Acle United Ladies travelled to Hertfordshire on Sunday to take on 5th placed Royston Town Ladies. The Norfolk side in the position in the table still in contention for the ERWFL Premier Division title needing a maximum points from their remaining 4 matches to ensure they can catch Billericay Town Ladies at the top of the table. Made a great start to the game captain Megan Todd firing Acle United into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. Royston had been on a good run had suffered defeat to 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies in midweek got themselves back on level terms in the 24th minute. Acle United resumed the lead 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick Amber Rowland putting it past the keeper to make it 2-1.
A narrow lead for Acle United at half-time, Royston turned it completely around in the 2nd half equalising within 2 minutes of the restart, Goals on 60 and 65 minutes putting them into a 4-2 lead, Gemma Croucher on target with a goal with Becky Shephard scoring a hat-trick. Acle United couldn’t find a response losing the game their title challenge taking a blow.
One other game from the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, bottom side Colney Heath Ladies travelling to Creasey park to play AFC Dunstable Ladies. A tough season for Colney Heath in their Premier Division debut fighting hard just haven’t picked up the results suffering another narrow defeat at the weekend a single goal winning it for AFC Dunstable, Danielle Carty scoring the goal.
ERWFL Division One North
A handful of games left in the ERWFL Division One North all involving Histon Ladies. The 3rd placed side hosting the newly crowned league champions Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday. The visitors looking to end the season unbeaten have dropped points in just one game in the league all season. Wymondham Town couldn’t get the early goal that has so often been a feature for them this season setting them up for the rest of the game. Histon proving a tough nut to crack. Wymondham Town kept at it however grabbing a winning goal with just a minute left on the clock striker Hannah Waters turning the ball home for her 22nd goal of the season.
That result is good news for 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies as it means they have secured runners-up spot in the league.
Cup Final action for both Wymondham Town Ladies and Acle United Ladies this coming Friday as they meet in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a 7:30pm kick-off at the FDC. Women’s Football East will be there to cover the game.
ERWFL Division One South
Stevenage Ladies Reserves were celebrating in mid-week as they won 3-2 against 2nd placed Harlow Town Ladies to clinch the ERWFL Division One South title. Have led the table from start to finish a long 100% winning run at the start of the season seeing them pull away and for a long while defending a flawless defensive record. A great achievement and a possible double to come with the ERWFL Plate Final to come.
Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies Reserves on their title success.
Back to earth with a bump on Sunday however for Stevenage away to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies as they suffered defeat for just the 2nd time this season. A below par performance Little Thurrock Dynamos taking full advantage to end their poor run that had seen them lose 4 of their last 5 matches. A 2-0 win seeing the run brought to an end 3 matches left at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies and two more with Stevenage Ladies Reserves 9 points back on 2nd placed Harlow Town who have placed out their fixtures.
Harlow Town ended their debut league campaign in the ERWFL Division One South away to Hutton Ladies. Braces for both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe along with a goal for Frances Gamble seeing them end with a 5-1 victory on 37 points 9 clear of Little Thurrock Dynamos could still potentially be caught but have a goal difference of 30 over their fellow Essex side and that might well prove to be an extra point advantage.
4 straight wins for Hoddesdon Town Ladies as they end their season in style, playing their penultimate league game away to Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. A first half goal for Charley Handley. Captain Natasha Crick scoring 5 minutes into the 2nd half Rosy Wodhams bagging herself a brace with Fay Holder also getting on the scoresheet in a 5-1 win. Brogan McHale scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
Billericay Town Ladies lead the ERWFL Premier Division by 7 points following a 4-1 win over AFC Dunstable Ladies in their penultimate league game of the season this Sunday. Courtney Clare opening the scoring for the host side Hayley Piggott from the penalty spot doubling the lead further goals from Hope Strauss and Paris Smith seeing Billericay Town go on to win the match 4-1. Danielle Carty with the goal for AFC Dunstable.
2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Royston Town Ladies who had climbed up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division following a 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Ladies in midweek. Becky Shephard scoring to put Royston into a 1-0 half-time lead. Shepard netted again in the 2nd half to double the advantage. Cambridge City came back into it with a goal from Stacey Fullicks to make it 2-1. Sammy Tinsley restoring Royston’s 2 goal lead. Goals from Bella Simmons and Charlotte Gillies seeing the points shared as Cambridge City came back again to draw the game 3-3.
Bedford Ladies were awarded a home win in their final league game of the season leaving them in 3rd spot level on points with Cambridge City Ladies. The fixture against AFC Sudbury Ladies whose league campaign also drew to a close on Sunday.
In 4th position Acle United Ladies again find themselves in the position of having games in hand on the leaders and the potential points available to chase them down a maximum haul seeing them finish level with Billericay assuming neither drop any. A double header this Sunday for Acle United at The Flegg FDC taking on Brentwood Town Ladies.
In the 1st match the 1st half was a fairly even affair the dead lock broken late on a goal from Laura Holden seeing Acle United lead 1-0. A totally different story in the 2nd half Acle United starting well Megan Todd doubling the lead 3 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick goals from Lauren Bullard and Holden with her 2nd of the match putting Acle United 4-0. Brentwood responded with 2 quickfire goals from Nicole Manning and Emma Mackie to get it back to 4-2 A goal for new signing Rosie Filby on her debut put Acle United into a 5-2 lead with late goals from Rhianne Brister and another from Todd making the final score 7-2.
