Tag Archives: Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Match Report – Royston Town Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Sunday 30th August

ERWFL Premier Division

Finally! Time to get back at it, hadn’t planned on taking a nearly 3 month hiatus but life throws things your way sometimes that you just have to take stock, step back. Primarily the death of my grandfather just after the season ended, passed away at 92 years of age, always a fit and active man loved his garden and tinkering away in his workshop, the past year age finally catching up with him found it tough, lived a great life nonetheless. Took it’s toll had alot to do the family coming first.

So I come into the new season as rusty as hell, haven’t even watched a pre-season game and am nervous about jumping in cold writing a report, but this is the 650th so I’m thinking it’ll all come back to me, lots of catching up to do, starting with a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, a trip down into Hertfordshire to watch Royston Town Women taking on Norfolk side, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women.

The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) representing tiers 5 & 6 0f the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. Always competitive with strong talent on show and improving all the time. A new logo for the league this season as for the regional league unified as the FA looks to strengthen the pyramid, the ERWFL up to it’s full compliment of 36 sides across 3 divisions, a 12 strong Premier Division representing tier 5 with a Division One North and South representing tier 6.

Royston Town Women one of the longest established sides playing in tier 5 in the East. A strong showing in recent season’s as the Hertfordshire side looked to make a concerted effort to win the title and achieve promotion to the FAWNL above. Not easy to do when only one side an win promotion. Finishing 4th, 3rd and then runners-up in the past 3 season’s winning the county cup for the 1st and 2nd time along the way, manager Lewis Endacott celebrating his 350th game in charge for the club last weekend in their 1-1 away to newcomers Histon.

Enter the new season with a high turn over of players, having assembled a large playing squad have seen several move on, some key performers too in the likes of Laura Mills and Ria Badel and Amy Reed. Retain a solid squad with proven experience and have been busy recruiting too over the summer with Lily Hall, Katie Hayes and Becky Charter all returning to the club. Goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves joining having had spells with St Albans and Stevenage. Defender Katie Boyle also joining from Stevenage. Madison Coloma has previous experience with Luton. Aoife Loriga moves to the club from Ware United. Mia Gilbert stepping up from the youth set-up with midfielders, Phoebe Newman and Izzy Teague also coming in. A Hannah Bodily strike sealing a 1-0 win on the opening day at home to Wroxham Women, drew 1-1 last weekend away to Histon with Rachel Dugdale on target to lay 4th in the fledgling Premier Division table.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women enter their 3rd season competing in the ERWFL Premier Division and just their 4th overall competing in the regional set-up. Winning promotion from Division One North in their debut season, went on to consolidate their spot in tier 5 in the following campaign. A strong showing last season, never looking in danger of being pulled into the bottom half of the table securing a comfortable 6th placed finish as well as reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final played at Carrow Road for the 1st time. Looking to grow year on year.

Enter this season like Royston with a host of players leaving the squad some experienced heads too, other moving to university or other work commitments. Have always been a club going back to their days as Sprowston that has promoted and been driven by youth, captain Calista Tink one of the few left at the club from those early days. Strong in Norfolk waited till the environment was right to make the step up into the ERWFL the club as a whole growing adding experienced players along the way. Begin this season with a crippling injury list with as many as 8 potential starters missing from the todays squad, a few long term injuries others picked up in pre-season. Not ideal, some younger players needing to step up faster than development would have suited. Have added the vastly experienced midfield talent, Becky Russell to the squad, one on the best in the middle in on the ball in the county at Thetford Town Ladies last season following the birth of her 2nd child. A host of youth talent coming in plenty of potential as they look to get through these early games get numbers back to bolster the squad. Starting with 2 defeats will be keen to get some points on the board.

Garden Walk the venue for this afternoons match, a busy ground hosting the Royston team surrounded by housing compact very much has a community feel about it. The club getting behind their women’s side, had over 500 in the ground recently for their pre-season friendly against Arsenal. The clubhouse and bar open, along with the food truck. A small seated covered stand with some terracing dotted around is a wide grass pitch with a distinct slope, looking in great shape despite the heatwaves over the summer. The weather remains pleasant towards the end of August, the rain coming at last (had hardly any in Norfolk for the past 6 weeks) A few clouds around but any rain likely to stay away until after the final whistle.

Royston Town Women starting XI – Lauren Reeves, Katie Boyle, Dilly Haslehurst, Amy Houghton (C), Kiaya Payne, Hannah Bodily, Erin Davies, Phoebe Newman, Annie Georgiou, Izzy Teague & Katie Hayes. Subs – Amy Martin, Lily Hall, Ailsa Heal, Madison Coloma & Aoife Loriga.

Royston Town Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Shayna Kendle-Johnson, Rosie George, Holly Walker, Gracie Pollard, Poppy Francis, Orla Riches, Becky Russell (C), Jess Armstrong, Natasha Youngs, Alexia Cooke & Lauren Baxter. Subs – Izzy Hutching, Maya Ellis, Sophie McIntosh, Chloe Shipman and Calista Tink.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Covered Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women versus Royston Town Women on virtually the same date a year ago in my opening ERWFL game of the 2025/26 season, Royston narrowly winning 2-1. Just 9 players from that game across both squads feature in todays squads, 5 for Royston and 4 for Dussindale & Hellesdon that is quite some turn over in just 12 months, but they aren’t the only clubs out there and it does happen everywhere. So you could argue we have two sides still getting to know each other for sure. Amy Houghton captaining Royston now as she was a year ago, Becky Russell donning the armband for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Calista Tink recovering from injury.

Captains, Becky Russell and Amy Houghton with today’s match officials

The players lead out onto the pitch by today’s referee, Mike Davis. A switch of ends before kick-off with Royston attacking down the slope to get the game underway wearing their home colours white shirts and socks with back shorts. Dussindale & Hellesdon lined up opposite in their away strip and all light blue coloured kit. The hosts clipping the ball into the right wing as players surge forwards to attack, full back Holly Walker rising well to get her head on the ball knock it back into the middle, Royston rushing on to press the ball going left, Rosie George operating at right back for the visitors at the start defending seeing the ball out for a throw in.

Both sides closing the ball down as Royston look to get players on, Phoebe Newman tackling to win the ball back central passing to Annie Georgiou getting up on the left, her cross not finding it’s mark in the box, cleared by the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence. Competitive through the middle, Newman getting stuck in linking up with Erin Davies the ball over the top seeing attacker, Katie Hayes just break in behind too early, the flag raised for offside, a close call.

Royston midfielder Phoebe Newman

Walker fouled for Dussindale & Hellesdon as she looks to get on with the ball on the left exchanging passes with Jess Armstrong ahead of her. The set-piece left of the centre circle played up to the top of the Royston area by Walker dropping into the mix Royston heading it clear. The hosts looking to break quickly get the ball on the move players racing on through the middle the Hayes looking to cushion the ball down off her head into the path of Newman as Izzy Teague carries it forwards, Orla Riches putting the tackle in against her for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Jess Armstrong

Armstrong getting hold of the ball on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon, driving up the wing sends a diagonal ball on into the channel for Alexia Cooke to chase, Dilly Haslehurst moving in to close her down defending for Royston. Royston lively early on if anything need to calm down a little rushing their forward passes, showing good intent but giving the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence the opportunity to get the ball clear are however quick to win the 2nd ball back in the middle keep the pressure on. Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Becky Russell snapping in to get hold of the ball trying to release Natasha Youngs out on the right, Georgiou doubling up with Kiaya Payne in defence to regain possession for Royston.

Another strong run by Walker on Dussindale & Hellesdon’s left, sees them win the first corner of the game. The delivery hit long across the box Royston can see it out for a throw on the opposite side.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Holly Walker

GOAL! Having threatened such a move earlier Royston are quick to get the ball on through the middle, Erin Davies on the ball, lobs it over the defence to see Izzy Teague burst in behind through the middle taking the ball on into the top of the area, one on one with goalkeeper Shayna Kendle-Johnson, strikes her shot early to wrong foot the keeper and send the ball past her into the back of the net to open the scoring and her account for the season 1-0.

Izzy Teague breaking clear to fire Royston into the lead

The hosts into the lead with 10 minutes on the clock. Newman continuing to put herself about in the middle for Royston pressing on finding Georgiou on the left, claims she is fouled play waved on as George with support from Gracie Pollard in defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon get the ball clear. Russell finding Armstrong on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Walker bombing on to get up with her taking the ball on pressing for the by-line her cross turned into the near post hooked clear by Royston captain, Amy Houghton.

Royston captain, Amy Houghton

Teague proactive looking to get on support Hayes in attack for Royston, making a run through the middle as Hayes aims to play the pass from Hannah Bodily into her feet, Poppy Francis getting her foot on the ball to intercept at the back for the visitors. Winning the initial clearance however Dussindale & Hellesdon aren’t able to keep the ball for long, Bodily, Davies and Newman all snapping after it to regain possession keep the hosts on the front foot.

Newman getting up on the right to press the ball nips in to steal possession play it on for Teague chasing it to the by-line her low cross squared into the six yard box, Kendle-Johnson down sharply to stretch an arm out push the ball away from her goal, Pollard getting it clear before Hayes can react.

Georgiou and Teague providing good attacking support left and right for Royston pushing Dussindale & Hellesdon back working hard to win the ball back aren’t finding their own attackers too often Riches lunging in gets it on for Lauren Baxter, Bodily is quick to close her down as Haslehurst forces her out to the right. The ball given away at the back, by the visitors, Teague latching onto it aiming to release Hayes, the defence holding their nerve catching her offside.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Orla Riches

The pace of the game seeing a few niggling free-kicks being given away. George bringing the ball up to halfway on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon putting it on for Youngs on the flank, takes it on pushing up the line, Payne getting onto her shoulder looking to defend playing the ball off Youngs behind for the goal kick.

GOAL! Royston extend their lead getting players up well overloading the left seeing a throw won high, dropped into edge of the box, knocked forwards to see Georgiou escape in behind to whip a cross in along the face of goal attackers rushing in Hayes central runs on for full back Boyle clear at the far post connects with the ball at close range to fire it high into the roof of the net to score he 1st goal for Royston and make it 2-0.

Katie Boyle with her 1st Royston goal to double the lead

A blow for Dussindale & Hellesdon a few nerves at the back under pressure with Royston quick to close the ball down with 23 minutes played. A goalkeeping miscue presenting the ball straight to Hayes inside the D, her unexpected touch diverting the ball back over the keeper drops wide past the left post cleared upfield by Pollard. Again it doesn’t stick, Bodily on for Davies out to the left with Georgiou the ball squared in across the top of the area Boyle rushing in to meet it 20 yards out right of the D, seeing her snap shot blocked by Francis turned behind for the corner kick.

Royston’s Annie Georgiou

The corner delivery curled in long past the far post George getting her head on it to clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon, regained outside the area a shot driven on on goal, bodies in the way the ball striking Boyle drops down into the six yard box, the visitors scrambling it clear. Royston applying all the pressure looking likely to add to their tally, Dussindale & Hellesdon with their backs up against the wall, scrapping for the ball working hard at the back.

Midfielder, Erin Davies

Teague getting hold of the ball coming into the left channel for Royston creating issues bursting on into the area fires a cross in central, Boyle arriving sees her shot blocked turned right behind for the corner kick. Another ball curled in through the six yard box, Newman getting up to put her head on it far side, drops the ball just over the bar onto the roof of the net. All Royston at the moment, Dussindale & Hellesdon pressed back with limited options in attack. Boyle bringing the ball on right side Walker with the blocking tackle, Teague coming away with the ball into the corner turns her cross behind.

Boyle into Teague right holding off her marker escapes to clip a cross into the top of the area, Hayes looking to hit it on the volley screws the attempt wide of the mark. Russell getting about the middle to try and get the ball back for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Riches in with her the pass out to Youngs cut out by Bodily looks to get it on through the middle up to Hayes, intercepted by Francis.

Hannah Bodily

Teague busy getting up to support Hayes in attack the ball turned into Georgiou left side into the box closed down by Pollard before the ball can be released. Francis in well to defend too get the ball back to her keeper as Teague looks to get hold of a pass from Newman. Hayes fouled by Walker 40 yards out, Houghton up to take the set-piece the ball flighted into the area taken cleanly by Kendle-Johnson unperturbed by Georgiou rushing in to try and meet it.

Russell fighting hard for the ball in the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon, but so too is Newman for Royston looking to play the through ball on for Hayes the past cut out well by Pollard. Into the final 5 minutes on the first half Royston coming on well looking to add to their tally. Youngs on the right taking the ball on getting help from George, the pass put forwards, Georgiou tracking back to help in defence lunging in to make the tackle.

