close down the defence, Finneran dispossessing Awan as she looks to attack on the right again, the ball cleared into Bella Simmons on halfway turns and drives forwards with the ball for Cambridge laying it out to captain Eva Hubbard drifting out to the left side, Awan tracking back to help in defence closing her down before she turns inside looking to cross.

O’Brien fouling Finneran as she brings the ball on down the left a free-kick on half way the ball lifted out to the right side, Gillies taking it on whipping a cross low into the near post, Rochelle Mayne able to shield it back to her keeper as Wiltshire looks to attack it. Simmons with some great movement coming for the ball for Cambridge and turning to drive at the London Seaward defence moving right looks to send Gillies on down the line, Harris getting her foot out to block the pass bring the ball away for the visitors.

Competitive, a few robust challenges being made free-kicks given away, Alysha Stojko-Down with the pass into Simmons moving into the right channel 25 yards out attempts to feed the ball on for Wiltshire ahead of her as she breaks into the box, Mayne getting across her to see the ball back safely to her keeper. A pause in play as both Davies for London Seaward and Rouse for Cambridge are down with knocks, both hobbling slightly as they get back to their feet but both okay to play on. The Cambridge defence pushed up often to the halfway line as the hosts look to press London Seaward.

Jackson winning the ball at the back for Cambridge lifting a great pass forwards for Ella Marden on the left, into the corner has Wiltshire coming to support, taking the ball inside sends a dangerous ball looping across the face of the London Seaward goal on the angle out past the far post for a goal-kick.

Ella Marden taking the ball on for Cambridge

Cambridge winning the ball well looking to get forwards, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left wing sees her cross, deflected behind of Mia South for a corner kick. Swept in across the six yard box dropping far post, no one can make contact as London Seaward retrieve the ball and look to break up the left with Harris on the ball. O’Brien fighting for the ball in the Cambridge half, squirms away with it looking for options, Beatrice Rogers providing an attacking run on the right, the Cambridge back line hold their line well, Rogers straying offside.

Beatrice Rogers stretching to win the ball for London Seaward

Rogers doing the defending up the other end as Cambridge looking to send a diagonal ball from the centre into Stojko-Down as she breaks forwards into the left channel, Rogers winning the ball. Simmons linking up with Gillies as Cambridge attack down the right, Gillies delivering a vicious cross into the penalty box, Wiltshire looking to cushion it down into her feet hit on the half volley, the touch a fraction to heavy, giving Mayne the vital fraction of a second to swing her leg out launch the ball clear.

London Seaward defender, Rochelle Mayne

Hubbard up on the left for Cambridge with the hosts winning the ball back on halfway a strong forwards run, Rogers closing her down to tackle win the ball back the visitors looking to launch a rapid counter attack the ball played into Awan central, Rogers bursting on up the right sees the ball played into her path taking it on down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, however making a comfortable catch.

Suzy Davies carrying the ball forwards for London Seaward

Cambridge with the lions share of the ball going forwards, London Seaward absorbing alot at the back, nevertheless look a threat on the counter attack and lively Cambridge can’t afford to get complacent in possession. Harris bringing the ball on well on the left for London Seaward, O’Brien coming to receive the ball, turns looking to attack the Cambridge defence, runs into Rouse, doesn’t get very far.

London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon

London Seaward captain, Maisie Cannon getting hold of the ball forwards for Davies on to Awan right side attempts to turn infield, Finneran stretching out a leg winning the ball back for Cambridge. Laila Malcolm with a strong challenge to win the ball for the visitors, O’Brien coming back to receive the ball, turns sending the threaded ball into Awan on the right, comes inside her cross intercepted outside the box.

Cambridge’s Elle Finneran

Harris fouled by Stojko-Down on halfway, South over the set-piece as London Seaward send players up the field. The ball lifted into the top of the Cambridge box, Jackson attacking it to win the header clearing for Cambridge. Simmons picking the ball up from deep for Cambridge with another powerful run with the ball drifting right lays it out to Gillies who runs it to the by-line before whipping her cross into the six yard box, Rogers pulling her foot through the ball as she turns in front of goal to clear the ball away to the left for a throw.

Cambridge building pressure pushing players on Hubbard left with Stojko-Down who is fouled outside the area to the left of goal. The free-kick floated into the far post area knocked down the ball blocked inside the six yard box, half cleared a shot struck from outside the area on the right also blocked with London Seaward all back to defend. Cambridge winning the ball back inside the final 3rd a shot from range on the right driven in on goal straight at the keeper, Baker with a straight forward save.

O’Brien up top on her own getting about well to try and press the Cambridge defence, frustrated a little too strong with her tackles at times. Malcolm getting hold of the ball for London Seaward looks for the run of Awan to the right, lays it inside for O’Brien, but she is closely marked by Jackson who prevents her turning 30 yards out.

Cloe O’Brien bringing the ball under control for London Seaward

Cambridge on the attack right side the cross-field ball out to the left won by Marden outside the area played into the area for Wiltshire to latch onto, burst on towards the near post in behind the defence gets her strike away on the angle, Baker behind the ball reacting well beating the ball down, her defence quick to recover to scramble the ball away to safety as Simmons races in to try and attack the loose ball.

Davies and Marden tussling for the ball out on the left, Marden winning the free-kick on half way. Flung out to the right side, Simmons fouled as an overly high challenge comes in attempting to win the ball. The set-piece 30 yards out to the right of goal. Wiltshire’s ball into the top of the area cleared out to the left Marden latching onto it sending it back in towards the far post Jackson looking to attack it a faint touch out behind for a goal kick.

London Seaward keep soaking up the pressure ready to launch the counter Davies marching forwards with the ball playing a diagonal pass out to Harris bombing on up the left coming inside fires a ball into the area angling across goal, Webb can see it safely wide of her far post. Awan with good foot work on the ball wriggling away to burst forwards left channel before being upended by Rouse winning the free kick. South on the set-piece lifted into the top of the area, Jackson with the clearing header once again.

Abbie Jackson heading the ball clear for Cambridge

Cambridge guilty of giving away free kicks inviting a little pressure themselves, the ball played into the box from deep on the left is missed by the defence as it drops on the penalty spot, O’Brien’s eyes lighting up as she snatches a shot away, Webb with a fantastic save from point blank range saving with her legs as the ball is struck at her, deflected away to the right and cleared for a throw in.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

London Seaward encouraged from the throw 25 yards out dropped into O’Brien turns to send the ball into Awan top of the D takes the ball over to the left looking for an opening takes on the strike from 20 yards out dragging her effort wide of the left post.

Hubbard out to Marden attacking down Cambridge’s left sends the ball into the London Seaward box, Stojko-Down running in near side turns the ball wide of the post. Malcolm into Harris on the left for London Seaward up the wing into Awan, drives forwards before being brought down right on the edge of the area. A dangerous position, South on the set-piece fired into the the Cambridge wall.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Cambridge for all their attacking play frustrated by London Seaward, matching their formation dropping back, clear cut chances hard to come by, Hubbard from a free-kick central playing the ball on for Simmons, looks to knock it down for Stojko-Down positioned top of the box, Mayne in close on her defending for London Seaward. Wiltshire pulled down as she attacks out right for Cambridge 25 yards from goal. Over the resulting free-kick herself swings the ball in close on goal, Baker getting up well to claim the ball for the visiting side.

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down with London Seawards’ Laila Malcolm

The first half rapidly drawing to a close, Baker with the ball in her gloves with the drop kick, smashes the ball against the back of one of her unsuspecting defenders 20 yards out floored the ball rebounds straight into the path of Wiltshire outside the D, takes a wild swing at the ball attempting to find the exposed goal, instead pulls her attempt wide of the left post thankfully for Baker.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 London Seaward FC

The sides head into the changing room goalless at the break. A spirted display in defence from London Seaward have soaked up alot of pressure without presenting their opponents with many clear cut opportunities. Cambridge on top in terms of possession, maybe a little frustrated winning the first ball well, the 2nd not so much as London Seaward work hard to close it down in the final 3rd. The visitors actually with the best opportunity in the first half forcing a point blank save from Webb. Have looked to break with pace turn play around so far frustrating Cambridge.

No changes for either side as the floodlights come on at the beginning of the 2nd half, what little (warmth) there was has faded time to get the hat out as the two sides emerge for from the changing rooms neither making a change with London Seaward getting the 2nd 45 underway. The back into midfield finding it’s way back to Baker in goal as Cambridge look to get on the front foot straight away pressing the ball.

Simmons taking the ball on up the right wing playing the pass inside to Cobb pushing on towards the box looks to send the ball inside towards Wiltshire, can’t quite bring it down under control as McKevitt closes her down the ball cleared away to the left side, Marden latching onto the shot 25 yards out sending a powerful shot in towards goal, threatening to fly in under the crossbar Baker with a wonderful save getting a glove up to tip the ball over the crossbar.

London seaward defender, Niamh McKevitt

From the resulting corner on the right the delivery is curled in across the face of goal dropping far post met by Jackson’s head six yards out planted her attempt straight at the keeper, Baker grabbing hold of the ball. Cambridge with a positive start to the 2nd half have London Seaward pushed back into the final 3rd, Malcolm fouling Simmons as she looks to keep hold of the ball on the right. Jackson playing the free-kick on up the right for Simmons as she looks to combine with Gillies playing the one two, Harris going with Gillies able to see Simmons return pass out of play for a goal-kick.

Hubbard getting forwards on the left for Cambridge brought down outside the area. Wiltshire over the set-piece from the angle 25 yards out takes on the shot, Baker behind it all the way to save comfortably. Fouls being given away on both sides, London Seaward finding it harder to get out from the back as Cambridge work to close the ball down keep building pressure.

Thing’s tight in the box, Cambridge getting players on struggling to carve a hole through a determined London Seaward defence, South putting in the blocking tackle as Hubbard looks to lay Stojko-Down in left of goal. Jackson intercepting on half way for Cambridge playing the ball back into the middle for Hubbard who has Cobb breaking forwards ahead of her into the right channel, seeing the ball into her feet drives on, Harris coming to close her down with a strong tackle to get the ball clear for the visitors.

London Seaward’s, Sharne Harris

Won’t stick up top, O’Brien working hard still to close the defence down, lacking support with her side pushed back, does well though to win her side a free-kick out on the left 30 yards from goal, an opportunity to relief the pressure, South on the ball, sends a high ball looping up in towards goal, Webb not distracted by runners closing in keeping her eye on the ball to take a clean catch.

Cambridge making the first change of the game with Rosy Wodhams coming onto the pitch, in place of Marden with Hubbard moving over to the left. Simmons out to the right for Cambridge taking the ball on from Gillies driving into the corner, whips a low cross into the near post close on goal, Mayne tracking back, getting their in front of Wiltshire to intercept. Wodhams adding another threat with her midfield runs for Cambridge driving at the defence, Cannon lunging in to halt her run.

Maisie Cannon winning the ball for London Seaward

Wodhams seeing the ball down into her feet from a throw on the right as Cambridge look to find the break through, turns quickly to thread the pass into the area for Stojko-Down bursting clear right of goal, the angle closing down releases her strike, targeting the near post, Baker down sharply to divert the ball into the side netting, corner.

The delivery comes looping in beyond the far post the six yard box crowded, the ball headed back over to the right side, turned behind for a 2nd corner. Hubbard playing the ball back into the area headed clear for a throw on the right. Simmons pushed over out wide on the right for Cambridge 25 yards out, Wiltshire to deliver the set-piece into the area, knocked clear into Wodhams central, lays it back to Wiltshire who sweeps the ball into the far post area on the angle, Jackson attacking it driving her header wide of the far post, the London Seaward defence stepping up well though catching her offside.

Most of the play inside the London Seaward half, Cambridge knocking on the door looking for the opening goal, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left sweeping a cross long into the box, Harris dealing with it for London Seaward. Tense out there, London Seaward battling, Cambridge a little frustrated, attack on the right Wiltshire quicker to the ball snatching onto it as she breaks into the area wide of goal from the angle looks to shoot across the keeper, Baker down well pushing the ball away to the left. Cambridge retrieving left side clipping the ball back into the mix, Mayne up stretching to meet it with her head very nearly turns the ball into her own net, Baker with the reactive save at close range to beat the ball down, a scramble for the ball ensues London Seaward digging it away to safety, play paused with Baker down having taken a knock but able to continue.

Serina Cobb bringing the ball on for Cambridge

Simmons looking to chase the ball down as it is rolled forwards into the box, running out of room gets a faint touch to play it off Mayne tracking her run to win a corner kick, although I’m not certain Mayne made contact with the ball, she certainly doesn’t think so. Corner nevertheless. London Seaward not happy a few tempers flaring as a couple of decisions go against them a free-kick awarded wide on the right, Wiltshire to deliver players up into the are swung into the six yard box headed away to the left a 2nd cross put into the mix, Baker up well to get hold of the ball.

Goalkeeper Alex Baker with a number of saves to keep it at 0-0

London seaward making their first change, Emma Cianter coming on in place of Davies. Cambridge making a change too with Sammy Edgar coming into the midfield replacing Cobb midway through the half. All action Cambridge pushing for a goal Hubbard attacking on the left sending in a cross long to the far post Gillies providing the run looking to head the ball back in at goal, Harris tracking back with her, the winger can’t get the ball over the defender, Harris cutting it out clearing the ball.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse

Rouse brings the ball forwards for Cambridge pushing the ball on into Stojko-Down who helps the ball on into the area for Wiltshire making the attacking run ahead of her pulls the trigger, Mayne blocking for London Seaward. 20 minutes left the visitors fighting hard at the back, Hubbard attacking left side, swinging a cross into the penalty spot, McKevitt up well to head the ball away for London Seaward. Simmons lively on the right linking up with Gillies, Harris snapping back at the ball to put it out for a throw.

Bella Simmons

GOAL! The break through comes for Cambridge, have been knocking on the door all through the 2nd half, Gillies on the right plays the ball inside to Wodhams who makes a driving run at the London Seaward defence right of the D 20 yards out players converging to close her down the ball blocked is deflected away across the top of the D, Stojko-Down finds herself in space running onto the loose ball and meets it sweetly rifling the ball beyond Baker into the top corner to score 1-0.

Build up to the opening goal, Alysha Stojko-Down moving to attack the loose ball

Took a wonder strike but the London Seaward defence is finally breached Cambridge with the lead, the visitors responding with a change, Cannon coming off to be replaced by Lily Aungier. London Seaward immediately look to force there way forwards, Harris determined on the left, comes off the worst in a 50/50 challenge with both Rouse and Simmons moving in to block the ball as the wingback goes to strike it. Harris getting the decision winning her side a free-kick. South to play the ball into the top of the area Cambridge defend.

Harris brought off for London Seaward as the visitors send on Zainab El-Mouden, the game opening up a little. Hubbard from a throw on the left wins Cambridge a corner as her cross from the by-line is deflected behind. The corner curled in centrally, met by Jackson her header threatening to fly in under the bar, Baker once more with a fabulous save to tip the ball over for another corner.

In from the right the ball is knocked down to the top of the area, falling for Hubbard can’t quite dig the ball out of her feet as London Seaward rush out to close her down, snatches her shot wide of the left post. The game opening up with London Seaward in need of an equaliser, Baker looks to be beaten as the shot from 20 yards out right of the D loops over her, the ball smashing against the crossbar drops down into the six yard box and is scrambled clear.