A dominant 2nd game from Acle United saw them take maximum points away from both games. Megan Todd to target with another goal putting Acle United into a 1-0 half-time lead. Goals from Laura Holden then Kirstie kindred making the score 3-0 then Todd struck late on for her 2nd of the game to see Acle United win 4-0.
ERWFL League Plate
Fresh from their Essex Women’s Trophy success Hutton Ladies were looking to reach a 2nd final of the season this Sunday. The current holders of the ERWFL League Plate hosting Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side starting well getting into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Kirsty Smith with the strike to make it 1-0 a free-kick sent in by Hannah Gordon 2 minutes later making it 2-0. Hutton pulled it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. Histon scoring late on with Gordon on target for her 2nd goal of the game to lead 3-1 at half-time.
Hutton came back into the match in the 2nd half scoring twice to get it back all square at 3-3. The semi-final heading into extra-time. The home side taking the lead for the 1st time in the game midway through the 1st period of extra play followed it up with another quick goal to lead 5-3 and held on to win the game and reach their 2nd successive League Plate Final. Hutton’s goals scored by Hayley Critchell, Patrizia Leo, Laura Allen, Katie Lowen and Lucy Critchell. Hutton will be the underdogs against ERWFL Division One South leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves… but then they were also the underdogs last season and beat the odds.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North, Wymondham Town Ladies had secured the league title last weekend away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies with 3 games left to play. Unbeaten dropping points in just the one game to date the Norfolk side travelled to Cambridge United WFC Reserves this Sunday who were playing their last match of the season. The visitors found themselves trailing at the break as Cambridge United scored from a free-kick late in the 1st half, Liz Pamplin sending the ball in from the edge of the area. Wymondham Town started the 2nd half strongly and within 8 minutes of kick-off were back on level terms, striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later Wymondham Town were leading Waters striking again to make it 2-1. Alice Ladbrooke on hand to put the ball home in the 63rd minute after Waters sees her shot saved. 3-1 the winning score two matches left for Wymondham both away to Histon Ladies.
In the other match played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies playing their last match of the season were hosting 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points for the visitors Olivia Baker the scorer for King’s Lynn, have one match to play against 3rd placed Histon Ladies have an 8 point lead over the Cambridgeshire side that game scheduled for the 6th May, King’s Lynn could well secure the runners-up spot before then if Histon can’t end Wymondham Town unbeaten record. A promising start to the season for Ipswich Wanderers Ladies picking up some good results dropping away toward the end of the season will be looking to recruit new faces over the close season.
ERWFL Division One South
Harlow Town Ladies looking odds on now to at the least clinch runner’s up spot in ERWFL Division One South as they moved 9 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies with a home victory against them on Sunday. A single goal scored by Lily Bruno enough to seal the victory. Moves Harlow to within 2 points of leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves who they host on Wednesday. Have played 3 games more however. Results have been against Little Thurrock in the run in as they lose for the 4th time in 5 league matches 4 left to play 3 against Stevenage Ladies Reserves.
One of those losses in midweek away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Stephanie Iaonnou scoring the late winner. A busy week for Hoddesdon Town with 3 games in 6 days. Women’s Football East at their game on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. Danny Barley their new manager in charge for the 1st time. A brilliant start for Hoddesdon Town as Sian Owens struck the ball inside the D inside the opening 30 seconds to find the back of the net and make it 1-0. Hertford Town came back into the game well competing for the ball and defending well against Hoddesdon Town causing some frustration amongst the home side.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell
1-0 the lead at the break Hertford Town felt confident they could get it back all square, Hoddesdon Town making changes during the interval. A close 2nd half the game end to end at times with the quality in the final 3rd Hertford pushing for a leveller conceded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out with 12 minutes left, Kristina O’Connell within shooting range struck the ball well sending it over the keeper and in to double the lead. Hertford Town responded straight away getting up the other end Olivia Worsfold pressuring the defence pouncing on the loose ball and turning it in from the angle for her 1st goal of the season. Not enough ultimately as Hoddesdon Town held on for the 2-1 win. The match report featuring in the previous post.
Back in action just 24 hours later last evening Hoddesdon were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies and ended the night celebrating 3 straight wins. A successful spell ending with a 3-0 victory. Rosy Wodhams with a goal along with a brace for Charley Handley.
The football action this weekend on Women’s Football East comes from the ERWFL Division One North a trip to Hertfordshire to watch Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies play Hertford Town Ladies.
The sides currently 5th and 6th in the Division One North table with a handful of games left to play both looking to end on a positive note after a tough beginning to their campaigns. Hoddesdon Town Owls coming into the game on a high after recently playing in their first ever Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final back in March. Playing in midweek picked up a very good result at home to promotion chasing Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies winning the match 1-0. The club has come through a transitional period having lost several 1st team regulars two season’s ago rebuilding with a young squad last season results have picked up this campaign.