Boyle linking up with Teague on the right sending the diagonal pass in central to Hayes positioned top of the D, looks to turn on the ball spin into the area, Pollard in close attendance nicking the ball off her toe to stop the threat. However Royston are once again quick to regain the ball Bodily central sending it back into Hayes in attack moving right, lines up the shot Pollard throwing herself into the block the ball turned off the defender for a throw in.

Gracie Pollard

GOAL! Into stoppage time in the first Royston keeping the pressure on till the end getting the ball on the left played on for Georgiou on into Hayes making a run into the area left corner holding off a defending to turn inside to release her shot and put the ball across the keeper into the back of the net to score her 1st of the season and put the hosts into a 3 goal lead, 3-0.

Katie Hayes with the strike to fire Royston into a 3 goal lead on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Royston Town Women 3-0 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Little time left in the first half for Dussindale & Hellesdon to mount a reply as the referee blows up for the half-time interval. A 3rd goal right at the end of the half putting Royston in complete control of the match as they head back into the changing rooms. A strong first half showing got forwards well, winning the 2nd balls constantly to keep the pressure on. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a horrendous injury list forced to play players out of position have had to battle hard and finding it hard to get the ball to stick in attack have found little relief up the other end, Royston goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves as yet untroubled. A mountain to climb if they are to get anything from the game in the 2nd half.

Both sides making a change at the break, Ailsa Heal coming on for Royston replacing Georgiou out on the left. Midfielder, Chloe Shipman only just returning from injury herself for Dussindale & Hellesdon coming on dropping into defence replacing Youngs with Francis over to the left to support Walker. The visitors attacking down the slope now kicking off the 2nd half, the sky clouding up, the ball played forwards out to the right, Royston moving into get hold of it release substitute Heal out on the wing up the left delivering a cross into the near post, catch low by Kendle-Johnson.

Royston getting players up Bodily stealing into the box left of goal, Russell tracking back with her getting in the block as she goes to pull the trigger, the ball not clear Bodily after the rebound fired in at the keeper, Kendle-Johnson down getting something on it to take the sting out of the ball as it nevertheless spins on beyond her threatening to roll over the line, George across quickly to clear the ball for the corner kick.

Royston midfielder Hannah Bodily

The delivery whipped into the near post Dussindale & Hellesdon have plenty back to clear the threat. Hayes taking the ball on from Newman through the middle sending it on to Heal cutting in from the left, takes on the 20 yard strike on the angle sending her shot in across the keeper wide beyond the far post.

Teague onto the ball on Royston’ right pressing forwards, Francis closing her down, Walker back to sliding in too take the ball, the ball clipped into the middle the free-kick given away awarded to Royston players moving up to the top of the area as Houghton looks to send the ball into the mix, Walker getting her head on it to clear for the visitors. Walker and George looking to try and get on better to support the attack in the 2nd half George linking up with Armstrong ahead of her, Payne with the tackle the ball out for the throw.

Kiaya Payne

George being kept busy in defence too with Hayes finding Heal out on the left with the pass gets her foot in to take the ball out of play deny the cross. Walker on the drive carrying the ball on up Dussindale & Hellesdon’s left, Boyle tracking her run preventing the cross. The hosts quick to turn play around on up through the middle releasing Hayes to take the ball on to the top of the area left of the D, Kendle-Johnson rushing out to slide in make the blocking save at her feet, the ball popping loose to the left, Hayes attempting to latch onto it get a shot away, Pollard can leave it as it runs wide of the upright.

Shayna Kendle-Johnson

Royston with opportunities in the 2nd half getting the ball wide to Heal turning inside 25 yards out shifting the ball between her feet before striking a curling right foot shot wide of the top corner. Dussindale & Hellesdon continue to battle, Shipman intercepting a cross from Teague on the right, the ball played into Russell, finds Cooke tries to release Armstrong on the right the Royston defence stepping up just in time to catch her offside.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Becky Russell

Bodily getting forwards more in the 2nd half for Royston breaking into the top of the area as Teague plays it into her, under pressure snatching at her shot put on low stopped by the keeper. Walker taking the ball on from Riches left side taking on the shot from all of 25 yards out her effort on target Reeves right behind it to claim the ball. Walker then taking a ball in the face from a defensive clearance from close range. A stinging blow but is soon back up on her feet. Royston making another change with Davies coming off, Lily Hall entering the field.

Russell working hard getting across the pitch to try and win the ball break up play finding Armstrong right side is pulled back by Payne winning the free-kick. Walker to send it into the box from deep, Payne rising highest to get her head on the ball knocks it behind for a corner kick. Having rode out a strong Royston start to the 2nd half, Dussindale & Hellesdon are beginning to find a little momentum in attack, Walker and Russell both getting forwards the latter finding George right side pushing on attempts the through ball on for Armstrong, Payne in to defend against her for the hosts.

Riches in to charge down a strike from Teague right channel as she lines one up from 25 yards out. Royston getting another free-kick on halfway as Dussindale & Hellesdon make another change, out on the right with Armstrong coming off for, Izzy Hutching sees George move forwards into a more familiar attacking role. Houghton to play the free-kick from just inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half up into the area across to the far post, Teague pulling free looking to turn strike the ball on the half volley, closed down by Pollard.

Royston’s Lily Hall

Baxter winning the ball central as Royston look to advance through the middle, Newman snapping back in to regain possession, Walker cutting the pass out as she looks to play Teague on up the right.

Lauren Baxter

Hutching right side playing the ball inside to Russell 25 yards out seeing the ball across her takes on the shot driven in low straight at the keeper. Midway through the 2nd half Royston with another substitution, Hayes making way with Madison Coloma coming on. Shipman defending at the hear post heading the ball away as Teague fires it in from the right. Coloma taking the ball left plays it forwards into Heal attacking the left channel, Pollard defending the ball put behind for the corner. George back to defend the corner winning the ball and carrying it out of defence looking to gain ground on the left, Haslehurst and Payne converging to close the ball down take it out for the throw.

Lily Hall with Rosie George

The throw worked in across the top of the area, Russell can’t get her half volley away before being closed by the Royston defence. Russell pushing on to win the ball linking up with Hutching on the right the substitute taking it up the line before whipping a cross into the six yard box, Houghton tracking back getting her leg high to cut the cross out, Reeves across to throw out an arm prevent it going for the corner despite Dussindale & Hellesdon’s appeals.

The game opening up a little with the changes being make Cooke pressing well on the right to force the ball out for a throw. Into Russell looks to combine with Hutching, Payne tackling to send the ball out for another throw. Haslehurst with the ball right played on for Teague looks to pick out Coloma inside, Shipman defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon. George out wide clips a shot in on goal wide of the top corner. Into the final 15 minutes Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change Cooke coming off on comes Maya Ellis.

Hall playing the ball into Teague as she goes past her on the overlap on the left flashes a cross in along the six yard box, just behind Heal making a central run. Bodily fouled inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half presenting her side with a free-kick left of the circle.

GOAL! Houghton to whip a high ball into the crowd of players set up at the far post dropping down into the mix, Dussindale & Hellesdon fail to clear it as the ball pops loose for Teague wide on the near post close on goal to drive a shot in hard and low past the keeper to score her 2nd of the game an make it 4-0.

Izzy Teague adding a 4th goal for Royston late in the game

Teague coming off soon after her 2nd goal being replaced by Aoife Loriga. Dussindale & Hellesdon holding out from conceding a further go until the latter stages of the 2nd half receive a further blow as Pollard is hurt in a heavy 50/50 challenge with Hall, coming off the worst as Hall breaks away with the ball, credit to the Royston bench quick to alert to referee to the injured player, the trainer on quickly but Pollard is in alot of pain and needs to come off, another injury blow for the visitors as she is helped off the pitch, Youngs coming back on.

Shipman getting onto the ball at the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon with a good ball through to George up in attack, Haslehurst closing her down quickly to intercept well for the hosts. George holding the ball up in attack as Walker sends it into her, Haslehurst diving in with the challenge as she looks to cut inside work room for the shot. Into stoppage time Royston with another opportunity for Houghton to send a free-kick into the box from deep, a looping ball in on goal, Kendle-Johnson taking it cleanly into her gloves.

Full time Royston Town Women 4-0 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

The final whistle blows and Royston win the game 4-0 to make it 7 points from their opening 3 games lifting them up to 2nd in the early ERWFL Premier Division table. Dussindale & Hellesdon falling to a 3rd consecutive defeat remain bottom, hardly the start they were hoping to make but with their injuries knew it wasn’t going to be easy, will hope to get a few back and dig themselves out of trouble. Royston getting on top early in the game winning the ball, especially in the 2nd phase to keep players up in attacking areas opening the scoring in the 10th minute going onto add two more before half-time looked in control. Making a good start to the 2nd half were a little wasteful with their chances in the 2nd period but as the game opened up late on Teague broke clear from a free-kick to extend the lead. Dussindale & Hellesdon battled hard throughout, were on the back foot for much of the first half, rallied a little in the 2nd finding some forward momentum as the game opened up but never found the break through to apply pressure too the Royston back line.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season, as more than often the case a few contenders for this one with several good performances to mention. Firstly for Dussindale & Hellesdon it was a tough afternoon but they fought hard, captain Becky Russell leading by example getting about the pitch too win the ball trying to give her side something going forwards. Gracie Pollard with some vital tackles, Rosie George and Holly Walker preferring more advanced roles doing well in defence. Royston with a strong performance in midfield and attack. Katie Boyle in defence getting forwards well to add numbers to the attack with several useful tackles, on hand to score the 2nd goal. Erin Davies and Hannah Bodily winning the 2nd balls throughout in midfield. Joined by Phoebe Newman who got stuck in well to win the ball keep Royston on the front foot with some useful link up play. The award goes to Izzy Teague, scoring 2 goals caused Dussindale & Hellesdon alot of problems driving with the ball and her link up play with Katie Hayes ready to receive the ball and found some good positions.

Good to be back at it at last, 650 match reports up. It did indeed come back to me even if I still have alot of catching up to do. My thanks as always to both clubs for their help with the team details, up and running… ish.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Sunday 19th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

sponsored by Harrod Sport

Into the New Year, which means we’re into the business end of the various county cup competitions across the East, with most into the quarter final stage. Several tasty ties in the last 8 of those competitions too, none more so than in Norfolk and the all ERWFL Premier Division clash between Wroxham Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women.

Both sides receiving a bye to the quarter final stage of the competition.

Wroxham Women reaching the final of the competition for the 1st time in their history last season. getting to play at Carrow Road. Missing out to Norwich City FC, will be aiming to repeat the run this season, but know they have a tough quarter final ahead of them. Has been a frustrating season so far this season, with a number of games postponed and 2 abandonment’s, which has left them down in 10th position, but like most of the sides in the bottom half of the table have games in hand and the potential to push for a top half finish. Injuries playing their part too are the draw specialists in the league, with 5 of their 9 league games ended all square to date.

Hannah Fuller, Wroxham’s star striker often prolific in front of goal again top scorer so far this season with 12 goals from her 14 appearances. A good return from defender, Chelsea Clarke too, netting 8 goals so far this campaign. Captain, Becky Russell recently announcing she is pregnant with her 2nd child sees vice captain Tigi Robson taking on the captain’s armband.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women, piping Harpenden Town Women to the ERWFL Division One North title last season as they stepped up to regional football for the 1st time in their history to win promotion to the Premier Division (step 5). Very sadly the club has loss one of it’s founder coaches with Andy Hutchin passing away to cancer last year, with the club since it’s youth beginning with Sprowston, was a likeable and well thought member of the woman’s football community in Norfolk with his whole family involved in the club, very sadly missed.

Winning promotion at the first attempt meant stepping up another level in quick succession. Have always thought the ERWFL Premier Division is where you notice a extra quality, a competitive league with alot of talented players. Dussindale & Hellesdon’s aim very much to retain their place in the league. A heavy loss to start, before seeing their 1st home game, against Wroxham abandoned due to injury. A couple more narrower defeats following the club has slowly started to find it’s feet in the league getting games in where other haven’t due to having an all weather pitch, picked up their 1st win at home to St Albans, and another against bottom side Cambridge City. Back to back win in November pulling them away from the danger zone at the bottom of the table, drawing 2-2 at Wroxham in December, having led 2-0 before seeing a player sent off. Starting the year with a win to climb to 5th feeling in go shape to complete their main goal of staying up. Now to see if they can make progress in the county cup. Anais Winney and Kyla Lagan the top scorers with 6 apiece with Rosie George netting 5.

Always good to see a club sign acknowledging their women’s team too.