London Seaward break away through the middle O’Brien striding on with the ball releasing Cianter out wide on the right presses for the corner before sending an angled ball low into the near post, Webb down to the floor to smother the ball. Edgar finding Simmons out on the right the Cambridge attacker sending the ball up the line for Wiltshire powers her way forwards dragging two London Seaward defenders with her before checking back inside leaving them in her wake as she turns into the box and strikes the ball goal-wards, Baker there down to make the save.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Gillies

Jackson having picked up a slight knock for Cambridge coming off at the back in the closing stages of the game, with Gisela Otten coming on. The game stretched players tiring, Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the right side bursting into the area, McKevitt recovers well to get back at her lunging across her angled shot to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick.

The game tense, Cambridge getting a little nervy, determined to hold onto there lead as London Seaward have to take a few risks get forwards themselves the pitch opening up. Edgar lining up a strike from all of 30 yards out, blasted straight at the keeper. Simmons with the ball on the right forwards into Wiltshire outside the box, lays it off for Wodhams pushing up from the middle, Malcolm sliding in to win the ball back for London Seaward top of the D.

A 4th change for Cambridge with defender Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris coming on to replace Hubbard as the hosts look to see out the game. Into stoppage time seconds left, London Seaward winning a free-kick out on the right, send everyone forwards into the box including the keeper as South floats the ball into the mix, all happening as players look to attack the ball, the referee falling over too, the ball scrambled clear by Cambridge the break is on Gillies racing after the ball, Baker stranded in the wrong area, only South has a chance of catching the winger as she races back to her own goal looking to close the angle, Gillies taking a touch, putting her foot through the ball from distance sees the ball run wide of the right post.

Everyone into the Cambridge box for a last gasp free-kick

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 London Seaward FC

Alysha Stojko-Down with the 2nd half screamer, sealing the 3rd league win in a row for Cambridge as they pull themselves securely back into the jostle amongst the sides pushing for top spot in the division. Were made to work for it by a determined London Seaward who battled hard in defence for a long period in the 2nd half, Alex Baker with a number of saves keeping her side firmly in the game took a wonder strike to beat her. London Seaward return home frustrated with another narrow defeat, may well have had the lead in the 1st half, however Cambridge came out determined in the 2nd half, rarely letting their opponents out, players attacking looking for the opening, frustrated were knocking on the door the goal certainly a relief when it came back to back clean sheets too a positive start to 2025 London Seaward remain in the bottom two the gap to Chesham four points, will fight for every one with 7 games to go.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2025. This is certainly a tough one with several contenders and have to give both sides credit for their all round team performances. Firstly for London Seaward, the whole defence put in a shift, goalkeeper Alex Baker pulling off a number of top draw saves to frustrate Cambridge and keeper her side right in contention. Leila Awan with several positive runs in the first half especially looking to create openings. Sharne Harris fighting to the ball, defending out on the left with a number of vital tackles. For Cambridge the 3 at the back with less to do but still very well organised and marshalled the middle of the pitch well with Cambridge pushed up, Abbie Jackson adding a threat from set-pieces inside the box with a couple of good opportunities to score herself. Captain Eva Hubbard with several good runs forwards taking the ball out to the left and looking to pick out the strikers inside the box. Alysha Stojko-Down with a superb winning goal, found pockets of space to exploit throughout in a congested final 3rd. The award though goes to Bella Simmons, right form the off she was intent on winning the ball and drove continuously at London seaward back line linking up well with her fellow attackers, creating numerous opportunities.

Good to be back a good match to start 2025, as intrigued as anyone to see who will emerge out on top on FAWNL South East Division One. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. A cold one but the layers did their job.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 3rd November

Women’s FA Cup

Into the 1st Round Proper of this season’s Women’s FA Cup the tier 3 sides entering the competition as the road to Wembley hots up. A trip to St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium also home to Cambridge United WFC as they host fellow FAWNL South East Division One side, Norwich City Women.

The prize fund to with today’s winners receiving £6000 a huge sum to any club competing at this stage of the cup. A run to the 3rd Round Proper and the prize for the winners jumps to £35000! A massive incentive with clubs aiming to make history along the way.

Todays opponents, well known to one another now the longest established sides competing in the 4th tier in the South East of the country stretching way back to the old Combination league days before the 3rd and 4th tiers of the women’s football pyramid became the FAWNL (FA Women’s National League) we know today. Both too growing stronger ties with their respective men’s clubs as they look to find the extra edge to push for the title and promotion to the league above. Today though it’s all about the cup.

FAWNL South East Division One couldn’t be any tighter, Cambridge United WFC may lay 9th in the table but the gap to themselves and top of the table Actonians Ladies is just 7 points! No one breaking clear looks to be highly competitive this season. Last time I saw Cambridge in action they were on the wrong end of a tough loss to London Bees in the league. Two successive cup ties to follow needed a positive bounce back. A tough home draw in the Women’s FA Cup 3rd Round Qualifying against Real Bedford, but having drawn 0-0 with them in the league produced the goods to win 3-1 t0 advance to the 1st Round Proper.

Backed that up with another cup victory in the FAWNL Plate a 1-0 win over Charlton Athletic Women Academy to reach the last 8 of the competition, having reached the final the season before. Injuries were a problem last season despite that cup run and unfortunately they have affected the squad again this season with new signing defender Ellie Finneran hurt in pre-season yet to play as she returns to fitness. While midfielders, Sammy Edgar and Alysha Stojko-Down are currently side lined along with defender Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris. Sarah Wiltshire though is back in the squad after having her 3rd child and suffering a broken arm in pre-season. Bella Simmons scoring the goals in her absence top scorer so far with 9 from 9.

Norwich City Women coming into today’s game off the back of 4 successive draws in the league. Frustrating following a run of 4 straight wins at the start of the season. Experienced women’s coach Andy Cook coming in to manage the side having enjoyed success with Newcastle United Women previously, looking to find the extra edge to push Norwich over the line to win promotion to tier 3 for the first time in their history. Despite the draws remain unbeaten 2nd in the table and like Cambridge are into the last 8 of the League Plate following a 2-0 home win against league rivals Actonians Ladies.

A comfortable 5-0 too in 3rd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup against ERWFL Premier Division side, Needham Market Women. Have their share of injury problems too. Losing talisman, Ellie Smith in injury in that match has been highly influential for Norwich since joining the club and out for an extended period will be missed. One player soon to make her return from a long term injury however is club captain, Megan Todd, named on the bench for today’s match. Shannon Shaw stepping in to provide the goals in Smith’s absence in the past couple of matches netting a winning brace against Actonians and a hat-trick in Norwich’s 3-3 draw away to London Bees last time out.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s FA Cup tie. Situated in the midst of a rapidly growing residential area on the outskirts of the town which is only growing. The grass pitched stadium with a 3G facility behind. Viewing on all sides a main covered seated stand with terracing behind both goals. The clubhouse and bar open beside the main stand. The weather mild and cloudy but no rain forecast.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Kelsey Smith, Emma Wallis, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Eva Hubbard (C), Serena Cobb, Rosy Wodhams, Charlotte Gillies, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Lauren Webb, Gisela Otten, Mollie Coupar, Ella Marden & Marta Rodriguez.

Cambridge United WFC

Norwich City Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill (C), Ellie Bishop, Tamsin Medd-Gill, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss, Eloise Morran, Isabelle Moore, Millie Daviss, Holly Kennard, Natasha Snelling & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Amber Locker, Megan Todd, Katie Knights, Lara Densley, Freya Symonds & Sienna Booty.

Norwich City Women

Captain’s Sarah Quantrill and Eva Hubbard with today’s match officials

Norwich have new signing Ellie Bishop lining up in their defence, dual signed from Watford FC Women. Sophie Shults in goal for Cambridge having joined from Ashford over the summer coming into goal with Lauren Webb picking up an injury, Webb back on the bench today. Goalkeeper, Sarah Quantrill captaining Norwich, Eva Hubbard, Cambridge’s new captain this season having joined in the summer. It’s Norwich to kick-off the first half wearing light pastel green shirts and socks with green shorts. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Isabelle Moore driving forwards with the ball for Norwich, tackled by Cambridge’s Rosy Wodhams the ball out to the left played forwards by Ellie Bishop up the line, Norwich looking to get players on quickly, Kelsey Smith defending to see the ball out for a throw in.

Isabelle Moore bringing the ball forwards for Norwich

Norwich looking to get on the front foot right from the off take the game to their opponents, Hope Strauss from the back sending the ball up top into Natasha Snelling. Abbie Jackson with her defending to win the ball at the back for Cambridge under challenge losing her boot in the process. Bishop on the left up to Holly Kennard powers forwards, Smith in to close her down for Cambridge launching it up the line for Bella Simmons on the right wing, Norwich quick to close her down turn play around.

Cambridge’s Abbie Jackson challenging Norwich’s Natasha Snelling for the ball

The early tempo frantic, Cambridge reacting well, realising they need to match Norwich for intensity look to get after the ball chase players down, won back on the middle the cross field ball finding Sarah Wiltshire pulling away on the right flank, taking the ball on down the line cuts a cross back into the near post, cut out by Strauss, the ball back out wide with Wiltshire she fires it back in towards the defender knocking it off Strauss behind for a corner kick.

The corner swept into the near post knocked up and falls down into the mix in the centre of the six yard box, players going for the ball, a hand ball spotted by the referee, Norwich getting the decision. Play intense Norwich with a determined mindset to get the ball forwards, Cambridge responding well, Wodhams moving in to close Ceri Flye down as the defender looks for a forwards pass, nicking the ball off her running in behind lays the diagonal ball into the box with Wiltshire pulling away to the right post, Strauss going with her to cut the pass out clear the ball away to the left.

Cambridge up high on the left Wallis getting up the pitch to support Charlotte Gillies fouled outside the box, players up from the back as Wiltshire lines up the set-piece swung in central attacked knocked down to the far post and turned behind for a corner kick. Played in long from the right dropping far post Norwich hook the ball clear. Norwich threaten to it Cambridge on the break, Shaw after the ball, Sophie Shults though well out of her area from the corner in a good starting position to react and reach the ball first to kick it clear of the Norwich attacker.

A pause in play as Simmons collects a painfully blow from the ball into her face as the midfield battle continues to be intense. Millie Daviss on the right for Norwich providing some good runs for the defence to send the ball forwards taking the ball on down the wing sends a cross into the near post, Jackson there to head clear for Cambridge. Eloise Morran playing the ball into Moore to race on with the ball through the middle for Norwich, threads a pass in behind to the right with Daviss beating the offside trap to steal into the area, Shults rushing out to close her down doing enough as Daviss snatches her attempt wide of the near post.

Isabelle Moore holding off Cambridge’s Emma Wallis

No let up in the tempo, Tamsin Medd-Gill fouled by Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard, 30 yard out to the right, Snelling to loft the set-piece in towards the far post, defended turned out to the left, 15 minutes played the game a little testy a few free-kicks given away as both sets of players snap at the ball, Cambridge giving away a free-kick wide on the left, Norwich sending players up from the back.

GOAL! Bishop the player fouled to take the set-piece for Norwich, curls the ball into the box, a lovely height, it’s Flye rising highest in the middle to get her head on the ball and drill the ball past the keeper into the bottom corner, 0-1.

Ceri Flye heading Norwich into the lead

Ceri Flye win Norwich’s goal

Cambridge behind look to get on the attack from the restart the ball with Gillies coming through the middle sends the pass forwards out to Simmons wide on the right, held up by Bishop lays it back down the line for Smith who clips the ball high into the near post area, Strauss back peddling for Norwich getting under the flight of the ball her head it out for a throw in.

Daviss strong as she brings the ball on down Norwich’s right winning a throw in the corner, dropped into Shaw edge of the area turns to hook the ball on into the box dropping beyond the far post, Smith getting it away before Kennard can latch onto it. The ball put forwards into Gillies central powers on towards the Norwich box before laying the ball out to Wiltshire on her right her cross swept into the box, Wodhams bursting forwards making a run towards the penalty spot, Strauss with a vital interception.

Norwich defender, Hope Strauss

The game end to end at times, Cambridge over load on the left as Norwich clear the ball threaten to break outnumber their opponents, the final pass not quite happening as Smith regains possession for the hosts. Daviss brought down on the right wide on halfway, Strauss over the Norwich free-kick, clipped high into the box, Wallis heads clear for Cambridge. Daviss causing Cambridge some concern on the left drawing her marker in and rolling in behind whipping a pacy cross into the since yard box, very nearly and own goal as it strikes Lauren Rouse looping up off the defender dropping near post, Moore looking to leap get her head on the ball turn it down into the back of the net Shults aware of her angles allowing it to bounce wide of the post.

An entertaining contest highly charged both sides not sitting on the ball, Daviss moving on down the right laying the ball back up the line for Snelling to smash a high ball long into the far post, players rushing in looking to attack it Smith going with them getting their first for Cambridge turning the ball behind for a corner kick. The corner curled into the near post high from the left, Shults jumping to punch the ball getting fouled in the process the call late however as the keeper gets a hands out to block Morran’s close range strike as she attacks the loose ball.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

Norwich pushing players on Bishop and Medd-Gill providing support getting on well as the visitors send the ball forwards, Moore into Shaw, looks to play in Snelling right of the D, Jackson closing in to prevent the turn stab the ball away for Wallis to clear. Wiltshire central for Cambridge holding up the ball allowing Wodhams to run forwards take the ball on past her before threading it into Simmons attacking the box right of the D, pulls further wide to create a shooting chance her attempt rising Quantrill across her line well to get behind the ball to make the save.

Norwich on the ball Morran through the middle lifting it into Snelling right of the D 20 yards out up to head the ball twisting in the air to turn it across the area into the path of Kennard, her first touch however a little too strong allowing Shults to chance to step forwards and snatch the ball into her gloves. Wiltshire seeing a Hubbard ball into her feet back to goal turns well to feed the pass on for Simmons to attack wide on the right, Bishop getting across the path of the ball to see it safely back to her keeper to clear.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Wodhams making several good runs through the middle to link up with Wiltshire through the middle for Cambridge, keeping the Norwich defence alert Strauss and Bishop cutting out a couple of dangerous through balls. Bishop on turn linking up with Kennard and Shaw on the left Norwich winning a corner kick, lifting into the penalty spot, Jackson winning the header for Cambridge to clear.

Shaw combining on the right with Daviss off of a Norwich throw, angling a dipping ball into the near post, Shults getting down to catch the ball into her body beating Snelling to the ball. Daviss taking the ball on down Norwich’s right player racing forwards to get into the box Daviss’ cross flashed across the six yard box, Moore steaming in far post can’t quite take it in her stride the ball turned wide of the upright.

Millie Daviss

Wallis going past Gillies on the left on the overlap for Cambridge playing the ball inside for Wodhams, Morran getting the foot in to win the tackle deny the hosts an attacking opportunity. Moving into injury time at the end of a fast paced first half the ball fed on for Shaw outside the box to the left of the Cambridge area takes on the strike from distance the shot flashed over the crossbar.

Norwich attacker, Shannon Shaw

Wallis picking up a yellow card after a coming together with Daviss on the right, the pair enjoying a good battle in the first half. Snelling with another good knock down to the far post, Bishop pushing up looking to keep the ball alive for Norwich, Rouse can see it safely out of play for Cambridge.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

and breathe! That was an action packed high tempo first half. Highly entertaining between two strong sides. Norwich setting the pace right from the start looking to get on the front foot straight away. Cambridge had no choice had to match them and rose to the challenge well. Both sides looking to get the ball moving Norwich pushing players on creating the better chances but both defences putting in a shift winning the ball with some vital tackling. Enjoyable to watch although spare a thought for my hand writing it’s terrible at the best of times end to end more than one diagram has had to replace a passage of play. Norwich edging it with the opening goal after 15 minutes Ceri Flye getting up to head home a superb delivery from an Ellie Bishop free-kick. Cambridge responding well creating chances themselves makes for a intriguing 2nd half.