My 1st look at Hertford Town Ladies, now in their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL having won the Beds & Herts Division One title back in 2015/16. A slow start to life at a higher level last season, results improved towards the end of the season. Into their 2nd season in the ERWFL have struggled for goals and been around the bottom of the table all season. Have been searching for a new manager and today is the first match in charge for Danny Barley.
The venue for today’s game Hoddesdon Town FC on Park View not too far from the town centre. The cricket club next door. A clubhouse and changing room’s between the two. A large pitch seated covered stands on both sides of the ground. On the road parking beside the ground, however there are car parks nearby. The weather… brace yourselves… dry! Actually quite pleasant a few clouds around but the sun is doing it’s best to make an appearance for a welcome change after a long wet winter.
It’s Hoddesdon to get the game underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and navy vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks with Hertford lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts.
GOAL! Straight from their 1st attack Hoddesdon take the lead certainly the quickest goal I’ve seen this season. The ball played into Hoddesdon captain Natasha Crick out on the right she brings in on up the pitch fires a ball in towards the area a bit of pinball in the box as Hertford fail to clear the ball rebounding off a couple of players falls to Sian Owens inside the D she catches the ball 1st time and is past goalkeeper Ellie Morris before she can react 1-0.
Sian Owens scores in the opening seconds to give Hoddesdon the lead
Hertford attack down the right side Olivia Worsfold playing the ball on for Lisa Kline, a recent addition to the squad dual signed from Enfield Town Ladies has 2 goals from 2 appearances, taking the ball on down the wing fires a diagonal ball into the area, Katie Williams with the central run, Hoddesdon goalkeeper Casey Herrick gathers the ball at her near post. Hertford captain Carly Snell wins a 50/50 ball in the middle of the park the helped on through the middle for Williams the striker giving chase, Hoddesdon’s Fay Holder closes her down wins the ball.
A free-kick wide left fro Hertford inside the Hoddesdon half a good delivery into the area by Claire Pavett. Charley Handley getting up highest to win the header for Hoddesdon. Hannah Kelly plays the ball through the middle for Courtney Smart, she is tackled by Pavett the defender playing the ball long for Williams moving out to the left flank, Holder comes across to clear the ball out for a throw. Hertford despite the early set back of conceding a goal have come back into the game well the ball being moved quickly from back to front. Pushing forwards Bilge Taspinar runs into space after a long ball Herrick coming out of her area to clear smashes the ball against the Hertford attacker. The rebound favouring the Hoddesdon defence the ball hooked away as they get back.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Hannah Kelly
Hoddesdon push players forwards as the ball is carried up the pitch on the right the cross into the top of the area, Kristina O’Connell forwards to support Smart and Owens, Hertford put in a couple of blocks, Pavett then Lauren Barnard before the ball is deflected back to Chloe Makepeace she has a go from distance the ball dropping just wide of Morris’s left post. Kline gets hold of the ball on the right drills a shot/cross in low towards the near post Herrick adjusting well saves with her legs.
Hertford Town Ladies, Zoe Garvey
End to end at times as Hoddesdon come on, the Hertford defence standing firm winning the ball quick to set up the counter attack. Snell getting forwards wins a free-kick left of the Hoddesdon area. The delivery played up to the far post several players from both sides jumping for it the ball landing in the six yard box is knocked back out to Katie Taylor on the edge of the box, her fierce shot back in is blocked by the Hoddesdon defence.
A throw high up on the left for Hoddesdon the pass played through to Smart inside the area closing in on the near post her shot is blocked. A free-kick for Hoddesdon wide left outside the area O’Connell over it whips a good ball in across the face of goal now one can get a touch as it runs wide of the far post. Crick with the ball attacking on the right sides her initial cross in blocked by Pavett, then wins her sides a corner kick. The ball played long towards the to of the area met by O’Connell a looping shot sent in towards goal an awkward height for Morris the goalkeeper gets a glove on the ball knocking it down and claims at the 2nd attempt.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell
Kelly is fouled as she gets hold of the ball on the right a free-kick awarded to Hoddesdon. Players go forwards into the area as O’Connell places the ball. The midfielder playing in a tempting ball, Crick getting up on the penalty spot can only get a glancing header on the ball not enough to alter it’s direction as it runs out of play. A change for Hoddesdon Smart coming off, Jemma Collison comes on. Obstruction by Katie Kendle on Taspinar in the centre circle. Pavett on the free-kick a looped ball up into the area, again Handley is under it to clear for Hoddesdon.
Bilge Taspinar collides with Katie Kendle
Kline coming over to the left side as Hertford win a throw in receives the pass turning towards the area avoiding a challenge is bearing down on goal, Makepeace coming back on the cover from midfield putting the ball behind for a corner. Played in towards the far post from the left knocked out to the right the cross is put back on Williams rising at the post flicking the ball on across the face of goal, Herrick gets her gloves firmly around the ball.
Hertford Town Ladies, Katie Williams
Set pieces given away by both sides are creating opportunities to get the ball into the area. A free-kick goes Hertford’s way half way inside the Hoddesdon half. The ball coming into the box falls to Williams her shot is flashed up over the crossbar. A little bit of niggle out their Hertford are doing well winning the ball frustrating Hoddesdon in the final 3rd Zoe Garvey winning the ball against Crick. The Hoddesdon captain picking up a knock late into the 1st half. Hertford are looking to release Williams and Taspinar in particular up front Herrick through has been quick to come off her line and clear whenever the visitors look to turn play around quickly.
