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Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 28th April

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

 The football action this Sunday comes from Carrow Road the home of Norwich City FC, the club celebrating a return to the Premier League last evening with a 2-1 win over Blackburn Rovers FC, today it hosts the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final for the first time a special occasion that will no doubt live long in the memory of the two clubs winning through to this season’s final as King’s Lynn Town Ladies take on Wymondham Town Ladies the current holders.

Two of the leading women’s football sides in the county, 4 of which play above county league level, Norwich City Ladies the highest league placed club in Norfolk playing in the 4th tier, FAWNL South East Division One. Wymondham along with Acle United Women (to become part of Wroxham FC next season) play in the league below tier 5 the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division with King’s Lynn Town Ladies played in ERWFL Division One. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies currently 5th in ERWFL Division One are into their 1st ever Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final playing their 2nd season playing at regional level pushing for the title with Wymondham the eventual champions. This season a larger single Division One a very competitive league up to 5th jostling for a top half finish with a cluster of sides most having 4 left to play the season going the distance scheduled to finish in the final weekend of May. King’s Lynn on a good run as they look to get some momentum coming into today’s final winning their last 3 in the league including a 9-0 demolition of Essex side Hatfield Peverel Ladies the game played at The Walks two weeks ago.

Wymondham Town Ladies currently 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division their highest ever league position and testament to a strong debut season playing at that level having been promoted as Division One North Champions. Along with Acle have ambitions to reach the FAWNL itself. The ERWFL Premier Division featuring some strong sides from all across the East. Growing rapidly in recent season’s a reserves side playing in Norfolk Women’s Division One, Wymondham have enjoyed some good runs in the FA Women’s Cup aswell as the County Cup, this being their 3rd successive final appearance. Missing out to Thorpe United Ladies in their debut County Cup appearance learnt alot from that game better prepared 2nd time around last season taking on Acle United Ladies winning the game 3-2 to lift the trophy for the 1st time. 

Road to the Final

   Both sides entering the competition in the 1st Round although Wymondham progressed without kicking a ball awarded the away win over Norfolk Division Two side, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. King’s Lynn away to Sprowston Ladies from Norfolk Division One a 3-0 win seeing them comfortably into the 2nd Round.

King’s Lynn at home in the 2nd Round were taking on Norfolk Division One side Tavern Ladies, now hitting top form in the league pushing for promotion King’s Lynn meeting them early in the season however ran out 6-1 winners to reach the last 8. Wymondham were away to Bulldogs Ladies bottom of Division Two a huge gulf between the sides 4 leagues Wymondham have plenty of goals in their side and scored 22 without reply to reach the quarter finals. The announcement made after the 2nd Round that the final was going to be played at Carrow Road for the first time.

  Another Sprowston side for King’s Lynn in the quarter finals again from Norfolk Division One, Athletic Ladies, after a couple of postponed weeks King’s Lynn made the trip winning 4-0 to book their spot in the last 4. Wymondham taking on Taverham Women United’s young guns unbeaten at the top of Division Two at the time now the champions, a big defeat in the County Cup however against Wymondham going down 12-1, Wymondham’s cup defence rolling on.

A very strong line-up for the semi-finals of the competition with King’s Lynn drawn away to Thorpe United Ladies the Norfolk Division side reaching 4 successive County Cup Finals with back to back success in 2016 & 2017. Strong all season in the league runaway champions Thorpe were suffering from injuries their squad stretched by the time they welcomed King’s Lynn to the Thorpe Recreation Ground. King’s Lynn taking the lead couldn’t find a 2nd goal, Thorpe coming back late on to level the scores send the game into extra-time. Tiffany Forshaw with King’s Lynn’s goal in normal timing on target for two more to complete her hat-trick in extra-time. Thorpe getting it back to 3-2 setting up a nervy finish but King’s Lynn held on to reach their first ever final.

  No less dramatic in the other semi-final a repeat of last season’s final with Wymondham away to Acle United Women. The pair drawing at 2-2 after 90 minutes the game going into extra-time both added a further goal to see them locked at 3-3. The game heading into a penalty shootout. Wymondham holding their nerve to edge Acle out 5-4 to reach a 3rd successive final.

The Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by MacDonald’s this season as part of their promotion giving out free child’s tickets. The venue Carrow Road, and I can safely say if there was one ground above all others I wanted to cover a women’s football match at it was the home of Norwich City FC, Norfolk born and bred so naturally I’m a canary supporter. Ambition fulfilled, the Geoffrey Watling Stand open for the match, the playing surface looking great the sun out a little chilly in the shade a good atmosphere a decent crowd building. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Chloe Burch, Annie Rooks, Shanice Burch, Charlotte Griffith, Beck Russell (C), Natalie Wright, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Oksana Imanalijeva, Deva Rawlings & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Chloe Witt, Georgia Freeman, Olivia Baker, Lisa Wilson & Emma Corbyn.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Chardonnay Johnston, Jorja Patterson, Rachel Cossey (C) Rebecca Russell, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters. Subs- Bethany Fretwell, Nadine Basson, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Alice Ladbrooke & Summer Ward.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A change of ends at the start the sun a problem for goalkeepers standing at the Barclay End setting behind the stadium. King’s Lynn to kick-off this season’s County Cup Final wearing blue shirts with yellow shorts and socks, Wymondham in their away colours purple shirts and socks with black shorts. Mollie O’Callaghan straight in to tackle and win the ball for Wymondham in the centre playing it on through the middle looking for striker Hannah Waters, Shanice Burch cutting it out inside the D for King’s Lynn.

   King’s Lynn get forwards Oksana Imanalijeva with the run stopped by Chardonnay Johnston the ball won back high up the pitch by Shanice Burch Wymondham defend once more and this time break Waters making a run into the right channel fed the ball into her run takes it on towards the top of the area pulling the trigger outside the box the strike racing low across the box out past the far post for a goal kick.

   Pressure high on the left from Wymondham brings a throw in the ball played inside finding Rebecca Russell in the area her touch taking her in behind closing in on the six yard box looks to play a shot across the goalkeeper, Bryony Robinson closing the angle the keeper does well getting down to save take the sting out of the shot her defence getting back to clear the ball as in rolls away. Wymondham vice captain Leah Newcombe getting forwards hurt in a challenge needing treatment before she can continue. 

  Robinson called into action again in the early stages of the game as Waters is put in clear on the left, the King’s Lynn goalkeeper haring out of her box needs to win the race lunging into the challenge traps the ball well with her legs on deny Waters. Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse winning the ball high on the right for King’s Lynn pays the ball infield for Natalie Wright she plays the diagonal ball forwards to try and get Imanalijeva away, Chelsea Clarke closing her down regaining possession for Wymondham.

Natalie Wright playing the ball on for King’s Lynn Town Ladies

   Imanalijeva lively for King’s Lynn in the opening exchanges wins the ball 20 yards out central support from Tiffany Forshaw to her left gives her the ball the striker taking it on down the wing sending a low cross into the area, evading Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan at her near post Imanalijeva having made up the ground to get into the six yard box throws herself at it just evades her. Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey has picked up an injury a spell on lengthy treatment needed, King’s Lynn looking a threat going forwards Imanalijeva with a good burst of pace in her legs wins the race for the ball on the right checking inside to get into the area has a crack the ball racing wide across goal. 

King’s Lynn’s attackers looking to get forwards

  Shanice Burch doing well in defence for King’s Lynn stopping Rebecca Russell as she and Laura Nicholls look to combine in attack for Wymondham. A blow for Wymondham as Cossey cannot continue a ready made replacement on the bench a Alice Ladbrooke another combative midfielder comes on. Wymondham break with speed and purpose Nicholls carrying the ball down the right squaring a cross into the near post for Waters to attack, Annie Rooks closing her down with a fantastic challenge to clear the ball. Johnston in defence up the other end for Wymondham slinging in to take the ball away from Imanalijeva central as Hopkins-Duckhouse sends the pass in from the right. Play paused a cap of the baseball variety sent on for Robinson with the sun shining down. 

 GOAL! The opening goal coming inside 15 minutes, Wymondham with it on the counter a swift move seeing Nicholls surging forwards with the ball right of goal driving into the area squaring it across the face of goal inside the six yard box with Waters charging in central meeting it to turn the ball into the back of the net. Waters wheeling away in celebration scoring the opening goal at Carrow Road 0-1.

Hannah Waters with the opening goal at Carrow Road

   King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell back playing again just a few months after giving birth to son Charlie receives the ball from Forshaw 25 yards out, time and space looks ready to shoot, Kayleigh Holloway getting back at her to nick the ball just in time. A bit physical King’s Lynn in particular giving free-kicks away. Wright does well breaking up an attack central as King’s Lynn commit players forwards the ball lifted back into the area won by Jorja Patterson. Johnston aggrieved as she is judged to have fouled Imanalijeva as the tries to get in behind her on the right the free-kick outside the box. Becky Russell to take the ball sent in towards the top of the box Forshaw coming for it getting her head on the ball her attempt dropping wide of the post.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Jorja Patterson

   Clarke getting up the pitch on the left with a deft ball over the top for Waters to attack inside the area, Charlotte Griffith defending for King’s Lynn the ball out for a throw in. Imanalijeva with another burst of speed looks to get on down the right Johnston sliding in to stop her ends up taking out assistant referee Tracey Clayton instead, Imanalijeva racing on into the box shoots early the ball put wide across goal again. Shanice Burch is being kept on her toes by Waters as the striker is continually ready to break whenever Wymondham bring the ball on. 

  A further injury blow for Wymondham, Newcombe is down again and after a lengthy spell of treatment on the pitch is unable to continue walking off gingerly on in her place comes Summer Ward. Nicholls brings the ball on right is pushed out by Chloe Burch into the corner, somehow manages to squeeze a cross in, Griffiths back to intercept. Nicholls beats the offside trap turning the attack around bearing down on goal, Robinson is way off her line does very well however as Nicholls goes to shoot the goalkeeper throwing out a shin making the save. Waters getting a throw for Wymondham on the left put inside for O’Callaghan she shoots over from 20 yards out.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan

   Wright bringing the ball on through the middle plays in on for Hopkins-Duckhouse, Ward cutting the pass out playing it back into the middle Becky Russell back to Hopkins-Duckhouse right she lifts a cross in high to the near post Forshaw arriving jumping up can’t get her head on the ball. King’s Lynn with some promising attacking moves Imanalijeva with pace to burn beating Johnston to the ball on the right cuts her cross back along the top of the area Deva Rawlings inside the D leaning back into the shot sends the ball over the crossbar.   

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Annie Rooks

   A good spell from King’s Lynn Becky Russell with a diagonal ball from the left into the top of the area Hopkins-Duckhouse there so too Johnston the defender getting the better of the bounce to clear the ball. Rebecca Russell breaks on the right for Wymondham, Nicholls making the run down the line, Chloe Burch with a vital interception for King’s Lynn. Forshaw 25 yards out rolls the ball in Rawlings inside the area is crowded off the ball, Wright winning it back high up the pitch.

 GOAL! Wymondham hit King’s Lynn on the break to double their lead Rebecca Russell getting hold of the ball sent on up top for Nicholls racing away clear through the middle, Robinson comes out of her area in an attempt to get there but this time Nicholls takes the ball around her to send her shot on into the empty net 0-2.

Laura Nicholls makes it 2-0 to Wymondham Town Ladies

  King’s Lynn look for an immediate reply Imanalijeva racing forwards the ball rolled into her path takes it on into the area, Clarke doing well to get across her and marshal the ball into the arms of her keeper. 8 minutes of stoppage time to be played after the earlier injuries. Shanice Burch with a top draw tackle to slide in and stop Waters inside the D as she is put through on goal by Nicholls. 

  King’s Lynn keep coming forwards in search of a goal late in the 1st half Forshaw seeing a shot from the top of the area deflected behind for a corner. Wymondham with numbers back to defend. Johnston with more good defensive work inside the box to deny Imanalijeva as Rawlings lifts the ball on. Clarke hurt as she throws out a leg to block Forshaw’s shot as she brings the ball across the top of the area. Ladbrooke back into her box to tackle Wright as she gets into an advanced position for King’s Lynn. 

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 0-2 Wymondham Town Ladies

  A busy and fast flowing 1st half comes to an end with Wymondham Town Ladies holding the advantage going into the 2nd period leading the game 2-0. Taking an early lead through Waters the assist from Nicholls, the latter breaking late on to double the lead. Tempered with the injury blows to their captain and vice-captain. King’s Lynn have created opportunities look dangerous going forwards are by no means out of it yet.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain Becky Russell on the ball

  Wymondham readying a 3rd substitution for the start of the 2nd half, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris the player coming on Holloway giving way, Wymondham to get the 2nd half underway. Start well winning a series of throws down King’s Lynn’s right. O’Callaghan on the ball central for Wymondham has Clarke racing on down the left wing playing in the full back she looks to be in the clear, Griffith getting back to steal the ball as she enters the area put it behind for the corner. In from the left Robinson up to punch it away for another corner kick. Taken short the cross in cleared straight to Ladbrooke 35 yards out she hits it back in the ball over the top. 

King’s Lynn’s Tiffany Forshaw with Wymondham’s Summer Ward

 Wymondham looking to press the attack at the start of the 2nd half, Ladbrooke tackling to prevent Forshaw taking the ball on throw the middle. Chloe Burch sliding in recklessly takes Nicholls out outside the area receives a yellow card. Wymondham to make a change before it is taken Holloway returning to the game in place of O’Callaghan. Johnston on the set-piece strikes the ball hard the two players wall doing it’s job albeit painfully.   

Kayleigh Holloway bringing the ball on for Wymondham

  Forshaw left has support inside from Wright, Ladbrooke closing the ball deflected into Rawlings she lifts it out to Hopkins-Duckhouse wide right her cross into the middle of the area claimed by O’Callaghan. A record attendance for a Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final this afternoon 776 enjoying themselves. King’s Lynn make their first change of the game Rawlings coming off, Chloe Witt joining the action. Wymondham doing a better job of restricting Imanalijeva’s influence 2nd half. 

  Witt on the ball outside the area left of the D on to Imanalijeva to her right she plays it further wide to Hopkins-Duckhouse her high ball in looping over O’Callaghan strikes the base of the post out into the six yard box just evading Witt racing in. Becky Russell getting about the pitch winning the ball back for King’s Lynn  trying to get thing’s going in the final 3rd. Hopkins-Duckhouse blasting a shot wide from 25 yards out as the ball is deflected into her path as King’s Lynn attack. Chloe Burch sliding in cleanly this time concedes the corner as Nicholls tries to run in behind on the right.

  GOAL! Wymondham extend their lead midway through the 2nd half from the corner the ball played in headed out of the box lands straight at Ward’s feet 20 yards out she takes a touch to set herself then rifles a shot back in a quality finish to put Wymondham into a 3 goal lead 0-3.

  A chance to make it 4 soon after Wymondham hitting on the counter Nicholls in clear right side Robinson racing out to meet her the attacker getting a shot under her the ball rolling on towards the empty net Griffith getting back to stop it and clear up field. Becky Russel lifting a shot wide from 25 yards out played in by Imanalijeva central. A 2nd change for King’s Lynn Wright coming off on comes Emma Corbyn. Hopkins-Duckhouse nips in to rob the Wymondham midfield of the ball plays it on or Becky Russell left of the D leaning into the shot curls it over the bar. King’s Lynn keep on looking for a goal, Wymondham soaking up the pressure well. 

Becky Russell tacking back to stop Hannah Waters

  Ladbrooke pushing the ball on into Nicholls top of the area won’t sit for her to shoot, Shanice Burch getting close in to win it back. A great ass forwards by Becky Russell into Corbyn up top her first touch excellent taking the ball wide of the defender marking her the shot tame in comparison an easy save for O’Callaghan. Holloway doing some great work in the centre of midfield for Wymondham along side Ladbrooke. Waters central with a turn and shot outside the area drags the ball wide. Waters attacking again Robinson out to close her down blocks the ball loose to her left Waters with it sends a shot in the King’s Lynn defence back to clear off the line.  The game entering the final 10 minutes. 

 GOAL! With King’s Lynn looking to get players forwards in attack late on gaps are opening at the back Waters ready to exploit getting hold of the ball left bringing it on Robinson out to close her down Waters composed her touch taking the ball past her and plays the ball on into the back of the net for her 2nd of the game 0-4.

  King’s Lynn make a 3rd change Griffith coming off, Georgia Freeman the player on. Waters over on the left support inside from Nicholls the ball put into her feet her shot outside the box blacked by Shanice Burch. 

 GOAL! King’s Lynn celebrate a cup final goal of themselves late in the game the ball on the right played into the top of the area by Witt, Corbyn seeing an effort blocked near side drops away to the right as Forshaw gets to it her goalwards blast charged down the ball spinning into Corbyn she has no one in front of her as she gets over the shot to smash it into the back of the net 1-4. 

  A double switch for King’s Lynn, Olivia Baker on for Hopkins-Duckhouse soon followed by Lisa Wilson on for Chloe Burch. Johnston flattens Imanalijeva as the game moves into stoppage time a free-kick wide played into the area cleared Forshaw gathers no shot on plays it inside to Becky Russell, Patterson racing out to charge her down. That’s it the final whistle blows and Wymondham celebrate having successfully retained the County Cup and in doing so the first side to win it at Carrow Road.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-4 Wymondham Town Ladies

  An entertaining final played in front of a great crowd enjoyed the occasion two good sides, Wymondham with the early goal, King’s Lynn creating plenty of opportunities hit on the break to go 2-0 down at the break. King’s Lynn needed the next goal you felt, it didn’t come Wymondham adjusting well with their substitutes performing well got that all important 3rd goal and a 4th late on secured the trophy. King’s Lynn getting a late goal themselves. A fantastic occasion which I’m sure will live long in the memory.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Oksana Imanalijeva and Becky Russell with great performances for King’s Lynn. Chardonnay Johnston and Jorja Patterson strong for Wymondham, Laura Nicholls a threat in attack she is just edged out by her strike partner today Hannah Waters a real handful in attack getting forwards at every opportunity and ready for the ball whenever her teammates looked up opening and finishing the scoring.

  Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies upon retaining the Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

Wymondham Town Ladies, 2018/19 McDonalds Norfolk Women’s County Cup winners

  Wanted one thing from today an that was for the winner to be the game itself regardless of the winner a great advert for the women’s game showcasing it at Carrow Road. Think we got that an entertaining game both sides playing their part a memorable occasion fingers crossed we will see more finals played there… and maybe the East Anglian derby afterall the women’s sides are still in the same league. My thanks to Norfolk FA for giving me the opportunity to cover a game at Carrow Road it certainly gave me alot to write about.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Thursday 18th April

BBC Essex Women’s County Cup Final

Billericay Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

  A trip down to Essex this Thursday night for this season’s BBC Essex Women’s County Cup, C&K Basildon Ladies reaching a fifth successive final taking in Billericay Town Ladies looking to win the trophy for the 1st time.