No changes for either side at the break as Cambridge get the 2nd period underway the hosts looking to make a fast start to the 2nd half themselves Wodhams racing out to the right as the ball is played forwards, Bishop defending for Norwich. the ball out for a throw.

Cambridge’s Rosy Wodhams with Norwich’s Ellie Bishop

Cambridge pressing early on Hubbard playing the ball into Wiltshire 25 yards out right channel sends it out to the left for Gillies, closed down by Medd-Gill plays it back up the line to Wallis to cross into the box, Strauss winning the header for the visitors. Wodhams pulling right for Cambridge fouled by Bishop. Hubbard on the free-kick out wide clipped into the box, players rushing in to attack but to close to the keeper, Quantrill grabbing hold of the ball.

Holly Kennard

Kennard turning on the ball as it is played into her as she comes inside from the left looks to feed it through to Snelling up top, Jackson getting in the challenge to regain possession for Cambridge. Norwich winning a throw high on the left the ball with Kennard crossed into the near post, Shults claiming for Cambridge. Remains lively little time on the ball in the middle Morran shifts well to feed it through to Shaw up top plays it across the D into Snelling right side, Wallis getting across her to shield the ball back to her keeper.

Norwich midfielder, Eloise Morran

Wodhams with a strong run on the ball through the middle for Cambridge played forwards into Wiltshire back to goal 25 yards out lays the ball out to Simmons on the right before spinning to run into the box, Simmons looking to pick her out with the return pass, Flye getting back on Wiltshire to stretching into the tackle timing it perfectly to win the ball. Wodhams falling as she goes to strike the ball from 25 yards out sees it drop early giving Quantrill a straight forward catch.

Red card! Norwich pressing the attack on the right getting players on up into the box the cross lofted up to the near post, Shults going going for it not getting a clean punch the ball knocked down into the middle the keeper out of position the shot struck on the half volley angling in on target, Rouse back on the line has her arms up to protect her chest the ball striking her full on the referee pointing to the spot Penalty and shows Rouse a straight red card for denying a clear goal scoring opportunity. Tough on Rouse not sure she could gotten her arm out of the way in time but Cambridge are down to 10 with Norwich having an opportunity to double their lead from the spot.

Strauss to take Norwich’s penalty, Shults facing goes to place it to the right of goal, Shults going the right way diving across her goal to save the penalty to push it away for a corner on the right.

Sophie Shults saving Hope Strauss’ penalty

Cambridge defending the resulting corner down to 10 with 35 minutes left to play needing a goal to get back into the tie. Straight to penalties should the sides be level after the 90. Cambridge sowing their intent needing a goal keep their attackers on place going to three at the back looking to press on Wodhams pulling out to the left seeing the ball into her feet spinning off her marker to run in behind to sweep a cross into the near post, Wiltshire racing in to attack, Quantrill vastly experienced aware of the threat to the ball first to claim the catch.

Wodhams getting about the park fouled outside the box to the left of the area, the free-kick fired in towards goal, Quantrill missing her punch the ball however racing wide of the far post. Cambridge fired up after being reduced to 10 energy as they press through the middle Cobb with Hubbard fed forwards evading the Norwich defence Wiltshire alert peeling onto the ball inside the box taking it away to the right before shooting on the angle, Quantrill right behind the ball to make the save.

Cambridge striker, Sarah Wiltshire

Gillies taking the ball on left for Cambridge laying it inside for Wiltshire left of the D, Strauss in to close her down, the loose ball rolling back to Cobb who shoots over from distance. The hosts determined with a player short Wodhams right inside for Wiltshire 25 yards out pushed over by Morran the Norwich midfielder, yellow carded. Wiltshire on the set-piece 25 yards out put in high drops kindly for the keeper to claim.

Great tempo Cambridge responding well to falling a player behind asking the questions, Norwich in need of a 2nd goal to kill them off attack down the right Daviss swinging a cross into the near post attacked by Shaw turn her header over the bar. Norwich making a double change with 67 minutes played bringing off Moore and Shaw on come Lara Densley and Freya Symonds. Cambridge making a change too bringing on Mollie Coupar to replace Gillies on the left of attack.

Snelling pulling away with the ball to the right sending a cross/shot on the angle wide of the far post for Norwich. A hotly contested game a few tackles pushing the limit both sides committed Cambridge’s 10 asking Norwich a few questions. Jackson and Snelling have enjoyed a good battle all game the Norwich striker getting the edge on her counterpart this time to release Daviss on the right her cross turned behind by Wallis for a corner kick. Played in long across goal, Cambridge clear beyond the far post.

Symonds taking the ball on for Norwich on the right her cross deflected behind by Wallis. Put in long once again but Norwich keep it alive on the left put bac in central the shot from distance taking a deflection turned behind for another corner on the right. Strauss up at the near post to head the corner delivery down into the six yard box the shot from close range blocked on the line and launched clear.

Symonds out to the left for Norwich whipping a cross into the top of the Cambridge box, looking for Snelling right of the D, Shults out smartly to the top of her area with the blocking clearance. The game stretched a goal for Norwich almost certain to secure the win, Cambridge keeping players up looking for a chance to equalise, Kennard stealing in on the ball left whipping a cross into the Cambridge area, Wallis intercepting for Cambridge.

Ellie Bishop winning the ball for Norwich

Cambridge counter Wodhams given the ball inside the circle driving forwards a marauding run eating up the ground 25 yards out slips the ball through for Wiltshire holding her run right channel takes the ball on shifting inside to shoot a low dive from outside the box Quantrill diving full stretch to her left across her goal saving pushing the ball wide of the post for a corner kick.

Rosy Wodhams surging forwards for Cambridge

The corner curled into the box, Symonds central up well to defend head the ball clear for the visiting side. Norwich needing to work hard at the back spring the counter attack Flye bringing the ball on with a brilliant ball forwards for Densley attacking through the middle racing into the box shoots early as the keeper come to close her down, the ball flashing past Shults who may have got the faintest of touches, but also agonisingly for Densley wide of the right post. Norwich claiming the corner, dismayed when a goal kick is awarded instead.

Norwich looking for the 2nd goal know they need to sap Cambridge’s spirit, Symonds strong on the right taking the ball on her shot from the angle striking the cross bar on its way over. Siena Booty coming no for Norwich as the game moves into the 81st minute, on to replace Strauss. The game stretched both sides intent on scoring. Cambridge bring of Cobb, send on Marta Rodriguez.

The clock ticking down the game remains wide open Snelling looking to run the ball into the corner as the game moves into injury time. Norwich making another change and it sees Megan Todd making her return to the pitch the fans welcoming her on as she replaces Snelling.

Megan Todd making a welcome return to the pitch for Norwich

Players pulling up with cramp have given it their all both sides, one last push for Cambridge to find a goal to potentially send the tie into a penalty shootout. Simmons getting hold of the ball for Cambridge surging down the right winning her side a corner kick.

Bella Simmons on the attack for Cambridge

Everybody bar the keeper up into the box for Cambridge as Wiltshire swings the corner from the right in towards the near post headed down into the six yard box a snap shot is blocked on the line Norwich scrambling the ball clear, Shults getting hold of it for Cambridge inside the Norwich half firing the ball back into the mix the pass threaded through sees Wallis pulling free to attack at the right post close in Quantrill throwing herself in to block Wallis strikes the ball on the half volley firing it under the keeper but agonisingly the ball strikes the side netting the wrong side of the post as the final whistle blows! Norwich win to advance in the Women’s FA Cup.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

Damn that was exciting a thrilling game, Cambridge mere inches away at the death from forcing the tie into a penalty shootout. Norwich’s players letting out a roar of celebration were made to work hard for that win and nothing pleases a defence more that a hard fought 1-0 win. A game played at a high tempo through out Norwich setting that pace and Cambridge up for it to match their opponents little time allowed on the ball end to end at times. Amazing really that one goal settled it but after 4 consecutive draws in the league Norwich worked hard at the back for the win. A 2nd goal would have knocked the stuffing out of Cambridge but having fallen down to 10 players the hosts were arguably the better side for a spell just couldn’t find a goal. Took risks at the back needing to push players on and Norwich had chances themselves to put the tie beyond doubt but today was a day where defenders earnt their crust. A fantastic game credit to both sides.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. How do I pick one…um? It’s a tough one no doubt but I do have a clear winner although their are several contenders… on both sides. Let’s mention a few although both sides put in a strong team performance. First up for Cambridge, Abbie Jackson was superb at the back making several important tackles. Likewise Kelsey Smith and Emma Wallis. Sophie Shults with some stops, including the penalty save. Rosy Wodhams with some powerful runs from midfield linked up well with the attackers particularly Sarah Wiltshire who found some great positions up top. For Norwich, Millie Daviss was a threat out on the right provided a good outlet for the ball put in some useful crosses. Eloise Morran got about the pitch both to support the attack and help out in defence. Norwich’s defensive line strong Hope Strauss with reading the game well getting back and making some crucial interceptions and tackles. Likewise felloe centre back Ceri Flye used the ball well from the back and scored the winning goal. Edging it today though is the cross provider for that goal Ellie Bishop a superb delivery from the free-kick. Worked hard though out winning the ball and covering the ground to win the ball and help ensure Norwich kept the clean sheet.

That was a thrilling cup tie, great entertainment for those in attendance. Cambridge and Norwich have developed a good rivalry over the seasons and gave it a good go this afternoon. Norwich edging it in the finish, advancing to the 2nd round of the Women’s FA Cup. Cambridge so close, a great effort will be disappointed but should use that to fuel them going forwards. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups. Yes I might know who everyone it by now but it helps to be sure. Good to, too catch up with a few footballing friends it’s a great community.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Bees

Sunday 6th October

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip over to St Neots this Sunday to catch some action from FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC hosting London Bees.

FAWNL South East Division One representing tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid looks to be really competitive this season with no single side breaking away from the pack, closely bunched with Cambridge United in 5th just 4 points behind leaders Norwich City with London Bees 7th just a point further back. Some surprise results already this season and no doubt a few more to come, will be an intriguing title contest.

Cambridge United WFC one of the longest established clubs within the South East Division One set-up and now with closer ties with their men’s club are looking to find that extra edge to get them p amongst the title challengers vying for promotion on a regular basis. Reaching the FAWNL League Plate final last season are hungry for more success. A few new faces added to the squad over the close season. Ellie Finneran and Kelsey Smith from fellow South East Division one side London Seaward. Eva Hubbard the clubs new captain and midfielder Rosy Wodhams joining from local rival Cambridge City with goalkeeper Sophie Shults coming in form Ashford Town (Middlesex). Emma Wallis another strong addition to the back line.

Injuries to key players throughout last season were a bugbear last season with manager Darren Marjoram rarely able to call on a settled line up. Making their run to the Plate final all remarkable. Injuries too at the start of this season with striker Sarah Wiltshire only just back into the squad after having her 3rd child breaking her arm in pre-season, only now back playing while Ellie Finneran has missed much of pre-season slowly working her way back to playing again. A frustrating 1-0 loss to one of the early pace setters Actonians Ladies on the opening day was followed by a 2nd loss away to Norwich. Responded well in the league after that going on a run of 3 consecutive wins to propel them up the table into 4th spot. Mixed results in league and cup since but in a strong position to kick on. Bella Simmons out of the traps early to lead the goal scoring charts with 8 to her name.

London Bees were one of the founding clubs to join the newly formed FAWSL 2. Now the FAWSL Championship. Came in with a large budget (at the time) and high expectations. Made many a trip to The Hive way back then beginning my support of the women’s game proper when the WSL was formed, wrote a few reports which can still be found on the old Supporting Women’s Football blog site. Have since struggled as financial demands in the top two tiers increased like a few of the founding clubs have since fallen out of the league dropping into the FAWNL Southern Premier Division back in 2021 the club seeing many changes of coaching staff and playing personnel since then struggling in the league last season without a win relegated to the 4th tier.

That said the club begins this season with a new wave of enthusiasm. A new manager joining the club, Daniel McKimm, a young coach with plenty of experience within the women’s game. Highly thought of after his spell with London Seaward FC also playing in South East Division One. Brings with him some of his coaching staff and a host of players from London Seaward. Too may to mention here, but nevertheless is a virtual rebuild of the squad recruiting players who have good experience at competing at this level. Others joining include goalkeeper, Mia O’Brien from Stevenage. Millie Isherwood was at Chelsea as a youngster coming to the club via a period at Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Aimee Durn is the new captain the midfielder at Ashford Town (Middlesex) last season.

St Neots gets bigger every time I visit with on going building work taking place on the way to the ground, St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium in the heart of a busy residential area close to the railway station. Offering two pitches, an artificial surface beside the main grass pitch stadium. A good playing surface with lots of grass cover a good width, terraced viewing behind both goals with the main seated stand housing the changing rooms and clubhouse beside the bar opening offering hot and cold drinks. An overcast day with a few spots of rain in the air, a slight chill as we enter October but should stay dry for the game.

Cambridge United WFCC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Emma Wallis, Kelsey Smith, Ella Marden, Gisela Otten, Rosy Wodhams, Eva Hubbard (C), Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Sophie Shults, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Marta Rodriguez, Mollie Coupar & Holly Plummer.

Cambridge United WFC

London Bees starting XI – Tia Gunn, Mira Hoteit, Aria Heil, Cheyenne Flynn, Rebekah Wozniak, Megan Burrows, Aimee Durn (C), Hayley Hoare, Sophie Lee, Sam Lanza & Millie Isherwood. Subs – Millie Constantine, Sarah McDermott, Aaliyah Charles, Olivia Bartlett & Shamoy Campbell.

London Bees

Captain’s Aimee Durn and Eva Hubbard with today’s match officials

Further injuries for Cambridge heading in to today’s match with midfielders, Sammy Edgar and Alysha Stojko-Down not in the playing squad. Nevertheless both fielding a strong starting XI with useful replacements waiting on the bench. Cambridge wearing Amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks to take the kick-off 1st half, London Bees wearing similar colours in their away strip today, purple shirts with white trim, along with white shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle for captain Eva Hubbard to clip out to the right with Kelsey Smith on the move, Mira Hoteit seeing it out for a throw in for the visitors.

GOAL! London Bees captain, Aimee Durn gets hold of the ball in the middle of the ark and goes on a driving run forwards sending the ball on for Sophie Lee breaking clear on the right wing down the line whips a dangerous cross into the box with players piling forwards, defended at the near post, but not cleared out to the left inside the box Hayley Hoare pressing the ball knocked on for Millie Isherwood inside the six yard box at the left post turns on the ball and blasts her strike into the back of the net to open the scoring inside the first minute! 0-1.

Millie Isherwood firing London Bees into the lead inside the opening minute

An early blow for Cambridge and before they can pick themselves up London Bees are lively nipping in to win the ball putting Lee into an attacking position on the right goes on a forceful run tracking in field, before attempting to slide a ball into the box for Isherwood making a run across to the near post, a little heavy runs out of play. Rosy Wodhams onto the ball for Cambridge passed forwards into Sarah Wilshire looks to chip the ball into the right channel for Bella Simmons, Rebekah Wozniak at the back heading the ball clear for London Bees.