Half-time Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies 1-0 Hertford Town Ladies
Despite taking the lead in the opening seconds Hoddesdon haven’t gone on to build on their lead and as the half has wore on have gotten a little frustrated. Hertford if anything have been the slightly better of the two sides growing in confidence throughout the half. Winning the physical battles charging down balls and intercepting passes. Have broken forwards well although opportunities have been limited haven’t tested Herrick with any long range shots. Going in at half-time the game is still very much in the balance.
Changes for both sides at half-time, Nicola Davey running the line for Hertford in the 1st half coming on for Karen Staples. Robyn Jones and Stephanie Iaonnou on for Hoddesdon on for Kendle and Crick. This sees Kelly pushed up front into the strikers role. Hertford to get the 2nd half underway. Snell in with a robust challenge wins the ball in the middle knocks it on into the path of Taspinar she elects to have a go from 30 yards out her effort running a yard wide of the far post.
Williams moving forwards with the ball on the left wins a corner kick the ball into the area cleared by Dunnage for Hoddesdon comes onto Pavett 35 yards out strikes the ball back in towards goal another long range effort not too far wide. Hertford pressing for an equalising goal at the start of the 2nd half push forwards Hoddesdon hit them on the break Jones on the right a one two with Kelly in the middle as she goes forwards before being fouled. O’Connell over the ball the delivery flashes across the six yard box no one can apply a touch at the far post to turn it home.
The same happens a few moments later after Jones wins Hoddesdon a corner on the right, O’Connell with the delivery again the ball inswinging across the six yard box out of play at the far post. Williams is just offside through the middle as Taylor looks to play her through after winning the ball in the centre. A change for Hertford Worsfold has taken a knock needs to come off on comes Vicki Staples. Both sides are giving away free-kick play broken up as a result.
Hertford Town Ladies, Katie Taylor
Some painful challenges too, Garvey taking one on the far side as she and Jones contest the ball. Needs to come off, Katie Staples having been running the line 2nd half returns to the action for Hertford. Dunnage is getting forwards more in the 2nd half for Hoddesdon breaking from the back looking to support Kelly ends up getting up ended the free-kick 30 yards out left of goal O’Connell on it her ball into the middle is knocked down by Morris the keeper claiming well under challenge at the 2nd attempt.
A break on for Hertford through the middle Snell and Taylor through for Kline coming inside a run at the Hoddesdon defence, looks to shift the ball inside as she enters the box, Holder throwing out a leg lunges in to stop her shot. Snell closing the ball down sees it deflected on into the area, Taspinar under it making it difficult for the Hoddesdon defence gets a corner kick. The ball into the box cleared by Dunnage. A change for Hoddesdon Owens coming off to be replaced by Megan Davies with 20 minutes left on the clock. Involved straight away as Dunnage breaks forwards with the ball on the left looking to play a one two with Davies, Barnard in to win the ball back for Hertford.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Leah Dunnage
Morris produces a great save on the edge of her area to deny Kelly as Hoddesdon work the ball forwards well the move starting with Kelly in the centre circle as she shows a great piece of skill to control the high ball played into her and hold off her marker releasing the pass into Handley as she bursts past her Kelly gets in behind through the middle Handley putting the ball back into her Morris quick to react of her line meeting Kelly as she gets to the ball at the edge of the area making the blocking save. Hertford make a change Williams coming off up top, Worsfold back on a straight swap.
Hoddesdon launch a rapid counter attack O’Connell with a great touch bringing the ball under control in the middle looks to play Kelly in behind through the middle the pass a little too heavy Morris is able to gather before Kelly can reach the ball. Jones showing good pace down the right gets in behind whips a ball into the area, Morris claiming well at her near post. Iaonnou comes off for Hoddesdon Kendle coming back on. Kline finds space in behind on the right as Hoddesdon commit players forwards, attacking drives into the area from the right pulls the trigger, Holder racing across lunges in to charge the shot down for a corner.
Bilge Taspinar with Hoddesdon’s Chloe Makepeace
Williams comes back on for Hertford Taylor the player off. Kelly comes off for Hoddesdon, Crick returns to the field.
GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes Hoddesdon are on the attack Handley in the middle looking to help the ball in a hand ball is spotted by the referee a free-kick given to the home side in a dangerous position 25 yards out right of the D. O’Connell on it has looked to set up others previously closer in this time takes on the shot hits the ball perfectly flighted over the keeper lands in the back of the net 2-0.
GOAL! The 2-0 lead is short lived as Hertford pull a goal back straight away. The ball hotly contested in the middle players down after a coming together play goes on the ball knocked forwards centrally Holder looking to see it back to her keeper on the edge of the area under pressure from Worsfold the ball is deflected away to the left Worsfold after it a touch taking it the six yard box, players rushing to get back on the cover Worsfold slides it through them over the line to make it 2-1 and if the full-time stats are correct that is her 1st goal of the season.