  A successful season so far for Billericay Town Ladies promoted to the FAWNL for the first time are a growing force within the women’s game in the county, well supported by Billericay Town FC, are 2nd in South East Division One, like Crawley Wasps Ladies have recruited well to strengthen their squad to compete at the higher level. A good number of those recruits from Basildon. Neck and neck with their fellow promoted side at the start of the season, fell away as Crawley continued to win going on to claim the title itself, losing just the one game that defeat at the hands of Billericay. Success for their U14s and U16s sides in their respective county cup finals the future looks promising.

 A fifth County Cup win puts C&K Basildon Ladies joint all time winners of the competition along side Chelmsford City Ladies. This Thursday their 6th county cup final winning it for the 1st time in the 2012/13 season, missing out on the final the following year have since gone on to dominate winning 4 successive finals two of those victories against Billericay. Under the fantastic support of Peter King and manager Steve Tilson have become on of the leading sides in Essex on the cusp of winning the FAWNL Southern Premier Division.

   This season heralding a new era for the club, with Peter King retiring, Steve Tilson leaving as manager and with most of the first team squad moving on the club was left with some tough decisions to make regarding the future. Firstly with essentially thier development side whether to continue playing in the Southern Premier Division or drop down a league. Chose to stay and contest has been a tough season finishing bottom without a win a huge learning curve the squad has grown and found more togetherness, will be stronger for the experience. A season of transition from the club as it begins a new chapter in it’s history under a new name as from the 1st June it will be known as AFC Basildon Ladies/Girls a new beginning playing in South East Division One along side Billericay. The underdogs this evening will be inspired by their U18s side who won their county cup final.

Road to the Final

  The top sides in the county given a bye in the competition until the quarter final stage, as two of the leading sides in Essex both Billericay Town Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies entered at this stage. Billericay handed a home drawn again Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies, the away side scoring plenty of goals themselves the gulf between them showed as Billericay riding high in the FAWNL 5 league above were rampart as they won the game by a staggering 31-0. Home advantage too for Basildon as they began the defence of the County Cup against ERWFL Premier Division side Harlow Town Ladies. A 3-0 win seeing them safely through to the last 4.

Billericay at home in the semi-finals were up against last season’s finalists Brentwood Town Ladies. Again Billericay racked up a big score too strong for their ERWFL Premier Division One opponents winning their place in the final with an 8-0 win. Basildon were away in the semi-finals taking on last season’s Essex Women’s Trophy winners, Hutton Ladies. A 5-1 win seeing Basildon reach their 5th successive final.

The Len Salmon Stadium hosting this evenings final, home of Bowers & Pitsea FC whose own women’s side well supported by the club lifted the Essex Women’s Trophy earlier this season. A brand new 3G pitch the ground being redeveloped with lots planned starting with the playing surface, dugouts and two new small stands. The mainstand the next project incorporating a new clubhouse. The current one a good size offering plenty to the community. Hot food and drinks available. A good crowd building, a warm day extending into the evening in what promises to be a glorious bank holiday weekend.

Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Alex Baker, Laken Duchar-Clark, Courtney Lumley, Danica Dougal, Esme Lancaster, Lucy Jones, Lindsey Morgan (C), Jay Blackie, Kerry Stimson, Zoe Rushen & Sam Pittuck. Subs – Gemma Crowe, Nicole Farmer, Sophie Vale, Karen Stephanou & Karissa Rodney.

 C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Sarah Walker, Grace Gillard, Tilly Deacon, Mollie de Bell, Jessica Horn, Sophie Rhodes, Alex Bailess (C), Gemma Abela, Molly Bowness, Katie Whitehead & Holly Turner. Subs – Sophie Spencer-Webb, Jodie Osbourne, Danielle Sillitoe, Courtney Clarke & Maddie Thomas.

 Billericay to get this season’s county cup final underway five of their starting line-up, Laken Duchar-Clark, Danica Dougal, Kerry Stimson, Jay Blackie and Zoe Rushen starting for Basildon in last season’s final with a sixth Karissa Rodney on the bench. Both side play in blue it’s Billericay in the change kit wearing all red with Basildon all in blue. The ball played out to the left wing Lucy Jones looking to take it on, Grace Gillard tackling for Basildon the ball out for a throw in.

   Billericay captain Lindsey Morgan getting hold of the ball central pulls the trigger from 20 yards out her shot taking a deflection off an outstretched leg taking the sting off it goalkeeper Sarah Walker collecting the ball as it runs wide of her goal. Holly Turner with Basildon’s first attack bringing the ball on central closed down as she enters the box the clearance collected by Basildon captain Alex Bailess she lifts it up to Turner back to goal outside the area she attempts to tee up Gemma Abela making a run to her right the ball won by Billericay’s Dougal at the back. 

  Blackie with a fantastic pass forwards through to Sam Pittuck in attack she is brought down as she looks to drive into the area a free-kick awarded in a dangerous area 25 yards out left of the D, Rushen to take goes for goal lifting the ball in high the ball dropping caught easily by Walker right behind it. Basildon get on the offensive Turner with the ball out wide left brings it on into the box shooting the shot saved pushed away by goalkeeper Alex Baker at her near post. The ball put out to the right good closing down from Jessica Horn sees her win the ball high on the right a diagonal ball into the box met by Turner her first time sent over the crossbar.

 Billericay launch a rapid counter attack Pittuck with good movement up to get into space right takes it forwards before laying it out to Esme Lancaster wide right her cross in behind. A good start to the game from both sides. Blackie in midfield playing some excellent passes forwards trying to release Pittuck the stadium packed for the occasion 578 here to watch. Billericay with a free-kick wide on the right inside the Basildon half the ball played into the top of the area defended, Duchar-Clark onto the loose ball run on taking the ball towards the box the door closing in front of her. 

 GOAL! An early chance for Billericay to take the lead awarded a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes the ball played into the top of the area form the right, Rushen up against a defender is floored the referee pointing to the spot. Dougal up from the back to take it a clinical finish high to the keepers right to put Billericay into the lead 1-0.

Danica Dougal scoring from the penalty spot to put Billericay into the lead (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

  The ball won in midfield Morgan up to Pittuck in attack looks to combine with Rushen the players exchanging passes making for the box, Molly Downes winning it back for Basildon. Good work from Abela on the right cutting inside 25 yards out playing the ball into Turner’s feet top of the D she tries to lift it over the Billericay defence with Katie Whitehead making the run in behind, Baker getting to the ball first. Pittuck with the ball as Billericay attack on the counter shooting from distance the narrowly strike over.

 Horn is tackled by Stimson as she attacks on the right, Stimson bringing the ball out for Billericay prods the ball inside looking to find Pittuck, Bailess intercepts. Basildon mount an attack, Sophie Rhodes making the run into the area right side the ball crossed in over to her meeting it on the volley wide of goal six yards out  stretching can’t turn it  back in across goal, wide. Basildon defending well high up the pitch, Whitehead and Horn in particular closing down as Billericay look to get the ball wide. Abela is pushed in the back a free-kick given out right the delivery into the area towards the far post Turner goes for it does’t get much contact the ball tamely rolling into Baker’s gloves. 

  Lancaster getting forwards out on the right fro Billericay the cross into the top of the area Jones coming in from the left looking to attack it, Gillard back with her sliding in with a great tackle, the ball loose however collected by Pittuck right of the D 20 out a snap shot the effort swerving away wide of goal. Basildon play the ball up to Whitehead left 20 yards out her touch laying it off central to Abela she shoots from 25 yards out the attempt over the bar. 

  Basildon are awarded a penalty midway through the first half a ball forwards central Turner running into the box is tripped. Turner setting it down goes for height too but too much the ball right wide of the goal. 

  Morgan with a firm tackle in the middle preventing Basildon breaking. Stimson has got plenty of pace making some mazy runs on the ball Billericay is fouled by Horn as she crosses the halfway line. Jones on the ball put long into the area headed clear by the defence. Courtney Lumley defending for Billericay clearing the ball for a throw as Basildon look to get on down the wing. An good contest lively both sides looking to get forwards, Stimson getting forwards spotted by Rushen plays the ball on too much weight on the pass. 

  Morgan with the ball played into her feet from the right turns outside the Basildon area an shoots the strike blocked, Basildon counter, Dougal defending. Less than 15 minutes of the first half left Billericay win the first corner of the game the ball out on the right a good delivery into the middle of the six yard box Blackie rising well to head the ball smashes it against the crossbar. Basildon regain it and look to break Turner on it through the middle brought down by Stimson who receives a talking too. The ball played long up towards the area defended by Morgan. 

Jay Blackie rising to head the ball from a corner her effort smashing against the crossbar (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

  The ball played out from the back to Jones on the left, Horn closing down well wins the ball but in doing so her momentum poleaxes Jones, a free-kick awarded. A delay however the referee talking to de Bell and captain Bailess, a straight red is shown Basildon reduced to 10 players de Bell sent off for something that was said foul or abusive language. The ball played on up the left for Stimson as she bombs on, Gillard defending. Jones taking the ball forwards left side tries the diagonal ball on for Pittuck through the middle Bailess tracking back well to intercept.

   Blackie’s passing continues to be spot on as they press forwards with an extra player now. Stimson with good movement getting forwards to support Rushen and Pittuck in attack. Stimson looking to link up with Pittuck in attack a one two the return ball meant for Pittuck as she enters the area cut out by Deacon. 

  GOAL! Into the final minute of the first half Billericay double their lead the ball put into Blackie inside the centre circle a superb pass forwards to release Pittuck in behind moving right takes the ball into the area, Walker coming to close the angle, the strikers touch taking the ball around the keeper and running in behind sends the ball into the empty net 2-0.

Sam Pittuck taking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 for Billericay (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

Half-time Billericay Town Ladies 2-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

  Billericay double their advantage right on the stroke of half-time a 2 goal advantage plus an extra player for the 2nd half to come. An entertaining contest in the first half both sides sowing attacking intent, Billericay edging the chances but Basildon have had opportunities of their own, the sending off a huge blow some reorganising to do for the 2nd period Billericay have plenty of attack minded players who will be looking for the extra space that may become available. 

  A double change for Basildon at the start of the 2nd half with Madelyn Thomas on to support Turner in attack, Danielle Sillitoe on at the back. Basildon to get the 2nd half underway. An early attack getting forwards on the right the ball fired into the area met and cleared by Billericay’s Duchar-Clark. Basildon getting it back try again this time the cross to close to the keeper Baker collecting. Gillard defending as Blackie spots Rushen breaking into space on the right. 

  Stimson pressing the ball high on the right plays it on for Lancaster her cross long to the far post the ball knocked down, the shot seen wide. Deacon defending concedes a corner, Jones to play the ball in from the right, Walker up well amongst bodies inside her six yard box to punch the ball, Basildon look to counter play pulled back Stimson down having taken a knock to the head. Duchar-Clark bringing the ball forwards pushed into Pittuck right back to goal sends the ball on in behind with Rushen getting into the box, her strike goalwards landing in the side netting.

   Rushen available for the pass right as Duchar-Clark brings it forwards the pass into her she helps it on for Lancaster ahead of both, looks to get in field, Sillitoe reading the move well getting herself into a good tackling position outside the box. Blackie’s shooting not as accurate as her passing as she puts an effort wide from all of 45 yards out. A different game 2nd half Basildon working hard at the back to stop Billericay having virtually none of the attack. 

  Pittuck leading the line well always looking to break in behind given the ball is into space on the right closing in on the byline fires a vicious ball across the face of goal Stimson throwing herself at it far post can’t quite make contact. Billericay make their first change of the game with an hour gone. Duchar-Clark coming off at the back Nicole Farmer. Gillard cutting out a through ball looking to send Rushen in through the middle. Bailess defending back at the near post for Basildon as the ball is crossed in from the left. Morgan getting forwards into the area seeing the ball over her shoulder strikes it on the volley, Basildon charging it down.

  GOAL! The game moving past the hour and Billericay extend their lead a great run from Stimson carrying the ball into the box left players getting forwards with her, the strike fired in across the goal Walker getting her gloves to it as she is closed down Rushen and Morgan, the ball, Rushen reacting quickest after the loose ball inside the six yard box, a 50/50 with Gillard the ball spinning out to the right met by Lancaster who thunders a shot into the back of the net 3-0.

  GOAL! Straight from the restart Billericay go on to score a 4th goal, Rushen coming to close down the ball in defence nicking it to run on central and get a shot away from 25 yards Walker not back on her line the ball curled wide of her into the goal beyond 4-0.

Zoe Rushen shooting to make it 4-0 (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

  That goal signals changes for both sides, Basildon bringing off Whitehead, on in her place Courtney Clarke. A double change for Billericay, Blackie and Stimson coming off on come ex-Basildon players Karissa Rodney and Karen Stephanou. Opportunities for Basildon rare in the 2nd period Turner carrying the ball on is brought down a free-kick awarded left outside the area Clarke doesn’t get the contact she wanted the ball sliced wide. 

  Pittuck away on the right a touch to get the ball out of her feet sends a cross into the box, the flag raised with Rodney offside. Billericay push on, Farmer with a brilliant ball put over the top for Morgan getting forwards into the area right of goal, Walker saving well at her near post as the shot comes in. Rodney left plays the ball in central to Pittuck she dummies with Rushen behind she lays the ball off to Lancaster right top of the area makes a run central Lancaster trying to pick her out with the return ball across the top of the area, Sillitoe sticking a foot out to steal it. 

  A dummy from Rushen right sees Lancaster run in behind on the right another cross flashed across the face of goal. Billericay very much on top Basildon defending hardly able to get the ball into their opponents half. Clarke wide on the left plays a good ball up to Thomas in attack, bringing it down well into the path of Abela looks to spin in behind, Abela can’t find her with the over the top ball as Dougal defends for Billericay. 

  Turner carries the ball on trying to force her way through the middle Dougal and Lumley converging to close her down outside the box. Farmer plays Lancaster in right side wins a corner kick, the delivery long met by Dougal on the volley squeezing under the diving Walker strikes the post, back out into the middle the defence scramble the ball away the game entering the final 5 minutes. 

 Backs to the wall for Basildon late on Billericay press, a corner left appeals for handball waved away the ball put back out to the left a high ball back in Walker back on her line getting an arm up to push the ball away as it threats to creep under the bar. Clarke defending as Rodney crosses in from the left side, the ball back out left with Stephanou, Morgan ahead of her receiving the pass a cross long to the far post, attacked by Lancaster and Clarke out behind a corner awarded. Rodney gets up well her header knocking the ball down in front of goal, a scramble ensues Basildon keep the ball from crossing the line  getting it up field. The final action of the game as Billericay celebrate winning the County Cup for the first time.   

Full time Billericay Town Ladies 4-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

  An entertaining start to the game the first 35 minutes lively 1 goal in it both sides competing well, the sending off changing everything, Billericay adding a 2nd goal late in the 2nd half in full control of the game from then on pressing the advantage getting a 3rd goal quickly followed by a 4th to secure the win with almost half an hour to play. Some great passes on display and flowing attacking moves. The crowd adding to a great atmosphere the stadium packed. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, another tough one a few contenders all wearing red. Morgan in the middle breaking up Basildon attacks, Pittuck up top some fantastic runs to get into goal scoring opportunities scoring late in the first half. Kerry Stimson with some god runs on the ball. Her passing was superb throughout the game however and turned quickly turned a Basildon attack into a Billericay counter, the award goes to Jay Blackie.

Billericay Town Ladies, BBC Essex Women’s County Cup winners (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

  Congratulations to Billericay Town Ladies on winning the BBC Essex Women’s County Cup

A enjoyable cup final this evening down in Essex between two sides that will be league rivals next season, two exciting derby games to look forwards to. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams this evening and to Nicky Hayes for the use of his pictures for this report.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Friday 12th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

St Ives Town Ladies Development v Wisbech Town Ladies

 Back to the road for a successive night heading into Cambridgeshire for the 2nd of this weeks Cup Final, this evening at Ely City FC for this season’s Women’s Division Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition into it’s 2nd season. Histon Ladies Reserves beating Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to lift the trophy last season. The competition as the name suggests for the sides playing in the leagues below the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Championships, North & South. 12 sides split between the two divisions, this evenings finalists both 2nd in their respective league and both very much in the battle for top spot itself.

  St Ives Town Ladies Development reaching a cup final just two seasons after being formed. Their 1st team leading the way unbeaten still in their first season playing regional football, St Ives is rapidly becoming a rising force in the woman’s game in Cambridgeshire. Play in the Championship South currently 2nd in the table some 9 point behind leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies but have 3 games in hand and have to play Haverhill once more in their run in. Jade Carpenter St Ives top scorer with 15 goals so far this season.

Wisbech Town Ladies play in the Championship North where the title race looks certain to go all the way two with them having been neck and neck with current leaders Ketton Ladies all season both way out in front with 100% winning records Ketton beating Wisbech Town the first time they met in the league are now 6 points clear at the top. Wisbech having played a game less however and their being two huge games away to Ketton to come. A successful season in the cups too so far reaching the semi-finals of both the Invitation Cup and League Cup. going one better in the Division One Cup to reach the final. Have a potent attack with Sophie Swinden top scorer rapidly closing in a 40 goals for the season.

Road to the Final

    Both sides at home for the 1st Round of the Division One Cup, St Ives were drawn up against Championship South title rivals Haverhill Rovers Ladies, a brace from Frances Chapman along with a goal for Penelope Ford seeing them edge the win 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Wisbech taking on Championship South side Park Ladies. Rachael Simpson and Chelsea King getting a goal a piece along with a brace for Sophie Swinden seeing them comfortably through to the quarter finals 4-0.

   Onto the quarter finals both drawn away from home St Ives taking on Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies win through to the last 4 of the competition with a 3-0 win the goals coming from Jade Carpenter, Georgia Rebane and Emilee Steel. Wisbech racking up a big score away to fellow Championship North side Cardea Ladies. Captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a hat-trick with Sophie Swinden and Chloe Stanborough both bagging a brace each Aisling Ryan also finding the back of the net in a 9-2 win.

A blustery day greeted the semi-finals of the Division One Cup both games switched to 3G, St Ives at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies a 3-1 win securing them a place in their first ever final. Was there to watch the other semi-final a very cold and windy afternoon as Wisbech took on Championship North title rivals Ketton Ladies ,getting the better of the conditions Wisbech blew their opponents away Sophie Swinden scoring a hat-trick with a brace from Chloe Stanborough and one from Amy Newell to see them book their spot in the final courtesy of a 6-0 win.

This evenings final played at Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium, nestled behind the new cinema and restaurant leisure park recently built on the outskirts of Ely just off the A10. A elevated seat stand overlooking the pitch on one side the bar situated underneath. Another well used pitch a good size numbers building before kick-off. The weather dry but cloudy with a possible shower and getting chilly as the light start to come on before kick-off.

   A special mention too for this evenings match officials the all female line-up from Norway part of a NORCORE the Norwegian Centre of Referring Excellence over in England on a 6 day training camp officiating in a number of fixtures across the county this week, Ane Kliskar refereeing, assisting on the lines, Ram Eirik Glomseth & Himmett Boyar with Kristina Lokke the fourth official.