Gisela Otten snapping in to win the ball for Cambridge in the middle playing a direct ball on up top for Wiltshire to attack, a good starting position from London Bees keeper, Tia Gunn sees her onto the ball first. London Bees on the front foot early on, Durn taking the ball on well, Hoare and Lee providing good pace and options on the flanks. Lee getting on down the right, Abbie Jackson in to close her down for Cambridge slows her up blocking one cross Lee with a 2nd bite firing it in low to the near post cleared this time by Cambridge’s Lauren Rouse.

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

London Bees causing Cambridge issues early on pulling the hosts out of shape with players pressing well and taking the ball on. Durn with the ball for the visitors driving on sending a cross from deep into the far post, Sam Lanza looking to attack it for London Bees, Emma Wallis getting in front of her to head the ball away for Cambridge.

Lee marauding down the right for London Bees getting in behind pulling players across allowing openings for midfield runners to exploit. Jackson blocking a cross attempts to clear the ball up the left into Wiltshire, Aria Heil coming to close her down, Hubbard coming over to support Wiltshire turns to put the ball central for Wodhams, tries to lay it into the left channel for Wiltshire bursting forwards, over hits the pass, runs out of play.

Eva Hubbard moving in to tackle Cheyenne Flynn

GOAL! Isherwood turns provider this time as London Bees surge forwards getting onto the ball 20 yards out top of the D sends a low ball on for Lee tracking into the area from the right, closing in on the near post shoots early firing the ball under Webb before the keeper can get down to save from point blank range 0-2.

Sophie Lee firing home London Bees 2nd goal

A blistering start from London Bees, goals up inside the opening 10 minutes Megan Burrows playing the ball forwards out to Lee on the right combines with Lanza the ball squared back across the top of the Cambridge area, Durn running onto it volleys over. Cambridge most certainly on the back foot, struggling to get the ball out, London Bees sharper to close down the 2nd ball get play turned around. Their wingers able to get in behind at will. Isherwood attacking down the right forcing Cambridge into conceding a corner kick.

London Bees captain, Aimee Durn

Hoare across to take it on the right side fired in to the top of the area collected by Wozniak eft of the D, Simmons in to close her down no shooting option instead plays it out to the right for Hoare to deliver the ball into the box from the angle half cleared at the far post drops to a London Bees player, struck back towards goal a vicious drive on target, a brilliant save from Webb instinctive throwing a glove up to tip the ball over the bar!

The corner swept long beyond the far post knocked goal wards claimed by Webb moving across her goal. Cambridge finding attacking opportunities in short supply, Hubbard looking to mix things up in the middle sending the ball on for Wiltshire in attack, turns on the ball 0 yards out, Wozniak closing her down for London Bees. Lee fouled on the right inside the Cambridge half a free-kick to the visitors. Players up from the back a good delivery angled in at the far post attacked by Cheyenne Flynn headed over. Cambridge forced into a formation change going to a back four with Smith dropping in at right back, Wallis across to the left of defence.

Hoteit winning the ball from Simmons sending it up the left for Hoare racing on to attack her cross cut out by Rouse at the back for Cambridge. London Bees working the ball between them well Durn often the linchpin on for Hoare coming inside form the left has Lanza ahead of her back to goal outside the area sees Hoteit making a run from the back slides the ball into her path the full back in turn looking to thread it into the area for Isherwood, overcooks her pass Webb can see it run safely out of play.

London Bees, Sam Lanza

Smith getting the ball on for Simmons high on the right for Cambridge, has Wiltshire over that side to link up with the cross swept in across the six yard box, Marden looking to attack it beyond the far post can’t get over the ball turns her attempt wide. Lee bursting on down the right flank for London Bees, Wallis going with her into the corner, blocking her cross behind for a corner.

Cambridge’s Emma Wallis

Swung in from the right, Wodhams defending at the near post for Cambridge, knocked back out to the corner taker the 2nd attempt to cross send behind for a 3rd corner.

GOAL! Played long by Hoare from the right falls to Durn top of the area clips it back out to Hoare out wide on the wing for her to deliver a pacy ball in across the face of goal, high Webb looking to punch it clear, instead Wozniak comes steaming in to head the ball from point blank range hurting herself as she lands in the Cambridge keeper as the pair go down 0-3.

Rebekah Wozniak steaming in with the header to score London Bees 3rd goal

Wozniak heading London Bees into a 3 goal lead on the half hour. Hurt from her goal scoring heroics a pause in play players going to the benches for drinks and instruction. London Bees looking strong into a commanding position, Cambridge with a mountain to climb need to regroup. Wozniak okay and able to play on needing to come off having received treatment wait to be called back on.

Burrows linking up with Hoare out on London Bees left wing, Simmons giving a foul away another opportunity to launch the ball into the box, fired in to the far post, a glancing header taking the ball wide. Simmons turning on the ball right side to get on down the flank crossing the ball in from deep, Hoteit getting the faintest of touches to deflect the ball into the side netting conceding the corner. The ball curled onto the roof of the net.

Hubbard using the outside of her boot to launch the ball forwards for Cambridge, Wiltshire the target, Gunn able to press up due to her teammates forcing the play almost acting as a sweeper getting to the ball first to clear for London Bees. Hoteit playing Hoare on down the left for the visitors her cross angled into the near post claimed by Webb. Marden putting the ball into Hubbard to play forwards up to Wiltshire making a left channel run, Flynn in to close the striker down for London Bees.

London Bees defender, Cheyenne Flynn

Isherwood spinning off her marker top feed the ball on down the right wing for Lee, Wallis getting a foot on the ball to turn it out for a throw in. The visitors pressing the ball forcing Cambridge into misplacing their passes, Burrows forwards into Isherwood, Otten sliding in to tackle for Cambridge, Durn onto the ball out to Lee wide right, Wallis stopping the cross.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-3 London Bees

A strong first half performance from London Bees racing into an early lead setting the pace overwhelming their opponents getting players forwards and in return comfortable at the back. 2 goals up inside 10 minutes added a 3rd on the half hour. Cambridge’s opportunities s up top limited with one shot off target have a mountain to climb but the half-time break giving them a much needed chance to reset and regroup see if they can salvage anything 2nd half. London Bees in control on the front foot from the start and haven’t looked back creating chances pulling players out of position and winning the 2nd ball.

No surprise to see Cambridge ringing the changes 2nd half with a triple switch. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Marta Rodriguez and Mollie Coupar coming on in place of Smith, Otten and Marden. London Bees unchanged to get the 2nd half underway the ball played back into the defence, Flynn and Wozniak exchanging passes, Wiltshire rushing in to close her down the ball clipped long up to Isherwood in attack the ball bouncing safely through to the keeper.

Rodriguez looking to put some fight into the play for Cambridge battling her way on through the middle combining with Hubbard, the pass into Wiltshire cut out by Flynn. The ball played out to Burrows moving left for London Bees sent on up the line for Hoare. Wallis now back on the right with Cheal-Ferris left sliding in to tackle for Cambridge.

Cambridge’s Abbie Jackson

Coupar taking the ball on left side for Cambridge knocking it inside looking for Simmons, Heil defending for London Bees, Simmons onto the loose ball taking it into the corner, Heil back on her blocking the ball to turn it behind for the corner. Cheal-Ferris on the corner from the left is a sweet curling back in across the six yard box, unfortunately no one attacks it at the far post the ball running out of play.

Hoare doing well out on the left attacking for London Bees pace taking the ball on fired forwards into Isherwood pulling left inside the box whips a cross in along the face of goal, Lee looking to met it first time at the far post not getting the contact she wanted her shot screwed wide.

Hubbard goes into the referees book picking up a yellow card for a foul on Durn. Out on the left from deep, Hoare over the ball, curls the ball into the box angled in too close to the keeper Webb can claim it untroubled. Hubbard lifting the ball over the top as London Bees play a high line, Wiltshire staying onside to burst in behind, Gunn though is positioned outside her box and onto the ball first. Cambridge snapping back in to regain the ball Wodhams out to the left Coupar on for Cheal-Ferris racing to the by line her cross lifted into the area cleared by Lee.

Mira Hoteit on the ball for London Bees

Rodriguez playing the ball into the run of Wodhams as she breaks into the right channel, Hoteit in to close her down well for London Bees get her side on the attack by playing Hoare in on the wing with Isherwood ahead of her the striker sweeping her cross into Lanza on the penalty spot is closed down going down appeals for a penalty but nothing doing as the ball travels on to Lee on the right smashes her strike into the near post, low, Webb getting down well to bat the ball behind for a corner kick.

The corner curled in across the six yard box, Lanza beyond the far post stretching for the ball can’t direct the ball back inside. London Bees pushing up Cambridge defending at the back Wallis right lifting the ball forwards finding Wilshire 30 yards out turns onto the ball looking to lob the keeper knowing Gunn is way off her line, however stretching to meet the ball can’t direct her attempt on target.

GOAL! London Bees win a free-kick in a dangerous position out wide on the left, Hoare over the ball as players come up from the back. angling her delivery in central the ball is headed clear to the left of goal, Wozniak getting hold of it looking to keep the attack alive laying the ball back out to Hoare who controls then curls a shot in towards goal struck beautifully over the keeper under the crossbar to make it 0-4.

Hayley Hoare curling home London Bees 4th goal

London Bees extending their lead on the hour. Rodriguez winning the ball for Cambridge taking it forwards trying to fed it on up to Wiltshire in attack, Wozniak up well ahead if her with a deft header glancing the ball down safely into her keepers gloves. The hosts winning a corner on the right as Simmons presses the ball, Gunn surrounded on her line as the ball is curled into the six yard box, Flynn defending it at the near post. Back out to the right floated into the area falling beyond the far post Rodriguez with the attempted shot fired back across the six yard box wide of the right post.

Burrows fouled wide left high up the pitch as she moves forwards for London Bees, Hoare on the set-piece swung into the mix, defended by Wodhams cleared out to Hoteit some 30 yards out central, takes on the strike her low effort taking a couple of deflections on its way through to the keeper. Wodhams pulling up for Cambridge down with an injury, another pause in play and another blow for Cambridge as she can’t continue, Holly Plummer coming on.

Isherwood is fouled 30 yards out to the right of the D giving London Bees another free-kick. Durn and Wozniak over the ball. Wozniak doesn’t do subtle running in to strike the ball fires her bullet of a strike wide past the far post. Simmons picking up a knock for Cambridge in some discomfort but can continue. London Bees making a triple switch as they bring on Sarah McDermott, Olivia Bartlett and Shamoy Campbell to replace, Flynn, Durn and Isherwood with less than 15 minutes to play.

Simmons after the ball from Wallis on the right playing it on for Wiltshire to chase into the corner, Wozniak coming over to close her down for the visitors. Burrows coming left for London Bees, Plummer in to close her down holding her up well, Burrows forced back infield gets the cross field pass out to Lanza on the right 20 yards out on the angle fires a shot up over the bar. Lee coming off for London Bees on in her place, Aaliyah Charles.

Campbell getting after the ball in attack for London Bees, Rouse in to challenge well for Cambridge outside the box. Rouse in to defend on Campbell again moments later as she is found by Hoare in the left channel as the winger spins off her marker on half way to launch the ball into her. Wilshire picking up the ball on the right for Cambridge shifting it well between her feet tracking inside 25 yards out closed down rolls it back into Wallis breaking forwards she hits it on into the box for Rodriguez right side, can’t dig it out of her feet before Hoteit can close her down.

Hoare with some strong running on the left for the visitors firing the ball into Campbell back to goal left side inside the box drags the ball inside looking to shift it onto her right foot the goal opening up before her, angles her shot in low towards the right corner, I’m looking at this from behind through my camera, looks a goal all the way, but Webb comes from nowhere to diving full stretch across her goal line getting down to the ball with her outstretched arm and turning the ball wide of the post for a corner kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Swept in from the right goes long but won back on the left the cross angled in to the near post turned behind for a corner on the left. This one defended at the near post put back into the taker the ball lifted high into the six yard box, Webb getting up to punch the ball away to safety on the right. Webb keeping the score line down for Cambridge as London Bees continue to push on the substitutes keen to get in on the action, Campbell racing onto the ball inside the box right of goal, Webb rushing out to close her down staying big to make the blocking save as Campbell fires her shot into her.

Cambridge United striker, Sarah Wiltshire

Plummer escapes with the ball into the right channel for Cambridge, squaring the ball back inside for Wiltshire 20 yards out central, looks to strike it early, leaning into her attempt as Wozniak comes to close her down, screws her effort off target. The clock ticking down into stoppage time Simmons brought down giving Cambridge one last opportunity to play the ball into the box, Cheal-Ferris from the left sending it in angled in straight, Gunn up to claim it looks to get her team on the attack. Heil right side up the wing her cross into Lanza outside the box defended.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-4 London Bees

The final whistle blows and London Bees claim the 3 points to extend their unbeaten run in the league to 5 matches moving above Cambridge in the process into 5th spot. A strong away performance from start to first. Aimee Durn’s run from midfield leading to the opening goal inside the opening minute, put Cambridge on the canvas and they never recovered, the visitors winning the ball well getting players forwards, Lee and Hoare attacking down the wings at will early on a 2nd goal inside 10 minutes from Lee, Wozniak with a charge to head home the 3rd on the half hour. Hoare curling home their 4th in the 2nd half. A day to forget for Cambridge, looked a lose one on paper and on another day this is a performance they themselves are capable off, can only move on to the next one look to put thing’s right.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders as is often the case but had one name in mind leaving the ground and the notes have confirmed that. Some performances to mention, firstly for Cambridge, a hard day at the office, however goalkeeper Lauren Webb pulled off some brilliant saves to keep the score-line down in both halves. Eva Hubbard battled hard in the middle without the reward. Bella Simmons getting back to help win the ball trying to turn play around. For London Bees both centre backs were composed, Cheyenne Flynn and Rebekah Wozniak with some good challenges the latter scoring. Aimee Durn setting the tone early on with her bursting run through the middle setting her team on their way, got about in the middle to win the ball, making several strong attacking runs. Sophie Lee a threat on the right surging on in behind kept Cambridge on the back foot, on the score sheet. So too her opposite number on the left flank, Hayley Hoare with some strong running on the left, skill on the ball and a threat with her set-pieces throughout is the winner of today’s award.

Results elsewhere see the league bunch up even more with Norwich drawing with real Bedford and 2nd placed Actonians losing out Dulwich Hamlet. Cambridge down to 9th but still just 2 points from the 3rd placed side, 5 behind the leaders. London Bees themselves now just 3 points behind the leaders. This is going to be an exciting title contest can’t wait to see it all unfold.

A great performance from London Bees. Having seen them struggle so much in recent season’s it’s fantastic to finally see the club in a positive place, and I hope a positive future will certainly be up there based on what I saw today. Cambridge will be hurting, but I know what they are capable of too and am confident they’ll bounce back. My thanks to both clubs for there assistance today as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Actonians Ladies

Sunday 18th August

FAWNL South East Division One

And just like that the new football season is here! Feels like that nut in truth I have enjoyed a good break away from the game over the close season. Needed it as I celebrated covering women’s football across the East for a decade. Has been alot of changes in that time, while quite a bit remains the same. The game continues to grow and with the new season beginning across tiers 3-6, national and regional level looks to be the most competitive it has ever been. Looking forward to the season ahead.