Hertford Town Ladies, Olivia Worsfold
A tense finish set-up there is already plenty of niggle out there, frustration shown in a few camps. Some strong challenges nothing malicious however. Crick breaks clear with the ball on the left side good running takes on two players beating them gets into a shooting position 20 yards out her rising effort angling away from the top corner. O’Connell on the ball in the centre on for Handley moving to her left 20 yards out slides the ball through into the area for Crick the angle against her Crick shoots Morris with a good one handed save keeping the ball out trying to adjust her body Crick strikes the ball on the volley cutting it up over the crossbar.
Natasha Crick with Claire Pavett
A little bit of afters sees a bit of pushing and shoving that results in Crick and Davey being shown a yellow card each. Hertford since getting it back to 2-1 haven’t been able to get any meaningful possession on the ball, Handley back to tackle Snell as she tries to get forwards. Dunnage tackling Kline in stoppage time. Taspinar over on the left gets into the area wins a corner kick. Hoddesdon defend Makepeace heading the ball behind for another corner no time to take it however as the final whistle blows and Hoddesdon claim the 3 points.
Full time Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies 2-1 Hertford Town Ladies
An interesting game this one if scrappy at times Hoddesdon holding on for the narrow win in the end went after barely 30 seconds on the clock it looked like they might have a comfortable afternoon. Hardly the case. Hertford responding well to conceding early came right back into the game and winning the physical battle in the 1st half finished the stronger. As the 2nd half progressed you had the feeling that if Hertford could find and equaliser then they might well go on to win the match. Hoddesdon made changes 2nd half pushing Handley further forwards O’Connell influential still remained close Hoddesdon getting that all important 2nd goal, Hertford responded well scoring straight away but not enough in the end to take anything from the game.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Hoddesdon Town Owls midfielder Kristina O’Connell a hotly contested area in midfield this afternoon with some robust challenges to deal with time on the ball limited. Got forwards well to support the attackers especially 2nd half. Good control and range of passes, aw well as scoring a superb free-kick.
Hoddesdon have little time to celebrate the win a warm down after the game they are back in action tomorrow evening Monday 16th at home once again, Bishops Stortford Ladies the visitors with 2 wins in 2 this week already they will be looking to make it 3.
Good to see another side for the 1st time, many more out there. My thanks to both clubs for all their help with the team details always appreciated.
Semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Cup. Two tasty looking ties in the last four of the competition too. Premier Division leaders Billericay Town Ladies were away to Acle United Ladies the Norfolk side could yet challenge them for the title. Focus on the League Cup this Sunday a feisty encounter by all accounts. Plenty of action in the first half, Acle United going in front in the 7th minute Lauren Bullard getting the goal 4 minutes later the lead was doubled the hosts scoring from a corner captain, Megan Todd rising to head the ball home to make it 2-0.
Billericay were far from out of the tie and on 22 minutes pulled the score back to 2-1 like Acle United added a 2nd goal a few minutes later to bring it all level at 2-2. Acle United getting their noses back in front with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Grace Birchall scoring from a free-kick. The 2nd half saw chances fall to both sides Billericay having a penalty shout rejected aswell as striking the bar twice. Couldn’t find the goal however to get it back to 3-3 as Acle United held on for a 3-2 to book their place in the League Cup Final.
In the other semi-final it was another hard game to call with Brentwood Town Ladies hosting AFC Dunstable Ladies on Sunday. Paida Dedza netted a brace for Brentwood Town her goals cancelled with Beth Stanton and Bianca Vassell both scoring for AFC Dunstable to see the sides finish the 90 drawing at 2-2 and heading into extra-time. 5 minutes into the extra period and AFC Dunstable struck to take a 3-2 lead, Samaira Khan scoring what would prove to be the winning goal as Brentwood Town couldn’t find a reply. AFC Dunstable will play Acle United Ladies for this season’s ERWFL League Cup scheduled for Sunday 13th May at The County Ground, Letchworth.
ERWFL Premier Division
Two matches in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday a trip to Suffolk for 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. A tight first half between the sides a goal from Laura Mills the difference to give the visitors the lead. Cambridge City making the 3 points secure in the 2nd half with Bella Simmons making it 2-0 with her 23rd goal of the season.
Bedford Ladies are in 3rd place in the ERWFL Premier Division playing their penultimate league match at home this Sunday against bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. Another battling performance from Colney Heath they just haven’t been converted into points this season. A single goal for Bedford Ladies scored in the 2nd half enough to see them claim all 3 points.
ERWFL League Plate
Also semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Plate, just the one taking place however with Hutton Ladies involved in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this Sunday will take on Histon Ladies next Sunday in their Plate semi-final. This Sunday Stevenage Ladies Reserves leading the Division One South table were hosting fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in the last 4. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute, Naomi Sleator with the goal. 1-0 the half-time lead the final berth wasn’t secured until late in the game Emily Schofield scoring from a free-kick making it 2-0. Hannah Marshall also scoring as Stevenage ran out 3-0 winners to reach the final will know their opponents after the weekend.
ERWFL Division One North
Wymondham Town Ladies are the Champions clinching the ERWFL Division One North title this Sunday away to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Favourites at the start of the season to win the title and promotion to the Premier Division following on from a strong debut season in the ERWFL. Are Champions with 3 games to spare unbeaten too with just the one draw in their 15 league games played so far. A 2nd successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final to look forwards to as well at the end of the month.