The venue today the Ginger Pickle Area, or Trafford Park, home of Wroxham FC know as The Yachtsmen & women. The large grass pitch sloping slightly offers lots of space, a little cut up with the recent poor weather, but having seen their first 2 games of the year called off due to the weather, Wroxham haven’t played since their 2-2 with Dussindale & Hellesdon. The clubhouse and bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Standing all round the ground with a covered seated stand opposite the dugouts. The weather miserable, grey and overcast, not overly warm but still with no rain forecast.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Gambell, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Tigi Robson (C), Poppy Loveland, Rachel Cossey, Jennifer Drummie, Chelsea Clarke, Hayley Kindred, Lily Alexander & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Albany Hodgson, Rio Dobbie & Leilah Gooding.

Wroxham Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Holly Walker, Jess Barnes, Calista Tink (C), Rachel Jermy, Chloe Shipman, Kari Kowalcyzk, Sofia Odell, Alisha Juby & Kyla Langan.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Calista Tink and Tigi Robson with today’s match officials

Wroxham welcome back defender, Albany Hodgson making her return after a long spell out with injury, on the bench today. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris starting for Wroxham is dual signed with FAWNL side Cambridge United WFC. Chloe Shipman having played for Wroxham in the sides 2-2 draw back in December, starts for Dussindale & Hellesdon this afternoon. It’s Dussindale & Hellesdon to get the quarter final tie underway wearing an all claret kick with the hosts Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the defence played out to Holly Walker on the left, Wroxham closing in to immediately chase the ball down charged down for a throw in.

Wroxham looking to press the ball inside their opponents half right from the off, pushed up, Cheal-Ferris from left back clipping a diagonal ball up towards the top of the D aiming for Hannah Fuller in attack, Jess Barnes getting to it first to head clear for the visitors. A lively opening Dussindale & Hellesdon not settled, Wroxham pushing up looking to disrupt push the midfield back onto the defence. Chelsea Clarke operating ahead of Cheal-Ferris on the left for Wroxham pulling wide to receive the ball. Rachel Bussey getting the block in to deflect the cross out for a throw.

On the opposite flank, Ella Gambell is pressing on from right back to support Hayley Kindred on the wing, Kindred turning into the box running into traffic, the ball rebounding out to Gambell who lines up a strike from range the ball whistling low through to keeper, Tyla Cole. Dussindale & Hellesdon struggling to get the ball to stick up to pushed back the Wroxham defence winning any clearances. Kari Kowalcyzk getting onto the ball in the centre looking to travel before attempting to thread the ball through for Kyla Langan making a run for her centre, Wroxham’s captain, Tigi Robson turning with her sticking a boot out to cut out the pass.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

Jennifer Drummie winning the ball for Wroxham in the middle putting a diagonal ball into the right wing for Kindred to attack, her first touch a little heavy, gives Holly Walker the opportunity to clear for the visitors. Wroxham getting players forwards showing intent, Fuller seeing the ball down into her feet right side of the area lays it inside for Kindred who sees Cheal-Ferris free out on the left flank plays the pass, Bussey stretching for it taking the ball out of Cheal-Ferris’ reach.

Sofia Odell brings the ball on up the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Alisha Juby looking to provide support, as Clarke comes back to defend sends the ball out for a throw, Dussindale & Hellesdon not making it count Wroxham hit the on the break, the ball sent out to the right, Fuller bringing it under control combining with Gambell and Kindred down the wing, Kindred’s run blocked winning the set-piece. Swung into the box from wide, headed clear, Wroxham quick to get the ball back, Cossey into Kindred right side, drives on attempts the cross, Walker getting something on it, turning the ball out for a throw.

Both Gambell and Cheal-Ferris able to come on double up on the flanks, keeping the momentum with Wroxham, as yet creating no clear cut opportunities. Fuller turning on the ball from a throw on the right sends a teasing ball in across the top of the D, Kindred looking to attack it, Barnes getting it clear in the nick of time. Dussindale & Hellesdon with little opportunity to get the ball into the final 3rd get hold of the ball high on the left, threaded though into the Wroxham box, Juby attacking it near post, Robson lunging in to send the ball out for a corner.

Cheal-Ferris getting on up the left linking up with Clarke going beyond her on the overlap the cross swung into the Dussindale & Hellesdon box, Barnes up to head clear. Drummie central with Cossey on for Clarke in a central position play drawn away from the left, Cheal-Ferris running into space, Clarke picking her out down into the corner, held up on the by-line twists and turns getting room so send in a low ball to the near post, cut out by Tink, conceding the corner. Clarke sending the ball into the mix half cleared Poppy Loveland getting it back for Wroxham top of the area playing it back out to Clarke to fizz another ball into the congested near post area, the ball driven in wide of the post for a goal-kick.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Alisha Juby

Robson bringing the ball on from half-way for Wroxham into the left channel looking to play Cheal-Ferris in down the wing is caught late, winning the free-kick. Clarke over the ball 25 plus yards out to the left of the area, curled in towards the near post, Drummie running onto the ball her shot blazed over. Chloe Shipman attempting to relieve the pressure on her defence clipping a ball upfield aiming for Juby, the Wroxham centre backs pushed up the the halfway line, it’s Loveland with the header to send the ball back the opposite direction.

Clarke getting hold of a misplaced pass 25 yards out for Wroxham left of the area fires it inside for Drummie making a central run lays it on for Fuller right of the D before continuing her run towards the area, Fuller attempts the return pass into her feet, Barnes winning it instead for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Rachel Jermy looking to get stuck into the ball get Dussindale & Hellesdon going forwards the visitors pushing on up the left the a hopeful ball played forwards behind the Wroxham defence has Langan racing forwards, as Bryony Williams starts to come to the top of her area, can’t quite reach it as Langan knocks it past her giving chase as Robson tries to recover the defender able to see the ball run wide of goal, another warning for Wroxham for all their play, Dussindale & Hellesdon have almost found a way through.

Cole up the other end rushing out of her area to clear as Wroxham turn play around quickly launching the ball up top for Fuller to burst beyond the defence. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick on halfway to the left, fancy it as they send players up from the back lining up across the top of the area. The ball flighted in towards the top of the are headed clear with the break on as Drummie comes away with the ball driving through the middle, lifted on for Fuller in attack, Cole rushing out of her area has to get there to clear, and does.

Wroxham’s. Rachel Cossey

Wroxham showing a strong determination to get the ball, winning most things fired forwards, Loveland with a couple of strong headed clearances, Clarke covering the ground finding some good positions, Cheal-Ferris and Kindred ready outlets on the flanks. Cossey seeing the ball on for Drummie sweeps a long ball out to Clarke breaking left into the corner her cross lifted into the six yard box claimed by Cole. The hosts with a throw on the right, Kindred taking it on powering into the box, a coming together, Kindred goes down the ball running through to the keeper, but no complaints.

Dussindale & Hellesdon get the ball on left side knocked into the middle, Clarke attempting to hook the ball away with Bussey closing her down, gets penalised for a high boot the visitors winning the free-kick, 35 yards out central Dussindale & Hellesdon again bringing players forwards the ball fired into the area, Williams calling for it comes into the crowd making a confident catch.

Shipman on for Jermy presses though the middle, Loveland sliding in with the challenge slowing Dussindale & Hellesdon’s progress, the ball coming out to the right on for Langan plays the ball into the box for Juby left of goal, tackled by Robson the ball behind for a corner kick. A good delivery dropping into the mix near post, a Wroxham player going down in the melee, a free-kick awarded.

Loveland intercepting at the back for Wroxham sends a great ball out to Kindred on the right, Walker closing her down. Dussindale & Hellesdon having found it tough going to get some momentum in the final 3rd starting to find their passes, Jermy getting after the ball helping, Odell coming on right side, Cheal-Ferris slowing her up as Kowalcyzk gets up to support, Clarke back to defend too the crossing opportunity won’t come the ball out for a throw.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Kari Kowalcyzk

Fuller linking up with Kindred high on the right exchanging passes before Kindred looks to turn into the box, Jermy nipping in on her to take the ball off her foot send it behind for a corner kick. Curled into the mix at the near post knocked don into a six yard box a snap shot, blocked, deflected to the top of the area, Odell attempting to break for the visitors, the ball forwards won back by the hosts.

Sophie Odell bringing the ball on for Dussindale & Hellesdon

GOAL! Into the closing stages of the first half Wroxham looking for the break through have the ball central rolled out to Clarke on the left lays it back for Robson who clips a great ball down the line for Cheal-Ferris to attack, power her way down into the corner before firing a pacy cross into the box, coming on to the right post Kindred meets it inside the area catching it sweetly to drive the ball low under the diving keeper, inside the post 1-0.

Hayley Kindred surrounded by her teammates as she scores the opening goal

Hayley Kindred

Wroxham with the lead in the 43rd minute. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to get on the attack as the clock ticks down the ball through the middle, Kowalcyzk getting up field sending the ball in towards Langan inside the D, Loveland cutting it out for the hosts.

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-0 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Wroxham heading into the changing room leading at the break. The break through coming late in the first half. Overall a deserved lead on the balance of play, Wroxham setting the tone early on came out of the traps fast looking to close the ball down squeeze play into the opposition half, getting on well down the flanks, has presented Dussindale & Hellesdon with a few problems, unable to get the ball forwards and make it stick, coming back the defence has put in a dogged shift limiting clear cut opportunities and if anything two of the best chances have fallen to the visitors with a couple of dangerous ball finding their way into the box exposing the hosts. Talking to both camps before the game expected nothing else. Just the one goal in it could still go either way and if all square after the 90 we go straight to penalties.

No changes for either side at the break. Wroxham to kick-off the 2nd period the ball played out to Cheal-Ferris left side, sends it long looking for Fuller up top, Barnes under the ball to clear for the visitors. Both sides battling for possession in the middle of the park, Gambell bringing the ball up the right for the hosts feeding it on for Kindred, charging forwards looks to go inside, Walker closing her down getting her foot on the ball.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Holly Walker

Jermy taking the ball on through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Robson stepping out of defence to close her down, the ball quickly forwards swept out to Cheal-Ferris surging up the left wing into the corner angling a cross into the area, claimed by Cole in her six yard box. The visitors finding space on the left running in behind to swing a cross into the box over the Wroxham defence falls to Juby beyond the far post, can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away before being closed down, manages instead to squeeze it back into Langan central top of the area, rushed into her shot the ball racing wide of the right post.

Rachel Jermy

Wroxham remain lively out on the flank, Clarke linking up with Cheal-Ferris breaking up the line forcing a throw off Bussey in the corner, leading to a corner kick. Clipped into the near post, cut out a launched clear by the Wroxham defence. Isn’t long before Wroxham have it back same result Clarke into Cheal-Ferris up the line to win the corner. Again into the near post, but this time it’s knocked on through the crowd to bounce up before Gambell in front of goal goes to strike it on the half volley, Cole having little time to react the ball coming in fast reacts brilliantly to produce a fantastic save batting the ball away to her left before being clear, Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to counter before play is stopped with Cole down in her area.

A pause in play while Cole is see to. A lively opening 10 minutes to the 2nd half, Wroxham coming close to doubling their lead, but for Cole who after treatment is able to continue. Play resuming with a drop ball, Drummie passing to Gambell right side forwards into Kindred, powers her way up the wing tracking infield to fizz a cross into Fuller central, Tink cutting it out for the visitors. Loveland getting hold of the ball at the back for Wroxham bringing it on sending a through ball into Kindred breaking up the right to the by-line her cross swung into the six yard box taken cleanly by Cole.

Dussindale & Hellesdon making the first change of the game bringing on Maddie Goodenough to replace Bussey in defence, sees a change in formation with Odell pushed further up to make it a 4-3-3. Fuller going in to win the ball with Walker seeing the pair coming together, Walker coming off worse landing awkwardly on her ankle. Another break in play needs looking at. While Walker is being assessed Wroxham make their first change bringing of Cossey in the middle with Leilah Gooding coming on.

Walker not happy with the challenge, is ok to continue play resumes, Kindred wit the ball into Alexander up the right off a throw in the corner looking for a corner, don’t get it. Tink forced into conceding a corner moments later however, from the right curled in across goal to the far post attacked knocked down towards the top of the area left of goal a strike blazed back in on the volley, blocked, Dussindale & Hellesdon with the ball threaten the break with players caught up field. Odell with the ball on her own left channel, Gambell does well to hold her up as Gooding comes round on the cover to clear the ball.

Wroxham’s Ella Gambell

Gambell down having taken a knock seeing another break in play. Kindred with the ball attacking right side for Wroxham plays the ball inside for Fuller, Barnes going with the striker getting her foot on the ball to clear for a throw. Another change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Shanice Sutton joining the attack in place of Odell.

Fuller nicks the ball as a loose pass from the back 25 yards comes in her direction right of the D, opens the visitors defence up with a dangerous ball into the area, finding Clarke stealing inside unmarked to the left of goal, takes on the shot, driven in low towards goal, Cole diving on her line to pull off anther fantastic save blocking the ball, loose for a moment centrally, Kindred can’t get free of the recovering defence to follow up. The hosts with a determined display looking for a 2nd goal.

Goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

Jermy taking the ball on from Kowalcyzk in the middle lifting it high up towards the Wroxham defence an awkward one Loveland heading the ball up into the air, Wroxham can’t get it clear, as Juby rushes in to try and take it in behind, Williams out to the top of her area seeing the threat out to kick the ball to safety. The game opening up a little Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to push on force the Wroxham defence back give their own defence a little respite.

Wroxham defender, Poppy Loveland

Clarke coming off for Wroxham, with Rio Dobbie sent on. Attacking left side the ball played into the box, cut out Wroxham appealing strongly for a penalty, but nothing doing. Dussindale & Hellesdon frustrated with a few decisions going against them, Tink penalised for a shoulder barge presenting Wroxham with a free-kick outside the box left of the area 20 yards out. Kindred on the set-piece angles the ball in towards the far post, no one can get a touch as it runs wide for a goal kick.

Fuller taking on an Alexander pass into the right channel surging into the box, Barnes on her shoulder, gets to the ball to play it back to the keeper, coming onto her quickly little reaction time slices it behind for a corner to the right. The delivery in central knocked down off a defender towards her own goal, Kindred sticking out a leg inside the six yard box, Cole with another point blank save to block well on her line, the ball cleared out to the left for another corner.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink

Tallulah Bell coming on for Dussindale & Hellesdon to join the attack replacing Juby. Into the last five minutes of regular play, the game stretched as Dussindale & Hellesdon fire a long ball up to Sutton outside box knocks it down well into the path of the advancing, Jermy, looks to fire it forwards for Langan pulling in behind the defence, Robson cutting it out. Cheal-Ferris up with Dobbie on the left for Wroxham players drawn over to the ball as the cross field ball comes straight to Gambell free 30 yards out from goal central look to get her head down drive forwards see’s her collide with Jermy as she goes to close her down, going down, Dussindale & Hellesdon incensed as the free-kick is awarded against them.

GOAL! The free-kick in a good position 25 yards from goal roughly right of the D. It’s Drummie to take it, runs in hitting a superb strike angling in on goal over the keeper to see Wroxham at last double their lead 2-0.

Jennifer Drummie sending her free-kick over the keeper to double Wroxham’s lead

Wroxham midfielder, Jennifer Drummie

With all the stoppages however there is a good chunk of stoppage time to be played. Albany Hodgson making her return for Wroxham coming off the bench to replace Alexander as Wroxham look to see out the game goes into the middle. Dussindale & Hellesdon need to push players on, Kindred looking to exploit the space on the right driving to the by-line, Barnes going with her looking to run the ball out of play, Kindred attempting to play it off her try and win the corner can’t get it.

Cheal-Ferris too on the opposite flank driving into the corner, getting Wroxham a corner. Drilled in to the near post area, scramble clear, Dussindale & Hellesdon can’t get the break going. Juby back on for Dussindale & Hellesdon as they look to make a push to get a late late goal force some last gasp pressure, Gambell doing well in defence to win the ball as the ball is lifted up top into Langan.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

Jermy driving on with the ball out to the right the cross swung in from deep the Wroxham defence tracking back into their own box, it’s Hodgson who gets her head on the ball to clear. Play stopped Kindred taking a knock down concern around her neck but time taken is slowly back to her feet. 5 minutes of stoppage time already played more to come, Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to mount a late charge, Fuller offside as Barnes steps up to clear on halfway launching the ball forwards.

GOAL! Into the 9th minute of stoppage time Dussindale & Hellesdon pushed up Jermy through the middle squeezing a ball in behind the defence to the right of the area, Williams racing out to try and close down Bell, the attacker nicking the ball past her to roll on into the back of the empty net to set-up a nervous finish 2-1.

Tallulah Bell pulling a goal back for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

2 minutes left the call from the referee, William hurt as she came together with Bell but alright to play on. Gooding sending the ball up to Fuller who runs the ball into the corner, playing for time Kindred up to support, the ball scrambled clear but brought back for Dussindale & Hellesdon free-kick. The ball into the middle helped on almost sees Sutton pulling into the left channel stealing in behind, but for a vital cut out from Loveland. Everyone up for Dussindale & Hellesdon bar Barnes as they look to force the game into a penalty shootout, Robson fouled by Bell the ball sent up to Fuller in attack running through the middle Barnes on her shoulder has to time her tackle well, and does.

Full time Wroxham Women 2-1 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Wroxham winning the game 2-1 to advance to the last for of the county cup. A determined performance right from the off taking the game to their opponents pushing players on unsettling Dussindale & Hellesdon early on. Scoring late in the first half. Looked to press the advantage 2nd half double the lead early but goalkeeper Tyla Cole produced a number of top draw saves to deny them and keep her side in contention, the visitors changing things up looking to score themselves the game opening up, Wroxham having to wait till the 87th minute to get the 2nd goal. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a dogged defensive display, kept going finding a goal late in stoppage time to set up a tense end to the contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time for this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. This is certainly a hard one to call some strong performances out there today. Firstly for Dussindale & Hellesdon, goalkeeper Tyla Cole pulling off several quality stops to deny Wroxham in the 2nd half to keep the score line down and her side in the game right till the end. Defender Jess Barnes with some good challenges timing her tackles well limiting opportunities through the middle. Rachel Jermy covering the ground in the middle getting after the ball making some good runs. Wroxham with a determination in their performance up for the game from the off on the front foot. Poppy Loveland winning the ball well at the back, both with her head and on the floor. Chelsea Clarke playing further forwards lively finding space and linking up well with the attack. Allowed Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris to bomb on on the left flank, got forwards throughout never giving Dussindale & Hellesdon a break. Hayley Kindred likewise, driving on with the ball lively scoring the opening goal. Pressing the game higher up the pitch Wroxham won the ball well, Jennifer Drummie in the thick of the action getting hold of the ball setting up numerous attacks. A great free-kick to double the lead wins todays award.

A cracking contest, Dussindale & Hellesdon getting stronger every time I see them never out of the game despite Wroxham piling on the pressure. My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams, I might be familiar with all the players but those numbers always help.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Harpenden Town Women

Sunday 7th January

ERWFL Division One North

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year. Raring to go in 2024 as the football season resumes after the festive period. A wet start to the year with Storm Henk blowing in causing chaos with the fixture schedule, nevertheless plenty of tasty games to choose from beginning the year with a top of the table clash from ERWFL Division One North with early pace setters Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women hosting new leaders Harpenden Town Women in the first game of a double header between the sides that could go along way to seeing who can clinch to title and with it promotion to the Premier Division.

Both sides amongst a host of new sides joining the regional set up this season as the ERWFL reaches it full potential of 36 sides playing across 3 divisions a 12 strong Premier Division with a Division One North and South each 12 strong feeding into it. Two sides since withdrawing from ERWFL Division One North leaving 10 sides to contest the league.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women one of 3 Norfolk sides moving up into the ERWFL this season, with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies and Thetford Town Ladies. Finishing runners-up to Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division One, went on to lift the League Cup. A lot of planning and preparation involved prior to promotion to ensure the club was ready on and off the field to challenge at a higher level, hit the ground running winning 5-0 at home against Biggleswade United Women beginning a 6 match unbeaten run winning 5 and drawing one to lead the table early on.

One defeat so far a narrow 2-1 to 3rd placed Newmarket Town Women allowing Harpenden Town Women to take over at the top prior to Christmas face their league challenges in back to back fixtures in January. Two crucial matches. Have build a large squad with several players coming through the youth levels together one of those top scorer Victoria Leyer who has always been amongst the goals for the club netting 16 to date from 12 appearances this season while Tallulah Bell has 8 goals to her name from 12. Bringing younger players on part of the clubs philosophy with Izzy Noakes and Alisha Juby named on the bench the latest additions to the squad.

Harpenden Town Women one of three clubs promoted to the ERWFL this season, the geography of the leagues seeing their fellow Hertfordshire sides, Hertford Town Women and Wormley Rovers Ladies join Division One South. Finishing in 3rd spot Harpenden Town Women like Dussindale & Hellesdon won silverware last season too beating Colney Heath Ladies Reserves to win the League Cup. Began their ERWFL campaign with a 4-3 loss away to fellow promoted side Histon Ladies… however haven’t looked back since with a 100% record stretching to 7 matches that has seen them overhaul Dussindale & Hellesdon at the top.

Striker Sophia Amanor’s goals going along way to seeing Harpenden Town Women win 7 straight league matches, way out in front as not only Harpenden’s top scorer but the league itself with a staggering 31 goals so far from 14 appearances. Becky McShane the next highest goal scorer in the side with 4 to her name. Goals right throughout the side however with a further 11 players on the scoresheet so far this season. Taking over at the top face two important matches against Dussindale & Hellesdon that could go along way into shaping the season.

The Nest the venue for todays league encounter, the new sports facility to the north of Norwich close to the airport the home to both Norwich City Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women with a number of full sized grass and artificial pitches. The main artificial pitch beside the clubhouse featuring a large cafeteria/dining area and conference room beside. Storm Henk blowing in yet more rain, rivers full to bursting across the county the worst thankfully blown through the ground saturated, the artificial surface a blessing the game never in doubt, although with kick-off fast approach, Harpenden’s team bus was yet to arrive. the weather dry but overcast and chilly the visitors arriving at 1:40pm, little time to get warmed up kick off delayed slightly to allow the players time to limber up properly.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Siesha Humphries, Ella Swift, Jess Barnes, Calista Tink (C), Chloe Shipman, Abby Hutchin, Rachel Bussey, Victoria Leyer, Issy Moore & Rosie George. Subs – Addison Gregory, Kari Kowalczyk, Chelsea Brister, Izzy Noakes & Alisha Juby.

Harpenden Town Women

Harpenden Town Women starting XI – Sophie Harris, Kacee Warren. Erin Shacklock, Rebecca Dowdall (C), Iva Hrisimova, Chloe Dinsey, Melody Jones, Natalie Cloy, Jamie Curtain, Belle Shannon & Sophia Amanor. Subs – Jasmine Hughes, Hannah Pope, Reese Ayres & Becky McShane.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Rebecca Dowdall and Calista Tink with today’s referee Steven Hemp

It’s the visitors Harpenden to get the match under way kicking off the 1st half wearing aquamarine coloured shirts with black across the top of the chest and sleeves, with black shorts and aquamarine coloured socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon lined up opposite wearing claret coloured shirts with sky blue trim, claret shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence swept out to the right Jamie Curtain out wide looking to play Natalie Cloy in ahead of her fullback Siesha Humphries sticking a foot in to take the ball off her for a throw in.

The visitors fresh having just warmed up and staying out ready for kick-off starting well putting the Dussindale & Hellesdon back line under pressure attacking down the flanks, Curtain again on the right flashing a cross into the top of the area, Chloe Shipman latching onto it for Dussindale & Hellesdon carrying the ball out clearing to the opposite flank, Harpenden snatching it back the strike from 25 yards out put over the bar.

Chloe Shipman bringing the ball away for Dussindale & Hellesdon

Dussindale & Hellesdon winning the ball at the back find Issy Moore pulling wide on the left sends the ball on through the middle looking for Rosie George leading the attack, in a race towards the Harpenden box with captain Rebecca Dowdall, George is adjudged to have fouled the defender halting the attack.

Sophie Amanor looking strong with the ball at her feet pulling out wide to the right, looks to take the ball on inside the full back, Humphries late with her tackle catching Amanor with a painful blow to her ankle sending the striker sprawling. A moment of concern for Harpenden as Amanor receives treatment. Humphries shown an early yellow card. Amanor up and okay to play on as Belle Shannon stands over the resulting free-kick.

GOAL! The ball swept in towards the near post Amanor making the run across defender Jess Barnes as she goes to head the ball, only succeeding in glancing it on behind her into the onrushing crowd, Dowdall amongst those knocking the ball in towards goal past the keep, Amanor closing in stooping to head the ball which could very well have already been over the line 0-1.

Harpenden captain, Rebecca Dowdall

Harpenden might have arrived late but have the early lead in Norwich as they open the scoring inside 5 minutes. The visitors looking to press the advantage Melody Jones getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park spreading the pass out to the left Cloy racing on the ball send into the area aiming for Curtain closing in on the far side, Humphries getting a foot on the ball to knock it out of play for a corner.

All action as the corner is lifted in near side, Curtain up well to power her header in towards goal blocked by the defender covering the post, down before the goal line goalkeeper Tyla Cole down looking to grab hold of the ball as Shannon rushes in to attack it deflected out of the keepers gloves Dussindale & Hellesdon defending for all their worth somehow keep the ball out before Cole eventually lays claim to it.