Beginning the football coverage with a game from FAWNL South East Division One, a trip to St Neots Town FC home of Cambridge United WFC as they take on Actonians Ladies in their opening match of the season. Representing tier 4 in the women’s football pyramid, South East Division One looks to be very strong this season. Norwich City Women finishing runners-up last season behind AFC Wimbledon Women are the favourites to clinch the title this time around. Who will be the other challenges remains to be seen, Worthing FC Women pushing the top two last campaign now moved across to South West Division One. Chatham Town Women relegated last season will be looking to bounce straight back, while London Bees have rebuild with a new squad following their relegation from tier 3. Real Bedford Ladies and Dulwich Hamlet Women the promoted sides, know little about the latter, however the former are ambitious with a new coach and new squad set to compete at a higher level. Others will fancy their chances and certainly today’s opponents are capable of competing amongst the clubs in the top half of the table.

Cambridge United WFC have been a stalwart in South East Division One all through the FAWNL years and the Combination league before. Finishing 7th last season, a little disappointed with that finish nevertheless enjoyed a successful season the high being reaching the League Plate Final, and that despite suffering an injury hit campaign missing key players throughout the season. Into the new season Cambridge will use that cup run to galvanise the squad as they look to build on that run. A few players departing with a new crop of players joining the side.

Welcomed back striker, Sarah Wiltshire towards the back end of the season after missing much of the season pregnant with her 3rd child. A prolific goal scorer leading Cambridge’s attack. Amongst those joining Cambridge this season, Eva Hubbard with rivals Cambridge City, after spells with Needham Market and Ipswich Town is a versatile player, experienced an a natural leader. Also coming in from Cambridge City, midfielder Rosy Wodhams another strong addition who has featured in a few Women’s Football East – Player of the Match summaries in the past. Defender, Ellie Finneran joins the club from London Seaward as does full back Kelsey Smith. Goalkeeper, Sophie Shults added from Ashford Town providing strong competition and cover that position. Emma Wallis another defensive addition joining from Middlesbrough.

Actonians Ladies like Cambridge have been a competitive force in South East Division One for a while now, often finishing in the top half of the table, punching above their weight at times capable of causing an upset. Have a strong set-up from youth level through to first team with a women’s Reserves and Development side competing too. Finishing in the top half of the table last campaign clinching 6th spot.

Actonians Ladies begin the new season under a new head coach with a host of new faces joining the club. Oliver Yazdi leading the 1st team coaching team this season has alot of experience coaching girls and women’s football leading into his new role at Actonians. Takes on a squad that sees 10 new signings tis season. Added to the attacking line up are strikers, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Defender, Olianna Bishop. Prudie Todd Warmoth can operate in both defence and midfield. New to the midfield are Hana Lalani, Dulcie Gray and Megan Page. Khyri Mackenzie, Merle Redhead Ling and Amanda Reimer complete the new additions.

Cambridge United WFC winning all three encounters between the sides last season 2-1 twice at home in the league and away in the cup. With a 5-1 victory at Actonians in the reverse league encounter. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the home for Cambridge United WFC these days. Situated in an ever growing residential are on the outskirts of the town. A grass pitched main facility with a 3G pitch beyond. The pitch in great shape as it always is. Offering good width the main stand housing the changing rooms and bar on one side with small covered terracing behind each goal with viewing all round. A bright sunny day with no rain forecast early twenties a good day to start the new season.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis, Kelsey Smith, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Sammy Edgar, Rosy Wodhams, Eva Hubbard (C), Alysha Stojko-Down & Bella Simmons. Subs :- Abbie Jackson, Charlotte Gillies, Marta Rodriguez & Holly Plummer.

Cambridge United WFC

Actonians Ladies starting XI – Elisa Dogor, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Amber Dredge, Mara Bramwell (C), Jennie Brereton, Naomi Graham, Hana Lalani, Amina Hanif, Merle Redhead Ling, Dior Knorr & Abigail Igbavboa. Subs :- Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Khyri Mackenzie, Dulcie Gray & Keishia-Farah Luboya.

Actonians Ladies

A blow for Cambridge in there final pre-season game last weekend with Sarah Wiltshire breaking her arm seeing her out of action for a little while. Four of Cambridge’s new signings debuting in the starting line-up, defenders Kelsey Smith and Emma Wallis with Rosy Wodhams in the midfield alongside new captain Eva Hubbard. Five of Actonians new faces in their starting line-up, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Merle Redhead Ling, Hana Lalani, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Along with Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Dulcie Gray and Khyri Mackenzie on the subs bench.

Captains Mara Bramwell and Eva Hubbard with todays match officials

It’s Cambridge to get the new campaign under way kicking off the 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Actonians line-up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle clipped long out to the right wing with Kelsey Smith looknig to get up the line, Prudie Todd Warmoth covering that side at the back for Actonians defending to see the ball out of play for a throw in. From the resulting throw Cambridge gain a free-kick presenting them with an early opportunity to get players up into their opponents box, the ball swept in with pace at a decent high, Mara Bramwell captaining Actonians the centre back meeting the ball with a firm headed clearance.

Actonians look to counter with pace midfielder Amina Hanif bringing the ball into her feet looking up to play the ball over the Cambridge defence with Merle Redhead Ling providing a left channel run in behind, Cambridge goalkeeper Lauren Webb positioned at the top of her area out to the ball quickly to deal with the threat. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris providing the width for Cambridge on the left looking to get up the pitch with pace run onto any long pass out of the defence, Jennie Brereton coming across to close her down winning the ball back for the visitors.

Cambridge with a positive start looking to move the ball forwards quickly use the flanks keep Actonians pinned back. Eva Hubbard onto the ball in the middle for Cambridge has Rosy Wodhams to her right picks her out with the pass Wodhams in turn sending it out to the wing with Wallis bombing on sends a looping ball into the Actonians box dropping far post six yards out Alysha Stojko-Down attacking it, Brereton gets across her to make the challenge deny her the shot.

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

Gisela Otten with the ball under her control at the back for Cambridge plays a delightful long pass up the left flank for Cheal-Ferris to run onto to taking it on whips a cross into the six yard box, Actonians goalkeeper, Elisa Dogor getting her gloves behind it on the bounce, snatches it up in the nick of time with Stojko-Down stealing in. A competitive collective of players operating in the midfield, little quarter given, Amina Hanif bringing Wodhams down 30 yards out as she looks to get away with the ball on the right.

Abigail Igbavboa and Dior Knorr look to combine in attack on the left side for Actonians the former sending the ball on for Knorr, Lauren Rouse getting in the headed clearance before the attacker can take the ball in behind her into the box. Dogor coming out to the left of her area to deal with the ball is closed down by Bella Simmons charging the ball down steals it away from the keeper playing in across the top of the area looking for Stojko-Down, can’t get it out from under her feet as Dogor recover diving in front of her to lay claim to the ball.

Sammy regaining the ball in the middle for Cambridge on for Hubbard into Simmons has Stojko-Down moving right receiving the pass, Hanif getting a leg out to win the ball back for Actonians 20 yards out. A lively opening 15 minutes, Kelsey Smith’s turn to play the pass up the line for Cheal-Ferris left side, Brereton again across to support, Redhead Ling in defence. Naomi Graham battling for possession in midfield looking to hold of Edgar, ends up fouling the Cambridge midfielder 30 plus yards out in a central position, Stojko-Down has a crack at goal lifts her shot over the crossbar.

Actonians, Hana Lalani battling for possession with Cambridge’s Sammy Edgar

Actonians defending their box pushed back inviting Cambridge on still look a threat on the counter attack and are ready to pounce at any opportunity, Knorr coming to the left to receive the ball from Amber Dredge turns, fouled by Wallis winning a free-kick out wide, the delivery fired in with pace towards the near post through everyone, Webb though is right behind it takes the ball into her midriff as she falls forwards. Cambridge’s turn to break with pace the ball played out to Smith left side sends a fantastic ball into the left channel for Simmons to take into her path running into the area strikes the shot on the angle across the face of the Actonians goal wide at the far post.

Bella Simmons holding off Actonians, Prudie Todd Warmoth

Igbavboa receiving the ball from Lalani in the middle attacks on the right strong on the ball turns inside to play the ball into the mix top of the Cambridge area, half cleared comes onto Graham 25 yards out strikes the ball her effort blocked. Hanif sending the ball out to the left for Actonians, Dredge on for Knorr the cross lifted into the box, Redhead Ling on the penalty spot, Smith in front of her winning the ball heading behind for Cambridge to concede the corner. On the left taken short as Hanif comes towards the taker payed back up the line for the cross to come in from deep, Webb taking it cleanly at the near post.

Tempers flaring a decision going against Actonians, Dredge show a yellow card and sent to the sin bin for apparently throwing the ball away. The visitors to play the next 10 minutes with a player disadvantage. Knorr strong with the ball for Actonians turns well in attack looking to get in behind the defence, Otten recovering well diving in to win the ball with a well timed tackle. 25 minutes played a drinks break called.

Cambridge struggling to make their player advantage count as Actonians get everyone behind the ball, Edgar upended top of the central circle winning the hosts a free-kick. Played into the box, finds its way through to the keeper. Hubbard with the ball central plays it on for Stojko-Down right channel has Wodhams advancing past her on the overlaps rolls the ball into her her strike from outside the box charged down the deflection taking it behind for a Cambridge corner.

Rosy Wodhams

Cheal-Ferris to curl the ball in from the right dropping beyond the far post Simmons stooping to attack it with her head drives the ball down into the ground at the post, Dogor across her line to knock the ball away for a corner on the left. Again the delivery is long beyond the far post attacked by two Cambridge players, a clash of heads as the ball is cleared outside the box, Wodhams looking to latch onto the shot, Hanif out quickly to making the blocking tackle before play is stopped to access the injured players.

Actonians midfielder, Amina Hanif

Cambridge pressing looking for a goal getting on with the ball, Actonians marshalling their box well, remains a tussle in the middle, Edgar carded for a foul on Lalani. The game a little scrappy as Actonians defend looking to get Dredge back on the pitch with her 10 minutes up. Cambridge seeing the ball into Simmons off a throw high on the left looks to take take the cross down beyond the far post and take the shot on the turn from the angle places the ball wide as she sends the shot across the goal.

Bella Simmons with Hana Lalani

Cheal-Ferris seeing a shot blocked from 30 yards out as she receives the past in a central position from the right. The hosts looking the most likely to open the scoring Igbavboa and Knorr though patient up top ready to attack should the opportunity arise for the visitors. A flowing move from Cambridge through the middle Hubbard up to Stojko-Down has Simmons out to the right lays the ball into her Simmons in turn looking to play the return ball into Stojko-Down as she runs into the D, Brereton lunging in to make the challenge before a shot can be unleashed.

Cambridge winning another set-piece out wide on the left Hubbard to play the ball into the box and a good pace and height towards the far post Wodhams getting up well to header the ball back towards goal turned behind a corner signalled. Bramwell defending the corner for Actonians look to counter Lalani with Hanif, can’t quite get the ball into Igbavboa. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the 1st half.

GOAL! Cambridge pressing for a goal at the end of the half Actonians hit their opponents on the counter, Knorr looking a threat he ball played into her in the middle takes it down of her chest well knocking it on and bursting into space on the right acing in behind heading for the box, Webb coming out to close her down one and one with the keeper, Knorr with a composed strike sending the shot past the diving keeper, and on into the goal beyond, letting out a roar in celebration as she opens her account for Actonians putting them into the lead! 0-1.

Dior Knorr bringing the ball down setting up her chance to score the opening goal for Actonians

Dior Knorr opens her Actonians Ladies account

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

That the final action of the first half, Actonians jubilant as they head into the changing rooms in the lead the goal coming on the stroke of half-time. Have looked dangerous on the counter throughout many of their attacks coming from such moves as they defended deep inviting Cambridge on at times. The hosts arguably creating the better chances with out being clinical, but that’s football for you. Actonians have worked hard at the back and in the middle to break up Cambridge’s attacks the hosts using the width looking to get players on through the middle a positive first half without the reward. Actonians with a vital lead with something hold onto 2nd half and with that advantage can use their counter attacks wisely.

The players out for the 2nd half, neither making any changes as Actonians get the 2nd 45 underway. Hanif sending the ball up to Igbavboa in attack, Hubbard in to win the ball back for Cambridge. On for Wodhams the midfielder fouled as she looks to take the ball forwards. Hanif winning the ball back for Actonians plays a diagonal ball from deep on the left into the area, Rouse heading the ball back into the middle or Cambridge, Igbavboa looking to run onto the ball, shoot, Wodhams diving in to make a good blocking tackle.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris ringing the ball on for Cambridge

Cambridge moving the ball into the right channel, Simmons pulling away getting onto the ball sweeping a cross in towards the top of the area. Cheal-Ferris looking to see it down of her chest at the far post, slips as she goes to take the shot, Actonians scrambling the ball away. Todd Warmoth holding Simmons up in the right corner as Wallis plays the ball on down the flank for Cambridge, Bramwell coming across to help her teammate out.

Actonians Naomi Graham

Wodhams in to win the ball high for Cambridge sends the pass into Simmons right takes on the early cross blocked inside the box, Cambridge appealing for a handball, nothing doing. Remains as competitive in the middle as ever Igbavboa back to defend fouling Wodhams top of the circle. The free-kick clipped up into the area Cheal-Ferris up on the six yard line to head the ball up over the advancing keeper, towards goal however, Bramwell is back on the cover to head the ball off the line.

Actonians captain, Mara Bramwell

Actonians with an attack Redhead Ling released out on the right powering forwards cuts the ball back inside for Hanif to strike on the angle, blasts her strike into the side netting. Cambridge continue to press the attack passes forwards rushed at times Actonians solid in defence deep not allowing any gaps in behind. The visitors clear the ball at the back Graham up to Redhead Ling on the right driving forwards is on her own does well to win her side a corner. Lifted into the near side Hanif gets up well to head the ball turning it down into the mix, blocked Actonians turn to appeal and this time the referee points to the spot for a handball despite Cambridge’s protests.

Lalani placing the ball on the spot for Actonians an opportunity to double their advantage takes the run up and sends the spot kick up over the cross bar much to her dismay.

Hana Lalani with her head in her hands as she sends the penalty over

The game more scrappy in the 2nd half, Cambridge with a desire to get the ball forwards quickly, Actonians determined to stop it at every opportunity, Hanif covering alot of ground across the park getting after the ball the most likely to free up her attackers. Cambridge making a change bringing off Otten at the back bringing on Marta Rodriguez to join the attack, the switch seeing Cambridge go to a back 4. Simmons putting the ball on for Wodhams as she breaks forwards into the right channel her cross into the area taking a deflection of Graham to see it safely claimed by Dogor in goal beyond.

Hanif winning the ball in the middle for Actonians as usual looking to release the attackers, Knorr central just straying offside as she breaks in behind. Knorr seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right channel has Redhead Ling moving up the wing the ball rolled into her her cross blocked by Smith for Cambridge. Lively as Edgar puts the ball into Stojko-Down 25 yards out hooks it on looking for Simmons, Brereton getting her head on the ball to clear Actonians with the counter attack Redhead Ling racing away with the ball on the right sweeping a cross into the near post claimed high by Webb.