This Sunday away to King’s Lynn Town, top scorer Laura Nicholls put Wymondham into the lead inside the opening 15 minutes. A purple patch followed as the 1st half approached the half hour, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway and striker Hannah Waters scoring 3 goals in 4 minutes. Waters adding a 2nd goal 5 minutes later. Nicholls getting her 2nd of the match too with 3 minutes left of the 1st half to see Wymondham in full control with a 6-0 lead. Brooke Cheal scoring in the 2nd half Wymondham Town celebrating the title with a 7-0 victory.
Congratulation’s to Wymondham Town Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies, ERWFL Division One North Champions (picture credit Wymondham Town Ladies)
In the other game played in ERWFL Division One North it was a depleted Ipswich Wanderers ladies side that played host to Histon Ladies this Sunday. Just the 7 available they put on a spirited performance but Histon made their numbers count. Abigail Davies putting the visitors into the lead in the 17th minute. Histon captain Sophie Lanham scoring to make it 2-0 midway through the 1st half. Alison Wright netted a goal for 3-0 before Lanham scored her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to see Histon leading 4-0. Sophie Hopkin and Brie Baker both scoring midway through the 2nd half saw Histon consolidate 3rd spot in the table and might yet threaten King’s Lynn Town in 2nd spot with the gap 5 points Histon having a game in hand and have to play King’s Lynn Town one more time this season. Two games against Wymondham Town however and I don’t think they’ll want to let their unbeaten record slip.
In midweek Ipswich Town Ladies Development wrapped up their 1st season in the ERWFL with a home win against Ipswich Wanderers, finishing with a win Ipswich Town ran out 4-0 winners.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday, Harlow Town Ladies opening up a 6 point lead in 2nd position with an away win against Hertford Town Ladies. Both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe scoring two goals each in a 4-1 victory for Harlow Town. Lisa Kline scoring the Hertford Town Ladies goal.
A good point earned by bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies at home to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Heather Martin and Samantha McComish her 1st of the season seeing the hosts draw the game 2-2. Ebony Moore and Sophie Dowman scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos who pick up a point after two successive defeats, still have games 3 games in hand on 2nd placed Harlow Town.
Once again it’s another shortened edition of The Round-Up with just the 12 games to report upon this weekend. Easter weekend was a much reduced fixture schedule anyway but with sides still needing to get a fair amount of games in another bout of wet weather wasn’t welcome as April begins. Half the fixtures suffering the next few weeks are going to be busy indeed.
Some bad news to bring you all at the start of this week’s Round-Up with the sad news that another 2 sides have withdrawn from their respective leagues, an unprecedented number this season already. Another side withdrawing from the ERWFL, Premier Division side Writtle Ladies. The news has been out there for a bit but only recently confirmed, the Essex side reaching the County Cup Final 3 season’s ago had enjoyed a rapid rise through the leagues in their short history, many of their players representing the county too. No doubt a very talented squad of players but had struggled to field a side in recent weeks. The news a bit of a shock because the side you felt had further to go but it has come to an end, will no doubt see their players feature for various sides come the new season and all will be an asset where ever they go wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.
Also withdrawing from their league are Essex Division One side, Waltham Forest Ladies. Again another side that has struggled for numbers all season getting behind with there fixtures and made every effort to try and find new faces for their squad. Hopefully they will feature again in the Essex county leagues soon and again wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.
There is some good news on the horizon I am aware of at least 3 new sides that are looking to start up next season and hopefully more new sides will be appearing too.
FAWPL Southern Division
On to the football, there was one match played in the FAWPL Southern Division on Sunday with Portsmouth FC Ladies hosting Swindon Town Ladies at Bognor Regis Town FC. The fifth placed side beating the side bottom of the Southern Division 5-0 to move to within a point of 4th placed Lewes FC Women. Shannon Albuery putting Portsmouth into the lead 22 minutes into the 1st half added a 2nd goal 5 minutes later with Samantha Quayle also on target with a goal 6 minutes before the break to see Portsmouth into a comfortable 3-0 half-time lead. Swindon Town remain without a point in the league with 3 matches left to play battled hard in the 2nd half to keep the scoreline down Portsmouth getting 2 more goal in the closing minutes Albuery completing her hat-trick. Katie James making it 5-0 in stoppage time.
FAWPL South East Division One
One match also in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies the away side having several 1st team players unavailable with the match being arranged at short notice travelled with a good portion of their Reserve side. Ipswich Town taking the lead in the 19th minute, Sophie Welton quickest to the rebound after Natasha Thomas’ shot was saved to turn the ball into the back of the net. Their lead didn’t last long however and Enfield Town got themselves back on level terms a few minutes later Katherine Long with the goal. Long was on target again with 6 minutes of the 1st half left to put Enfield Town into a 2-1 lead. Ipswich’s turn to hit back with a quick reply were awarded a penalty up the other end, captain Amanda Crump tucking the ball away for 2-2.