Jones regaining possession out on the left inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half sweeping a long diagonal pass out to the right, Curtain the target, Moore tracking back well for the hosts there to intercept. Erin Shacklock clearing the ball up to Curtain central she looks to send the ball on in behind the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence with Amanor breaking in behind, Cole starts to come out of her area to clear but realising the ball has enough momentum on it falls back into her area to see the ball roll safely into her gloves.

Dussindale & Hellesdon having out ride out a strong opening salvo from Harpenden come away with the ball lifted on for Moore breaking into space on the left the cross turned back into the area near side for Victoria Leyer to try and shift inside to shoot her strike charged down the ball deflected down towards the by-line left of goal, George racing after it trying to put the ball back in across goal can only play it straight into the arms of Harpenden goalkeeper Sophie Harris.

Moore looking the best outlet for Dussindale & Hellesdon as she runs into space out on the left flank down to the touchline turning into the box rides two challenges before Iva Hrisimova comes across to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick. The corner delivered into the six yard box headed out to the top of the area, Moore pulled up for a high boot as she looks to regain possession for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Harpenden’s Natalie Cloy

Harpenden attacking down the right Curtain with Amanor combining the latter taking the ball on in behind turning into the area, Barnes getting back to charge down her cross turn the ball behind for a corner. Flighted in near side George getting her head to the ball takes a deflection off a Harpenden player to see the ball land on the roof of the net.

GOAL! Winning the ball back Barnes carries the ball out of the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon before laying it on for Moore racing away down the left wing squaring her cross into the six yard box, Harris calls for the ball going down to claim it, but George has other ideas as the attacker lunging forwards stretches a long leg out to turn the ball under the keeper and into the back of the net to level the scores 1-1.

Rosie George levels the scores for Dussindale & Hellesdon

Harpenden look for a rapid response getting down the other end to win a corner kick on the right, played in close to goal, Cole under it knocking the ball out to the top of the area, half cleared to the left Jones getting back onto the ball for Harpenden sending the cross back into the area cleared by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink.

Amanor seeing the ball into her feet 35 yards out turning and making a strong run towards her opponents area letting fly from distance the shot racing wide of the left post. A lively contest Dussindale & Hellesdon coming back into the game well after Harpenden’s bright start. Leyer bundled over on halfway as she looks to carry the ball forwards for the hosts. Players go forwards as Tink looks to play the ball long into the area, Kacee Warren winning it with her head for Harpenden then races out to charge down Humphries before she can send the rebound back into the box.

Harpenden’s Kacee Warren

Harpenden bringing the ball on down the left wing Cloy with Shannon the cross lifted high in close towards Cole’s goal the keeper jumping up to confidently get hold of the ball. Amanor making some excellent runs into the channels looking to carry the ball in behind, the Dussindale & Hellesdon full backs busy. Dussindale & Hellesdon break from the back the ball put out to Abby Hutchin moving right her diagonal ball back inside put into Leyer’s path her touch seeing the ball swerve away from goal out to the right George closing the defender down as she looks to clear doing well to win a corner.

The delivery from the right played in near side attacked by George the header driven wide of the right post. Quick build up play from the hosts as Shipman plays the ball on for George who in turn spins the ball out to the right into the path of Hutchin whose early strike on the angle is driven wide.

GOAL! Pressing forwards Dussindale & Hellesdon win the ball outside the Harpenden area to the right of goal, Leyer with a superb strike to fire the ball in over the keeper into the back of the net to put the hosts into the lead on the half hour 2-1.

Victoria Leyer firing Dussindale & Hellesdon into the lead

A lively affair now Dussindale & Hellesdon after the ball looking to get forwards with pace put the Harpenden defence on the back foot. Leyer picking up the ball charging on towards the top of the D, Dowdall with the tackle. Amanor with another powerful run driving on towards the Dussindale & Hellesdon area, brought down by Barnes 25 yards from goal. Chloe Dinsey over the set-piece takes on the shot, fired in on target, Cole diving to her right getting her gloves onto the ball to save knocking it away to the right.

Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick wide on the right, Hutchin to play the ball into the area, George up well to attack it but her header lands wide of the near post. Flowing football from both sides. Harpenden getting hold of the ball in the middle, Dinsey looking for Jones moving left, Swift sticking a leg out to intercept deflecting the ball out of her path. Bussey tracking back to defend for Dussindale & Hellesdon as Jones looks to get forwards on the left flank.

Harpenden midfielder, Melody Jones

Warren hits a great ball in over the top for Shannon bursting in behind the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence but stretching can’t quite get the ball under control to threaten the goal. Harpenden with a free kick out wide on the left swept on into the area Tink knocking the ball out of her box, falls to Curtain who attempts to knock it back inside for Cloy on the penalty spot, Tink there again however to snatch the ball away to safety.

Jess Barnes holding of Harpenden’s Jamie Curtain

Harpenden with a change late in the first half bringing off Dinsey, on comes Becky McShane. The ball pinging back and forth in the middle comes back to Warren who attempts to play an awkward ball back to her keeper, the pass short, as Harris rushes forwards, Moore nips in to get her foot on the ball knock it past the keeper, who turns to see it safely roll wide of her goal.

GOAL! Into the closing seconds of the first half, swift in possession for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back brings the ball on before sending a brilliant ball into the right channel for Leyer to latch onto 25 yards from goal, racing into the box pulls the trigger to smash her strike low past the diving keeper into the goal beyond 3-1.

Victoria Leyer shooting to put Dussindale & Hellesdon into a 3-1 on the stroke of half-time.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 3-1 Harpenden Town Women

A lively contest between the side at the top of the league, despite arriving late Harpenden got off the the brighter start taking the ball to Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking the flanks taking an early lead. Creating further chances before Dussindale & Hellesdon regrouped to start applying pressure the other way breaking down the left to find the equaliser the game free flowing at times a brilliant strike from Leyer putting the hosts into the lead on the half hour before Leyer was played through on goal by Ella Swift to make it 3-1 on the stroke of half-time. A useful cushion for Dussindale & Hellesdon going into the 2nd half Harpenden however carry a strong threat in attack.

No changes for the hosts at the break, Harpenden out for the 2nd half early keen to get going making two changes with Reese Ayres and Jasmine Hughes coming on for Warren and Shannon. Light already fading the floodlights partially on with Dussindale & Hellesdon getting the 2nd 45 underway. Harpenden in quickly to close the ball down looking to take the game to their opponents, Shipman getting in a timely tackle to stop Jones feeding the ball on for Amanor.

Amanor taking up a position on the left dragging the ball back under her feet before p[laying it down the left flank for Cloy the chase, Barnes going with her as the pair close in on the by-line the defender clearing the ball out for a corner kick. Flung into the six yard box, Tink up amongst bodies to win the header and clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

The hosts attacking down the left the ball played on for Moore her cross cut out by Dowdall. Back with Dussindale & Hellesdon on the left the cross-field ball finding Bussey to the right of the box, strikes the ball on the angle from 20 yards out Harris down to save pushing the ball out players rushing into attack the loose ball clatters down off the crossbar.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Rachel Bussey

Leyer taking hold of the ball on the left flank her runs causing the Harpenden midfield some issues as she tracks inside before threading the ball into the area looking for George central, caught a little flat footed can’t react in time before Harris rushing out snatches hold of the ball.

Harpenden goalkeeper, Sophie Harris

Swift does well to tackle Amanor stop her getting in behind on the left the defending seeing things open up before her deciding to have a crack at goal from range, her effort not troubling the keeper. Amanor out on the left does find a way in behind this time racing down to the by-line cutting into the box closing in on Cole’s near post the keeper positioning herself the strike powerful blasted under her striking the base of the post rebounding back into the grounded keeper, Amanor trying to get over her to turn the loose ball goal wards can only place it into the side netting.

Swift having her hands full with Amanor as Jones plays the striker in down the left the defender back on her to challenge play the ball behind for a corner kick. The delivery into the six yard box knocked on towards the far post, cleared well by the defender on the post away to the right.

Harpenden build through the middle Hughes playing the ball to Cloy who in turn sends it out to Curtain bombing down the right her cross lifted into the area, Amanor making a near post run, Cole does well to read the flight of the ball come to catch it in front of the attacker. Amanor looking to take the ball on carrying it into the box from the left twisting and turning looking for an opening can’t find one before the Dussindale & Hellesdon defender converge en masse. Shacklock putting the ball on well for Amanor left side down the wing her cross along the top of the six yard box intercepted by Tink.

Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change, George coming off, with Alisha Juby a new singing from King’s Lynn coming on to make her debut for the club going up top. Continues to be an intriguing contest, Harpenden doing there all to get back into the game Dussindale & Hellesdon working hard to keep them at bay. The visitors making another switch bringing off Curtain for Hannah Pope. Referee Steven Hemp spotting a handball Harpenden winning a free-kick 30 yards out, McShane to play the ball on into the area, attacked and cleared by Tink for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Leyer with the ball at her feet on the move for Dussindale & Hellesdon out to the left lifting a cross into the middle for Hutchin who attempts to help it on with her head for Bussey out to her right, the flag though going up against her. Cloy coming off for Harpenden with Shannon re-entering the action. Juby on the attack down the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Shacklock tracking back to put in the challenge knocking the ball of Juby behind for a goal kick.

Rachel Bussey with Harpenden’s Erin Shacklock

Amanor turning on the ball central to lay it out to Pope attacking down the right channel striking the ball on the angle from 20 yards out, Cole gets down well to make the save for Dussindale & Hellesdon. The ball played long for Amanor to attack out on the left strong to get into the area closing in on goal, Barnes gets back across her to put in the challenge send the ball behind for a corner kick. Fired in near side attacked by Ayres the ball wide taking a knick of a defender on its way out. The 2nd corner put in low central into Hughes on the penalty spot squeezes her shot through the crowd towards goal but Cole is right behind it to drop low to save.

Harpenden pushing players on looking for a reply Shacklock inside to Shannon on halfway picks out Amanor breaking free left side squares her cross into the six yard box too close to the keeper, Cole down to smother the ball. Dussindale & Hellesdon soaking up a lot of pressure content to pick their moments going forwards determined to hold onto their lead. Leyer providing a good outlet going forwards with some useful runs on the ball.

A few spots of rain in the are as the floodlights take full effect the odd plane coming in to land flying low over the pitch. Amanor chasing after the ball shielding it out to win the corner on the left, another good delivery into the six yard box, Tink though the one defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon to head it clear. The hosts making another change with Bussey coming off and George coming on to support Juby in attack. Hutchin sending the ball on for Moore out on the left, Dowdall closing her down to defend for Harpenden the ball cleared up the line Humphries latching onto it shooting from all of 30 yards out her attempt put wide.

Jasmine Hughes attacking for Harpenden

Dinsey coming back on for Harpenden replacing Jones. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick 30 yards out to the left of the Harpenden goal, Leyer fancying in puts her strike over the crossbar. Cole out off her line quickly to come and lay claim to the ball as Shannon looks to play the pass on for Amanor pulling off her marker top of the D.

GOAL! Amanor has been threatening a goal all 2nd half and switching over to the right finds a way through to set up a nervy close to the match attacking down the right the ball is played into the attackers path racing to the by-line the angle rapidly going away from her slides into the shot Cole going down to save the ball somehow squirming under her at the near post to trickle over the line beyond her 3-2.

Sophia Amanor pulling a goal back for Harpenden late in the game

Dussindale & Hellesdon do well to win a corner on the left up the other end looking to eat up valuable time make a mess of it playing a short ball back up the line as Harpenden nip in to steal the ball and counter, Humphries doing well to force the attacker wide hold her up allowing her defence to get back into shape, Pope getting inside squeezing a ball into the area, Cole with a strong call rushing out to throw herself on the ball.

Iva Hrisimova

Barnes getting in the blocking tackle to stop Amanor as she looks to turn and run with the ball. Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking on the left Moore inside for Hutchin 25 yards out her strike charged down out for a corner high up the pitch. Steady rain falling now. time ticking down Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to keep possession with a throw on the right, Hrisimova winning it back for Harpenden looks to send the ball long for Hughes her cross cut out by Tink.

One last attack for Harpenden Amanor fed in on the right into the box driving to the by-line goes down appeals, the ref in a good position waving play on, no penalty. The final whistle blowing moments later, Dussindale & Hellesdon holding on for the win the 3 points taking them back to the top of the league.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 3-2 Harpenden Town Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon with a strong defensive performance in the 2nd half to hold off a determined Harpenden fightback. Sophia Amanor strong on the ball creating chances eventually pulling a goal back for the visitors, not enough however as the hosts held on for the 3 points. Taking their chances in the first half to get themselves into a 3-1, Dussindale & Hellesdon played well having soaked up some early pressure before coming back into the match with several useful attacking moves. Overall an entertaining contest fought between the sides at the top of the table and the return game at Harpenden in two weeks time promises to be no less intriguing.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Might be a new year but it’s won by a player whose collected a few of these in the past. Several performance of note to mention of course for Harpenden, Sophia Amanor was excellent in attack running down the flanks taking on the defence easy to see why she scores so many goals created numerous chances. Jamie Curtain too very good on the right getting forwards and looking to set up her teammates while Melody Jones showed a useful range of passes in the middle of the park competing for the ball. For Dussindale & Hellesdon the defence had their work cut out at time however were up to the task, Jess Barnes and Calista Tink making some useful interceptions and tackles. Goalkeeper Tyla Cole commanding her box well with some great calls and positioning. The award today though goes to Victoria Leyer, scoring two superb goals but no only that make some brilliant runs from the middle to put the Harpenden back line under pressure and bring her teammates into contention.