St Ives Town Ladies Development starting XI – Sophie Majoram, Steph Ransome, Connie Liddiard, Georgie Astley (C), Leah Culpin, Molly Berryman, Sophie Crook, Penelope Ford, Fran Worrall, Jade Carpenter & Kirsty Wicks. Subs – Ellen Chapman, Cherish Sibanda, Caitlin McGeown, Ellie Hathirimani & Emilee Steel.

Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Rachael Simpson, Chelsea King, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Abbie Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Jasmine Luckett, Faye Kowalewsky, Amy Newell & Sophie Swinden. Subs – Jade-Amber Court, Elizabeth Hodgson & Naomi Lyon.

(roll no roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

St Ives to get the Division One Cup Final underway, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball pressed in midfield straight from the off deflected out for a throw-in. Fran Worrall for St Ives with the first meaningful attack a driving run with the ball up the left flank Wisbech defending to concede a throw high up the pitch. 

Wisbech get on the ball in the middle play out to the left Jasmine Luckett combining with striker Sophie Swinden as she comes across to make herself available, Penelope Ford coming back to support full back Steph Ransome putting in the tackle to regain possession as Swinden tries to get infield. The ball played into midfield Sophie Cook playing it forwards Jade Carpenter nodding it on in behind into the box, Wisbech goalkeeper Rachael Simpson gathering the ball.

A cagey opening neither side settling early on passes rushed a little disjointed, Powell getting forwards playing a diagonal ball into the Wisbech area, Katie Garner winning the header. On the right St Ives get forwards Ford up to Carpenter plays it inside looking for Kirsty Wicks, Leah Hall intercepting and clearing for Wisbech, Sophie Swinden after the ball good hold up play moving left as Luckett and Chloe Stanborough get forwards in support, Molly Berryman cutting out the intended pass. Stanborough staying high up the pitch has the ball played into her 25 yards out left of the D takes on the early shot the ball running along the ground heading wide of the far post claimed by St Ives goalkeeper, Sophie Marjoram. 

  Amy Newell picking up the ball in midfield 35 yards out has time on the ball line’s up a shot on target Marjoram right behind it a comfortable height to pull down out of the air. Kaylie Swinden charging down a shot from Wicks 25 yards out for St Ives the ball fired into her feet dug out before smashing it against the defender. A great chance for Wisbech to open the scoring Stanborough with a fantastic pass releasing Sophie Swinden in behind beating the offside trap to carry the ball on into the area left of goal one on one with the keeper closing Marjoram down Swinden pulls her strike wide of the near post from 8 yards out. 

  Pressure from Wisbech’s Sophie Swinden chasing the ball down into the left channel winning a corner, the ball payed in near post defended, Swinden preventing St Ives mounting a counter top of the area can’t get the ball out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down bu Leah Culpin. 

  GOAL! Closing in on the half hour and the dead lock is broken the opening goal going to Wisbech, pressing the ball in the final third Stanborough picking it up 25 yards out left of the D does really well to keep possession St Ives not getting in a meaningful tackle as she manages to force her way into the box and wrap her foot around the ball to shoot, Marjoram throwing her gloves up to push the ball away sending it across goal, Wisbech captain Faye Kowalewsky in behind following the shot in getting her head on the ball to push it into the empty net 0-1. 

Marjoram out towards the edge of her area to close down the angle as Sophie Swinden gets away on the right gets something on the shot as she goes to ground the sting taken out of the shot Culpin back with captain Georgie Astley to clear the ball. Wisbech settled now work the ball forwards well Hall with Luckett and Stanborough ahead of her. Berryman cutting the pass towards the box out. Worrall out wide left takes the ball on for St Ives looks to turn inside drive on into the area, 3 Wisbech defenders converge to win the ball. 

  Powell inside to Astley the ball lifted  forwards, Carpenter getting in behind into the box, Simpson off her line out to claim the ball before the striker can attack it. A throw left for Wisbech Luckett sending a cross in along the of the area Berryman sticking a leg out to clear, runs straight to Stanborough she sends it back into the area again Berryman with the clearance. Carpenter flagged offside as Cook bringing the ball on through the middle for St Ives looks to play her in.

  Changes for both sides, Emilee Steel on for St Ives replacing Wicks, Caitlin McGeown on for Ford. Jade-Amber Court on for Wisbech replacing Sommerville. Culpin defends for St Ives as Hall lays the pass forwards for Sophie Swinden to chase on the left. Wisbech get clear on the left Sophie Swinden lively in attack players getting forwards the ball crossed in along the top of the six yard box through to Stanborough free at the far post gets her foot around the ball to smash a shot back in strikes the top of the upright, the ball dropping back down into the area St Ives scramble it away.

  A free-kick wide right for St Ives, Culpin on it over halfway a great all dropping onto the penalty spot a fantastic run from Worrall to get on the end of it in between the Wisbech defence her header sent over the bar. Culpin winning the ball at the back for St Ives off Sophie Swinden plays it forwards up to Carpenter back to goal 25 yards out chest it down, Steel making the run for her to her left she attempts the back heel to play her in a timely foot stabbed out from the Wisbech defence halting the move. Into the last 5 minutes of the first half Wisbech creating the better opportunities quicker to the ball breaking up St Ives attacks before they can begin. 

  A free-kick won wide on the right for Wisbech the ball played in towards the near post area, Marjoram coming for it under challenge does well to glove it down then snatch it into her body on the deck. Carpenter does well holding the ball up in the right corner before lifting a cross into the area attacked far post by Worrall, Court on her shoulder doing enough to put her off allowing Simpson to gather the ball. Newell playing the ball on for King 20 yards out, Culpin sliding in to win the tackle. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Fran Worrall (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Into stoppage time a free-kick high on the left for St Ives defended by Garner inside the box for Wisbech they launch a counter attack Stanborough onto King sent onto Sophie Swinden peeling away left her diagonal ball played high into the area Kowalewsky her intended target the past too strong runs out of play.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

   Wisbech looking comfortable for their lead at half-time but at just 1-0 still all to play for. St Ives frustrated didn’t settle can happen in a final, the game scrappy especially in the early stage no one settling on the ball, Wisbech creating some great chances getting their noses in front could and probably should be leading 3-0 but not taken St Ives have the chance to regroup at half-time find away to get back into the game, haven’t found a fluidity to their attacking play to trouble the Wisbech defence yet. 

Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway a substitution made, Naomi Lyon on for Luckett. St Ives pressing the ball get it forwards Simpson with an early touch in the Wisbech goal. Hall getting forwards on the left for Wisbech the ball on for Swinden to chase in behind, Marjoram quickly off her line to the edge of her area to claim the ball. Astley winning the defensive header for St Ives at the back Stanborough looks to play in Sophie Swinden the ball left with Liddiard for St Ives her cross lifted into the area headed back out of the area by Garner. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Sophie Cook (picture credit Gary Reed)

  St Ives make a change bringing of Berryman on comes Cherish Sibanda. Wisbech starting the 2nd half where they left off the first pressing the ball high up the pitch preventing St Ives from getting forwards. Wisbech coming left, Kowalewsky drifting into a central position meets the cross with the the outside of her boot looking to lift a high looping ball in towards goal, falls wide of the mark. Marjoram across to cover her near post down to smother the ball as it is fired in from the left. Wisbech prevent St Ives breaking, turn play around and win a corner on the right. Worrall back the defend winning the ball inside the box. Cook comes off for St Ives on in her place Ellie Chapman.

 Worrall getting forwards in attack down the left keeps possession wants support, none available turns inside to beat her marker and send a cross into the area, Simpson coming out towards the ball claims it launching it forwards. Wisbech with possession 25 yards out Kowalewsky bringing it inside rolled on to Lyon central then out to Newell left laid back for Hall coming forwards shoots from 30 yards out the ball driven in Marjoram punching it down, scrambles to get her gloves around it with Kowalewsky coming in.

   Not happening for St Ives in the final third and that is bringing frustration, Carpenter seizing on an opportunity to catch Simpson out of position getting hold of the ball wide right lifts the ball over Simpson, falling short of the near post Worrall after it can’t keep it in play as she attempts to keep it alive. Wisbech for all their dominance need a 2nd goal to make the scoreline more comfortable Stanborough doing well through the middle a powerful run the ball on for Lyon tries to lay it on for Sophie Swinden inside the D, Astley intercepts before Kowalewsky is brought down 35 yards out from goal.

  GOAL! Sophie Swinden putting the ball down with intent no one else around players forwards but only one thing on her mind as she strikes the ball towards goal plenty of lift on it with pace Marjoram not the biggest of keepers, Wisbech thinking they can exploit it, not as easy as it sounds however the delivery spot on though dropping under the bar and into the back of the net for that crucial 2nd goal 0-2. 

Sophie Swindon with the strike to make to 2-0 to Wisbech (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Less than 20 minutes left on the clock, St Ives get forwards Worrall on the left carrying the ball forwards turning her marker inside out before flashing a cross into the area intercepted near post Liddiard gets hold of it inside the box for St Ives shifts the ball before shooting the attempt straight at and held by Simpson. St Ives with a corner on the right into a crowded near post area Wisbech scrambling it away. A change for St Ives Cook back on replacing Powell.

  Wisbech press high keeping St Ives on the back foot in defence as they struggle to get forwards to try and find a way back into the game, Stanborough breaking up more than one attack. Luckett comes back on in place of Newell. Lyon robbing the ball off the St Ives defence chases it down into the area closing in on the keeper gets to it first lifting a shot wide of the near post. Stanborough 20 yards out lets fly central again seeing a shot smash against the crossbar. 

Wisbech Town Ladies Chloe Stanborough with St Ives Penelope Ford (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Wisbech in possession of the ball around the St Ives box won’t let them out late on, Carpenter comes off for St Ives Berryman back on to join the attack with 5 minutes left. Luckett tackling to regain the ball to stop St Ives breaking right, Lyon comes off for Wisbech Newell returning. Berryman bringing down a long pass 30 yards out plays it to Cook out wide right she sends a cross in near post area attacked by Steel her downward header deflected wide of goal a corner awarded. Shouts for handball as the ball is played into the box a 2nd corner given this one to the top of the area Newell gets hold of it for Wisbech brings the ball away. 

  Into stoppage time Wisbech continue their high pressing game effective a free-kick won wide right Stanborough to deliver played into the near post bodies to fight through Marjoram is determined to get there does well punching the ball away to safety. Wisbech keep the ball in the final third win a late corner the ball long to the far post a touch seeing it spin away wide of the upright. The final whistle blows and Wisbech Town Ladies win this seasons Division One Cup Final.

Full time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-2 Wisbech Town Ladies

  Wisbech deserved winners played well creating the better opportunities the woodwork struck twice a 1-0 lead at half-time could have been more. That the score for 25 minutes into the 2nd half another goal was needed just to make things more comfortable St Ives struggling to get anything going in attack never out of it just couldn’t find a way back into the game, the 2nd goal eventually coming Wisbech defending from the front keeping St Ives penned in their own half limited attacks. No doubt St Ives will be disappointed can only dust themselves down and put all their focus into their remaining league games. Wisbech in turn can use their cup success to bolster their own title battle. 

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A shortlist of three eventually whittled down to one as the 2nd half wore on. Leah Hall with a fine performance at the back for Wisbech, striker Sophie Swinden as constant threat great strike to make it 2-0 from distance, overall like she did in the semi-final the award goes to Chloe Stanborough a driving force in the heart of midfield for Wisbech getting forwards, striking the woodwork (twice) and more often than not the player in to stop St Ives getting out to attack.

Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.

Wisbech Town Ladies Division One Cup Winners

 Wisbech winning the Division One Cup lifting the trophy and getting soaked in a good deal of prosecco in the process enjoying the celebrations, of the the pub just a few hundred yards away to continue no doubt their will be a few sore heads later today.

An enjoyable night under the lights once again, Saturday off though in need of a rest after two finals in a row my thanks to everyone for their help with the team details as always much appreciated and to Gary Reed for the additional photos.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Thursday 11th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup 

Cambridge City Ladies Development v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

A trip to Cambridgeshire this evening for a Cup Final double, first up this Thursday the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium.

An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Final, Cambridge City Ladies Development with the chance to win a treble, beginning with a shot at silverware this evening have also reached this season’s League Cup Final to come in May. They are currently top of the league and in a strong position with 4 games left to play to win the title and with their 1st team winning the ERWFL Premier Division title this season their 3rd league title in 4 seasons the club is enjoying a prolific spell with a strong youth section being the bedrock of the club. Megan Tonks top scorer for the Development side has 28 goals to her name so far this season.

A Cup Final appearance for the second season running for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Reached the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup last season on their way to winning promotion back to the Premiership. Currently leading the pack in the cluster of sides below the top 3 with 3 points between the sides placed 4th to 7th a top half finish a real possibility with a handful of games left. Marie Stubbings once again leading Fulbourn’s goal scoring charts with 17 goals to her name so far this season.

Road to the Final

    Fulbourn receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition, Cambridge City awarded a home win the action moves on to the quarter finals. Cambridge City at home taking on Histon Ladies Reserves, Megan Tonks netting a hat-trick along with a goal for Hannah Lock seeing them win the game 4-1. Fulbourn were at home too in the quarter finals taking on Championship South side Cambridge Ranger WFC, goals from Amy Smith, Yasmine Upson, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings putting them through to the semi-finals with a 4-0 win.

Onto the semi-finals Cambridge City at home to fellow Premiership side March Town United Ladies. Another hat-trick this time from 16-year-old Freya Standing, along with an own goal plus one from Rachel Pearce seeing them comfortably through to the junior Invitation Cup Final winning 5-0. Fulbourn were taking on another Championship South side in the last 4, Burwell Tigers Ladies. A brace each from Stubbings & Pinner aswell as a goal by Katie Luddy securing a 5-1 win to send them through to the final.

Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium the venue for this evenings Junior Invitation Cup Final, it’s a large pitch offering plenty of width seen alot of action over the season. The bar open a large seated stand overlooking the pitch. The food hut open too, only went to get a cup of tea but the burgers did look good and temptation got the better of me, have been good though this believe it or not my first cheeseburger of the season and it was very nice too. The evenings pulling out the light not yet gone at kick-off a warm day beginning to cool, dry with a little cloud cover.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Hannah Lock, Becky Langthorpe, Lucy Hurst, Anna Kanz, Jade Powell, Emily Reed, Rachel Pearce, Ellie Cullum (C), Yaz Crow, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks. Subs – Jess Struthers, Amy Ozakpinar & Bronte Rapley.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Isaacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Abi Molloy, Katrina Cloherty, Emma Clark, Sarah Gee, Stacey Kemp, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Amy Smith, Gabby Gallegos, Abi Dowell McGrillan, Nikki Cowan & Katie Luddy.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

It’s Fulbourn to get the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup underway wearing claret shirts and socks with navy blue shorts. Cambridge opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Cambridge closing down the ball in the middle quickly get position switch play down the right wing Freya Standing taking the ball on, Krissie Taylor defending for Fulbourn seeing the ball out for a goalkick.

   Fulbourn look to get away on their right the ball won on halfway Yaz Crow playing it on high into the area, Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger getting her head on the ball nodding it behind for a corner. Played in from the left into bodies at the near post pushed out towards the top of the area met by a Cambridge shirt a low shot driven back in towards goal, Samantha Isaacson captain and goalkeeper getting down on her line to stop the ball.

   Cambridge captain Ellie Cullum looks to combine with Standing on the right as they press forwards Fulbourn defending Taylor backed up by Abi Molloy another corner conceded. Cambridge with a bright start closing the ball down. Standing attacks with the ball at her feet, Taylor up against her does well to nick the ball her clearance straight to Cullum her return ball back over the top for Standing sees her flagged offside. Standing seeing alot of the ball early on squares a cross to Cullum central 25 yards out she helps it on to the left Crow getting forwards takes the shot on early her strike racing wide across goal. 

  Fulbourn riding out the early pressure from their opponents break forwards Bodger playing the ball out from the back long for Marie Stubbings to chase into the right channel she pushes it out of her feet before sending a low diagonal ball in towards the top of the area looking for Sharon Pinner who has gotten into an advanced position, pressures the Cambridge defence into a rushed clearance the ball straight to midfielder Sarah Gee she catches it well from 25 yards out the strike the shot over goalkeeper Hannah Lock smashes against the crossbar.

  Cambridge get hold of the loose ball taking it forwards rapidly hitting Fulbourn on the counter the pass into striker Megan Tonks she is tackled 25 yards out the deflected ball running behind for a corner on the right. The delivery in near post Bodger is up well to defend for Fulbourn heading the ball on away past the far post a scramble for the ball sees it run wide of the post adjudged off a Cambridge foot a goalkick given. 

  GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and Fulbourn take the lead possession on the left the ball is played forwards a great pass finding Stubbings central 30 yards out back to goal turns well pushing on has Stacey Kemp making a fantastic run to her right lay the ball into her path the winger hitting the ball from outside the box well struck to whistle past the keeper into the back of the net and put see Fulbourn lead 0-1. 

  Cambridge get straight on the attack a long distance strike from the right sent wide of goal, Seema Grewal defending at right back stops Crow taking the ball in behind.

  GOAL! Fulbourn’s lead doesn’t last long as Cambridge find an immediate response the ball kept on the left a throw in won inside the Fulbourn half players from both sides drifting across a pass slid forwards comes to Standing 20 yards out left of the D, not closed down takes a touch before taking on the shot the ball bouncing inside the six yard box managing to creep inside the post to see the scores level 1-1.

More good footwork from Standing attacking right a cross swung in looping into the six yard box taken well by Issacson. Grewal on for Kemp on the right getting forwards has support from Stubbing central, Anna Kanz though doing well in defence for Cambridge winning the ball back and playing it forwards into Emily Reed, onto Cullum she turns attempting to play Tonks in behind, Bodger with an important interception for Fulbourn, Cullum latching onto the loose back her shot from distance falling wide of the target. 

  Rachel Pearce plays a fantastic diagonal pass forwards into Standing right side taking the ball on Taylor standing up against her well preventing her getting in behind. Fulbourn make ground on their right a throw in won level with the area, put on into Stubbings inside the box, Kanz tackling wins the ball. Cambridge make a change Hurst coming off at left back on in her place Jess Struthers. Good combination play between Standing and Tonks getting forwards attempting a one two the ball inside the box claimed well by Issacson down at the attackers feet. 

  Play from one end to the other, Fulbourn winning a corner got work from Stubbings on the byline holding it up as Kemp plays it forwards. The delivery from the right defended at the near post Cambridge launching a counter attack, the ball out to the right Standing sending a cross racing into the area long  cleared past the far post along the ground it met well by the advancing Cullum struck back in low cut out inside the six yard box the ball popping up for Tonks central has a stab at it placing the ball wide of the left post. 

   GOAL! Cambridge come back from conceding the opening goal to take the lead a goal out of nothing possession high on the left the ball with Reed inside the area taking it to the byline not tackled looks for options corner of the six yard box, hooks a ball in towards goal the looping shot over Issacson drops over the line to see Cambridge go 2-1 up.