Actonians break up another Cambridge attack turn play around Hanif with a great diagonal ball into Knorr bursting away on the right channel running towards the top of the area, clear Webb comes rushing out to meet her sliding in at her feet to make the save turn the ball away for a corner kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Comes to nothing as a 2nd drinks break is called. Hot out there and both sides are working hard Actonians resilient in defence frustrating their opponents. Play resumes Cambridge getting the ball on the left on for Rodriguez has Wodhams breaking on to get into the box ahead of her the ball lifted forwards, Bramwell getting to it first to head clear for Actonians. Gaps at the back with Cambridge pushing on Knorr looking to exploit it as the ball runs into her path driving on down the right Webb comes rushing out once again can’t get there the ball played across the area, Lalani closing in at the far post, Rouse manages to find the extra yard to dive in take the ball away from her.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse with the last ditch tackle

Wodhams taking the ball on right for Cambridge on for Simmons the cross into the area won by Bramwell. Cambridge with a throw on the left knocked on into the D falling to Wodhams goes to strike the ball inside the D, Todd Warmoth charging it down for Actonians. Cambridge pushing hard for an equaliser, Edgar in the middle with a neat past into Wallis on the right 30 out takes on the shot a low drive, Dogor on her line right behind it to make the stop.

Cambridge midfielder Sammy Edgar

Actonians with a double change bringing on Olianna Bishop and Khyri Mackenzie for their debuts off come Todd Warmoth and Igbavboa. The substitutes linking up straight away Bishop forwards for Mackenzie the latter strong on the ball holding off a challenge sending the cross-field ball into Knorr right side, Webb seeing the threat out sharply to the edge of her area to slide in lay claim to the ball.

Knorr receiving the ball from Hanif on the attack left channel surging into the box, closing in on the near post Webb stands up to her making the blocking save. Actonians remain compact difficult to break down Bramwell leading the defence well deep but winning crosses. Hubbard fires over from all of 25 yards out for Cambridge as she links up with Edgar through the middle. The game moving into the final 10 minutes. Edgar out to Wallis advancing on the right, turns inside her marker to deliver the cross into the area, Bramwell winning the header for Actonians.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Cambridge pressing hard Bishop tackling Simmons on the right conceding the throw. Simmons 25 yards out seeing the ball into her feet strikes it on the turn the low effort put straight at the keeper. Knorr strong with the ball at her feet powering on down the right fires a vicious cross into the Cambridge six yard box, Wallis with the last ditch tackle to prevent the ball being turned into the back of the net.

The clock ticking down Cambridge bringing the ball on Simmons central out to Wodhams moving right down the line plays it back up to Wallis to play into the top of the area Stojko-Down meeting it her looping header dropping wide taking a deflection the corner awarded. Frantic defending in the box as the ball comes in Bramwell with 3 blocks in quick succession twice with her head as Cambridge look to turn the ball home inside the six yard box, then blocks with her feet as Hubbard gets a shot away from the penalty spot turned out to the left post off the keeper for another corner.

Cambridge sending on Charlotte Gillies to join the attack in the closing stages Wallis with a slight knock coming off. Actonians determined with the ball looking to run it into the corner. Tired legs out there as Cambridge get the ball back up the right for Gillies plays it across the top of the area looking for Rodriguez on the opposite side, Redhead Ling finding the energy to get past the attacker to get hold of the ball inside the box. Actonians fighting till the end get their campaign off to a winning start, Knorr’s finish late in the first half the difference.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

Actonians with a determined and resilient performance at the back seeing them win the 3 points to get their season up and running. Kept it compact throughout soaking up alot of pressure breaking away to score the all important winner in the first half, that gave them vital confidence and belief to go onto defend their goal in the 2nd period and hopefully take another chance if it fell their way. A competitive tussle throughout Cambridge with a positive start taking the game to Actonians using the pitch well getting players forwards came up against a opponent prepared to drop deep not relinquish any space in behind. For all there attacks never had clinical edge to unlock the door, Actonians mostly attacking on the counter taking the chance when they had it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season and as is often the case is another tough call. I certainly had a contender in mind leaving the ground and haven’t changed my mind despite a couple of other players putting themselves in contention as the notes from the report unfolded (I write too many notes I know, but it’s the players fault they create the drama, and it’s great drama!) A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge a strong debut for Rosy Wodhams in the middle of the park winning the ball and looking to make attacking runs. Bella Simmons in attack coming for the ball created an number of opportunities. Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis and Lauren Rouse all making vital tackles at the back. Actonians with a goal and a clean sheet put in a strong defensive performance kept it compact at the back with good back up from their midfield. Mara Bramwell strong in defence winning the ball throughout. Dior Knorr in attack took her goal well patient up top making some dangerous runs on the counter. Today’s award goes to midfielder, Amina Hanif covered alot of ground getting about the pitch to win and close the ball down and more often than not it was her vision and passes that led to Actonians launching their counter attacks with such venom.

Great to be back and a fantastic game from the FAWNL to start the season promises to be a great campaign ahead. More teams to see in action than there are weekends to cover them. Doesn’t matter how many off these reports I write I still get nervous but once the notes start flowing it all falls into place. My thanks to both clubs for the help with the team details today as ever much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Barnsley FC Women

Sunday 25th February

FAWNL League Plate

Heading over to St Neots this Sunday afternoon to watch Cambridge United WFC play in a huge game, playing for the opportunity to reach a National League final as they take on Barnsley FC Women in the semi-final of the FAWNL League Plate.

A fantastic opportunity for both sides having played their way into the last 4 of the competition along side Exeter City Women and Derby County Women who are contesting the other semi-final. A Determining Round taking place between all the sides competing in the FAWNL representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid with the winning sides going on to compete for the League Cup the losing sides going on to play for the League Plate.

Cambridge United WFC climbing up to 5th in the FAWNL South East Division One table with a midweek 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Women. The squad coming together well needing to adapt with the early season loss of their main attacking threat Sarah Wiltshire, pregnant with her 3rd child. Signing off with 4 goals it was a big hole to fill and Cambridge found the answer in playing Alysha Stojko-Down in a false number 9 position, quickly finding an eye for goal and scoring some important strikes along the way, 12 in total so far from 19 matches, backed up well by her follow attackers pushing off the flanks Bella Simmons scoring the winning goal in midweek moving onto 10 for the season while Ruth Fox has 7 to her name.

Well placed in the league have enjoyed a fantastic run in the League Plate beginning with with 2-1 away victory over fellow South East Division one side, Actonians Ladies in the opening round with goals from defender Rachel Kosky and Stojko-Down. Drawn at home to South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies, was likely to be a tough tie and proved to be the case with the sides drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes. Ruth Fox striking in the dying moments of extra-time to send Cambridge into the last 8. There they were drawn away to another South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Women, another close game with a single goal deciding it, Stojko-Down hitting it home to send Cambridge on into the final 4 of the competition.

FAWNL Division One North is the only league with the FAWNL that has not featured a team on Women’s Football East (for obvious reasons) but I always like to see a new side in action and no doubt Barnsley FC Women are an ambitious side recruiting a good squad looking to win the league title and gain promotion to tier 3. Currently 2nd in the league are in a tussle for top spot with 3 others, Middlesbrough currently leading along with Durham Cestria and Hull City Ladies. Like Cambridge were in action in midweek drawing 1-1 at home to Stockport County. Emily Pierrepont their top scorer with 9 goals to her name. with both Abi Housecroft and Amy-Leigh Barringham-Beck on 6 a piece and their is a healthy number of goals spread out throughout the rest of the squad.

Barnsley beginning their FAWNL Plate campaign at home running out comfortable winners, beating Solihull Moors Women 7-0. Back at home for the 2nd Round taking on another Midlands Division One side Brooke Marsden was on target for 2 goals in a 4-0 victory, Abi Housecroft and Charlotte Stuart also scoring. The quarter finals saw them again on home soil with a tough tie against fellow title contenders Hull City, Housecroft, Stuart and Pierrepont all scoring, their opponents also scoring 3 however saw the game goal all the way to penalties, Barnsley claiming victory in the shootout 4-2 to see them drawn away to Cambridge in the semi-finals.

Cambridge keen to get a big crowd to their home base at St Neots FC the Premier Plus Stadium within an ever increasing residential area that does boast huge potential to grow attendances and interest in the game. The grass pitch inside the stadium with a 3G pitch beside. The ground filling up nicely a good atmosphere building. The weather a little more reliable this weekend despite more midweek downpours a settled weekend, overcast and somewhat chilly the pitch in good nick as the sides walked out onto the pitch.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Rachel Kosky, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Abbie Jackson, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood, Ella Marden, Bella Simmons & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Charlotte Gillies, Harley-Jean Simpson, Serena Cobb & Ruth Fox.

Barnsley FC Women

Barnsley FC Women starting XI – Serena Clarke (C), Alayna Millard, Katy Woodcock, Autumn Housley, Jodie Michalska, Charlotte Stuart, Ruby Jex-Oldfield, Abi Housecroft, Brooke Marsden, Emily Pierrepont & Louise Biggins. Subs – Natalie Watson, Nat Shaw, Courteney Csomor & Amy Beck.

Both sides having players unavailable through ineligibility for the competition. Cambridge without new signing Abbi Smith on loan from Ipswich. Barnsley rotating their squad a little with a busy run of games coming up. Cambridge to get the semi-final underway kicking off the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Barnsley in their white away kit shirts and socks with black shorts. Alysha Stojko-Down playing the ball back to captain Gisela Otten who clips it long out to the right for Bella Simmons racing forwards, Barnsley seeing it out for a throw in.

The visitors getting hold of the ball looking to move it across their defence build patiently before sending it out to the left with Emily Pierrepont tracking inside, tackled by Cambridge’s, Lauren Rouse outside the box. Barnsley closing the ball down getting back on the offensive keeping possession on the left before the shot comes in from range, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb back on her line right behind it to catch the ball.

Cambridge midfielder, Sammy Edgar

Shaping up to be a competitive tussle in the middle with some tough tackles coming in, Sammy Edgar never one to shy away from a tackle winning the ball back for Cambridge playing it on for Stojko-Down who is quickly closed down by Jodie Michalska before she came turn on the ball.

GOAL! Edgar tackling well in the middle, is cleaned out on the halfway line by the retaliatory tackle the referee awarding Cambridge the free-kick. Players going forwards as defender Abbie Jackson stands over the set-piece, struck long to the right of the D, Rachel Kosky is perfectly placed to meet it as she connects with the dropping ball to clip it up over the keeper and into the back of the net to open the scoring on 6 minutes 1-0.

Rachel Kosky runs away in celebration after firing Cambridge into the lead

The perfect start for Cambridge who see themselves very much as the underdogs going into the game. Barnsley looking for an immediate response build strongly on their left bringing the ball on Pierrepont back up the line the shot from range held by Webb. Zoe Wood turning on the ball getting space as she comes left before lifting it on for Ella Marden to chase the Cambridge attacker looking to get in behind on the left, Charlotte Stuart getting across to slide in take the ball off her feet, Wood up with Marden the pair getting the ball back, Marden’s cross claimed by Serena Clarke captain and goalkeeper for Barnsley.

Louise Biggins up top for Barnsley putting herself about making some useful runs across the Cambridge defence looking for the ball and to create space for her teammates to run into. Jackson getting a blocking tackle in as Ruby Jex-Oldfield sends the ball into the striker. Webb down sharply to her right to glance the ball behind conceding the corner as Barnsley send another vicious strike in from range. Fired in near side Housley coming towards the ball looks to twist her body turn her header into the six yard box, the ball attacked flies up over the crossbar.

GOAL! Barnsley push players on the diagonal past picking out Pierrepont free on the left travelling into the area, shapes to go right before dropping her shoulder and heading for the by-line sending a low cross into the six yard box, the Cambridge defence blocking only succeeding in deflecting the ball out to Alayna Millard racing into the box to mash into the goal to level things up 1-1.

Alayna Millard levels the scores for Barnsley

Barnsley getting themselves back on level terms just 5 minutes after conceding the opening goal. Wood again finding Marden running clear on the left the defence getting back at her the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Barnsley bring the ball on down the right winning a throw high up the pitch Housley giving Abi Housecroft the ball she turns inside looking to power her way across the top of the area, however fouls Jackson in the process giving Cambridge the free-kick. Housley on the move with the ball right on for Woodcock, Cheal-Ferris in to close her down.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

This is a lively contest, Barnsley looking to take the ball on, Cambridge with a nervous energy that is seeing them compete for everything in the middle, Otten into Stojko-Down looks to play in Simmons on the right, Millard closing her down to regain possession for Barnsley. A few strong tackle being pulled up both side competitive. Edgar passing the ball to Simmons on the right, Kosky getting up the wing to support Cambridge winning the throw, looking to get it into the final third, Katy Woodcock getting the tackle in Barnsley threatening to counter quickly on the right, Jackson well positioned to intercept the ball.

Barnsley’s Katy Woodcock

Pierrepont causing Cambridge problems down the left with some forceful runs down the line and as equally prepared to track inside winning a corner on the left. The referee needing to speak to the players as they jostle for position inside the box, Stuart looking to get away from Otten as the ball curls into the six yard box, Stojko-Down winning it knocked down then again Stojko-Down snaps in with the tackle before launching the ball clear.

Alysha Stojko-Down

Barnsley getting players on threatening to overwhelm Cambridge at times the defence putting in some vital challenges to prevent the final ball exposing Webb. Pierrepont taking the ball inside of a mazy run top corner of the area left of goal lets fly, her shot striking her own player before the referee blows up for a handball. Jex-Oldfield linking up with Woodcock coming right, Rouse coming out to close her down blocking her attempted cross.

No quarter given both sides fighting for the ball, a frantic pace set, Michalska coming on with the ball for the visitors threading the p[ass out to the left, Millard getting up to support Pierrepont, Otten tracking back to help Kosky in defence the pair doing well to prevent anything reaching the area.

Barnsley moving the ball about crisply amongst themselves as Cambridge stand off, played into Autumn Housley at the back the right back goes on a surging run through the middle before threading a fantastic ball in behind the hosts defence for Brooke Marsden bursting into the right channel, after the ball, Webb comes rushing out to the top of her area to slide in and save at her feet.

Autumn Housley breaking forwards for Barnsley

Lauren Webb sliding in to claim the ball at Brooke Marsden’s feet

Barnsley win the ball in the middle clipped long for Pierrepont in space on the left, turns inside running into the area striking the ball with her right foot through bodies escapes out to the left the ball turned home, however the goal won’t count the offside flag raised. Edgar giving away a free-kick on the left all of 30 yards out, Barnsley sending players up into the box with Marsden standing over the ball with Pierrepont the the former with step over before Pierrepont strikes the ball over the wall in towards goal, Webb getting up well to make the save turning the ball behind for the corner.

The corner driven in at the near post, Edgar defending for the hosts. Cambridge looking to break however Barnsley regain possession sends the ball out into the right wing for Housley to whip a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, attacked by Biggins rushing in at the far post turned over the bar. Cambridge working hard doing a good job in frustrating Barnsley Wood getting free up the left linking up with Marden the cross floated into the area cleared by Michalska for Barnsley.

Autumn Housley beating Ella Marden to the ball

A pause in play as Housley and Jackson come together on the left as Wood looks to play the defender on. Both up okay Cambridge with the free-kick. Barnsley not hanging about quickly getting on with the game Kosky stealing possession back on the right going forwards looking for Stojko-Down, closed down by Millard. Played on for Pierrepont racing forwards on the left, Rouse coming across to defend for Cambridge.

Stojko-Down central playing the ball to Marden left for Cambridge, crosses for Simmons racing on right of the D, the ball cut out by Stuart gets it back to her keeper. Millard getting forwards on Barnsley’s left playing the ball inside for Biggins outside the D, turns into the shot firing the ball straight into Webb’s midriff.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Barnsley keep pushing players on pushing Cambridge back Rouse across to deal with Pierrepont on the by-line left side the ball played back up the line for Millard 25 out comes inside rolling in on for Michalska to turn and curl a shot in towards goal, Webb leaping up making a tremendous save top getting a arm up to turn the ball away for a corner on the right. The corner delivered in with pace into the six yard box a good attacking height Stuart and Michalska for Barnsley a heavy collision between Stuart and Jackson leaving both players floored as the ball is cleared the referee quickly stopping play for the physio’s to race on to administer treatment.