A highly entertaining game from the top of ERWFL Division One North to start the new year. Both sides enjoying life playing at the higher level. Have no doubt the follow up game will be just as entertaining. Will we be any closer to knowing who might win the league after that… I doubt it. First time seeing Harpenden a pleasure to see them in action. My thanks for everyone’s help with the team line ups today much appreciated. Here’s to a great 2024.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Thetford Town Ladies

Wednesday 18th May

Norfolk Women’s League One

The 2021/22 season is reaching it’s climax, just a handful of fixtures left to complete just 3 more left for Women’s Football East to cover, beginning this evening with my final league fixture of the season, from Norfolk Women’s Division One with Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies fresh from winning the League Plate on Sunday playing they’re penultimate game of the season at home to Thetford Town Ladies playing their last competitive fixture of the campaign.

A cup final win for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on Sunday against Caister FC Ladies in the NWGFL Plate their first trophy under there new name after moving from Sprowston to become Dussindale & Hellesdon a couple of seasons ago, are currently 3rd in the Division One table 4 points behind 2nd placed and League Cup winners, Fakenham Town Ladies with 2 games to play. Fakenham played out their fixture can only watch now Dussindale & Hellesdon with a superior goal difference needed 4 points from their remaining two fixtures to ensure them of a runners-up finish, lose and it’s all over Fakenham can’t be caught. A hat-trick for Shanice Sutton in Sunday’s Plate Final seeing her become leading goal scorer for Dussindale & Hellesdon with 38 goals one ahead of Victoria Leyer.

Thetford Town Ladies travel over to The Nest this evening knowing they are going to finish 4th in the Division One table. They’re highest ever finish to a season as the club looks to become an established force in the league with the ambition to push on further next season. Have achieved this having had terrible luck with injuries, there squad struggling for numbers at times particularly to their defenders. Have bolstered the squad with some useful signings to help their challenge for a top 4 finish such as Hannah Claughton from Norwich and Becky Russell dual signed from Wroxham. Becky White, Thetford’s leading goal scorer with 17 for the season so far.

The Nest the venue for this evenings game the state of the art facility on the outskirts of Norwich home to not only Norwich City Women but also Dussindale & Hellesdon, who normally use the grass pitch leading into the complex but with that undergoing maintenance the main 3G pitch is hosting their Division One clash with Thetford a game under the lights the cafe open serving a range of cakes and snacks, along with hot food and drinks. Like most 3G facilities the 3G pitch well used a large number of youth goalkeepers being put through their paces whilst two sides warm up behind. Another warm and sunny day leading into a pleasant evening beginning to cool but no sign of any rain.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Amee Kennett, Siesha Humphries, Calista Tink (C), Maddy Goodenough, Abi Nobbs, Lucy Wetherall, Georgina Belton, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister & Shanice Sutton. Subs – Ruby Wilson, Kari Kowalczyk, Charlie Head & Tallulah Bell.

Thetford Town Ladies

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Lydia Ward, Zoe Klimcke, Ellie-Mae Davies, Erin Lloyd, Rachel Lynch, Dayna Howard (C), Becky Russell, Hannah Claughton, Abbie Corbyn, Charlotte Howard & Becky White. Sub – Courtney Musgrove.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Dussindale & Hellesdon with just the one change to the squad that started Sunday’s Plate final, Tallulah Bell named on the bench. Thetford travelling with just the one substitute available with a number of players carrying knocks. Dayna Howard named as captain in the place of the absent Melissa Boulton. It’s the visitors to kick-off the first half, Thetford wearing blue shirts with a white band across the front and sleeves, navy coloured shorts and socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon in their claret strip. The ball played out to the left Hannah Claughton getting forwards, Dussindale & Hellesdon close straight away the ball out for a throw in.

The ball contested on the far side of the pitch both sides battling for possession out for a series of throws, Thetford play it forwards a strike from distance running wide of the near post. Howard with Becky Russell in the middle for Thetford the ball won play spread out to Abbie Corbyn wide right bringing it down turns infield looking to drive towards the area, is brought down, Thetford awarded the free-kick. Becky White over the set-piece the striker sends an angled ball up towards goal, Tyla Cole calling for it in the Dussindale & Hellesdon call making a straight forward catch unchallenged.

Becky White with the goal attempt for Thetford (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Cole with another solid claim for Dussindale & Hellesdon setting up a swift counter attack the ball fed on up the right for Abby Hutchin to bomb on into the corner winning her side a throw deep in the corner. Ellie-May Davies defending for Thetford on the left seeing the visitors regain possession. A crossfield pass finding Corbyn on the right she once again takes the ball inside looking to drive for the box, Siesha Humphries challenging at the back to win the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink carrying the ball out from the back sends the ball on into the right channel with midfielder Georgina Belton pushing on, with the ball at her feet powers forwards, Erin Lloyd tackling her for Thetford halting her progress. Humphries getting up on the left to support Chelsea Brister on the wing the pair looking to get the ball into the Thetford area held up by Zoe Klimcke, as Corbyn tracking back lunges in with the tackle to put the ball away for a throw in. Put into Abbi Nobbs outside the box central passes the ball out to the right side, the cross sent in near side attacker, Shanice Sutton heading the ball over the bar.

Thetford Town Ladies, Hannah Claughton (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Both Belton and Lucy Wetherall looking to get on from midfield for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Won at the back Tink plays the ball up through the middle for Nobbs central has Hutchin to her right squaring the ball to her, shifts forwards, up against Davies, the Thetford full back with a strong tackle to thwart her. Brister taking the ball on left side for Dussindale & Hellesdon with an early diagonal pass into Sutton inside the D, Rachel Lynch closing her down winning the ball back for Thetford. Hutchin looking to get forwards on the right as she did in the Plate final, Davies playing the ball out for a throw.

Thetford Town defender, Zoe Klimcke (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Thetford’s Howard with the pass for White pulling left, has Russell making a run inside to get beyond her, the pass cut out by the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence. Regained in the middle Thetford send the ball on through the middle White’s touch deflecting the ball out to Corbyn to the right, gets on with the ball heading for the area, Maddy Goodenough blocking her shot from outside the box, the counter attack on the ball lifted forwards for Sutton who beats the offside trap in behind through the centre, Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward rushing out to the top of her area to close the angle saves well, blocking the shot deflecting it behind, running wide out for a corner.

Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

The corner from the right played into the top of the area, Charlotte Howard clearing for Thetford. Quickly regained, Dussindale & Hellesdon are pulled up for a hand ball. Is a decent sized pitch a lot of ground to cover Thetford’s defence keeping a good shape, Lynch marshalling her defenders. Lloyd clearing the ball out of the ground as Brister looks to attack on the left. Brister getting hold of the ball taking it on moving inside closing in on the box, strikes her shot over the crossbar. A change for Thetford at the back with Lloyd coming off, Courtney Musgrove coming on.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Georgina Belton

Midway through the 1st half Belton onto Hutchin right into the Thetford half threads the pass on to find Sutton right of the D, squares it across to Brister inside the D, her 1st time strike curled wide of the right post. A few free-kicks creeping into the game, Nobbs going right with Humphries pulled back, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Wide left Brister over it angles a cross in to the far post, goes long out for a goal kick. Belton pulling away to the right, strength on the ball winning a throw. Up the line for Hutchin to the by-line her cross in turned behind for a corner. Goodenough looking to attack the ball near side can’t turn onto her shot as Thetford scramble it clear.

Abbie Corbyn with Lucy Wetherall (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Lynch getting a cross to support her full back cutting out Wetherall’s pass intended for Brister on the left. Lynch’s clearance put long for Corbyn to go after on the right, Cole coming can claim top of her area. A free-kick for Thetford inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half Lynch over it goes for goal her long range effort wide of Cole’s goal. Dussindale & Hellesdon with more of the possession looking to get forwards. the Thetford defence, Lynch in particular reading the passes intercepting the ball. Sutton narrowly offside to the right of goal.

GOAL! The opening goal coming in the final 10 minutes of the 1st half. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a quick counter attack the ball fed through to Hutchin right side travelling for the box, Davies stretching tackling her from behind upending Hutchin inside the box Penalty! Sutton placing the ball on the spot hits it well to the keepers right, Ward going the right way can’t get near it 1-0.

Shanice Sutton scoring from the penalty spot for Dussindale & Hellesdon

The break through at last Thetford haven’t get forwards much, Corbyn the most likely on the right is given the ball by Russell drives on but is soon outnumbered run off the ball by Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back. Dayna Howard winning the ball in the middle for Thetford on for Corbyn right comes inside looking to pick out Charlotte Howard central, cleared for a throw right side. Charlotte Howard then brought down outside the box to the right corner of the area. White on the ball looks to curl a shot in towards goal, on target, Cole though with a firm call right behind it to claim.

White coming left for Thetford taking the ball on from Claughton playing it forwards for Russell getting in on the left angles a cross in near side Corbyn arriving, Goodenough close on her blocking to turn the ball away for a corner. Late in the 1st half players up the inswinging cross lifted in near post players attacking it goes through everyone bouncing a cross goal, Corbyn free back post not really expecting it unable to get anything on it as it runs out of play.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 1-0 Thetford Town Ladies

A double change for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the start of the 2nd half with Tallulah Bell and Charlie Head coming on up top for Wetherall and Brister. The move seeing Sutton pull out out out to the right, Hutchin deeper into midfield left side. The hosts getting the 2nd half underway looking to get Belton on the ball push on from midfield, Dayna Howard getting back on her to tackle regain the ball for Thetford. Davies on the left for Thetford looking to get on with the ball support Claughton on the wing winning a throw in. Lynch with a strong throw on her the ball long up to the area Tink getting her head under the ball to clear for a throw.

Russell linking up with Lynch outside the Dussindale & Hellesdon area pushing inside is closed down by the defence. Lynch with another throw down the left White taking it on as Thetford look to attack racing on sending a vicious cross into the six yard box, Cole down to lay claim to the ball with Corbyn drifting in far side. Claughton fouled on the left side as she looks to get the ball down for Thetford. Lynch on the set-piece lining up a shot, catches it wrong dragging the ball wide.

Ellie-Mae Davies with Shanice Sutton

Thetford with a brighter start to the 2nd half, are caught out as Nobbs plays the ball through to Bell the half-time substitute racing forwards left channel feeding the ball on into fellow substitute Head inside the box, she shot fired in Ward with an instinctive save throwing out a leg to cut out the ball deflect it away to right. A strong 50/50 challenge outside the area between Belton and Klimcke leaves the defender on the ground hurt looking in trouble. A lengthy pause following as she is treated and assessed. Lloyd back on.

15 minutes played in the 2nd half, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a corner on the right side. A great delivery in high to the near post Tink rising for it sending her effort narrowly over the bar despite a clash of heads with Lynch getting up with her. A blow to the back of the skull. Tink needs a moment to recover.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Thetford look to get forwards on the left White across with Claughton, Kennett defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Hutchin coming left getting on playing a crossfield pass into Belton central outside the D, opening up her body as the ball runs across her turns it goalwards, Ward with the save beating the ball down to her left before claiming it.

GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking down the right Sutton on the ball taking it in behind fires a cross into the middle of the six yard box, both Head and Bell closing it down in front of Ward, Bell with the telling touch to smash the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to double the lead 2-0.

Tallulah Bell doubles Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Dussindale & Hellesdon break on the right as a Thetford set-piece into their area is cleared Sutton bringing the ball away pace winning a corner kick. Fired into the middle of the box the ball cleared back to the corner taker, Nobbs outside whips another ball into area across the six yard box coming to Head at the far post her headed attempt not far over the bar.