Cambridge City Ladies. Emily Reed

A Cambridge corner on the right dealt well again at the near post by Bodger. Cambridge enjoying more of the ball exerting pressure towards the end of the 1st half make a 2nd change, Kanz the player coming off on comes Amy Ozakpinar. Fulbourn’s Emma Clark playing the ball forwards on the left for Pinner to chase, Becky Langthorpe’s clearance catching her in the face. A stinging blast hitting her in the eye, no chances taken time needed to recover, she is substituted one comes Abi Dowell McGrillan. Stubbings seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out looks to turn in behind Jade Powell getting in the tackle to regain possession.

Becky Langthorpe clearing the ball before Fulbourn’s Sharon Pinner can close her down

  Good hold-up play from Clark on the left for Fulbourn inside the Cambridge half plays it back to Taylor before turning in behind to get forwards in attack the full back with a great past up to Stubbings outside the box cushions it down well aiming to put it on for Clark not quite able to take it in her stride, Struthers clearing for Cambridge. Katrina Cloherty with the ball central for Fulbourn out to Dowell McGrillan left her crossfield ball finding Kemp attacking on the right puts it into the area for Stubbing right of goal she gets a shot away the ball blocked deflected wide. Kemp down with an injury after being fouled far side, a late change for Fulbourn, Amy Smith given her moment runs on the wind taken out of her sails as the whistle blows straight away for half-time.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 2-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   An entertaining first half Cambridge with the early pressure Fulbourn coping well in defence breaking well to open the first smash a shot against the ball then open the scoring from a well taken strike by Kemp. Switched off a little to see Cambridge draw level straight away and then go on to take the lead, not as fluid as Cambridge would like but the advantage is theirs at the half-time interval.

Pinner back on for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half, no changes for Cambridge as they get the 2nd 45 minutes underway. Up in the stand to watch the 2nd half. Pearce playing an over the top pass for Standing right side, Taylor getting across her and defending for Fulbourn. Standing with a strong run down the right again gets in behind this time bursting into the box hitting a shot goalwards, Issacson doing well at her near post down to push the ball wide across her six yard box, Grewal the first to it sends the clearance up field. 

  Cambridge on the front foot attacking with purpose at the start of the 2nd half Crow taking the ball on to the byline left does well to get her side a corner. Taken short the angle opened to put in the cross, Grewal is out to the ball jumping to block the ball. Standing with the ball right 30 yards out lays it back to Langthorpe the full back opening her boy to lift a long range diagonal pass into Tonks top of the D, chesting it down to her left tries to place it into the path of the advancing Pearce, the attack not quite coming off. 

  Tonks coming left sends the ball on for Cullum breaking in behind, Grewal with an important interception. Cambridge all attack get forwards left a cross sent in along the top of the area Tonks looking to latch onto it, Molloy gets their just in time to block the ball deflected wide for a corner. In low from the left flicked on into the six yard box, a touch goalwards, straight at Issacson pops out of the keepers gloves a scramble for the loose ball ensues, but Issacson grounded has the ball in her gloves on her goal line.

  Fulbourn make a change Pinner off on comes Katie Luddy, little in the way of attacks so far Cambridge on the front foot. Standing pulled back on the right corner a free-kick awarded, the ball played into the near post, Bodger continues to win it for Fulbourn. Cambridge make a double change Reed and Tonks the players off on come Bronte Rapley with Kanz returning to the action.. Crow away on the left sending the ball inside for Cullum bursting into the box a snap shot not caught cleanly the midfielder snatching it wide of her near post.

GOAL! Against the run of play Fulbourn break and get themselves back on level terms 20 minutes into the 2nd half. A fantastic run with the ball from Luddy on the right getting in behind to fire a cross into the box along the top of the six yard box knocked away at the near post the ball collected by Stubbings central just inside the area a great turn and hit the ball swerving past Lock curling into the back of the net 2-2 game on.

Fulbourn’s Marie Stubbings

   A goal can do wonders for confidence and suddenly Fulbourn are on the front foot themselves looking to attack once more Grewal winning the ball back higher up the pitch pushing it on for Luddy, Struthers tackling to prevent the cross. The Cambridge defence put under pressure Powell clearing. Cambridge make another double switch Reed and Hurst returning in place of Cullum and Langthorpe. Standing drifting over to the left picking up the ball turns well inside the box her shot blocked, a 2nd bite at the cherry for Standing knocked central a shot pushed towards goal Issacson down to push it behind for a corner.

  An injury for Cambridge before it can be taken, Crow can’t continue Tonks is back on. Mayhem from the corner but I’ll do my best the delivery perfect in central top of the six yard box a header downwards cleared off the line put out to the right wide of goal a shot blasted back in smashes against the crossbar dropping into the six yard box players dive in referee Dulcie Asher pointing to the spot Cambridge winning the penalty!

  GOAL! Bronte Rapley placing the ball down a short run up and composed finish, Issacson going the wrong way as she finds the bottom left corner to restore the lead 3-2 with a little under 15 minutes to play. 

  Luddy showing her frustration as she is adjudged to have fouled Struthers after Stubbings plays her in on the right with a good lay off. Standing on the left now gets clear to get her foot wrapped around the ball a drive a cross in across the six yard box, Molloy able to intercept and clear at the far post. Reed with a run from midfield the cross from the byline from Standing just evading her. Fulbourn making 3 changes in quick succession, Luddy first for Cloherty, Pinner return in in place of Gee with Gabby Gallegos for Pinner whose cameo was longer than this paragraph suggests. 

  Fulbourn win a free-kick in a dangerous area just in front of the D, Taylor over it gets her shot in on target past the wall, safely gathered by Lock back on her line, Time running out Cambridge are a young side and they don’t tend to run the ball into the corners attack on their minds. Bodger well placed tracking back to intercept with Tonks on her shoulder as Struthers threads a diagonal ball into her the ball out for a throw on the left. Time up the final whistle blows and Cambridge City Ladies Development celebrate winning the Junior Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 3-2 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   The first part of their potential treble complete, Cambridge weren’t at their best but that only added to the excitement. A strong start but Fulbourn rode it out well hitting on the counter taking an early lead. Their back four playing really well all making some crucial tackles and breaking up Cambridge’s flow. Switched off for both the goals as Cambridge fought back to level straight away then take the lead. An onslaught at the start of the 2nd half from Cambridge without getting the break through of a 3rd goal. Fulbourn taking their chance well through Stubbings to make it 2-2. Cambridge getting the opportunity to restore their lead from the penalty spot Rapley with a composed finish. 

Women’s Football East – Payer of the Match

 On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. An entertaining game with some great moments of defending two well taken strikes from Fulbourn, the award goes to the scorer of Cambridge’s first goal Freya Standing easy to see why she has broken into the first team this season, lively on the wing always available as the ball is won back at the back taking players on and setting up attacks.

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development on their trophy success this evening.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners, Cambridge City Ladies Development.

   One final down, back to Cambridgeshire again tomorrow (well it’s today as I write this) for the Division One Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development up against Wisbech Town Ladies at Ely City FC. An enjoyable game under the lights at Histon, my thanks to both sides for the team details.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 24th March

Essex Women’s Trophy Final

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Lawford Ladies

More Final action this Sunday on Women’s Football East the 3rd in 8 days, a trip down south this time to Aveley FC for the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this season being contested by Bowers & Pitsea Ladies & Lawford Ladies.

  A later kick-off for today’s final as part of #FemaleFinalsDay Essex County FA hosting 3 finals in one day for the first time all 3 as the hashtag suggests female. An early start with the U14s Girls Cup Final kicking off at 10am followed by the U16s Girls Cup with the Essex Women’s Trophy Final kicking of at around 4pm. A celebration of girls & women’s football across the county.

A great day to for Billericay Town’s girls sides with the club winning both trophies. Their U14s beating Tigers Girls (Yellow) 2-0 with both goals scored by Elise Jennings in the 1st half. Billericay Town Girls U16s also enjoying success with 2nd half goals from Freya Fuller, Bryony Barron & Mya Turner securing a 3-1 win over C&K Basildon. A successful day for Billericay Town Ladies youth sides a bright future the women’s Reserves side top of Essex Women’s Division One whilst the 1st team will be aiming to win the County Cup itself on Thursday 18th April.

  Onto this afternoon’s final, a new format for the Essex Women’s Trophy brought in last season, the sides knocked out in the early rounds of the County Cup getting a 2nd shot at winning silverware entering the Trophy. ERWFL Division One side, Hutton Ladies winning the trophy last year. Once again it will be an all ERWFL Division One Final.

  Bowers & Pitsea Ladies are an established side in the ERWFL, A new name merging with Bowers & Pitsea FC, having been Little Thurrock Dynamos, a strong partnership growing between the clubs the ladies side having a state of the art 3G pitch to play on are amongst the sides gunning for promotion in Division One. Have plans to grow a new Development side and U18s in the pipeline for next season.

  Lawford Ladies made the step up to regional football this season. A baptism of fire with a heavy loss in their opening fixture. Rallied well as they went on to win their next 4 league & cup matches were undefeated in six as they proved they could compete well at this level have held their own since in what has proven to be a very competitve league this season. Injuries of late have taken a toll along with player departures but the club has a large squad to call upon. 

  The two sides have met once so far this season their league game at Bowers & Pitsea’s Len Salmon Stadium seeing the home side win 3-2.

Road to the Final

   A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Into the quarter finals. Bowers & Pitsea were at home playing Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Southend United Ladies, goals from Georgia Fraser and Eloise Ives securing a 2-1 win. Lawford Ladies were on the road taking on another Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A brace from Stacey Teager along with goals from Erin Hornby, Susan Jackson, Hayley Chapman & Daisy Canny seeing Lawford with the game 6-2.

  Into the last 4. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were at home to another Essex Women’s Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers who can be a handful for anyone on their day. Drawing 1-1 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea scored twice in the 2nd half to book their place in the final with Georgia Fraser on target once again along with a brace for striker Sophie Dowman. Lawford Ladies were away to last season’s beaten trophy finalists Silver End United Ladies. The sides were drawing 2-2 after the 90 minutes were up heading into extra-time Lawford struck twice more to get through to today’s final,

The #FemaleFinalsDay taking place at Aveley FC. Is a smart new stadium boasting a fantastic looking clubhouse facility a large ground floor bar with suite upstairs both overlooking the pitch a kitchen serving hot food and drinks. Hosted the Essex Women’s County Cup Final last season. The finals day this Sunday, a glorious spring day bright and sunny, perfect weather (can’t say that very often). The 3G surface offering plenty of width. Seating on both sides of the pitch the clubhouse putting one side in shade as the sun begins to fall.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Stephens (C), Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Danielle Styles, Natalie Strange, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds, Holly Moore, Eloise Ives, Georgia Fraser & Sophie Dowman. Subs – Taylor Parrish, Kerrie Thomas, Alesi Harris, Keegan Russell & Emma Mackie.

Lawford Ladies starting XI – Jamie Newstead, Sheena Foley, Hayley Chapman, Chloe Butler, Ella Boyden, Megan Bamber, Claire Gauntlett, Tess Ryan, Jodie Sharp, Daisy Canny (C) & Susan Jackson. Subs – Michelle MacRae, Harriet Young, Erin Hornby, Jade Heath & Stacey Teager.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Bowers & Pitsea to get the final underway kicking off 1st half wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and red and white hooped socks with Lawford lining up opposite in sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defend the attempted crossfield diagonal ball right to left intercepted by Lawford midfielder Megan Bamber. 

Bowers & Pitsea press forwards coming inside from the left Holly Moore plays a cross into the area the ball intercepted by the Lawford defence the clearance straight back to Bowers & Pitsea sent back into the box low for Eloise Ives top of the area she turns well getting a shot away the ball running wide across goal. Jodie Sharp carries the ball on for Lawford sends a long diagonal ball on for captain Daisy Canny to chase down as she peels away to the right, Courtney Fraser at left back doing well in defence for Bowers & Pitsea preventing her getting in behind. 

  A positive start from Bowers & Pitsea the ball with Georgia Fraser pushed into Sophie Dowman the striker shooting from range 25 yards left of the D her attempt safe in the hands of Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead. Canny getting onto the ball likes to take players on makes progress down the left wing winning a throw in. The final ball in cut out by Natalie Strange at the back for Bowers & Pitsea who go straight on the offensive.

Lawford Ladies captain, Daisy Canny

  Play turned around as Bamber brings the ball on fr Lawford put forwards early up to the attackers, Susan Jackson putting pressure on the Bowers & Pitsea back line in an attempt to win it 25 yards out the ball deflected left straight into the path of Canny she takes it on into the area, goalkeeper an captain Charlotte Stephens out to try and close her down going to ground Canny taking the ball on around her left of goal the angle closing as she enters the six yard box her shot in cannoning away of the base of the near post. 

  Shaping up to be a lively game both sides looking to attack quickly, Ella Boyden for Lawford playing the ball up to Jackson, Danielle Styles winning it back for Bowers & Pitsea. Lawford are awarded a free-kick wide out wide, Sheena Foley to play the set piece the ball up towards the top of the area dealt with by Bowers & Pitsea’s Taylor Adcock. Courtney Fraser on for Holly Moore on the left her ball into the box for Dowman is closed down quickly no room to turn and get a shot away.

  Space on the right for Bowers & Pitsea as they counter the ball turned out wide to the wing by Dowman central she turns and bursts into the area as Ives takes it on getting into the corner her cross drilled in square towards the near post Dowman timing her run perfectly meeting it attempts to flick in on the ball put wide. Dowman and Georgia Fraser combine central 20 yards out the latter getting a shot in on target, Newstead right behind it. 

 Canny continues to cause problems for the Bowers & Pitsea defence in attack moving all across the back line coming right support from Tess Ryan, Styles moving out to close her down puts the ball out for a throw. Lawford gain ground on the left a throw put inside to Canny turning and pushing on inside the box wriggling away from her marker gets a shot away under challenge, Stephens down low to claim it at her near post. 

Chloe Butler clearing the ball for Lawford Ladies

  Ebony Moore with an opportunity to shoot as she gets forwards for Bowers & Pitsea drifting in central the ball coming to her following good work from Dowman on the left, her shot held by Newstead. Bowers & Pitsea are starting to stretch the Lawford back line find gaps in behind pull players out of position as they push players forwards, Adcock and Abbie Simmonds doing well in the middle of the park. Foley clearing for Lawford, they attempt to break Strange intercepts keeps the attack alive.

  GOAL! The ball played in towards Dowman who hassles the Lawford defence well trying to gain an advantage right outside the area sees Holly Moore free to her left the pass played into her Moore catches it sweetly her 1st time strike flying into the top corner to give Bowers & Pitsea the lead midway through the 1st half 1-0.

Holly Moore with a wonder hit to put Bowers & Pitsea into the lead

  Bowers & Pitsea regain the ball from the restart break with Ives away on the right her cross in high across the face of goal, Dowman jumping at the far post can’t get to it. Georgia Fraser has the ball fired into her 20 yards out, attempting to bring it down and get a shot away is closed down by Lawford’s Foley the defender winning the tackle. Sharp sends the ball on for Canny bursting away on the right, Styles across to challenge, the ball kept alive by Ryan who takes it on down the line before being fouled. The ball into the area cleared by Bowers & Pitsea. 

Lawford Ladies, Sheena Foley

  Simmonds central puts the ball in for Georgia Fraser turns infield 20 yards out lets fly with a shot rising, Newstead does brilliantly the goalkeeper throwing her hands up, getting a touch to push the ball up and onto the crossbar as she falls back. Lawford make a change with Claire Gauntlett coming off for Jade Heath. End to end action Georgia Fraser spreading play to the right for Ives bringing the ball inside, Bamber is back defending for Lawford, the ball up field quickly with Canny after it, Strange defending fr Bowers & Pitsea.

  The ball played forwards, Jackson after it, an error from the Bowers & Pitsea defence the clearance missed the ball in behind the attacker onto it right outside the box has Sharp free to the left of the D the ball rolled into her path her 1st time effort is dragged wide at the near post. 

  GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea double their lead with 33 minutes played the ball through the middle rapidly on for Georgia Fraser her run taking her in behind the defence closing in on the area shoots plenty of power behind the ball the strike over the keeper before she can set herself and on into the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Georgia Fraser double Bowers & Pitsea Ladies lead

   Bowers & Pitsea press the attack getting forwards Georgia Fraser linking with Ives on the right a clever back heel putting Ives on down the wing her cut back finding Fraser top of the area she cross in central headed clear. Holly Moore taking the ball on down the left comes inside Hayley Chapman getting back at her sliding in to win the ball. Sharp is quick with the ball at her feet brings it on for Lawford aims to release Canny on the right, Courtney Fraser making the tackle. 

Courtney Fraser tackling, Lawford’s Daisy Canny

  Late in the first half Bowers & Pitsea make their first change, Georgia Fraser the player off on comes Keegan Russell to join the attack. Soon after comes the first corner of the game to be played in from the left the ball finds Simmonds coming near side stooping into the header turns it goalwards her attempt straight at Newstead who gets her gloves firmly around the ball. 

Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead saving from an Abbie Simmonds header

Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 2-0 Lawford Ladies

  Two clinical finishes from Bowers & Pitsea see them leading 2-0 at half-time. Have played well getting forwards in number, Down and Georgia Fraser leading the line well with good support on the wings from Holly Moore and Ives. Their movement dragging Lawford out of position at times. Lawford not out of it by any means have had fewer chances but opportunities to score themselves, Canny striking the post early on.

 Lawford out first after the half-time break have made a change Erin Hornby is on, Chapman the player off, a bit of reorganising with Jackson going over to right back Ryan up top with Canny. Bowers & Pitsea also making a change with Emma Mackie on for Simmonds. Lawford playing the ball straight up to the attackers from kick-off an early touch 2nd half for Stephens in the Bowers & Pitsea goal as she gives the call.

  An early corner for Lawford the ball hooked behind by the Bowers & Pitsea defence players forwards the delivery in high taken well by Stephens at the near post. Lawford with a positive start to the 2nd half the ball crossed into the area from the left cushioned down by Heath with Ryan in close support on the penalty spot her shot charged down the ball rebounding out gathered by Bamber 25 yards out her strike back in saved by Stephens. 

  Lawford attack left Sharp on for Canny down the line her cross in low, Styles getting in front of Ryan to clear the ball only finding Bamber she puts it back in towards Heath, central her shot smashed against a defender. Lawford getting bodies forwards, Styles busy in the Bowers & Pitsea defence out to charge down Sharp as canny central plays the ball out to her on the left the cleared ball gathered by Canny inside the D, is quickly closed down still manages to snatch a shot goalwards a deflection taking it wide for a corner. 

Megan Bamber coming forwards for Lawford Ladies

  A change for Bowers & Pitsea with Georgia Fraser returning to the action Holly Moore coming off. Lawford continue to cause Bowers & Pitsea problems winning the ball higher up the pitch now Bamber able to drive on with the ball. A free-kick in the middle for Lawford, Adcock dealing with the delivery towards the top of the area for Bowers & Pitsea. Taylor Parrish comes on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore.