The game paused concern for both players not moving immediately time taken, Jackson dazed, Stuart bleeding. Both up thankfully, blood on the pitch to be cleaned up as both walk to the side-lines before being allowed back on. No doubt the crowd are playing their part getting behind Cambridge looking to wind up Barnsley who having created some good chances have been unable to get their noses in front. Kosky lunging in to deny Biggins as she takes the ball inside from the left.

Kosky with a vital interception then as Michalska driving forwards through the middle nearly picks out Pierrepont racing clear on the left. Barnsley winning a free-kick in a central position late in the half Pierrepont into the area Michalska up to head the ball across the top of the six yard box cleared to the left, the shot struck on the angle sent over the bar. Barnsley’s frustrations boiling over as Stuart talks herself into a yellow card after fouling Wood on the left.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Barnsley FC Women

The game all square after the first 45 minutes a lively and combative contest, both sides competing for the ball. Cambridge taking an early lead before being quickly pinned back by the visitors. Barnsley playing the ball across the ball breaking forwards well creating some good chances to get into the lead themselves, Cambridge though defending well, Webb making some excellent saves. A lot put into the first half will be interesting to see if these energy levels can be maintained in the 2nd half.

Getting decidedly colder as the two sides return to the field for the 2nd half, neither making any changes, extra-time and penalties to come if required as Barnsley et the 2nd period underway. The visitors playing the ball forwards pushing players on right from the start, Pierrepont picked out on the left in behind to the by-line sends the ball racing in across the face of goal, defended beyond the far post knocked back inside for Webb to snatch into her gloves.

Barnsley setting there stall out early doors, their intention to take the game to Cambridge find an early goal to take the lead in the 2nd half breaking right the ball crossed in onto the roof of the net. Cambridge under pressure at the back, Otten and Edgar pushed back to help the defence the hosts getting the ball cleared up to Simmons in space on the right plays it inside to Stojko-Down 20 yards out right of the D, her attempted shot charged down by Michalska.

Otten shown a yellow card after a strong tackle on Jex-Oldfield on halfway. Jex-Oldfield playing the ball up the wing for Pierrepont who turns inside to lay the ball into Millard, Stuart up with her, back to Pierrepont who wins Barnsley a corner kick. An in-swinging delivery headed clear by Jackson for Cambridge.

Barnsley’s Charlotte Stuart with Cambridge’s Zoe Wood

Wood nipping in to take the ball back for Cambridge. Wood with some good ball control looking to twist and turn get forwards for Cambridge link up with the attacking trio. Woodcock and Michalska defending solidly for Barnsley who continue to press forwards. The heavy tackles continuing both sides giving as good as they get Cambridge’s tenacity still frustrating Barnsley.

Barnsley’s Abi Housecroft

Barnsley powering on down the right Marsden crossing low, Jackson running back in defence cutting out the cross carrying it behind for the corner. Cambridge defending the corners Barnsley putting in some great deliveries. The hosts getting on down the right winning a throw 25 yards out put inside to Simmons positioned top of the D, Housley throwing herself into the blocking tackle as she lines up the shot.

Cambridge making the first change of the game bringing off Otten whose on a yellow card bringing on Serena Cobb. Barnsley with their first switch too bringing Amy Beck to replace Marsden. Rouse racing back in defence as Barnsley attack down the leg traps the cross between her legs to take it out of play for a corner. Lifted in near post a Barnsley player rising to head the ball drills her header wide past the far post.

Emily Pierrepont continues to take the game to Cambridge

Pierrepont dribbling inside from the left pushes the ball inside to Jex-Oldfield 25 yards out, Edgar lunging in with a firm tackle to get the ball back for Cambridge. Pierrepont heavily involved in the game pulling left seeing the ball into her feet aiming to clip it over the top send Stuart through on goal the flag up however brings an end to the move. Barnsley on top but unable to find the break through as a few spots of rain begin to fall. Pierrepont sees the ball come into her feet in a central position strikes a right foot curler in on goal from range, Webb throwing herself it it can’t get there as the ball dips smashing onto the crossbar.

Louise Biggins getting hold of the ball for Barnsley

GOAL! Cambridge’s opportunities to break forwards limited in the 2nd half the ball cleared on for Stojko-Down central makes a great run forwards before delivering a cutting pass in behind for Simmons to attack top of the area, Michalska sliding in with her to try and win the ball, knocked on towards goal racing past Clarke to roll over the line a fire the hosts back into the lead in the 66th minute 2-1.

Bella Simmons putting Cambridge back into the lead

Cambridge back in front after dealing with a sustained Barnsley onslaught at the start of the 2nd half. A huge blow for Barnsley as Wood getting hold of the ball travels into the right corner holding it up well before Kosky racing beyond her is pulled up for offside. The visitors rattled making a change Natalie Watson coming on to replace Jex-Oldfield. The game opening up as Cambridge find renewed energy breaking through the middle, Wood to Stojko-Down on for Simmons in attack, a crucial interception by Millard to prevent her getting clear to attack Clarkes goal.

Stojko-Down on the half-volley from outside the area placed straight into the keeper as Cambridge attack on the left. Watson with a heavy tackle sending Simmons to the ground earning the substitute a yellow card. The tackles keep coming Stojko-Down getting bundled over outside the area aggrieved as play goes on. Cambridge winning a corner nevertheless out on the right. In near side Clarke up to punch the ball behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd delivery into the six yard box defended by Michalska

Jodie Michalska

Rouse the next player to go into the box as she brings Biggins down 40 yards out to the left as both turn to chase after the ball. Pierrepont over it, does have a hell of a strike on her and going for goal her attempt isn’t too far wide of the left corner. Cambridge making a change in the 79th minute bringing on Ruth Fox in place of Simmons up top. Is a tense game now Barnsley pushing players on Cambridge nipping in to close the ball down

GOAL! With Barnsley pushing on looking to get themselves back on level terms Cambridge winning the ball break on the left bringing the ball on players racing back to defend, the ball crossed into the box Fox central, Pierrepont getting there first gets a glancing touch on the ball can’t get it away instead presents it straight to Fox who show cool composure ( at least that’s what it looks like now doubt the heart was pounding ) as she picks her spot lifting it past the keeper and into the goal beyond immediately turning to race away in joyous celebration eventually caught by her teammates as Cambridge extend their lead with 10 minutes to play 3-1.

Ruth Fox runs in celebration after sending Cambridge into a 3-1 lead

Barnsley respond straight away with a double switch bringing on Nat Shaw and Courteney Csomor. Falling 2 goals behind with a little over 10 minutes to play. Winning a free-kick wide on the right the ball swung into the area headed clear Cambridge look to counter Stojko-Down on for Wood who uses her experience to take the ball down into the corner at up valuable time.

Watson with the ball for Barnsley on for Housley travelling on down line in behind to the by-line her cross fired in across the six yard box cleared by Cheal-Ferris at the far post. Wood coming on with the ball combined with Stojko-Down as Cambridge look to keep the ball up the pitch, Michalska getting it back for the visitors up to Stuart has Housecroft inside her played out to Pierrepont on the left the cross whipped into the box cut out by Jackson for Cambridge.

Cambridge determined in defence as Rouse clears a chipped ball forwards intended for Shaw.

GOAL! The game moving into stoppage time Barnsley getting themselves a free-kick inside the Cambridge half on the right, Pierrepont to play it into the area a fantastic ball cutting through the six yard box running out to the far post met by Michalska running in to turn it home from close range 3-2 game on!

Jodie Michalska pulling a goal back for Barnsley in the closing stages of the tie

Michalska taking no time to celebrate grabbing the ball hasting back to the centre circle to get it restarted, Cambridge finding Wood on the right takes the ball into the corner, nothing silly now from the hosts keep Barnsley off the ball. Barnsley with one last push Millard on for Pierrepont wide left returns it inside for Millard to float a ball into the area attacked the header planted straight at Webb the keeper holding onto the ball.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-2 Barnsley FC Women

The final whistle blows and Cambridge celebrate as they reach the final of this season’s FAWNL Plate. Beating Barnsley 3-2 with goals from Bella Simmons and substitute Ruth Fox in the 2nd half. Cambridge having to deal with a lot of Barnsley pressure in the 2nd period as the visitors came on strong looking to take the lead themselves looking to build on the good chances they had created in the 2nd half. Barnsley let themselves get frustrated by Cambridge’s tenacity and couldn’t get their noses in front. Cambridge had to work hard for the win and took their chances when they fell their way to set up what is sure to be a historic day for the club. The date and venue for the final to be announced.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. As with last weekends winner it’s another tough call to single out one player as it was a strong team performance all round. Several performances of note, firstly for Barnsley, Emily Pierrepont was the stand out player, worked tirelessly on the left, a ready outlet taking the ball on to the by-line or tracking infield created several good chances. Jodie Michalska strong at the back and getting forwards winning the ball and passing superbly. Autumn Housley winning the ball well at the back with several strong runs forwards. For Cambridge credit to the whole team for a battling display, were determined from the start, Abbie Jackson and Lauren Rouse with some vital tackles at the back. Rachel Kosky too as well as making some excellent attacking runs opening the scoring. Zoe Wood showing good skill on the ball got forwards well bringing others into play. Gisela Otten competing for the ball in the middle of the park getting back to help the defence. Goalkeeper Lauren Webb with some brilliant saves to keep Barnsley out n the first half. The award today though goes to the player who summed up Cambridge’s performance to a tee and that is midfielder Sammy Edgar, fought for everything getting across the park to tackle and frustrate Barnsley throughout.

I know I’m supposed to be neutral but I do have my favourite team and it’s fantastic to see Cambridge reach a national final. Had a sneaky feeling they might. Even so the FAWNL is full of strong teams. Congratulations to Cambridge. My thanks to both sides for there help today with the teams. Best of luck to Barnsley in their hunt for the league table will keep an eye out for your results.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Worthing FC Women

Sunday 3rd December

FAWNL South East Division One

Two weeks later than originally advertised heading west into Cambridgeshire to St Neots to watch my final game of 2023, between Cambridge United WFC and Worthing FC Women in FAWNL South East Division One.

A clash between 4th and 5th in the league with Worthing FC Women moving above Cambridge United WFC winning 4-0 at home to Cambridge City Women last weekend. The two clubs enjoying a great first half to the season amongst the chasing pack looking to apply pressure to the leading pair of AFC Wimbledon Women and Norwich City Women going into the new year.

Cambridge United WFC without last season’s top scorer Sarah Wiltshire as she announced she was pregnant with her 3rd child, at the beginning of the campaign, signing off by scoring all 4 goals in Cambridge’s 1st league win of the season. That seeing the management team having to device a new strategy for the season, and so far has paid off playing midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down as a false number 9, scoring 9 goals to date to push Cambridge United WFC into a strong position in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One table.

Ruth Fox netting 7 goals and Bella Simmons on 6, a run of 3 wins and a draw coming to an end last time out with a narrow 3-2 loss to QPR FC Women. Building a competitive squad the club backed well by Cambridge United FC itself with a number of games to take place at the Abbey Stadium itself. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus stadium remains the clubs main home, situated in an ever growing residential area on the outskirts of the town. Winger Charlotte Gillies to most recent player to join their squad often a thorn in United’s side when playing for rival Cambridge City her pace and skill will add to the sides attacking flare.

Worthing FC Women newly promoted to the FAWNL after winning the London & South East Premier Division last season losing just one match along the way. Managed by ex-Lewes FC Women’s manager, John Donohue assisted by Kelly Newton, who is Lewes FC Women’s record appearance holder. The South Coast side the latest addition to a number of clubs sharing rapid growth in the area. Donohue recruiting a strong squad of players from, Lewes itself with FAWNL and Championship experience, such as goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear and captain Rachel Palmer along with some ex-Portsmouth FC Women players, such as Danielle Rowe, Tierney Scott and Samantha Quayle amongst others.

That has seen them hit the ground running as Worthing plays in the 4th tier for the 1st time, winning 5 of their 6 opening league games to put themselves right in contention with the leaders. A slight dip in results seeing them fall back down to 6th before a 4-0 home win over Cambridge City Women saw them leap frog Cambridge United back into 4th. Becki Bath leading the goal scoring charts so far this season netting 13 goals in 12 appearances while Samantha Quayle has 9 goals from 11 games.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s match, the way into the stadium seeing an ever growing residential development. The ground very much in the heart of the community the main grass pitch in good condition with plenty of green offering good width. A seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms beneath and clubhouse beside the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. A cup of tea definitely needed a bitter bite to the wind blowing, but a vast improvement on last weeks WET and miserable weather. One more game for 2023, lets go…

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Rachel Kosky, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood, Ella Marden, Ruth Fox & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Natasha Collins, Niamh Day, Serena Cobb & Bella Simmons.

Worthing FC Women

Worthing FC Women starting XI – Lauren Dolbear, Katie Young, Rachel Palmer (C), Emma Blakely, Chloe Winchester, Danielle Rowe, Tierney Scott, Chloe Humphrey, Shannon Albuery, Samantha Quayle & Becki Bath. Subs – Rebecca Bell, Niamh Anderson, Izzy Glass-Oliver, Gemma Worsfold & Katie Cooper.

The game rearranged from a fortnight ago, Cambridge ending the year nursing a few knocks with a few missing including midfielder, Fran Steele who has been a strong addition to the side since joining from Cambridge City this season. Gisela Otten captaining Cambridge, Rachel Palmer, Worthing joining the match officials in the middle to decide kick-off. Cambridge to get the 1st half underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Worthing in their all blue away strip lined up opposite. The ball rolled back for the midfield to play a ball out to the left with the advancing Ruth Fox the target, Katie Young instead intercepting at the back for Worthing knocked on into the middle for Danielle Rowe lays the diagonal pass out to the right for Chloe Humphrey pushing on, Lauren Rouse across to close her down the ball out for the throw in.

Worthing FC Women’s defender, Katie Young

The throw dropped short laid back up the line for Rachel Palmer to send a deep cross in towards the top of the area, Sammy Edgar under it to head clear for Cambridge. The hosts looking to break on the left the ball played on for Fox to attack, Young though is quickly across o kick clear for Worthing.

GOAL! Cambridge win the ball on the right Rachel Kosky getting on up the wing to support Ella Marden the ball crossed into the six yard box, Young getting head head on it to intercept for Worthing, knocks it back out to the right of goal, falls straight to Alysha Stojko-Down and she lashes the ball back in across the face of goal to open the scoring inside the opening two minutes 1-0.

Alysha Stojko-Down firing Cambridge into the lead with her 10th goal of the season

Worthing push players on from the restart looking to recover quickly from their early set back Tierney Scott linking up with Rowe the ball on for Shannon Albuery making a run into the box right side, Rouse getting in the challenge to take the ball away to the touchline. Zoe Wood with quick footwork taking the ball on left for Cambridge knocking it on for Fox chasing in behind taking the ball on to the by-line her cross low to the near post, adjudged to have gone behind before goalkeeper, Lauren Dolbear gets down to it.