Is a little feisty out there, a few comings together between Davies and Sutton a foul on Sutton returns the favour with a push. The referee quick to intervene cool it down issuing Sutton with a yellow card. A free-kick on the left for Thetford, lifted on into the box White stealing through her header off cue. The lights taking full effect now not the highest any high ball struck is getting lost in the darkness, calls from both sides to try and keep in on the ground. Dussindale & Hellesdon pressing through the middle Belton making her presence felt. Head is put in the clear breaking for the box central a one on one with the keeper, a push of blood as she looks to place it wide of Ward sends her effort wide of her right post.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Klimcke returning to the game for Thetford for Corbyn with 15 minutes of regular time left to play. Humphries finding a burst on pace to get back on White to tackle outside the area for Dussindale & Hellesdon as the Thetford attacker is played through by Russell. A free-kick given away by Dussindale & Hellesdon outside their area right of goal. The curled effort in, Cole has been strong with her calling all game and is once again firmly behind the ball.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Charlotte Howard tackling Humphries conceding a corner kick as the defender looks to get on with Hutchin in attack. The ball played in low near side finds it’s way through to Bell central, back to goal attempts the backheel rolls wide of the far post. Bell is taken out on the right just inside the box as she looks to travel with the ball, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a 2nd penalty in the 77th minute. Sutton over it again this time looking to place it in the opposite corner gets too much on it playing it wide.

Tink with another strong tackle on Claughton as she attacks coming on from the left. On the opposite side Nobbs plays in Bell on the left running with the ball shifts inside heading for the area lining up a strike Lynch closing her down with the blocking tackle. Brister and Wetherall returning to the field for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Kennett and Sutton off. Nobbs on for Hutchin left puts it into Bells path, Klimcke cutting the ball out for Thetford. Klimcke coming off then with Corbyn retuning to the game.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Davies doing well in defence for Thetford has taken a far share of knocks for her efforts too, does well as Bell looks to link up with Brister wide. Wetherall cutting in from the left outside the D sees her shot strike the crossbar. Bell stabbing out a foot intercepting Lynch’s clearance 20 yards out sees the ball run safely through to Ward in the Thetford goal. Bell with another near miss moments later as Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking left side fire a ball in across the face of goal, Bell diving in sending it over. Goodenough coming off for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back, Ruby Wilson coming on.

The game moving into stoppage time, several minutes likely to be played. Tink with the ball on from the back lifted on to Bell right side of attack her cross cut out by Dayna Howard for a corner kick. Thetford tiring late on Dussindale & Hellesdon nipping in to regain the ball. Russell looking to get on through the middle tackled by Hutchin. Bell turning a shot in straight to the keeper as Brister fires a cross in from the left, Ward taking it low. Players up and around the Thetford area Dussindale & Hellesdon squeezing the ball in the final 3rd late on.

GOAL! 5 minutes of stoppage time played and breaking up a Thetford attack, Dussindale & Hellesdon are quick to counter the ball fed on through the midfield finding Brister racing into the area left of goal on the angle strikes her shot across the area low into the bottom corner 3-0.

GOAL! A further blow to Thetford deep in stoppage time as they concede a 4th goal, Hutchin on the ball central for Dussindale & Hellesdon putting the forwards pass into Head breaking on into the area holding off the challenge with the keeper advancing to close her down, she places her shot wide of Ward to send the ball on into the back of the net 4-0.

Charlie Head with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 4th goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

It gets worse for Thetford on the closing seconds as Head is pulled down inside the box as the ball is lifted over the top the hosts with a 3rd penalty on the night. Sutton off the field it’s Wetherall with the kick, placing the ball low to the right, Ward getting down to block it with her leg, saved out to the right, Bell racing in on the follow up smashed her shot over the bar.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 4-0 Thetford Town Ladies

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

A 4-0 win in the finish for Dussindale & Hellesdon moving them to within a point of 2nd placed Fakenham with one game to play at home to bottom side North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday. Runners up spot within their grasp. Shanice Sutton’s first half penalty the difference between the sides at the break. Thetford whilst creating little going forwards working hard to keep their opponents out in defence. A 2nd goal coming in the 65th minute. Thetford continued to work hard a rough end to the game to concede to late goals in stoppage time. Dussindale & Hellesdon though creating enough chances with two penalties also missed. Thetford nevertheless can be proud of what has been achieve this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders as is often the case. Some performances of note to mention first. For Thetford, Rebecca White put in a shift up top covering alot of ground looking for openings. In defence Ellie-Mae Davies will have a nice collection of bruises for her efforts as she put in a number of tackles, battling for the ball. Rachel Lynch powerful in the back line reading the ball and getting across to support her full backs. For Dussindale & Hellesdon, Shanice Sutton was once again lively in attack making some excellent runs. Abbi Nobbs with a solid midfield display, Georgina Belton with some powerful runs getting forwards to receive the ball. The award this evening though goes to Dussindale & Hellesdon’s captain, Calista Tink. Fantastic at the back winning the ball, getting into some good positions with some great play out from the back.

Last league game of the season completed, a good evening under the lights at The Nest is a great facility pleasing to see players form other woman’s sides within the division thier to watch the action too. My thanks to both sides for the team details always appreciated and to Scott Grearhardy again with the photo’s used in the report. 2 more games left a trip down to Essex this Sunday for the League Cup Final between Lawford Ladies and Chelmsford City Women then to Carrow Road in midweek for the Norfolk County Cup Final between Mulbarton and Wymondham.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Caister FC Ladies

Sunday 15th May

Norfolk Women’s League Plate Final

A cup final double from Norfolk this Sunday on Women’s Football East with the NWGFL hosting the it’s final day for it’s women’s sides. Following on from yesterday’s youth finals day 3 finals taking place today, the League Plate and League Cup aswell as the 7’s League Cup. First up with a 10:30am kick-off the Women’s Plate Final between Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women and Caister FC Ladies.

A clash between two of the highest scoring sides across the league with well over a 100 goals scored for each. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies currently 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table with 2 games still to play and could yet clinch runners-up spot with 4 points needed to overhaul Fakenham Town Ladies in 2nd. Have been playing catch-up all season, having made good progress in the cup competitions including reaching the semi-finals of the County Cup. Victoria Leyer has always been prolific in front of goal for the club since first joining the league as Sprowston carrying on as the club moved to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers a couple of seasons ago. Leyer has 37 goals for this campaign from just 13 appearances. Closing her down for top scorer is Shanice Sutton now on 35 from 20 games. Charlie head in good form too in front of goal since joining from Long Stratton scoring 20 goals with Chelsea Brister netting 16 times. 108 league goals in total for Dussindale & Hellesdon with just 19 conceded.

With 3 more goals to their name with 11 in the league are today’s opponents, Caister FC Ladies who have stormed to the Norfolk Women’s Division Two title in their debut season winning 14 of their 15 games played so far. A strong side have vast experience in the league having formerly been Gorleston FC Ladies 1st team. Making the move up the Norfolk coast this season they were hot favourites to win the league. Scoring 111 league goals an incredible 51 of those have been scored by Bethany Turner coming from just 17 games too! Ellie Hills has 22 to her name too from 17 appearances with Samantha Hunn also in double figures. Winning the Division Two title with the best defensive record too less than a goal a game with 11 conceded.

Road to the Final

The sides knocked out of the early stages of the League Cup going onto contest the League Plate in Norfolk. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women were unfortunate to be drawn at home to Mulbarton Belle Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup a strong side like Caister odds on favourites to retain the Division One title, lost 5-1 to put them into the Plate competition. Caister FC Ladies were at home to in the 1st Round of the League Cup taking on Division One side, Stalham Town Ladies. Narrowly missing out on the wrong end of a 4-3 defeat.

Finding their goal scoring form Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women racked them up in the 1st Round of the Plate at home to North Walsham Angles Ladies with both Shanice Sutton and Chelsea Brister netting hat-tricks in an 11-1 win. Caister FC Ladies progressing without kicking a ball awarded the A-W over Horsford FC Women.

Onto the quarter final and it was once again a double figure winning margin for Dussindale & Hellesdon this time at home to Division Two newcomers, KLSC FC Women. Chelsea Brister on target for 4 goals with Charlie Head netting a double in an 11-0 win. Caister at home to local rivals, Gorleston with their new look side. A closer result this one with goals from Samantha Hunn and Bethany Turner securing a spot in the semi-finals with a 2-1 victory. Dussindale & Hellesdon needing to squeeze there game in their semi-final against fellow Division One side Sprowston FC Women taking place at The nest under the lights, drawing 2-2 at half-time Sprowston were to have their goalkeeper sent off in the 2nd period Dussindale & Hellesdon going on to score 3 to win the game 5-2. Victoria Leyer scoring 4 goals, Sutton with the other to send them into this Sunday’s final. Caister originally drawn to host Freethorpe in their semi-final the weather playing it’s part the tie switched to Freethorpe’s ground. Goals from Turner and Laura Atkinson seeing Caister into a final in their debut season winning 2-0.

A new venue for NWGFL Finals day after it’s 2 season absence due to Covid. Youngs Park, home of Aylsham FC. The modern, new built clubhouse and changing rooms overlooking a number of grass football pitches with the main pitch behind. The clubhouse is a god size housing the bar and kitchen area. Hot food available on the day. Hosting the youth finals the day before a busy one with 10 games squeezed in today’s action hosting the 3 senior final the Women’s Plate and Cup along with the 7’s final between Kirkley & Pakefield and Costessey Sports. Not as warm as yesterday. Mild but with plenty of cloud around with the threat of a shower growing throughout the day.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Amee Kennett, Siesha Humphries, Maddison Goodenough, Calista Tink (C), Abbi Nobbs, Georgina Belton, Lucy Wetherall, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister & Shanice Sutton. Subs – Ruby Wilson, Charlie Head, Kari Kowalczyk, Kirstie Rusted & Zuleika Laffitte.

Caister FC Ladies

Caister FC Ladies starting XI – Laura Beevor, Hayley Muir (C), Enya Tooke, Elisha Maher, Maia Hollis, Nicole Sheldrake, Courtney Charlton, Molly Sims, Ellie Hills, Olivia Broughton & Bethany Turner. Subs – Kelly Allen, Caitlin Smith, Melissa Anderson & Samantha Hunn.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Dussindale & Hellesdon wearing an all claret kit to get the final underway kicking off 1st half with Caister lined up opposite wearing an all navy away kit.

GOAL! A fast start to the game for Dussindale & Hellesdon the ball played back into Abbi Nobbs in midfield passed out to right back Amee Kennett is fed forwards to Abby Hutchin racing away up the right wing getting in behind taking the ball on squares her cross along the top of the six yard box low straight to Shanice Sutton at the far post to turn the ball into the back of the net with her first touch of the match 1-0.

Shanice Sutton on target to score with her first touch of the game (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

A fast start to the game for Dussindale & Hellesdon taking the lead inside the opening 15 seconds. a blow for Caister who look to get the ball into Bethany Turner moving right from the restart her ball into the area cleared by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Maddison Goodenough is help on upfield out to Sutton pulling away right her early diagonal ball into the top of the Caister area looking to Chelsea Brister moving in from the left, bringing the ball down Enya Tooke is in to close her down clear the threat for Caister.

Abby Hutchin on the move for Dussindale & Hellesdon

Dussindale & Hellesdon buoyed by their early goal pile players on in attack Sutton drifting out to the left taking the ball off Brister dribbling to the by-line cutting inside into the box goes on before shooting close in the angle acute, Caister goalkeeper, Laura Beevor down smartly to her right diving to push the ball behind for a corner kick. The corner driven into the near post from the left is headed wide by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink up from the back.

Both Brister and Hutchin looking to travel with the ball on the flanks for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Sutton looking to play off the Caister defence. Siesha Humphries on the left of defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon defending as Turner looks to drive on with the ball wide. Caister make ground on the left winning a throw in the final 3rd, Molly Sims bringing the ball under control hooking it forwards into the Dussindale & Hellesdon area with Ellie Hills making the run, goalkeeper, Tyla Cole off her line quickly to claim the ball.

Beevor comes rushing out to the top of her area to save at the feet of Sutton as she is put in behind from a diagonal ball from Hutchin on the right. The offside flag however is up against her. Georgina Belton coming into space on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon is played in by Nobbs, her diagonal ball into the top of the Caister box is won by Elisha Maher. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking a threat everytime they go forwards closing down the ball Caister are unable to gain a foothold inside their half. Tink coming on with the ball right sending it on for Kennett running up the right wing her cross into the area sliced clear drops straight to Lucy Wetherall outside the D drops her shoulder moving inside onto her left foot to send a shot in from 20 yards is straight at Beevor.

Enya Tooke tackling for Caister FC Ladies

Nicole Sheldrake bringing the ball on through the middle for Caister has Olivia Broughton ahead of her playing the ball into her path she looks to spread it left for Hills making the run to get in behind, the pass intercepted by Kennett for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Caister with a change Caitlin Smith on for Maia Hollis at the back. A throw high on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon dropped into Belton controls and turning sends a cross in along the top of the area, coming to Brister left side, her first time strike blasted wide of the right post.