  Styles winning the ball at the back for Bowers & Pitsea play stretched as it’s played on to Dowman turns her marker getting away on the right wins a throw that brings a corner kick. A high ball into the six yard box attacked, played stopped with a Lawford player down. The game moving past the hour Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot, win a free-kick in a central position 30 yards from goal right of the D, Hornby on it fires the ball into the box runs wide evading an outstretched leg.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, Danielle Styles

  GOAL! Moments later Canny is brought down attacking in a similar position more central this time a couple of yards closer. Hornby is there again with Sharp. Sharp to take is a superb strike over the ball dipping late to find the top corner little Stephens can do as she throws herself across her goal Lawford’s excellent start to the 2nd half brings a goal 2-1.

Jodie Sharp makes it 2-1 with a brilliant free-kick for Lawford Ladies

  Ryan turning central plays the ball on both Canny and Sharp after it left inside the box almost get in each others way Canny getting clear for Sharp to shoot the effort rising over the crossbar. Newstead comes out well to the edge of her area to close down Dowman as the Bowers & Pitsea striker runs in clear behind her defence. Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot Ryan sending the ball on for Sharp getting away on the left her low driven cross cut out at the near post by Parrish a corner conceded. 

  The corner left side played in high Styles with the commanding header sends it behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd taken short before being played in the delivery met by Boyden at the near post a glancing header taking the ball wide across the face of goal. Lawford bring off Ryan send on Stacey Teager to join the attack. Pushing on are taking risks at the back Bowers & Pitsea ready to hit on the counter Dowman spinning in behind to get into the box as she lays the ball off for Georgia Fraser left drives a cross in across the face of goal Dowman going for it can’t make contact. 

Sophie Dowman always looking for an opening in attack for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  Mackie back to slide in win the ball break up a Lawford attack as they look to get forwards through the middle. Canny turning inside from a throw on the left she shoots Styles blocking the loose ball save quickly gathered by Stephens. Bowers & Pitsea win a series of corners, can’t get a telling shot away the 3rd delivery taken low on her line by Newstead. A double change for Lawford Jackson and Boyden off, on come Harriett Young and Ryan. 10 minutes left to play Bowers & Pitsea bring Holly Moore back on for Russell. 

  GOAL! Moore nearly returned to the action scoring her 2nd of the game to give Bowers & Pitsea a vital 3rd goal. The attack beginning on the right the ball squared onto Dowman positioned to of the area, her first time strike doesn’t quite come off still has possession sends it on to Moore clear to the left of the D, another clinical strike hit first time sailing into the top corner 3-1.

  GOAL! Game over! Not quite as Lawford push forwards numbers into the box as Canny takes the ball on down the right a cross driven high into the box met by Styles central the defenders header parrying the ball high into the the air a scramble for the ball inside the six yard box the ball smashed in inside the post to reduce the deficit once again. Ryan with the goal 3-2.

Tess Ryan gets it back to 3-2 for Lawford Ladies

  An ambitious effort from Moore 25 yards out, but why not when you’re on a hat-trick in a final her effort safely held by Newstead. A flare up in the middle of the park with Dowman and Young coming together quickly defused by referee Reece Morley, Young shown a yellow card. A frantic finish to the game Lawford trying for a 3rd whilst Bowers & Pitsea aim to put the game to bed, Moore playing it on for Dowman has Georgia Fraser ahead of her receiving the pass her cross into the box is won by Lawford’s Foley. Into injury time a free-kick for Lawford wide left for a push on Canny the ball played in central, Teager with it into her body back to goal, Styles on top of her preventing the striker from turning. The ball cleared the final whistle blows and Bowers & Pitsea win the Essex Women’s Trophy Final. 

Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 3-2 Lawford Ladies

  That was a very entertaining final, a great contest and showcase for the game played on the whole in good spirits. Bowers & Pitsea having the better of the first half taking the lead with two clinical strikes looked comfortable, Lawford had opportunities however reorganising for the 2nd half began it well getting onto the front foot early and getting the goal that play deserved as they restricted their opponents up the other end. Into the last 10 minutes Bowers & Pitsea getting what would prove to be a vital 3rd goal again from another superb strike. Lawford though came straight back to make it 3-2 and ensure no comfortable finish to the final pushed Bowers & Pitsea all the way. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders as is often the case. Holly Moore with two special goals. Georgia Fraser too with a well taken finish dong well in attack for Bowers & Pitsea. Daisy Canny a threat up front for Lawford all game. In the end goes to a player who has already won one of these already this season back then through it was for an attacking display this afternoon she was a commanding figure in the heart of the Bowers & Pitsea defence, getting in vital blocks, closing down well and reading threats Danielle Styles.

FAWSL star, Kate Longhurst present to present the players with their medals and the trophy itself.

Winning captain Charlotte Stephens with Kate Longhurst

Congratulations to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s Trophy.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, 2018/19 Essex Women’s Trophy Winners

An enjoyable trip down to Essex for this afternoon’s final, an entertaining game Lawford pushing Bowers & Pitsea all the way. Essex FA doing a great job making the day a special occasion a fantastic programme too. My thanks as always to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today, the match reports don’t work without them.

Cup Final Report – Isleham United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final

Wednesday 16th May

One more women’s final left to be played in Cambridgeshire a trip to Newmarket Town FC’s, Bloorie.com Stadium this evening for the Junior Invitation Cup Final between Isleham United Ladies and ICA Sports Ladies.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies aiming for a Cup Double after winning the League Cup two weeks ago. Up against fellow Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies, ICA Sports Ladies were the underdogs, putting in a strong performance as their opponents never got into their stride. This time around taking on lower league opposition in the Junior Invitation Cup, ICA Sports Ladies are themselves the favourites but will be only to aware that doesn’t count for anything if you don’t perform in the game. A Cup Double though the perfect way to end their season.

A Cup Final appearance and a shot at winning silverware too for Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South side Isleham United Ladies. Know themselves they face a tough test in this evenings final but have earned the right to be there. League form hasn’t been good this season have saved the best for their cup run to this evenings final. Close to Newmarket the club has brought plenty of support along to the final.

Road to the Final

  Peterborough based ICA Sports Ladies receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Junior Invitation Cup. Isleham United Ladies were drawn at home to fellow Championship South side, Burwell Tigers. Amy Ellis and Lily Turner both scoring twice with Annabelle Marsh and Livi Caffarelli getting a goal a piece in a 6-1 win. 

  Onto the quarter finals Isleham United Ladies were once again at home taking on another Championship South opponent Cambridge Rangers. Louisa Harwood, Nicole Bailey an a brace for Vicky Beeton putting Isleham through to the last 4 of the competition. ICA Sports at home in the quarter finals up against Histon Ladies Reserves who they had knocked out of the League Cup via a penalty shootout. That wasn’t needed this time around a brace for Carmen Herridge putting them through the last 4.

   The semi-finals saw to close games played. Isleham United Ladies again on home soil up against Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves also from the Championship South, A brace for Lily Turner along with a goal for Rachael Turner seeing Isleham edge the result 3-2 to reach the final. ICA Sports Ladies were drawn away to fellow Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. Just the one goal scored in the match ICA Sports clinching a place in a 2nd final, Jessica Farchica with the all important goal. 

The game originally scheduled for last month postponed due to heavy rain. The weather better this time but the heat has vanished a chilly breeze making it feel very cold, cloud cover above. The venue for this evenings final Newmarket Town FC. Playing on their new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. The bar and kitchen open a goo sized crowd gathered to watch the game.

 Isleham United Ladies starting XI – Claire Knibbs, Holly Partner, Sophie Antonucci, Becky Shields (C), Sarah Rouse, Zoe Luddy, Jessica Farchica, Megan Purnell, Donna Nicholls, Rhian Leonard & Lorna Hart. Subs – Carmen Herridge, Lindsey Short & Cara Clarke.

 ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Kathleen Tilbrook, Kate Theobald, Olivia Menton, Livi Caffarelli, Donna Woodcock (C), Vicky Beeton, Annabelle Marsh, Lily Turner, Louise Harwood, Amy Ellis & Laura Todd. Subs – Jade Flack, Anita Butters, Rachael Turner, Shona Kelly & Nicole Bailey.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

The teams lining up before the final

ICA Sports to get the Cambridgeshire Junior Invitation Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing royal blue shirts with a white and navy band across the upper chest. Royal blue shorts with blue and white hooped socks. Isleham lined up opposite wearing green shirts, black shorts and socks. ICA Sports putting the ball long to the left early on Isleham able to see it out for a goalkick as Donna Nicholls gives chase

 ICA Sports put pressure on the ball prevent Isleham getting out of their half win a throw high on the left the ball worked in towards the top of the area, Livi Caffarelli defending for Isleham. Breaking up an ICA Sports attack Isleham bring the ball away on the left, Lily Turner carrying it forwards plays the pass inside to Vicky Beeton as she crosses over halfway, the midfielder sending the pass on out to the left with Amy Ellis providing the run taking the ball down to the byline sends a cross flashing in along the face of the ICA Sports goal, Laura Todd closing in on the far post isn’t too far away from connecting with the ball.

  Isleham bringing the ball on again right side this time the ball sent in towards Todd making a run into the area near side, Becky Shields, ICA Sports captain going with her heading the ball putting it away to the right Isleham retrieving the cross swept in goalkeeper Claire Knibbs claiming the ball. ICA Sports break through the centre the ball pushed on through to attacker Lorna Hart in behind strikes the ball from 25 yards out pulls her effort wide of the post. 

Becky Shields winning the header for ICA Sports Ladies

 

 Following a corner on the left ICA Sports have bodies forwards as they squeeze possession back from Isleham Jessica Farchica closing in on the top of the area seeing her shot charged down goes after the rebound out to the right getting hold of the ball holding off a challenge turned well to get inside attack the goal near post, goalkeeper Kathleen Tilbrook making a great save at her near post, the ball scrambled behind for a corner kick. Caffarelli with another good defensive challenge to deny Zoe Luddy for ICA Sports as she breaks beyond the midfield played in by Hart central.    

GOAL! ICA Sports score the opening goal of the game taking an early lead as they did in the League Cup Final. The ball played on down the left Nicholls with Megan Purnell getting on her pass slide on into the box Hart timing her run perfectly getting onto the ball and picking her spot left of goal sends the ball past the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

Lorna Hart opens the scoring for ICA Sports Ladies

ICA Sports look to build on their lead Hart going towards the ball played out to the right holding it up well outside the Isleham area before shifting it inside to fire a cross along the six yard box, two ICA Sports players at the far post Purnell one of then, controls and spins into a shot, the ball charged down. Isleham get the ball clear, ICA Sports regain central and turn play around, Farchica moving with the ball towards the top of the area is stopped by Caffarelli.

  Isleham make a double change Olivia Menton and Kate Theobald off on come Anita Butters and Rachael Turner. Caffarelli with a fantastic tackle on Hart to stop the attacker as she looks to force her way past her into the box. Todd comes off for Isleham, Nicole Bailey coming on. Annabelle Marsh breaks forwards for Isleham as they build through the middle the ball out to her on the left side, Holly Partner getting back on her to tackle for ICA Sports. Lily Turner getting up to support Marsh latching onto the ball delivering a cross into the area the ball claimed by Knibbs.

Isleham United Ladies, Livi Caffarelli

Caffarelli winning the ball at the back for Isleham is fouled as she tries to carry it out from the back. Hart moves away into the right channel as Luddy plays the pass from the middle out to her the attacker turning her marker as she enters the box and making a driving run towards the near post tries to lift a shot over the keeper with the outside of her boot, Tilbrook holding onto the ball for Isleham. Rhian Leonard moving over to the left for ICA Sports looks to have gotten clear in behind as a clearance rebounds off her from Caffarelli, the defender showing great pace however recovers well getting back on her inside the box sliding in to take the ball away for a corner. 

Her knees taking a bit of a battering upon the artificial surface Caffarelli comes off after treatment on the pitch, Menton coming back on going to left back as Ellis drops back into the defence. Ellis called into action straight away defending well up against Hart as the ball is fired low into her from the left. Carmen Herridge has come on to join the attack for ICA Sports Ladies replacing Purnell. Herridge attacking the ball top of the area left channel, Ellis closing the ball down for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Amy Ellis

   Purnell isn’t of for long as she replaces Leonard for ICA Sports. Isleham captain Donna Woodcock defending up against Hart inside the box as Herridge moving to the right sends the cross back into the area. The corner conceded the ball put into the mix from the right is clear by Isleham falling to Purnell positioned inside the D her 1st time strike is well wide of the mark. Sarah Rouse defending for ICA Sports as Isleham’s Bailey looks to get in behind through the middle. 

Carmen Herridge with the ball for ICA Sports Ladies

Caffarelli back on for Isleham straight away wins the ball back form Hart as she looks to find a crossing position on the left. Isleham launching a counter attack Lily Turner showing a good turn of pace bringing the ball on up the left wing covering alot of ground the ball squared across the face of the ICA Sports area, Ellis pressing the defender on the ball steals possession and turning into the box fires a shot in towards goal, Knibbs getting down makes a great save. Woodcock with a fine recovering tackle as Purnell latches onto a poor kick out from the back looking to get herself into the box.

GOAL! The half -time whistle approaching ICA Sports extend their lead attacking down the left the ball cut inside brought into the area and stabbed in near post Herridge on the end of the cross spinning into the shot and sending the ball past the keeper and over the line 0-2.

Half-time Isleham United Ladies 0-2 ICA Sports Ladies

  2-0 the half-time lead for ICA Sports Ladies have dominated play without really getting into their stride. Largely down to the fact Isleham have pressed the ball really well, winning several vital challenges at the back preventing ICA Sports getting one on one with the keeper. Have attacked themselves with limited success but after conceding an early goal haven’t let the game get away from them, ICA Sports managing to double their lead on the stroke of half-time.

Onto the 2nd half both sides making a goalkeeper change at the beginning of both playing an outfield player in the position. Knibbs is replaced by Hart, Tilbrook replaced by Bailey. The floodlights on for the 2nd half it’s Isleham to get thing’s underway. ICA Sports put pressure on the ball straight away getting it on win a corner on the right. 

  Isleham get the ball forwards Shona Kelly and Todd also on for Isleham the ball out to the left for Lily Turner runs with the ball before sending a cross into the area, Hart taking the ball into her body at the near post. Lily Turner fed the ball on the left takes it on once again sweeping a cross into the area Rouse defends for ICA Sports with Rachael Turner closing in from the right flank. An encouraging start to the 2nd half for Isleham Beeton taking a shot at the ICA Sports goal from distance the strike wide. Pressing the ball well all over the pitch. Antonucci defending for ICA Sports at left back as she gets in between Rachael Turner and Beeton as they look to link up attacking down the right.

Beeton getting forwards into the area as Isleham get bodies forwards ends up fouling Rouse as she gets control of the ball. Rouse with a good piece of defending at the top of her area as Lily Turner attacking down the left sends the ball in across the area, Todd looking to try and bring it down, Rachael Turner closing in the ICA Sports central defender winning the ball. Up the other end Isleham need to be wary of getting hit on the break Farchica on for Herridge, she tries to muscle he way through into the box Caffarelli defending for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Laura Todd

  Lily Turner with the ball attacking for Isleham left side cuts inside 30 yards out Kelly in support takes on the shot the ball gathered by the keeper. Claire Knibbs joining the action up top for ICA Sports. Knibbs with a run into the right channel fed the ball from the wing, shifts the ball well between her feet inside the D before sending a shot skipping off the surface in towards goal Bailey making a good reactive save with her feet. Farchica winning the ball in the middle slides it on for Knibbs looking to attack the Isleham box, Ellis with a good tackle conceding the corner. 

ICA Sports Ladies, Donna Nicholls

  ICA Sports having started the 2nd half slowly are starting to build momentum winning a corner on the right the ball swung in near post attacked by Shields knocked on into the middle claimed by Bailey. Nicholls on the left for ICA Sports Antonucci getting up with her to support, Knibbs taking the ball on to the byline cutting a cross back in along the face of goal, Bailey able to gather for Isleham. Knibbs caught in an offside position a couple of occasions.

  Kelly cutting the ball out in the middle for Isleham sets up an attack Rachael Turner away on the right taking the ball to the edge of the box looking for Todd making a run near post gets her foot around the ball sends it wide into the side netting. Rachael Turner getting help from Beeton on the right wins her side a corner kick, a great delivery in towards the top of the six yard box near post Kelly there unmarked gets her head on the ball sends it up over the crossbar.

  Rouse intercepting at the back for ICA Sports brings the ball on before playing it out to Nicholls on the left, support from Knibbs, Woodcock defending for Isleham. Nicholls with the ball left side comes on a one two with Knibbs the final ball played into the area too heavy for Nicholls to run onto. Shields getting back well to push the ball into her keeper as Todd makes a strong central run for Isleham as the ball is rolled into her path. Changes for Isleham Butters back on Jade Flack also on for Todd up front. 

 Nicholls dropping her shoulder looks to take the ball inside from the left, Caffarelli closing her down for Isleham regaining possession. Bailey makes the save as Farchica gets herself forwards and into space for ICA Sports in attack top of the area looks to open her body curl the shot around the keeper, Bailey getting her gloves onto the ball. 15 minute left ICA Sports having to work to keep their 2 goal lead are starting to find spaces appearing at the back, Knibbs with some clever runs to draw players out.

  A free-kick right on the edge of the area for ICA Sports, Purnell rushing up to take it, gets her strike up and over the wall but Bailey is there in the right place to catch the ball. Rouse with the defensive header as Isleham send the ball long through the middle. Rachael Turner in behind on the right a low cross in along six yard box Hart scooping the ball up for ICA Sports. 

 GOAL! Isleham have down well 2nd half finally though their defence is breached for a 3rd time as ICA Sports make the scoreline more comfortable in the final 5 minutes of the game, Rouse getting forwards playing the ball on for Knibbs right side taking in towards the corner of the area fires a low shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner 0-3.

Isleham press the ball through the middle Harwood getting it on for Flack trying to force her way into the area, challenging the defender, the ball is squeezed through Harwood latching onto it sending her shot over the bar. Antonucci backed up by Rouse regains the ball inside the area as Beeton attacks it down the right. A late free-kick for ICA Sports halfway inside the Isleham half Purnell to flight the ball on into the area, attacked near post Bailey does well a corner conceded the ball landing on the roof of he net. The final whistle goes and ICA Sports win the final 3-0 and end their season with double cup success.

Full time Isleham United Ladies 0-3 ICA Sports Ladies

   An entertaining 2nd half to the game. Isleham United Ladies giving a good account of themselves attacked well 2nd half and for a spell looking the more likely to score. ICA Sports having to work for the win in the end. Took their chances well in the 1st half going 2-0 ahead a 3rd goal coming late on to make thing’s comfortable. An enjoyable final if very chilly. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Picking this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match it’s a close run thing between 2 players one for either side and both wearing the number 6 shirt. Have to pick one however those are the rules. Livi Caffarelli with some great defensive work at the back for Isleham United Ladies, contested every ball and make more than one tackle inside her box to prevent a shot being taken. Sarah Rouse takes the award up the other end for ICA Sports. Making some vital challenges winning headers. Composed as Isleham gained some confidence in attack in the 2nd period.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners 2017/18 ICA Sports Ladies

Congratulations to ICA Sports on winning this evening’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final and completing a Cup Double.