Cambridge with a bright start to the game lively on the flanks lose the ball on the left Worthing finding Quayle out on the wing knocks it into Albuery running into the area on the left, evading a couple of defensive challenges before squeezing a shot away on the angle, lacks the power to trouble Cambridge goalkeeper Lauren Webb as she has her angles covered getting down to claim the ball.

Wood causing Worthing a few issues early on is brought down by Quayle the hosts awarded a free-kick. Moments later Scott fouls Cheal-Ferris as the pair tussle for possession. Proving to be a competitive tie between two sides closely placed in the top half of the table. Wood skipping free on the left with a diagonal ball long into the area looking for Stojko-Down, Dolbear can safely come out to lay claim to it. Kosky powering forwards on the right for Cambridge, Emma Blakely coming across to tackle for Worthing halting her run in the corner.

Worthing’s Emma Blakely

Abbie Jackson with the tackle for Cambridge inside the D, as Albuery seeing the ball into her feet looks to turn into the box. Young on the ball at the back for Worthing time to look up pick her pass sends a dangerous diagonal ball forwards with Humphrey making a run into the area, Kosky tracking back with her the pair tangling, going down, the referee pointing to the spot Penalty! The Cambridge bench furious with the decision. An opportunity for Worthing to level things up from the spot. Bath to take the spot kick, strikes the ball to the left of goal, Webb diving the right way to make a fantastic save her right arm outstretched to push the ball wide of goal behind for a corner kick.

Lauren Webb saving Becki Bath’s penalty.

Lauren Webb

Lifted in high from the left a Cambridge head gets a touch near side but can only help it on into the middle, falls for Blakely, stabs the ball goal wards is trapped between her feet by Jackson in the six yard box before scrambling the ball clear of danger.

Cambridge’s Abbie Jackson

Worthing look to build through the middle Rowe on for Albuery, Humphrey entering the area likely to be flagged offside if the ball found it’s way through to her but the Cambridge centre backs close the door on Albuery the ball cleared. Rouse coming across on two occasions to stop Worthing on the left as they threaten to get in behind. Scott lining up a strike from distance, the Worthing midfielders shot not troubling Webb.

Worthing’s Tierney Scott

Lively in the middle, both sides working hard to close down the ball, Worthing pressing forwards as Cambridge drop off at time to defend their area. Albuery linking up with Zoe Winchester going left, Rouse tackling, Cambridge countering right side Kosky them Marden inside for Stojko-Down 25 yards out looks to play the ball across the top of the D for Fox, can’t quite turn into the shot but keeps the attack alive pushing for the area, Blakely closing her down for Worthing.

Cambridge not happy with the earlier penalty decision only further aggravated as they question other decisions. Wood winning a corner for the hosts on the right Worthing clearing their lines attack through the middle, the ball fired forwards into the area, Rouse not getting hold of it evades her as Bath steals in beyond her, striking the ball, Webb moving forwards to close the angle making the blocking save at close range.

Fox high on the left breaking the ball down well off her chest knocking the ball into the area, Blakely in to block as she shapes to shoot the ball deflected clear. Emotions rising the referee stopping play to have a word with Cambridge manager Darren Marjoram, settling things down… for now. Wood and Fox liking up well on the left the former lifting a long diagonal ball forwards for Marden to attack on the right, Dolbear alert to the danger out to the edge of her area to drop onto the ball.

Worthing have the ball in the back of the net in the 26th minute as Scott free at the back post taps in Quayle’s pass to her from the left as Winchester and Albuery combine top of the area, however it won’t count as the Worthing attack breaking forwards with pace is flagged offside. Cambridge putting themselves under pressure dropping off allowing Worthing to come at them.

Worthing midfielder, Zoe Winchester

Scott shifting the ball well between her feet sending the ball on into the left channel for Quayle, looking to get into the area, Kosky tracking back to tackle the ball deflected back across the D, Albuery rushing in looking to latch onto it, Otten diving in for Cambridge, just about getting to take the ball out of her path.

No advantage, play brought back as Wood is pulled back for Cambridge out on the left inside the Worthing half, players forwards as Cheal-Ferris sends the set-piece angling into the far post attacked, Worthing defending the ball cleared, won back 30 yards out the shot taken struck wide, over the bar (and by bar I mean the stand behind the goal). A pause in play with Dolbear down in the Worthing goal, a chance for the coaches to get instructions to their players.

Scott evading a tackle on the right getting forwards opening up her body attempting to thread a pass into the area for bath to run onto, too close to Webb however the keeper getting her gloves wrapped around the ball. Albuery turning on the ball in the middle sending a clipped pass out to Humphrey wide on the left, Marden tracking back for Cambridge putting in the tackle to clear the threat. Worthing though pushing players on force Cambridge back, Palmer sweeping a deep cross into the area, Fox heading clear for Cambridge.

Worthing winning a free-kick central 25 yards out, Young running in to strike the ball smashes it into Cambridge’s wall. Cambridge attacking on the left Wood laying the ball back for Cheal-Ferris to hit long up towards Fox moving into the area, Blakely instead under it to hook clear for Worthing.

Dolbear miscuing her goal kick putting the ball straight at Fox inside the box to the left of goal looking to control with her head get the ball down to strike, is closed down quickly by the Worthing defence. Moving into the final 5 minutes of the 1st half, pressing Cambridge back Edgar sends the ball back into her keeper coming at Webb with pace the keeper looking to try and adjusted her feet screws her clearances straight into the path of Bath charging in through the middle, the shot though fired straight back into the keeper, Webb falling back grateful to get the ball into her body.

Worthing’s Becki Bath

Cambridge’s turn to appeal for a penalty as the ball is rolled in towards Fox inside the box from the right, a heavy challenge but well timed I think the appeals waved away. Cambridge getting a free-kick inside the Worthing half out to the left Cheal-Ferris over it again flighting a ball into the area headed clear, Edgar tackling stopping the visitors from breaking away keeping the pressure on around the area Kosky pushing on to the by-line on the right is closed down by Blakely preventing her from getting a cross into the box.

Ruth Fox

Winchester out to Albuery moving to left her strike on the angle to the near post saved well by Webb with Quayle bursting forwards looking to attack. Worthing to the attack Rowe to Quayle on for Humphrey left side keeping the ball in play on the by-line laid back to Bath left of the D, her low strike in towards goal blocked by Jackson for Cambridge.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris beating Worthing’s Tierney Scott to the ball

Into stoppage time, Cheal-Ferris and Scott continue to enjoy a lively contest as they look to win the ball the former fouled, the free-kick taken quickly Worthing quick to win it back forwards for Scott on the right lifts a diagonal ball towards the area looking to cut a hole in the Cambridge defence, Jackson coming across, throwing up a leg catching the ball with her heel a vital touch as she deflects the ball away from the advancing Bath into the arms of her keeper.

Stojko-Down bundled over as she looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Cambridge halfway inside the Worthing half. Jackson over it, sends a teasing strike in towards goal bouncing narrowly wide of Dolbear’s right post. Young forwards for Worthing on the right inside for Bath central lays it into Quayle right of the D, Cheal-Ferris close in, Quayle goes down, Cambridge not pleased with the decision a free-kick to Worthing 25 yards out in a dangerous position, Palmer across to take it curls her attempt straight against the wall. Wood looking to break clear on the left for Cambridge, Blakely out well to close her down for Worthing.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Worthing FC Women

Cambridge with the early goal go into the break leading 1-0 at half-time have worked hard for their lead. Defending at the back, dropping off at times inviting pressure. Worthing have gotten forwards well moving the ball across the pitch winning a penalty, seeing the chance to level the scores saved whilst the offside flag has denied them another opportunity. The interval a chance to put a few thing’s right a competitive tie between the sides placed 4th and 5th in the league, set up nicely for the first half.

No changes for either side at the break, the light beginning to fade the floodlights coming on. Worthing to get the 2nd half underway. The ball put out wide, Wood moves in quickly to close it down for Cambridge, the visitors move in to regain possession get on the attack pressing up the left winning a throw high, knocked onto into the Cambridge area, cleared by Rouse. Worthing showing attacking intent at the start of the 2nd period winning a corner on the left, swept in low to the near post defended knocked on across the six yard box cleared by Kosky at the far post.

Worthing looking to impose themselves on the ball, Albuery getting about the park to win the ball. Another corner won on the left, rolled in shot played back to the taker the ball crossed in towards the far post Kosky defending for Cambridge before the shot is struck over on the angle to the right of the box.

Worthing on the charge through the middle Rowe on for Humphrey inside the area, Quayle ahead of her looking to tee her up, Jackson comes in to close her down in the nick of time to clear the ball away from a throw on the left. Worthing making a strong start to the 2nd half keeping Cambridge penned inside their final 3rd winning another corner on the left whipped in across goal the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the far post before Cambridge’s defence scrambles it away.

Worthing’s Chloe Humphrey

Under the cosh in the opening exchanges little opportunity to break for Cambridge, Wood though with a fantastic flick on from a throw on the right sending Marden on give chase to the ball, ahead of Blakely, can’t quite get there before Dolbear comes rushing towards her to clear the ball.

Cambridge under pressure needing to dig deep. Humphrey attempting to get onto the end of a cross field pass from the right as she attacks on the left, Rouse needing to come out to challenge conceding a corner. Kosky adjudged to have fouled Humphrey on the wing, looked more like a tangle of legs as the pair crossed paths, nevertheless the decision goes Worthing’s way.

Cambridge feeling aggrieved with the decisions, as Worthing continue to press the ball, Winchester latching onto Rouse’s clearance 30 yards out, her 1st time strike angling wide past the left post. Fox clattered into out on the left the free-kick swept into the area cleared by Worthing’s Young. Another decision causing consternation amongst the Cambridge ranks as Wood is penalised for a foul on Humphrey. That leads to the ball being played up the line passed inside to Albuery pushing inside appears to be sent tumbling, the set-piece awarded again Cambridge livid at the decision…

Shannon Albuery winning Worthing a free-kick in the 61st minute.

GOAL! The free-kick outside the area to the left of the box everyone back for Cambridge to defend, Worthing lining up at the far post ready to attack the ball is put right on the money players running in met by a blue shirt headed home across goal to put Worthing back on level terms, Albuery the player on the mark 1-1.

Shannon Albuery fires home Worthing’s equaliser

Cambridge incensed by the decision to award the free-kick in the first place are further penalised, Edgar furious talking herself into trouble shown the yellow card by the referee and sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes. Cambridge down to 10 just as they look to make a change bringing on Simmons to replace Marden. Worthing though on a high looking to push home the advantage as Cambridge look to adjust personal to cover their missing players.

GOAL! And take advantage they do closing the ball down in the middle, the through ball cutting open the defence to see Quayle break in behind to the left of goal closing down the six yard box, strikes her shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner to fire Worthing into the lead 1-2!

Samantha Quayle puts Worthing into the lead

A big spell for Cambridge the game going against them need to rally unhappy with the referee as another foul is given against them as Quayle is fouled. Worthing on top pushing on Rowe out to the right the cross lifted in near posted defended by Kosky, drops to Quayle on the angle sends her attempt at goal over. Bath running onto the ball in the middle with a wild strike on the ball, in towards goal easy for Webb.

Scott 25 yards out to the right corner of the Cambridge box hesitates as she brings the ball down expecting like Cambridge to be pulled up for a hand ball, when the decision doesn’t come however she turns to take a shot sending her effort up over the crossbar. Worthing with a strong performance in the 2nd half, Cambridge having to battle hard at the back to keep them at bay struggling to make anything stick up top. Wood looking to get hold of the ball make things happen for the hosts but is quickly closed down.

Edgar back on for Cambridge as the game moves into the final 15 minutes, Worthing making a change bringing on Rebecca Bell in place of Scott. Worthing with a set-piece Rowe to curl the ball into the area, Rouse heading it clear for Cambridge. Wood strong on the ball coming right is sent tumbling the advantage played however as she finds Simmons clear to the right, Kosky breaking past her on the overlap to cross the ball into the box, Blakely getting her head on the ball to clear the threat for Worthing.

Zoe Wood bringing the ball on for Cambridge

Another switch for Worthing with Gemma Worsfold coming on Quayle. Worthing on the attack on the left a low cross flashing into the six yard box, Bath attacking the ball far post crashed down off the crossbar the ball then scrambled clear by the Cambridge defence. Worthing looking to put the game to bed the ball with Bath 30 yards out has time to line up a shot strikes the ball wide of the right post as Webb throws herself across her goal.

Cambridge making a change bringing on Serena Cobb for Otten in the 85th minute, Worthing replacing Bath with Katie Cooper. Wood is brought down wide on the right inside the Worthing half. Jackson to swing the ball into the area, Worthing with a solid defensive line clearing the top of their area. Cambridge attack down the left Cheal-Ferris forwards for Wood turns into the area left corner appears to be sent tumbling but to Cambridge’s disbelief she is the player penalised Worthing awarded the free-kick… outside the area.

Worthing come strong on the right a cross whipped in near post, Webb doing well under challenge to get hold of the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick out to the right. The ball lifted into the area knocked down into the ground, Blakely getting it clear for a throw for Worthing. Into stoppage time Worthing with a change slowing Cambridge down as they try and push for a late equaliser, Humphrey coming off, Niamh Anderson coming on. Worthing getting everyone back behind the ball to see out the closing moments of the match keep Cambridge at bay and celebrate as they come back from a goal down to win 2-1 in the 2nd half and claim the 3 points seeing them end 2023 in 3rd spot.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Worthing FC Women

A strong 2nd half performance from Worthing making adjustments at the break to come out looking to impose themselves on the game right from the start put Cambridge on the back foot. Taking the lead and then with Cambridge reeling from the first goal striking fast to add a 2nd take the lead and press for a 3rd goal. Closing the ball down in their opponents half making the counter attack hard in turn allowing players to keep high to outnumber the midfield. Cambridge will no doubt feel hard done by, by some questionable decisions that ultimately cost them, but worked hard throughout and were good value for their 1st half lead, competing with Worthing. Under the cosh at the start of the 2nd half couldn’t get the ball to stick up top inviting pressure.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match, had someone in mind leaving the stadium and although a few contenders have put themselves into contention in the notes will stick with that call. Several performances of note however in what was a highly competitive game. Firstly for Cambridge, Lauren Rouse and Abbie Jackson were strong in the middle of the Cambridge defence making a number of vital tackles and interceptions. Zoe Wood was looking to get the ball down and make thing’s happen constantly throughout the match. For Worthing, Emma Blakely had a strong game at the back getting across to close the ball down and win it inside her box. Tierney Scott was lively out on the flanks winning the ball and looking to play it forwards, Danielle Rowe with a controlled performance in the middle, good control shifting play across the pitch. Samantha Quayle bursting forwards finding some great positions to attack scoring the winner. The award though goes to Shannon Albuery, covered a huge amount of ground getting across the pitch to get hold of the ball with some fantastic link up play, a constant threat to the Cambridge defence.

My final game of 2023 complete as entertaining as any watched highly competitive between two sides enjoying a strong season in FAWNL South East Division One. My first time seeing Worthing in action (although I know of most of their players having seen several in action for their previous clubs) a strong side that will be a threat to everyone in the league in 2024. A hard one for Cambridge to take will feel hard done by by the decisions but should use it as fuel to drive them on in 2024 remain well placed to push the side above them. My thanks to both for their help with the team details as always much appreciated… time for a rest over the festive period. Merry Christmas and enjoy the celebrations with friends and family.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Tag Archives: Cambridge United WFC

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Sunday 3rd November

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Sunday 25th February

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Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Worthing FC Women

Sunday 3rd December

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