Defending the corner (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Little respite for Caister as Nobbs with Belton and Wetherall in the middle hustle possession forcing errors the ball lost. A chance for Caister to relieve some pressure as they win a free-kick wide on the right send into the opposition box, the ball cleared put on upfield the break on with Sutton racing after it. Beevor though out rapidly to the top of the area to see the ball safely into her gloves. Hutchin strong on the right bursting forwards her cross cut out by Maher falls straight to a Dussindale & Hellesdon shirt the 25 yard strike picking out Beevor back on her line to grab down.

Laura Beevor busy in the Caister goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Beevor by far the busier of the two goalkeepers, Humphries on for Brister left cut out rolls straight to Weatherall outside the area top of the D her strike held by the Caister keeper. Belton bringing the ball on from the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon moving right sends the diagonal pass into the box looking for pulling off the defence, her header held by Beevor. Keeping the ball in the final 3rd Dussindale & Hellesdon with a throw right put inside for Weatherall top of the box right side sends it across to Brister far side her shot struck in low racing wide across the Caister goal.

GOAL! 20 minutes played and Dussindale & Hellesdon have shown attacking intent throughout press forwards through the middle the ball fed out to Brister moving down the left pace on the ball fires a cross into the top of the six yard box Sutton at the near post getting her foot on it striking the ball high past the keeper into the the roof of the net 2-0.

Shanice Sutton doubling Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead

Strong midfield running from Dussindale & Hellesdon, Belton in particular bringing the ball out finding space on the right with Hutchin occupying the defence her cross in the attack thwarted by the offside flag. Caister are doing their best to get their attackers into the game primarily Turner on the right pushes the ball out wider to be crossed into the area, cleared by Tink. Forwards into Belton again moving right attempts to lob the keeper from distance her high ball into the area dropping short, caught low by Beevor a good claim back on her line needing to be wary of players looking to rush in on her.

Smith on the ball for Caister left travelling has Turner making a run into the left channel looking to pull in behind, threading the pass on, Tink reads it cutting the ball out for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Courtney Charlton defending inside the box for Caister as Sutton plays the ball into Hutchin right of goal. A corner for Dussindale & Hellesdon on the right the ball in defended by Beevor at the near post falls to Wetherall moving left but can’t find a way through.

Bethany Turner fighting for the ball in the Caister attack (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Dussindale & Hellesdon regain possession in the middle Belton with the crossfield pass left to right for Hutchin, jinks inside her mark moving across the top of the Caister area before shooting her low strike saved by Beevor. Hutchin right on the attack inside for Sutton 20 yards out right side of the box looks to play it across to Brister moving in from the left, Maher getting the tackle in on her to clear the threat for Caister.

A free-kick to Dussindale & Hellesdon on the right as Hutchin is body checked by Tooke the set-piece 30 plus yards out. Brister over it flights a ball in to be attacked far post area, won and cleared by Caister captain, Hayley Muir. Hutchin is quick to nip in and win it back 30 yards out her shot taking a slight deflection on it’s way through to the keeper. Muir is then booked as she brings down Brister as she looks to accelerate away with the ball on the left. A pause for drinks before the free-kick is taken. Brister with a dangerous ball in across goal to the far side, Charlton getting her head on it for Caister good work to turn the ball up over her own crossbar for a corner kick. Charlton then defending from the corner as Dussindale & Hellesdon fire it in towards the near post area. Comes to Humphries up the line on the right to send a curling strike in towards goal swerving in front of Beevor the keeper is down well to lay claim to the ball.

Caister struggling to get anything going up top getting hold of the ball in the middle placing a pass into an attack is proving difficult, Tink and Goodenough reading the ball well. Hutchin driving inside with the ball from the right, the pass fizzed into Sutton getting free central inside the area her shot sent goalwards, Beevor with a superb save instinct as she throws a leg out to block the ball deflect it out to the left, Brister back in across the six yard box Hutchin right after it with Charlton the defender doing well against her for Caister.

The free-kick count rising another one for obstruction this one closer outside the area as Brister places the ball down for Dussindale & Hellesdon right of the D, curls a shot in her effort landing on the roof of the net. Weatherall getting on for Dussindale & Hellesdon angling a shot in from wide her strike palmed down by Beevor.

GOAL! A couple of minutes left to play in the 2nd half largely dominated by Dussindale and Hellesdon, they go on to extend their lead. Nobbs on for Wetherall through the middle sends it out to Brister on the left attacking turns inside and strikes the shot in on the angle rising for the top corner across goal Beevor dives in vain the ball smashing down off the crossbar over the line 3-0.

Chelsea Brister extending Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead

Pressing on from the restart Caister find no way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence, Goodenough out to Belton who passes on to Nobbs getting forwards plays the ball into Sutton’s feet as she drifts in left of the D, her shot pulled wide of the left post.

GOAL! Moments later Sutton goes on to score her hat-trick. Once again linking up with Brister breaking on down the left with the ball, her cross lifted in near side Sutton gets under the ball to head it in up over the keeper 4-0.

A frustrating 1st half for Caister haven’t get going at all, Smith taking the ball on through the middle looking to link up with Turner outside the area playing a one two the final pass cut out by Kennett for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Beevor out to save bravely at Sutton’s feet as she looks to get onto the end of a Brister pass fed into the box from the left. Charlton doing enough at the back for Caister to stop Hutchin getting into a shooting position as Sutton sends the ball on for her right side.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Women 4-0 Caister FC Ladies

A 4-0 lead for Dussindale & Hellesdon in the League Plate Final. In control of the half from start to finish. Taking the lead in their very first attack seconds on the board the early goal clearly settling any nerves, whilst rocking their opponents. Caister never looking settled have struggled to get the ball into their attackers while keeping any meaningful possession, given away too easily has invited Dussindale & Hellesdon on in attack their movement causing problems. A mountain to climb if they are to find a way back into the tie in the 2nd half.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Lucy Wetherall

Caister look to have made a change at the start of the 2nd half, Melissa Anderson on. Caister to get the 2nd 45 underway. The sun making an appearance, the ball quickly lost as Belton closes in for Dussindale & Hellesdon out to Hutchin on the right on for Sutton trying to break into the box, Beevor racing out to close her down the pair colliding, nothing in it, as Muir clears the ball. Sutton down for a moment but is okay to continue.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Caister looking to get the ball into Turner, use her strength to battle her way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence, linking up with Smith out on the wing, Humphries steals in to win the ball back sends it up to Brister on the move left playing in forwards for Sutton her angled shot in low from 25 yards out wide at the near post.

GOAL! 5 minutes into the 2nd half and Dussindale & Hellesdon go on to extend their advantage the ball fed out wide to Hutchin running on play drawn across to the right support from Sutton the cross is driven into the area straight to Brister free in front of goal, unmarked opens up her body to place the ball into the bottom corner 5-0.

Dussindale & Hellesdon with plenty of energy, just won’t click up top for Caister, Turner working hard on the ball finding no way through. Hills inside to Broughton, Tink halting progress for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Belton getting free on the right on to the top of the box the shot in down off the crossbar rebounding to the left Brister with the outside of her boot looking to turn it back in towards goal Beevor down at her near post the ball behind for a corner.

Dussindale & Hellesdon midfielder, Georgina Belton

Tink comes out to challenge, Turner as she is given the ball by Sheldrake on the right out for a throw in. Sutton on the attack into the box Maher on her stretching for the ball, Sutton turns to life her shot up over the bar. Dussindale & Hellesdon keeping the ball getting on with it at every opportunity. Changes for Caister with Hollis back on along with Kelly Allen. Charlton on the ball making a driving run through the middle for Caister challenged landing heavily a pause for treatment up gingerly. A change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Charlie Head coming on for Brister. Charlton off for Caister on comes Samantha Hunn.

Molly Sims tackling for Caister FC Ladies

Humphries winning the ball back off Allen high up the pitch shoots on the angle 25 yards out left side her effort racing wide across the Caister goal. Belton in the middle putting the ball on into Sutton in attack central lays it out to Head on the right drives on into the area, shooting the strike wide across the goal out at the far post. Sutton up on the right with Hutchin the ball into the box for Head her shot, charged down by Muir.

Caister’s Kelly Allen

Caister battling for possession, Allen and Anderson in the middle looking to send it forwards, Turner moving across the Dussindale & Hellesdon area. Hutchin attacking right cuts the ball inside to Weatherall on for Head in the box her angled strike low to the near post saved by Beevor the ball loose for a 2nd, Beevor dragging it back into her body with Sutton closing in. Caister with the ball central up with King knocking it on for Turner moving right a powerful run getting into the box, falling back as she goes to strike the ball on the angle sends it over the bar.

Caister fighting for the ball in the middle now, Allen with Anderson, no way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence. Anderson playing the ball out to Turner moving into the right wing drives on with the ball squaring a cross into the Dussindale & Hellesdon box, Cole diving forwards to push the ball away a good save with Hunn running in clear behind. King lifting it back into the box for Turner six yards out closed down the ball scrambled away. A double change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Kennett and Belton coming off on come Kari Kowalczyk an Ruby Wilson. Allen with the crossfield ball out to Turner in the right channel turning inside is tackled by Wilson at the back.

GOAL! The game moving into the final 15 minutes, the substitutes breaking up some momentum, Dussindale & Hellesdon find Hutchin out on the right again sends the ball inside for midfielder Nobbs up with play 25 yards out right of the D, shapes to shoot, the ball rising in towards goal, am behind it have to say I thought it was going over so did the crowd around me but no it drops down late to find it’s way in under the bar to bring up the 6th goal for Dussindale & Hellesdon’s number 6. 6-0!

Abbi Nobbs scoring Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 6th goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Caister make a change bringing Broughton back on for Smith. Play brought back for the foul with no advantage after Nobbs is upended in the centre. The ball played out to the right with Sutton up with Head put back to Wetherall top of the area sends it out to Kowalczyk on the left plays it back infield for Wetherall drives on by too much traffic ahead of her. Head taking the ball out to the left corner lifts a cross into the far post Sutton can’t get it down under control before the ball is launched clear.

Turner up the other end looking to get away on the right is stopped by Wilson in the corner. Muir looking to lift Caister make one last push as the game enters the final 5 minutes. Anderson off for Caister, Hills back on. Humphries up on the left forwards into Kowalczyk turns infield pushing the ball into Wetherall, attempts to lift it over the top into the box for Head but Beevor out to snatch it first. Head seeing the ball into her feet for Dussindale & Hellesdon outside the box moving central to right turning to send a shot wide across goal.

Abby Hutchin

A quadruple change for Dussindale in the closing minutes with Goodenough, Humphries, Wetherall and Sutton coming off for Kennett, Belton, Kirstie Rusted and Zuleika Lafitte. Broughton getting hold of the ball central almost through for Caister but stopped by Kennett. Sims with the pass on for Hunn left for Caister can’t quite reach it before the keeper can claim. Belton looking to get on for Dussindale & Hellesdon left, Maher defending in the box for Caister doing well to get a goal kick. Beevor out to clear as Rusted looks to burst on through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Women 6-0 Caister FC Ladies

Dussindale & Hellesdon with a strong performance from start to finish to win the Plate Final 6-0 scoring in the opening seconds and playing a high energy game through out never letting their opponents settle on the ball racing into a 4-0 lead at the break. A mountain for Caister to climb to try and get themselves back into the game 2nd half. An early goal 2nd half denting those hopes will be disappointed with their performance on the day taking the gloss off what has been a magnificent first season as Caister. Runners-Up in a cup final they were still smiling at the end getting to collect there Division Two Champions medals after the game promoted to Division One next season. Congratulations to Caister on their title success.

Caister FC Ladies, Norfolk Women’s Division Two Champions (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match today. Several good performances to choose from and isn’t easy to single one out. Firstly for Caister a special mention for goalkeeper Laura Beevor despite the score line pulled off a number of crucial saves to keep the score down. Bethany Turner up top worked hard without getting much reward for her efforts. For Dussindale & Hellesdon were solid throughout. Calista Tink strong at the back. Georgina Belton in midfield winning the ball playing some great passes forwards. Lucy Wetherall getting on from the middle to support the attack. Chelsea Brister dangerous on the left of attack always available for the pass. Abby Hutchin too on the right side her first attack setting the tone for the rest of the game strong throughout. The award though goes to striker Shanice Sutton scoring with her first touch of the game going on to get a first half hat-trick found some great positions and space in and around the box.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women winning the 2021/22 NWGFL League Plate (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Congratulations to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on winning the 2021/22 NWGFL Plate Final.

One final down one to go, a quick look at the 7’s final in between. My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details. Also for photographer Scott Grearhardy for the use of some of his pictures in the report. One more game left for Caister away to 3rd placed UEA FC Women with runners-up spot yet to be decided. 2 games for Dussindale & Hellesdon the first on Wednesday at The Nest welcoming 4th placed Thetford Town Ladies.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Tag Archives: Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

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