  My thanks to both sides for there help with the teams and describing the 3rd goal to as I completely missed it. Happens sometimes. Think that’s my finals over for the season but temptation might get the better of me.

ERWFL Finals Day – Acle United Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies

ERWFL Cup Final

Sunday 13th May

 Onto the 2nd of today’s ERWFL Final’s the League Cup. This season being contested by Acle United Ladies and AFC Dunstable Ladies. 

 Acle United Ladies in contention for the Premier Division title all season losing out in their penultimate game to leave them in 3rd position 3 points short of Champions Billericay Town FC. A busy spell at the end of the season games to be squeezed in a County Cup Final appearance too ending again in a close loss to Wymondham Town Ladies who will be joining them in the ERWFL Premier Division next season. Takes the shine of what has been another strong campaign one more shot at silverware though for the Norfolk side the ERWFL League Cup.

  Looking to stop them are Bedfordshire side AFC Dunstable Ladies finishing 6th in the ERWFL Premier Division this season haven’t matched the form of last season that saw them pushing the title challengers all the way. Have picked up some good results and one their day can beat anybody in the league. Ending their season with an opportunity to win silverware.

 Both sides short of a full squad coming into this afternoon’s final. Acle United losing the spine of their side with 3 players shown red in their final league game played against Cambridge City, adopting a new formation for the ERWFL Cup Final dubbed ‘The Christmas Tree’ formation.

Road to the Final

  The ERWFL Premier Division sides entering the League Cup at the 3rd Round stage. Easy progress for both sides Dunstable receiving a bye into the quarter finals. Acle awarded the away win against King’s Lynn Town Ladies. 

  Onto the quarter finals a trip to Hertfordshire for Acle to take on Royston Town Ladies a 3-1 victory sending them through the the last 4 of the competition. Dunstable held home advantage in their quarter final against AFC Sudbury Ladies neither side able to find a goal in regular or extra-time it went all the way to penalties Dunstable emerging the winners 6-5 in the shootout.

  The last 4 and both semi-finals were hard to call. Close matches too, Acle at home to eventually League Champion’s Billericay Town Ladies. Knocked them out of the League Cup with a 3-2 result. 3-2 was also the winning margin for Dunstable as they travelled to Essex to take on Brentwood Town Ladies in the semi-finals. 

 The ERWFL Premier Division proving all season any side can beat another on it’s day. 

 The venue of course still the same the sun out properly for the League Cup Final this afternoon.

Acle United Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Anna Larkins, Chloe Shields, Naomi Cooper, Grace Birchall, Broghan Scully, Laura Holden, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd (C), Kirstie Kindred & Rhianne Brister. Subs – Lauren Bailey & Rebecca Burton.

AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI – Hannah Payne, Rebecca Langthorpe, Lauren Chimes (C), Elly Wade, Steph Fisher, Rachel Moffat, Shianne Swarres, Danielle Carty, Samaira Khan, Charlotte South & Charlene Moreton. Subs – Jodie Patterson & Rianne Townsend-Brown. 

(roll on roll off substitutes) 

  It’s Acle wearing black and white vertical striped shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks to get the League Cup Final underway. Dunstable opposite wearing an all blue kit. Dunstable get hold of the ball as Acle look to play it forwards Charlene Moreton playing the ball long, Samaira Khan played in behind on the right side a run down the channel into the area Cyan Fullbrook in goal for Acle comes to close her down, Khan evading her challenge takes the ball beyond her before sending a cross in along the face of goal, no one there for Dunstable, Acle get the ball clear. 

 GOAL! A chance for Dunstable at one end it’s a goal for Acle up the other. A brilliant individual goal from Acle captain, Megan Todd the ball sent up towards her on halfway from Fullbrook’s goal kick. On the left wing Todd brings it on over halfway carrying it forwards down the wing a powerful run all the way into the box not challenged closing in on goal scoops a shot up rising past the goalkeeper in past the near post 1-0.

Acle United Ladies captain Megan Todd setting off on her run to score the opening goal

   Shianne Swarres getting hold of the ball central for Dunstable across to Rebecca Langthorpe moving forwards from right back she passes the ball on for Khan on the wing, getting in behind she fires another cross along the face of the Acle goal. Dunstable finding a few gaps in the Acle back line early on. Langthorpe with the ball on the tries to send Charlotte South away through the middle, Chloe Shields getting across to intercept for Acle.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Charlotte South

 Khan with a drive towards the Acle defence in the central is clipped as the ball spins away to the left, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick in a dangerous position in front of goal just outside the D. Danielle Carty on the ball goes for goal her effort up over the crossbar. Acle giving away free-kicks, Moreton on one inside the Acle half launched up towards the top of the area, Shields under it for Acle heading clear. Dunstable pressing forwards having more of the ball.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Danielle Carty

  Todd the outlet for Acle as Anna Larkins wins the ball at the back up field into Laura Holding her pass on for Todd over on the right side another driving run forwards her shot fired in from outside the area with of Hannah Payne’s near post. Moreton hooks the ball forwards from inside the Acle half out to Khan on the right, Naomi Cooper defending for Acle at left back. Dunstable bring the ball on Moreton on for Khan central, Charlotte South supporting, Acle squeeze the ball at the top of their box regain possession. 

Charlene Moreton hooks the ball forwards for AFC Dunstable Ladies

  Rhianne Brister up front for Acle comes out to the right with the ball, support from Grace Birchall coming on past her, Dunstable captain Lauren Chimes challenging for the ball breaks up the attack. Larkins sending the ball up field from the back sets Todd up for a run in behind the Dunstable defence closing in on the box, Payne coming out towards her Todd goes to try and lob the keeper, get’s it past her Payne getting a touch on the ball however as it runs wide of her goal the corner signalled. A high ball in Todd the target far post is over her as she leaps up for it.

Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins

  A give and go between Todd and Lauren Bullard on the left the ball crossed into the box just behind Kirstie Kindred she recovers laying it back for Todd, her strike charged down. Acle press the ball high win a corner kick the ball defended at the near post. Acle win another corner, Dunstable can’t get it clear the delivery going long out to the left gathered by Todd she tries to get past Langthorpe the corner won. The ball played in knocked back to the taker before being sent in high towards the far post Todd up to head the ball puts it wide. Dunstable make a change Khan the player coming off on comes Rianne Townsend-Brown. 

  Acle having a good spell starting to get hold of the ball and cause Dunstable problems Todd right squared to Kindred she sends the ball into Brister inside the box Payne makes the save as she comes charging out to met her blocking the shot. Payne comfortable as she moves across her goal to palm down Todd’s strike from distance. Holden with the pass inside to Bullard back for Broghan Scully plays it forwards onto Kindred who shoots from the top of the area Payne making a double save stopping Kindred’s strike then as Birchall heads the ball back towards goal gloves it wide for the corner. 

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Elly Wade

  A lively contest the game played at a rapid pace. Scully over a free-kick top of the centre circle for Acle plays the ball up into the area, Payne taking the catch. Moreton coming to get hold of the ball for Dunstable plays it out to Carty on the move on the left shoots early sending the low ball racing wide of the near post. Swarres with good control in the middle playing the ball on for Carty on the left her cross into the box, South the target, Shields gets in front of her to defend for Acle. Larkins with a good tackle to stop Moreton as she comes on with the ball for Dunstable. 

  Steph Fisher putting in the tackle on Brister as Kindred looks to put the ball into her make the run in behind. Dunstable come forwards press the ball at the back Moreton getting the ball out to Carty on the right 25 yards out goes for the shot dipping Fullbrook can’t get to it as it strikes the crossbar. Dunstable ending the 1st half well. Elly Wade across to intercept the ball as Holden plays it on for Brister to chase out on the left. Bullard getting in behind Langthorpe on the right goes on into the box Langthorpe recovering well gets back on her is fouled by the attacker inside the box. 

  Acle with one last attack in the first half Todd on the left seeing the ball into her feet spins in behind running down the line cutting inside into the box fire a low cross along the face of goal, Chimes going to clear it smashes the ball against Kindred rushing in the ball loose Dunstable scramble it away.

Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-0 AFC Dunstable Ladies

  An entertaining first half to this season’s ERWFL League Cup Final. Acle scoring in the opening 2 minutes have held onto their 1-0 advantage both sides creating chances Dunstable striking the bar. The game far from settled yet.

  Changes for both sides, Lauren Bailey on at right back for Acle, Jodie Patterson on for Dunstable as well as Khan as they get the 2nd half underway. Getting a throw high up the pitch on the right. Into Moreton inside the pressuring the ball out to Khan she shoots Fullbrook dropping onto it at her near post. Todd driving forwards with the ball looks to get in on goal Wade coming back on her lunges in to take the ball away for the throw left side. 

Samaira Khan attacking for AFC Dunstable Ladies

  Acle starting the 2nd half well the ball on for Brister she pressure Patterson into conceding the corner. An inswinging delivery Payne is on it at the near post knocking the ball down Dunstable launch clear of their box. Acle make a change Birchall off at the start of the 2nd half coming on for Brister.

 GOAL! Birchall involved straight away as Acle go on to double their lead early in the 2nd half. Play spread from left to right Birchall going after it picks the ball up and surges on down the right evading a challenge cutting a cross back in the ball racing across the face of the Dunstable goal, Todd arriving at the far post smashing the ball home from close range 2-0.

  A free-kick to Dunstable as Khan is brought down trying to bring the ball inside from the right. The ball central Carty over it goes for the shot floating the ball in towards goal it cannons off the crossbar for a 2nd time. Acle counter attack Birchall in the clear on the right takes on the early shot as she closes in on the top of the area her attempt racing wide across the six yard box out the far side. Dunstable attack on the right Khan inside the area Shields defending as Fullbrook collides with her, Khan retrieving the ball as Dunstable get players forwards in support cut back to Carty to play the shot in towards the near post Fullbrook recovering has gotten back onto position to claim the ball. 

GOAL! Acle extend their lead as play becomes stretched, Todd breaking over halfway on the left a strong run with the ball squares it inside for Holden top of the area left of the D, picks her spot sending her shot in low past the keeper at her near post 3-0. 

  Townsend-Brown is played onto the ball by South coming left, Bailey with the attacker gets the challenge in Dunstable winning the corner. End to end Carty with a diagonal ball into the box from the right Shields heading away for Acle. Moreton plays the ball on into Townsend-Brown top of the area turns in behind her marker and delivers a low strike across the face of the Acle goal as the game moves into the final 20 minutes. 

Acle United Ladies, Laura Holden

GOAL! Acle go further into the lead taking control of the game Kindred with good work on halfway winning the ball, Todd latching onto it drives forwards, Holden ahead of her finding space Todd playing her in on goal Holden shoots from 20 yards out the ball striking the back of the net for her 2nd of the game 4-0. 

GOAL! Acle hammer home their advantage as Dunstable lose their shape Birchall spinning away plays the ball into Holden supporting on the right squared back to her Birchall sends a dipping shot in towards goal Payne making the save pushing the ball away lose inside the six yard box Kindred racing in on the follow up buries the shot 5-0.

  Acle looking strong now make a switch Holden rested, Brister back on. Dunstable go forwards South bringing it forwards put on for Moreton out to Townsend-Brown on the left sweeps a cross in early, Shields getting hold of it for Acle clears for the corner. 

GOAL! It’s a 6th goal for Acle Dunstable caught high up the pitch a great individual goal form Birchall. Getting onto the ball on the right as Larkins clears it up the line bursts forwards she evades Wade’s sliding challenge then shooting from the top of the area the ball races across the Dunstable goal and inside the side netting at the far post 6-0.

   A pause in play a player down a chance for a breather. play resumes.

GOAL! Dunstable pull a goal back Moreton the scorer as she gets into the area played in by Khan attacking on the right, her initial effort stopped Moreton with a 2nd bite at the cherry lifts the ball in over the keeper to score 6-1.

  Townsend-Brown controlling the ball on the left cuts it back into the middle for Carty coming on, can’t quite get the ball under control before Acle recover and close her down. Bailey comes forwards for Acle, Wade tackling the ball away for a corner. Dunstable deal with the threat, try to get out Acle closing the ball down regain possession. Birchall with space on the left plays it inside for Todd 30 yards out time to line up a shot her effort bouncing wide out past the post. 

Rianne Townsend-Brown bringing the ball under control for Dunstable Ladies

  Birchall with the ball at her feet a great run central for Acle evading two challenges before sending a shot over the crossbar. Up the other end Dunstable strike the crossbar for the 3rd time in the game, South and Carty linking on the left the ball into Townsend-Brown positioned top of the Acle area curls a shot in towards goal sees the ball collide with the woodwork. Acle go on the attack the ball on for Brister left inside for Birchall sees Bailey clear coming in on right she strikes the ball sending it across goal past Payne a defender back on the line gets there in time to block the ball skipping up into her keepers gloves. 

Full time Acle United Ladies 6-1 AFC Dunstable Ladies

  The final whistle blows and Acle celebrate as they end their season with silverware winning the ERWFL League Cup with a 6-1 win over Dunstable. Created plenty of chances throughout the game and were clinical in front of goal. Todd getting them the early lead. Dunstable had good spells in the first half coming close the levelling the scores. A narrow advantage at half-time Acle doubled the lead early in the 2nd half and going 3-0 up two quickfire goals to make it 5-0 put them in complete control of the match. Dunstable getting a late consolation goal ended up striking the crossbar 3 times. Acle the stronger side in the 2nd half.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Now for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. The captain led by example for Acle and scoring a fantastic solo goal early on was a handful for Dunstable to deal with all match as she moved across the front line from left to right. Adding the 2nd goal and setting up numerous chance, the award goes to Megan Todd.

Acle United Ladies lift the ERWFL League Cup

Congratulations to Acle United Ladies on winning the 2017/18 ERWFL League Cup.

Acle United Ladies, 2017/18 ERWFL League Cup Winners

 An enjoyable day spent at Letchworth watching the ERWFL Final’s. Two entertaining matches. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams and to the ERWFL committee members for all the hard work they put into the league itself. 

ERWFL Finals Day – Hutton Ladies v Stevenage Ladies Reserves

ERWFL Plate Final

Sunday 13th May

 Another double bill of Cup Finals this Sunday from The County Ground in Letchworth from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) this time around. The League Cup to come but first up it’s an 11:00am kick-off between Hutton Ladies & Stevenage Ladies Reserves for the League Plate Final.

   Hutton Ladies the current holders of the ERWFL Plate after a 1-0 win over Colney Heath Ladies last season. Were the underdogs then and once again they will be seen as the underdogs as they take on fellow league Stevenage Ladies Reserves who having won the ERWFL Division One South title are looking to complete the double.

  Hutton Ladies with one more league game to play finishing fourth in the ERWFL Division One South table. Have already claimed silverware this season lifting the Essex Women’s Trophy with a 2-1 win against Silver End United Ladies. A tough challenge against Stevenage Ladies Reserves in this season’s Plate Final but can use last season’s result as inspiration and the knowledge they were the side to eventually bring an end to the league champion’s 100% winning start to the season.

  Stevenage Ladies Reserves have led the ERWFL Division One South table from start to finish winning their opening 10 games not conceding a single goal in that period either. Both records broken in February by today’s opponents Hutton Ladies in a 3-2 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves have conceded just 9 goals in total from 18 league games this season whilst scoring 81 up the other end. Clinching the league title with 4 games to spare are looking to end the season with the double.

Road to the Final

  The nature of the Plate, the sides knocked out of the League Cup in the opening rounds entering the competition. The Division One sides in from the North & South contesting the early Rounds of the League Cup.

  Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Plate. Into the quarter finals Hutton Ladies were away to Division One North side, Cambridge United WFC Reserves, the game all square at 90 minutes the sides drawing 2-2 it was Hutton who went on to score the winning goal in extra-time. Stevenage Ladies Reserves drawn at home to fellow Division One South side, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies progressed to the last 4 of the Plate with a 3-0 victory.

  Into the semi-finals and contrasting games for both sides Hutton Ladies at home were taken all the way to extra-time once again after a high scoring game with Division One North side, Histon Ladies 3-3 after the 90 minutes was up into the extra period Hutton getting themselves in front went on to add a 2nd goal to reach their 2nd successive final with a 5-3 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves were at home in the semi-finals against fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies and booked their place in the Plate Final with another 3-0 result.

  The County Ground, Letchworth home of the Hertfordshire FA the venue once again for this season’s ERWFL Finals. The main seated stand housing the clubhouse and bar the changing rooms beyond. A nice wide pitch looking in very good condition with plenty of grass cover. The weather good, warm with the sun trying to get out cloud cover for the morning kick-off for the 1st of today’s matches.

Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Nicola Walker, Rianne Dimmock, Hannah Page (C), Kelly Roberts, Amy Crumpler, Kaitlin Sugg, Keeley Walker, Lucy Critchell, Kate Lowen & Laura Allen. Subs – Patrizia Leo & Lucy Blurton.

Stevenage Ladies Reserves starting XI – Emily Goodacre, Holly Darling, Amy Notschild, Laura Henning, Stacey McConville, Becky Day, Sherrie Evans (C), Hayley Wood-Thompson, Hannah Marshall, Daniela Martucci & Emily Schofield. Subs – Naomi Sleator, Rebecca Brooker, Mary Lisle, Stef Cowell & Izzy McAree. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Stevenage to get the ERWFL Plate Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing an all blue kit with red and white piping around the collar and sleeves of the shirts. Hutton kitted out in their all red kit with white across the shoulders of the shirts. Becky Day playing the all out into the right channel for Daniela Martucci to chase the Hutton defence can see it safely out for an early goalkick. Stevenage make progress down the left, Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover coming out of her area to kick the ball clear see’s striker Laura Allen after it to attack the Stevenage area, Amy Notschild across the get in front of her and clear the ball for a throw. 

Emily Schofield with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  The ball pressed early on cut out at the back. Allen and Kate Lowen try to link up through the centre to attack the Stevenage defence the attempted one two cut out Notschild. The first corner of the game awarded to Stevenage, Hayley Wood-Thompson to play the ball into the box the ball half cleared Emily Schofield on the right hooks it back in towards go, Martucci closing in on it near post, Glover has it safe on her gloves first. Holly Darling slides in to deny Hutton’s Critchell as Crumpler plays the through ball to her on the left.

  Stevenage counter attack breaking forwards Hutton back tracking conceding a corner on the left side Schofield to play it in Kelly Roberts with the stooping header near post defends for Hutton. The ball coming onto Wood-Thompson just outside the box left of the D, goes to strike the ball her effort charged down. Lowen and Allen are looking to combine once again through the middle for Hutton as Kaitlin Sugg plays the ball forwards, Notschild getting in between them to break up the attack. 

Hutton’s Kelly Roberts, tackles Stevenage’s Becky Day as she s about to shoot

  Lucy Critchell finding room to run into on the left lifts a cross into the area, Stacey McConville clearing for Stevenage a rapid counter is launched the ball played on to Wood-Thompson coming away with the ball left side looks to put Hannah Marshall in behind on the opposite flank send the diagonal ball crossfield, Nicola Walker defending well for Hutton Ladies at left back. Working hard early on to break up Stevenage’s flow, Hutton are gaining encouragement from their play. 