Ipswich Town Ladies captain, Amanda Crump
All square at half-time Ipswich Town were back in front 5 minutes into the 2nd half defender Lindsey Cooper heading the ball home from a Crump corner. This time there was no quick reply Ipswich Town having the opportunity to go further ahead with 20 minutes left awarded a 2nd spot kick. Crump again delivering to make it 4-2. Gemma Moore scoring in the final minute for Ipswich Town to see them win the match 5-2 the 3 points lifting them back up to 2nd place in the South East Division One table.
ERWFL Premier Division
One match in the ERWFL Premier Division this weekend the table adjusted once more following Writtle’s withdrawal. League leaders Billericay Town Ladies travelling to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. The home side haven’t had the best of luck with injuries this season and were missing a few again but put on a valiant display nevertheless, Nicola Hollicks scoring the only goal of the 1st half to see Colney Heath leading 1-0. Summer Muir doubling the home sides lead early in the 2nd half. Billericay Town pulling it back to 2-1, managed to salvage a point with just 2 minutes left on the clock scoring to make it 2-2. Hayley Piggott and captain Lindsey Morgan with their goals. The point see’s Billericay Town leading the way by 8 points from 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies with 2 matches to play. Cambridge City have 4 left maximum points will leave them on 35 points. 4th placed Acle United Ladies have 6 left to play however and should they and Billericay Town both claim maximum points in the run in they will both finish on 37 points going all the way once again.
ERWFL Division One North
In the ERWFL Division One North their was the one game played at the weekend, Histon Ladies at home to Silver End United Ladies the away side playing their last league fixture of the season a tough campaign a bottom place finish settled a while back. Lack of numbers earlier on in the season and injuries contributing. A goal in the opening fifteen minutes by Abigail Davies putting Histon into a 1-0 half-time lead. A strong finish in the 2nd half seeing Histon go on to secure all 3 points, Sophie Lanham scoring from the penalty spot with fifteen minutes left. A goal each for Hannah Gordon and Katie Webb in the final 10 minutes seeing Histon Ladies win the game 4-0 and move up into 3rd position in the table with a game in hand on 4th placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Silver End United Ladies season isn’t done quite yet have a Cup Final to play this coming Sunday are taking on Hutton Ladies for the Essex Women’s Trophy at Saffron Walden FC a 3pm kick-off.
ERWFL Division One South
One match in ERWFL Division One South too this Sunday with runners-up spot clinching promotion for whoever can claim it. Far from settled yet though Harlow Town Ladies are in possession at the moment 3 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies who saw their match away to leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves called off due to the weather. Harlow Town Ladies were at home taking on Hutton Ladies in 4th spot. The point’s were shared with the sides finishing at 2-2. Chloe Bassett and Lily Bruno scoring for Harlow Town. Kaitlin Sugg and Amy Crumpler on target for Hutton.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Two matches in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Unbeaten Thorpe United Ladies move into 2nd spot in the table after claiming all 3 points away from home against Stalham Town Ladies this Sunday. Shanice Sutton moving past 30 goals for the season as she rattled home another hat-trick for Thorpe United. Lisa Ferdani also scoring in their 5-2 win.
5-2 was also the winning score for Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves at home to Fakenham Town Ladies on Sunday. The sides were level at the break drawing 2-2, before Wymondham Town ran out 5-2 winners in the 2nd half, Gemma Hamilton-Rout with a penalty amongst Wymondham Town’s goalscorers. Rochelle Woods and Natalie Wright with the 1st half goals for Fakenham Town.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
10 win out of 10 for FC Sprowston Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two as they recorded another comfortable win on the road away to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the only game in the league on Sunday. Katie Fray scoring a hat-trick in the match. There were goal too for Melissa Belsey, Charlie Head and Rebecca Kirby in a 6-0 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
A six point haul in a double header in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership saw new leaders in the table as St Ives Town Ladies moved above Netherton United Ladies on goal difference. This Sunday they were away to fellow title hopefuls, 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies in the only game in the Cambridgeshire leagues. Always a competitive tussle between the sides the pair were drawing goalless at the break. The win secured in the 2nd half Hannah Seymour-Shove and Katie Stancombe scoring for St Ives Town to see the away side win 2-0 and move into a 3 point lead at the top of the table. A 7 point gap between them and Newmarket Town now both have 3 to play.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
The weather played havoc with the fixture list in Essex once again with just 3 games surviving all featuring Chelmsford City Ladies, and it was bed news in all 3 as the point went the way of their opponents. In the Essex Women’s Premier Division, Chelmsford City Ladies 1st team were at home to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Goals from captain Gaby Freedman and Georgia James for Chelmsford in the 1st half they found themselves trailing 2-3 thanks to a Jo Smeaton hat-trick for Beacon Hill Rovers. Smeaton adding a 4th goal in the 2nd half to secure the 3 points now has 21 goals for 12 appearances for Beacon Hill Rovers this season.