Hutton Ladies, Lucy Critchell

  Bringing the ball on over half way Sugg send the ball forwards releasing Lowen through on goal as she bursts in behind the Stevenage defence, right of goal into the box, takes an extra touch, enough to allow goalkeeper Emily Goodacre coming towards her to slide in and save at the strikers feet. Stevenage press players forwards Schofield moving out to the right to gather the ball, Hutton captain Hannah Page gets across to challenge the striker 20 yards from goal. Roberts intercepting inside the box as Wood-Thompson looks to run in on goal from the left as a high ball from the right is fired into the Hutton area.

  Stevenage haven’t settled Hutton are lively looking to close down everywhere on the pitch. A free-kick awarded to Hutton 35 yards out left of the centre circle players go forwards as Lowen plays the ball in long towards the far post, Sugg getting up highest sends her header into the back of the net Hutton celebrate thinking they have taken the lead, but no the flag is raised for offside it doesn’t stand. Another free-kick to Hutton same position only right of the centre circle this time Amy Crumpler to deliver this time long to the far post again headed down back across the six yard box, Rianne Dimmock there for Hutton but no opportunity to shoot as she is quickly closed down and Stevenage scramble the ball away.

  Martucci spinning off her marker in the middle releases the ball into Schofield’s run on the left, sends a cross long the top of the six yard box, no one gambling for Stevenage. Hutton get it clear. A chance created for Stevenage on their left as Wood-Thompson goes to charge down a defensive clearance the ball spinning into the D, Page looking to control under pressure from Schofield the ball prodded into the area with Marshall coming onto it her shot straight at Glover the keeper making the save. 

Stevenage’s Hayley Wood-Thompson looking for options as she brings the ball forwards

  Hutton are battling for everything frustrating Stevenage in the process. Riding their luck at times Dimmock slicing her clearance the ball spinning favourably into the box for Glover to grab. Goodacre with an excellent save to deny Hutton from another set-piece similar to the earlier one on the left a little closer this time Crumpler goes for goal the ball arrowing in high on target central Goodacre throwing herself at the ball punches it over the crossbar.

  All action the ball from one end to the other Dimmock sending a shot wide from a corner at the near post for Hutton. Laura Henning charging a Hutton ball down in half way brings in on fires a pass into Martucci back to goal inside the D she spins off her marker sending the ball on into the box Wood-Thompson arriving can’t quite bring it down on her chest to set up a shot the ball running wide. Hutton make a change, Walker coming off Patrizia Leo coming on the move seeing Critchell dropping deeper. 

Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Daniela Martucci

  A free-kick wide right for Stevenage the ball played in towards the top of the box Martucci with a clever flick to send the ball on into the area, no one there however Glover can claim unchallenged. Keeley Walker snapping at the ball in midfield wins it from Day plays it on for Lowen right side she plays it on into the area near post Allen closing her down Goodacre stays composed claims the ball. Glover with a top class save at the other end to deny Schofield the ball played into the striker on with the ball she arrives at the top of the area Glover coming to close her down Schofield looks to prod the ball wide of her, almost succeeds Glover however manages somehow to get her foot in the way of the ball and deflect it away for a corner. 

 Stevenage bring the ball on possession on the right brings a corner kick the ball played into six yard box Sugg heading away for Hutton, out of the area Day with the looping header back in Martucci interested, Glover comes punching the ball away from the strikers head. Hutton get the ball forwards Walker on for Lowen a one tow with Allen the ball sent on for Lowen to chase right side McConville goes with her concedes the corner. 

  A late opportunity in the first half for Stevenage to take the lead, awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position left of centre Martucci with the right foot strike a superb effort the ball swerving as it flies in on target bring a magnificent save from Glover falling back as she throws her hand towards the ball the merest of touches diverting it onto the crossbar, rebounding back into play Hutton scramble away for the corner. Coming in from the right Glover is fouled as she comes for the ball right on the stroke of half-time.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 0-0 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  Goalless at the break one side with a goal disallowed the other striking the bar a really interesting contest and proof that the form book can go out the window in a cup final. Stevenage haven’t really settled yet into any rhythm, frustrated, Hutton have worked well right across their side to pressure the ball and break up attacks have created opportunities themselves as they have been encouraged by their performance. Defending well at the back Glover with a couple of crucial saves. Stevenage know they can play better and will no doubt look to come out strong in the 2nd half. Hutton if they can duplicate what they have achieved in the 2nd half will be hard to break down.

Hannah Page, defending for Hutton Ladies

  Hutton kicking off the 2nd half start confidently Critchell bringing the ball on from the left looks to take the ball infield is tackled by Notschild. Stevenage build on the right the ball fed on for Schofield turns inside towards the goal into the area her shot in towards the near post not troubling Glover. Walker with good work in the midfield for Hutton gets her pass on for Lowen right side holds it up before turning her marker and sending in a cross long towards the far post just out of Allen’s reach. 

Keeley Walker for Hutton Ladies getting to the ball before Stevenage’s Becky Day

  Stevenage get froward on the left Schofield moving into the channel has the ball squares it inside to Evans 30 yards out central time to line up a strike pulls the effort wide of the left post. Schofield is covering alot for ground up top getting into good crossing positions for Stevenage, the final ball more often than not collected by Glover. Critchell is yellow carded as she tugs back Wood-Thompson trying to get inside her from the right. The free-kick from a wide position sent over the bar. Stevenage make a change Darling coming off to be replaced by Izzy McAree.

Stevenage Ladies Reserves captain, Sherrie Evans

  Martucci with an opportunity to play the ball in towards goal from a set-piece left of goal 30 yards out as Hutton with away a free-kick, her strike wide at the near post. Day come on with the ball for Stevenage on for Marshall has Schofield on her left giving her the ball she is tackled by Dimmock as she charges at the Hutton defence. Hutton’s Walker intercepts a cross from the left from Marshall getting back as Evans breaks forwards through the middle. 

 GOAL! Seemingly out of nothing the deadlock is broken and it’s Hutton who take the lead the ball brought on though the middle Hutton have players forwards lined up across the top of the Stevenage penalty area the ball is played into Lowen inside the D she flicks the ball on sending it looping up high into the area, dropping towards goal Goodacre back on her line tries to palm it out from under her crossbar her glove caught in the net can’t get to it as it drops past her into the goal, Hutton take the lead, everyone converges on Lowen in celebration so I had to check afterwards to be sure it was her 1-0.

  A valuable lead for Hutton. Stevenage look for a quick reply Day bringing the ball on the pass out to Martucci, Page coming across defending well for Hutton. Henning winning the ball as she moves forwards for Stevenage is allowed to travel with the ball has a pop at goal from distance her strike straight at Glover positioned central in the Hutton goal. Stevenage attack Evans getting the ball out to Schofield moving clear on the right a run at the Hutton defence cuts back inside getting into the box sends a fierce cross along the six yard box Martucci arriving far post meeting it sends the ball over the Hutton crossbar. 

Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Laura Henning

  Marshall attacks on the left for Stevenage runs into too many bodies as Hutton close the gap in front of her. The ball cleared is picked up by Henning and fired back in Martucci with the shot puts the ball straight at Glover the keeper with a comfortable save. Hutton make a change Crumpler coming off on comes Lucy Blurton. Hutton continue to work hard to break up the play, Page and Roberts both getting to the ball first as Stevenage play it forwards for Martucci and Marshall to chase down. 

Hannah Marshall with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves

 Lowen receiving the ball as she breaks into the right channel looks to knock it past McAree, the Stevenage defender putting in the challenge to win the ball. Marshall left side fires a cross infield into Martucci position top corner of the Hutton box, shows great control to bring the ball down and swivel into the shot like so many others before it however the ball is straight into Glover positioned at her near post taking it low into her body. Hutton build an attack Walker on for Lowen central inside her is Allen playing the ball into her Walker has run on into the box Allen picking her out no shot on lays the ball back to Leo 25 yards out curls her shot up over the crossbar. 

Leo with another shot at goal moments later as Hutton attack with Lowen on the right squared across the top of the area with Walker central helped onto Leo she fires her strike up over the bar from the edge of the box. Leo with a 3rd effort in quick succession as Allen and Lowen work the ball forwards Lowen attempting to get on the end of Allen pass into the box favours Leo left of goal blasts the ball straight at Goodacre a great blocking save at close range the ball lose Stevenage get it clear of their box. Allen with a dipping volley from outside the box as the ball is put into her from a throw on the left her effort caught easily by Goodacre. 

Hutton Ladies, Patrizia Leo

  Glover with another fine save to deny Day as she hits the ball back in towards goal after Schofield’s initial shot from the right. Roberts with the near post header defends for Hutton from a Stevenage corner from the left. Stevenage with the change Day the player coming off Stef Cowell coming on with around 10 minutes left on the clock. McConville bringing the ball on for Stevenage inside to Martucci, she plays it on for Schofield her touch taking her inside a run at the box is brought down inside the D by Dimmock. A free-kick awarded Schofield has picked up an injury. Stevenage make the change before the free-kick Schofield helped off on comes Mary Lisle. 

  The set-piece just a foot outside the box. Martucci on it, a good effort gets the ball up over the wall but also narrowly over the crossbar too. Wood-Thompson is off for Stevenage with 5 minutes left to play Naomi Sleator coming on. Lowen finding room with the ball on the right cuts inside along the top of the box moving across the D gets a shot away back across goal wide of the post. 

Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock

  Into the closing minutes of the match Hutton get a corner left side played in Evans puts it out near post for a 2nd corner this time Hutton try to hold it up in the corner. Stevenage regain possession fire the ball up to Martucci tries to turn inside run at the Hutton defence Page close on her winning the ball back. McConville with a late strike from distance is straight down Glover’s throat the keeper dropping down onto the ball. That’s it the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate a 1-0 win to win the ERWFL Plate Final for the 2nd successive season.

Full time Hutton Ladies 1-0 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  An impressive performance from Hutton Ladies don’t think they even believed they could do it at the start of the match but just like last season they overcame the odds to win the trophy. Encouraged early on pressing the ball well and defending strongly gained the belief that they could get something going forwards themselves. The winning goal coming in the 2nd half, Hutton looked comfortable afterwards with the narrow advantage. Stevenage created chances and got players forwards just didn’t get the luck of the green today. Glover in the way of anything they threw at her. Miss out on the double and will no doubt feel disappointed but must remember they have dominated the league this season and are the League Champions.

 Three trophys in two season’s for Hutton Ladies not a bad return at all.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  There were several contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match in today’s final and I knew my notes were going to have to help me out on this one. It was a strong all round team performance from Hutton in today’s Plate Final. The defence superb, Dimmock, Page and Crumpler. Walker impressed in midfield. The last line of any defence is the goalkeeper however and for Hutton Krissie Glover was behind everything Stevenage put into her box made a number of crucial saves too during the game and she is the ERWFL Plate Final’s Player of the Match. 

Hutton Ladies 2017/18 ERWFL Plate Winners

  Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning today’s ERWFL Plate Final.

  If that was the starter I can’t wait for the main course. Was a really entertaining final Hutton proving lightening can strike twice. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups. A little time to relax before the ERWFL League Cup Final kicks off.

Cup Final Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

Thursday 10th May

 Back to Cambridgeshire for more Cup Final action this Thursday evening. To the Glassworld Stadium in Histon to watch this season’s Women’s Invitation Cup Final once again being contested between Cambridge City Ladies & Cambridge United WFC who have held an iron grip on the trophy for a number of seasons.

   A league between the sides coming into tonight’s final they have never been closer in terms of position within the women’s football pyramid, Cambridge City Ladies finishing 2nd in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division just a point behind Champion’s Billericay Town Ladies. An indifferent season in the league for Cambridge United WFC in FAWPL South East Division One currently laying in 7th place in the table with 2 league games left to play. 

  Cambridge United WFC beating Cambridge City Ladies 5-1 in last season’s final. The two sides enjoy a bit of rivalry with a number of ex-United players now back with Cambridge City. Both rearing to get going the game having been originally scheduled to be played a month ago the awful weather that has blighted much of the 2nd half of the season putting pay to the game back then. Cambridge United into a 6th successive final have won it for the past 5 season’s once again sponsored by S-Tech Insurance who have supported girls & women’s football in Cambridgeshire for 12 years. 

Road to the Final

  A bye for the holders in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup. It was another wet and cold day for Cambridge City Ladies as they clinched a 5-1 win at home against Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies. 

  Into the quarter finals, Cambridge United were drawn away to Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies. There higher league status shining through as they comfortably progressed to the last 4 with a 12-0 victory. A trickier tie on paper for Cambridge City Ladies in their quarter final tie at home to ERWFL Division One North side, Histon Ladies. Cambridge City though was also comfortable winners going through the the last 4 with a 7-0 result.

  Home ties for both sides in the semi-finals up against the two sides who would eventually finish as Champions and runners-up in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership saw them both in action just last evening St Ives Town Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies. A 3-0 win at Mildenhall Town FC for Cambridge United as they beat Newmarket Town 3-0 to reach another final. Cambridge City reaching a 2nd successive Invitation Cup Final with a narrow 1-0 win over St Ives Town Ladies.

Histon’s Glassworld Stadium the venue once again for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final. The pitch having seen a lot of football over the season it Histon Ladies and their Reserve side amongst those using it. A big pitch with plenty of room on the flanks to exploit one main stand over looking the pitch with covered terraces and seating all around. Much better weather this time around cooler than it has been sunny and cloudy no rain forecast. 

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Sarah Mosley, Lauren Tomlinson, Amy Reed, Becca Fay (C), Anna Kanz, Stacey Fullicks, Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills, Grace Stanley & Bella Simmons. Subs – Carla Penny, Emily Reed, Bronte Rapley, Lucy Hurst & Ellie Cullum.

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

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Strong line-ups for both sides, normally both are abbreviated to Cam in my notes that’ll confuse everybody however so from here on it it’s City and United. It’s United to get the game underway wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks with City wearing white shirts, with black shorts and white and black hooped socks. United playing the all into striker Kelley Blanchflower breaking forwards at the start her ball on for Amy Howlett on bursting down the right, she fouls her opponent trying to get inside to cross the ball.

   City break forwards the ball coming on through the midfield Anna Kanz with Stacey Fullicks, the diagonal ball sending Grace Stanley in behind of the left cuts inside and fires a cross into the area Bella Simmons arriving at the near post getting in front of her marker and putting her head on the ball directs it wide of the goal. Right from the off it looks like it’s going to be a feisty contest between the pair. 

Grace Stanley on the attack for Cambridge City, Emma Jenkins in defence for Cambridge United

  United get the ball down into the right channel win the first corner of the game. A good delivery into the area the ball falling for Bright at the far post her strike charged down the rebound racing out to Amy Howlett positioned 25 yards out her shot back in claimed by City goalkeeper, Tee Mhunduru. 

  City build on the right Simmons coming across to offer support for Charlotte Gillies, receiving the ball Simmons shoots from the top right corner of the area her low effort gathered by United goalkeeper Savannah Smith covering her near post. City pressure United at the back bodies forwards win their first corner of the game over on the right the ball played into the middle of the area headed clear by United’s Laura Baker. 

  Both sides are using the width getting their wide players involved in the action early on United breaking forwards the all into Blanchflower shifted on for Howlett her cross squared in along the top of the area Lauren Cartwright stooping into the header directs the ball in towards goal, Mhunduru right behind the ball takes it into her arms. Lauren Tomlinson at left back for City gets across to take the ball away from Blanchflower as the United striker is played in through the middle.

  Fullicks felt the full force of a Baker tackle in last season’s final and the pair come together again this time around a Baker having broken up a City attack lunges in as Fullicks picks up possession. A painful one for the City midfielder, Baker with a talking to from the referee. Fullicks after treatment is okay to continue. A free-kick for City inside the United half the ball played up into the area cleared by Kayleigh-Anne Burt.

Laura Baker about to tackle Stacey Fullicks

 A purposeful attack by City Simmons running at the United defence with the ball her shot blocked by Emma Jenkins top of the area the rebound travelling on into the box Laura Mills wants it runs on, United captain Laura Bright with a great sliding tackle to take the ball away from her. A competitive game Blanchflower running into the channels to get onto the ball a cross into the area from the right long to the far side Faith Hewitt with the shot can’t keep the ball down. 

 Charlotte Crisp with the ball through the middle for United plays it on for Blanchflower she spins away from City captain Becca Fay breaking into the box, Amy Reed coming across to challenge and deny a shooting opportunity. Carrie Bennett tackles Gillies as the City winger comes infield with the ball on the right. City press forwards Mills seeing her shot from 20 yards out right side of the area blocked the ball looping away to Stanley on the left side her header back in met by Bright the ball doesn’t go far fired back in low for Simmons six yards out her near post strike gathered by Smith.   

Cambridge City Ladies captain, Becca Fay

Entertaining the crowd are getting behind the sides, flowing football United clearing a City cross into the box one end, breaking it forwards up the other rapidly Howlett seeing her cross claimed by Mhunduru the centre of her goal. Sarah Mosley getting her head on the ball to clear for City as Howlett surges down the right again. Smith comes racing out of her area as City release Stanley through the middle charging forwards the goalkeeper slices her clearance, luckily for her Stanley momentarily looses sight of the ball players racing back, the winger picks it back up left corner of the area Smith getting back on her goes to ground the ball struck against her United able to nullify the threat.

Cambridge City Ladies, Grace Stanley

   An injury to Bright bring’s a chance of respite for both sides. Bight is allowed back on after treatment. United attack the ball fired into Blanchflower 40 yards out a drop of the shoulder and she is away in behind the City defence shooting early drills a swerving shot in Mhunduru going for it misses the ball though wide of the post. A free-kick out wide right corner for United after Howlett is fouled, the delivery long Mhunduru taking it high beyond the far post releases it quickly Mills away on the right, Gillies with her the ball crossed in Jenkins slicing the clearance, Smith coming pounces on the ball.

   GOAL! The stalemate is at last broken as United score the opening goal of the game. Have a free-kick out wide on the left inside the City half the ball is sent in long towards the far post Blanchflower closing in lets it run on for Howlett to her right a solid connection to smash her shot back across the goal and in 0-1.

Amy Howlett opens the scoring for Cambridge United WFC

The goal firing United up they press on looking for another Tomlinson winning the ball from Cartwright moving to the right. PENALTY! City looking for a quick response build on the right get an opportunity from the penalty spot as Gillies is brought down just inside the area by Burt lunging in try and take the ball from the winger. Simmons placing the ball on the spot runs in and strikes the ball Smith beaten the ball running low past her strikes the base of the post and cannons out to the left.

Cambridge City Ladies midfielder, Anna Kanz

 A spell of City pressure late in the first half Kanz winning the ball played on for Fullicks she combines with Gillies going forwards the cross in too close to the keeper Smith claiming the ball. Gillies with more good running down the right Bennett defending the corner conceded, into the area Burt clears. City come close again to levelling the score Tomlinson getting forwards with the ball into the United half a diagonal ball launched into the area a pointblank header for Simmons six yards out an excellent catch by Smith quick reactions a couple of yards between attacker and goalkeeper Smith gets a firm hold of the ball. 

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

  Plenty happening in an exciting and entertaining first half, pretty even between the sides, United getting their noses in front. City far from out of it creating plenty of opportunities running at the United defence. A penalty missed, Simmons looking a real threat in attack for City. Just one goal in it United know they have plenty of work ahead if they are to keep hold of the County Cup. 

Laura Mills on the attack for Cambridge City

The floodlights on for the 2nd half, City get the 2nd half underway, lose the ball United putting it out to Hewitt on the left wing she crosses into the area Fay clearing for City. 

GOAL! A couple of minutes gone in the 2nd half and City are back on level terms players breaking forwards Gillies on for Mills inside the area right side falling she cuts the ball back towards the six yard box Simmons on it near post sends the ball across the keeper and over the line 1-1. 

Gillies gets back to support Mosley as Hewitt looks to get in behind her on the left for United. Gillies playing the ball long for Simmons to go after she is brought down 30 yards out right side of the United goal. The delivery long to the far post a glancing header from Simmons touches a United player as it runs out for a corner. The ball into the area defended by United. Hewitt with the ball left side again her early cross in toward Howlett right of the D she shoots first time the ball wide. United make a change Cartwright coming off, Amber Cantwell coming on. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Laura Baker

  Mosley defending as Baker looks to put the ball into Blanchflower the United striker aiming to spin in behind. City have the advantage a strong spell have United penned around their penalty area. 

 GOAL! Having levelled the scores City go on to take the lead in the Invitation Cup Final of the net. Breaking up a United attack Gillies brings the ball forward through the middle sliding the ball on for Simmons her touch taking her away from her marker and shooting from the top of the area her low effort runs into the back of the net just inside the post 2-1.

United make a substitution Lauren Gibson on up top for Blanchflower. City are looking strong having started the 2nd half well renewed energy as they press on wanting another. Bennett charging down a shot from the right from Gillies as she takes the ball on down the wing has a second go past the full back this time but not Smith who claims at her near post. Gillies and Simmons look to combine centrally, Jenkins coming in to win the ball for United. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Emma Jenkins

City are on top Mills coming on with the ball into the right channel crosses from the byline the ball flashing across the face of goal runners coming in but no one can get a touch on the ball. A free-kick in a dangerous position for City right of the D 25 yards out Mosley on the ball curls in a shot towards goal Smith jumping up the ball smashes against the crossbar dropping down to the left a shot fired in, Smith already on the ground making the save on her goal line. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Stacey Fullicks

  Bright having taken a knock needs to come off for United, Teonie Peyton coming on goes into a position wide left. City’s tails are up they are dominant sense they can get more goals pulling the United back line out of shape. Gibson is pulled back as she attempts to get on through the middle a free-kick for United. Jenkins over it a good delivery in towards goal bouncing in front of Mhunduru she lays claim to the ball even as Hewitt lunging for it almost connects. A double change for City, Kanz and Stanley coming off, on come Carla Penny and Ellie Cullum. Reed winning the ball at the back for City as United look to play the ball over the top for Gibson.

Faith Hewitt on the attack for Cambridge United WFC

 GOAL! City extend their lead pressing forwards the ball on the right numbers up pressing United top of the area the ball played across to the left side in front of goal, Gillies right corner inside to Cullum she helps it on to Simmons left side her dipping shot flying into the back of the net 3-1.

A Cup Final hat-trick for Cambridge City Ladies, Bella Simmons

City bring on Bronte Rapley in place of Mosley with less than 10 minutes left to play. Fullicks back to help out at the back as Peyton gets free on the left prevents the cross coming in. Gabrielle Whitehurst comes on for United replacing Hewitt. Howlett getting back gets the ball back to Smith as Penny threatens to run in on goal. Reed with another good defensive tackle as United try to bring the ball on through the centre. Peyton with the ball deep in the left cuts the ball back in towards the byline Mhunduru concerned the ball though landing on the roof of the net. 

Fullicks is struggling with a knock comes off Emily Reed coming on for City. Blanchflower back on for United, Crisp off. Burt getting the ball back safely to her keeper as City press in attack through the middle. Reed wins the challenge against Blanchflower as Baker sends the ball on into her after winning it on halfway. Blanchflower’s ball lifted on strikes Fay in the back as the defender turns 20 yards from goal. City bring off Simmons in the closing minutes Lucy Hurst on. Look comfortable United rushing their passes in their bid to try and get a goal back late on. Lively late on emotions running high City closing everything down. City celebrate everyone running onto the pitch as the final whistle blows and they win this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 3-1 Cambridge United WFC

  A strong 2nd half performance from Cambridge City getting themselves back on level terms early on. Went on to become deserved winners dominating the game pressing the ball defending strongly and building quickly through the middle. Simmons could have had a hat-trick in the first half instead waited for the 2nd half 3 well taken goals too to comeback from being a goal down after the 1st half. Cambridge United’s long hold on the Invitation Cup coming to an end were outplayed 2nd half.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Picking this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is fairly straight forwards although their were plenty of other good performances from Cambridge City too, Amy Reed good in the back line. Charlotte Gillies a threat on the right supported by Laura Mills. Stacey Fullicks strong in the midfield. Scoring a hat-trick in a Cup Final though is pretty special and for that and the constant threat she posed Cambridge United all game the award goes to Bella Simmons.

Cambridge City Ladies 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Winners

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies winning the 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

  My thanks to everyone who assisted me this evening and good to catch up with a everyone not many games left to watch now.

Norfolk Finals Day – FC Sprowston Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Norfolk Ladies League Cup 

Sunday 6th May

 On to the 2nd of today’s Finals in Norfolk the Ladies League Cup, FC Sprowston Ladies newly crowned Champion’s of Norfolk Women’s Division Two taking on Bungay Town Ladies who are looking to retain the League Cup having won it for the 1st time last season.

  The 2nd time a Sprowston side has featured in the Norfolk Women’s Finals day. FC Sprowston Ladies formed at the start of the season. The two sides are run as two different teams not a 1st & Reserves/Development. FC Sprowston Ladies building on a club that has a strong youth programme. Have dominated Norfolk Women’s Division Two this season with a 100% in both league and cup it looked as though they would go all the way to the League Cup Final with that record intact. But alas no they have been beaten once in the league this season by eventual runners-up Beccles Town Ladies who pushed them all the way. The league finished FC Sprowston Ladies are the Champions and come into the League Cup Final looking to do a double against a side that are thinking exactly the same thing!

  Whilst FC Sprowston Ladies are the Norfolk Women’s Division Two Champion’s, Bungay Town Ladies are on the verge of winning the Division One title having a 3 point lead over 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies. A win in their final league game at home to Gorleston FC Ladies this coming Thursday would almost certainly see them become champions. Sprowston having 2 games left can still equal their points tally Bungay Town Ladies however have the advantage of a larger goal difference. Are keen to successfully retain the League Cup this afternoon.

Road to the Final

  A bye in the 1st Round of the League Cup for FC Sprowston Ladies. Bungay Town Ladies began the defence of the League Cup with a huge 10-0 win at home to Division Two side Freethorpe Ladies. 

10-0 was the winning score for FC Sprowston Ladies as they cruised into the quarter finals beating fellow Division Two side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the 2nd Round. Bungay Town Ladies were away to fellow Division one side Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves won the game 6-1 to reach the last 8.

  A much closer result for FC Sprowston Ladies in the quarter finals at home to fellow Division Two side Tavern Ladies the sides contesting a 7 goal thriller, FC Sprowston Ladies edging it 4-3. Bungay Town Ladies were at home to the young guns of Bure Valley Wildcats the Division Two newcomers on the wrong end of a 14-0 loss. Have since gone on to turn their season completely around with a strong finish. 

Into the last 4, FC Sprowston Ladies were away to Stalham Town Ladies. Another close game a narrow 2-1 victory seeing FC Sprowston into the final. For Bungay Town Ladies it was a repeat of last season’s League Cup Final away to Thorpe United Ladies. 2-1 to Bungay Town in that final, it was another close one with Bungay Town edging it 4-3 to reach a 2nd successive league cup final.

  If anything it’s hotter than the previous final the sun high in the sky. Retreated to the shady side of the ground to watch the game.

FC Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Joanna Pipe, Megan Belsey, Annika Skoog, Lois Irving, Katie Fray, Rebecca Kirby, Nicole Read (C), Melissa Belsey, Georgia Potter, Jo Davey & Harriet Gregory. Subs – Rosie Wickenden, Laura Jenkins & Charmaine Storey.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Jody Wells, Kelly Collins (C), Ella Swift, Charlotte Power, Ella Hindley, Teo Ilie, Selina Rowland, Nicky Hazell, Lauren Purling, Emily Leach & Samantha Walker. Subs – Arianna Lloyd & Eva Evans.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 FC Sprowston to kick-off the league Cup Final wearing orange shirts with black shorts and socks with Bungay lined up opposite wearing an all Royal Blue kit. An early attack for FC Sprowston the ball played out to Harriet Gregory moving into the right channel a low shot drilled in on the angle, the ball spinning off Bungay goalkeeper Jody Wells getting down at her near post the corner conceded. The ball played in towards the near post Bungay get the ball clear. 

  Centre back Katie Fray defends well up against Bungay attack Emily Leach as she has a run at the FC Sprowston defence after receiving the ball. Up the other end 3 Bungay defenders converge on Gregory as she makes a central run towards goal. Bungay press the attack Lauren Purling running up the right wing as Selina Rowland feeds her the ball whips a cross into the box, goes long the ball cleared by Megan Belsey for FC Sprowston. 

FC Sprowston’s Katie Fray clearing the ball as Emily Leah closes her down

  Purling is clipped as she tries to get away on the right, the free-kick awarded halfway inside the FC Sprowston half. Leach to play the ball into the box the ball knocked down into the mix is pushed out to Rowland top of the area, shifts the ball to her right and shoots the ball angling into the top right corner, Joanne Pipe in the FC Sprowston goal with an excellent save to get the ball away for the corner. 

  Early in the game Bungay have the bulk of the attack, Samantha Walker running onto the ball through the middle strikes the ball from the top of the D her effort running narrowly wide of the post. Lois Irving steps forwards turning to charge down Walker’s next strike the ball spinning away for a throw on the right. Melissa Belsey tracking Purling into the right corner defend conceding the corner kick. Walker to take the inswinging ball towards the far post Purling getting her header on target FC Sprowston have defenders back on the post the ball won and cleared.

FC Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Kirby

   Walker driving forwards into the box with the ball run wide to the byline right side cuts a cross/shot back in cut out by Pipe back to Walker sends the rebound back across the face of goal, Megan Belsey clearing at the far post. FC Sprowston are working hard at the back to deny Bungay the midfield pressing the ball, in attack Jo Davey pressures Charlotte Power at the back as she plays the ball back to the keeper. Gregory with a strike from distance put wide for FC Sprowston as she runs inside with the ball from the right.

  Walker looks to be in the clear into the area from the left side as she is given the ball following a throw-in. Irving with a great burst of pace gets back on the striker closing her down as she shoots the ball tame as it is safely collected by Pipe. FC Sprowston captain Nicole Read winning the ball in the middle is fouled as she looks to carry it forwards. The set-piece dealt with by Ella Hindley at the back for Bungay. Purling is fouled on the right beside the box as she tries to bring the ball inside. Walker to fire the ball in across goal, FC Sprowston clearing the threat. 

Bungay’s Lauren Purling with FC Sprowston’s Melissa Belsey

  Purling is busy on the right at the start of the match getting forwards her cross from the byline cut back to the top of the area Walker behind it takes the shot on the volley sends the ball up over the bar. Bungay continue to dominate the attack, FC Sprowston working hard to defend aren’t getting the ball into their own attackers 25 minutes played. Nicky Hazell puts the ball in over the top of the FC Sprowston defence, Leach running into the area, Pipe out to claim well as she is closed down. Melissa Belsey sliding in to deny Purling a cross as she surges up the right wing. 

   Hazell bringing the ball on plays the pass inside from the left into Leach, Hazell bombs on into the area Leach sending her the return pass, Hazell putting it inside for Walker in the middle a clever flick to turn the ball goalwards, Pipe is well placed moving to grab hold of the ball. FC Sprowston attacks are few and far between getting forwards on the left win a free-kick on the byline a chance for players to come forwards, the ball played across the face of the goal dropping far post inviting no one can supply a final touch however as it runs wide. 

Bungay Town Ladies, Teo Ilie

Fray with the interception to stop Leach getting through on goal as Teo Ilie and Rowland combine through the middle for Bungay. Bungay keep pressing forwards Walker picking the ball up top of the area, left side drills a shot in the keeper beaten, the ball striking the base of the far post the ball rebounding out across goal Annika Skoog 1st to it for FC Sprowston clearing for a corner with Walker looking to close her down.

Bungay’s Lauren Purling & Annika Skoog for FC Sprowston challenge for the ball

   Skoog gets in front of Walker to get the ball back into Pipe as Rowland tries to play her in on goal. Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half. Rebecca Kirby winning the ball for FC Sprowston in the middle plays it on for Georgia Potter on the right, Bungay captain Kelly Collins quick to close her down. Ella Swift getting forwards from right back for Bungay plays the ball forwards Rowland with the run, good defending from Fray as she closes the midfielder down.

Half-time FC Sprowston Ladies 0-0 Bungay Town Ladies

  Goalless at the break, Bungay have had almost all of the attack and kept FC Sprowston penned in their own half for large portions of the game, have rode their luck a little chances going begging. For all that FC Sprowston as much as they are defending aren’t panicking, The defence coping with most intended through balls, Kirby and Read battling for the ball in midfield. A solid defensive base just can’t get anything going in attack. Bungay moving forwards well, Power and Hindley untroubled at centreback. Rowland and Ilie covering alot of ground.

Bungay Town Ladies, Ella Hindley

 It’s Bungay to kick off the 2nd half. Are on the attack straight away Rowland bringing the ball on through the middle out to Purling on the wing heads the ball inside towards the area with Walker closing in, Irving getting her head on the ball first to clear for FC Sprowston. Read closes down Rowland as she lines up to shoot from 25 yards out. Skoog strong up against Walker as she tries to break through the FC Sprowston defence on her right. Megan Belsey stepping forwards from the FC Sprowston defence to challenge Hazell as she drives forwards from the left.

Bungay Town Ladies, Samantha Walker

 FC Sprowston with a change Davey coming off, Laura Jenkins coming off in attack. The substitute getting hold of the ball straight away and having a run at the Bungay defence Hindley putting in the challenge to regain possession. Building through the middle Ille on for Rowland into Walker she turns and sets Leach up as she breaks in behind the FC Sprowston defence, shoots from 25 yards out her effort rising up over the crossbar. Despite the one sided nature of the game it is an intriguing contest FC Sprowston defending yes but doing so with confidence… and the longer they can keep Bungay out it’ll come down to whether they can create an opportunity up the other end.

Bungay Town Ladies, Emily Leach

   Hazell with a powerful run forwards on the left sends a diagonal ball into the area, Fray the 1st to it for FC Sprowston. Rowland getting forwards to support Hazell on the left wing nutmegs her marker the ball on for Hazell cutting inside unleashes a shot curling in on goal, Pipe getting behind it with a comfortable catch. Read charges down Ille as the midfield lines up a shot 20 yards out. FC Sprowston make a change Davey returning to the pitch Potter coming off.

Megan Belsey with a double interception as Bungay try to play the ball through into the box from the left. Read with a great tackle inside the box  to stop Leach getting a shot away as Walker squeezes the ball into her from the top left hand corner of the area. 

  GOAL! At last the deadlock is broken, Bungay finding the back of the net at last to take the lead in the League Cup Final. Rowland getting the goal bringing the ball on looking for options ahead of her right of the goal 25 yards out isn’t closed down the opportunity presenting itself she doesn’t hesitate puts her foot through the ball plenty of power behind the shot it flies past Pipe before she can react and into the goal beyond 0-1.

Selina Rowland with the strike to put Bungay Town Ladies in the lead in the League Cup Final

FC Sprowston work the ball from right to left off a throw in, Kirby getting forwards to support Jenkins the ball the ball helped across into Read, lays it forwards for Melissa Belsey breaking towards the box left side, Wells can come off her line to claim the ball. Potter returns to the action for FC Sprowston, Megan Belsey off. Bungay too make a switch Hazell coming off Arianna Lloyd coming on Purling moving over to the left wing.

FC Sprowston’s Laura Jenkins

Read get’s the ball forwards support from Melissa Belsey, Ille getting in on her to win the tackle. Ilie with a great run forwards slides the ball on for Walker, doesn’t connect cleanly with her snap shot, the ball running harmlessly into Pipe. Fray conceding the corner for FC Sprowston as Purling cuts into the area from the left. The delivery into the top of the area Read half clearing for FC Sprowston, Hindley looks to latch onto the ball strike from distance her touch limited Pipe can come to gather the ball.

  Into the closing moments of the game FC Sprowston have a free-kick on halfway the ball up towards the area, Bungay comfortable in defence. The final whistle blows and Bungay Town ladies celebrate as they successfully defend the Norfolk Ladies League Cup.   

Full time FC Sprowston Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

   Bungay Town Ladies eventually getting the goal 2nd half enough in the end to see them win the final. Dominating the attack no doubt had a earlier shot found it’s way into the back of the net they may well have gone on to score more. As it was they didn’t as alot of credit goes to FC Sprowston for the work they did defensively where on the back foot for much of the game but confident in their work ethic and ability. Created very little attack wise largely content to stop Bungay at the other end. Easy to see why they are Division Two Champion’s a hard side to break down. Bungay have players all over the pitch who can create an opportunity in attack or set up another could have easily gotten frustrated as the chances went begging but kept at it the chance finally coming. It was an intriguing contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Once again there were several contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A tremendous effort from FC Sprowston Ladies to keep Bungay Town Ladies at bay, Katie Fray working tirelessly in the heart of their defence. Teo Ilie covering alot of ground in the middle of the park for Bungay Town Ladies as too did her midfield partner, and her goal nudges her into pole position so today’s Player of the Match is Selina Rowland.

Bungay Town Ladies, 2017/18 NWGFL League Cup Winners

Congratulation’s to Bungay Town Ladies on successful retaining the Norfolk Women’s League Cup

  FC Sprowston Ladies made them work for the win and kept the score at 0-0 for so long, collected their league title award after the match, congratulation’s to them too on a fantastic season.

FC Sprowston Ladies, NWGFL Division Two, Champions

  Costessey Sports Ladies were victorious in the Ladies 7’s Final beating Hellesdon Belles 5-2 to lift the trophy. A special mention to for today’s match officials, Lorraine Catchpole, Julia Robathan and Shaun Catchpole officiating in both of today’s 11 a side finals Shaun Catchpole also in the middle for the 7’s Final.

A long but enjoyable day a cup final double sees me complete 8 games in the end in 11 days. Such as it is this time of the season. Not long left before the season finishes, another cup final double coming up next Sunday the ERWFL this time around. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams. To the NWGFL committee too for putting on a great occasion.