Essex Women’s Division One
A double header in Essex Division One, featuring Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves taking on high flyers Leigh Ramblers Ladies 4th in the table going into the match 3 points behind leaders Southend United Ladies. All very tight at the top. Leigh Ramblers are scoring plenty of goals only 2nd to Hullbridge Sports Ladies in the goal scoring charts before Sunday, their young squad up against the side bottom of the league this weekend scored another 15 goals in the 2 matches to claim all 6 points and take a 3 point lead at the top of the Division One table. A brace each for Abbi Brown and Amber Denton in the 1st match along with a goal each for Chloe Gilligan, Sasha Vail and Paige White seeing Leigh Ramblers win the match 7-0. Denton getting 5 more goals to her name in the 2nd game Leigh Ramblers winning 8-0. Their other goals scored by Rebecca Dalgarno, Molly Giles and Jordan Castle.
Three matches to bring you from the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday. Bedford Ladies in 5th position in the table were at home to 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who were looking to close the 7 point gap to league leaders Billericay Town Ladies. Despite goals from Bronte Rapley and Bella Simmons, Cambridge City were beaten heavily with Bedford scoring 5 up the other end to take all 3 points moving them up to 4th place in the table. No details of their goalscorers.
Brentwood Town Ladies were preparing for the Essex Women’s County Cup Final taking on holders C&K Basildon Ladies at Aveley FC on Thursday night, were at home to AFC Dunstable Ladies this Sunday both in mid-table in the ERWFL Premier Division. A point a piece in the finish with the sides drawing 1-1 Georgia Holdaway with her 10th first team goal of the season for Brentwood, whilst substitute Bianca Vassell scored her 1st goal for Dunstable. The sides meet again in two weeks time in the semi-finals of the League Cup.
After suffering a number of postponements Royston Town Ladies were finally in league action this weekend just the 2nd time in 2018 have a busy few weeks coming up as they catch up on their fixtures. Were at home to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. A spirited performance from the visitors Royston Town eventually coming out as 2-0 winners to claim all 3 points, The goals scored by Becky Shephard and Hayley Graham.
ERWFL Division One North
Two matches in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies extending their lead at the top to 4 points with victory away to bottom side Silver End United Ladies. The winning score 3-0 to the visitors striker Hannah Waters getting all three goals scoring twice in the 1st half before completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half 17 goals from 12 appearances now for Wymondham Town since joining from Lowestoft.
A reverse of last weekend fixture Histon Ladies travelled to Suffolk this Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies Development. A 3-1 win for Histon last time out, a tighter affair this time around saw defences on top as the sides contested a goalless draw to take away a share of the points.
ERWFL Division One South
A 2-1 defeat for Harlow Town Ladies last time out the 2nd placed side returned to winning ways on the road this Sunday away to Bishops Stortford Ladies to go 3 points clear of Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. A brace each for Hannah Clifford and Lily Bruno along with a goal for Abbey Dell seeing Harlow run out 5-1 winners. Heather Martin getting the goal for Bishops Stortford.
A 3rd straight defeat in the league for Little Thurrock Dynamos after a long unbeaten start to the season, hit the rocks again this Sunday away to bottom side Hertford Town Ladies. Another good result for Hertford their 3rd league win of the season lifting them off the foot of the ERWFL Division One South table a single goal enough to secure all 3 points the goal coming from Lisa Kline on her debut.
A single goal also enough to seal the win away from home for 4th placed Hutton Ladies this Sunday too in Division One South taking on Hoddesdon Tow Owls Ladies, Katie Lowen with the strike her 8th goal of the season.
Here we are once again with another shortened version of this weekends Round-Up with the weather again playing havoc with the fixture lists another cold burst depositing snow across the country over the weekend saw just 11 matches survive across the East. The majority of those in Cambridgeshire too. Adds to the problem of an already congested fixture list with games piling up towards the end of the season. March has not been kind to football so far in 2018. Of those games that did get played it was thanks to the dedication and hard work of the host team in most cases to get their pitch in a playable state and an appreciative thanks to all those put so much in to do so. A total wipe-out of fixtures the the FAWPL this weeks action begins with the ERWFL.
ERWFL Division One North
One game in the ERWFL Division One North this Sunday in Cambridgeshire, Histon Ladies have seen a good proportion of their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium called off due to weather conditions but not this time around as they took on opponents, Ipswich Town Ladies Development. The hosts getting their noses in front on 10 minutes with Abi Davies scoring her 9th goal of the season. Ipswich Town getting back on level term with 10 minutes of the 1st half left the sides drawing 1-1 at the break. Histon retook the lead with 20 minutes left to play Davies getting her 2nd of the match, the 3 points made secure with Ipswich Town conceding a penalty as the game closed on the final 10 minutes captain Sophie Lanham scoring from the spot.
ERWFL Division One South
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies fresh from playing in their 1st ever Hertfordshire County Cup final last Sunday were hosting 2nd placed side Harlow Town Ladies in the only match to beat the weather in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday. The hard work by Hoddesdon to get their pitch playable paying off as they picked up a great result beating Harlow 2-1 to record their 3rd league win of the season. The goals scored by Hannah Kelly and Sian Owens.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
Just one game surviving in Norfolk on Sunday for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup the competition down to the last 4. Sprowston Ladies leading Division One certainly the underdogs as they played hosted to Wymondham Town Ladies currently leading ERWFL Division One North. Sprowston making the decision early on Sunday to switch the match to the FDC’s Open Academy all weather pitch. Wymondham have a strong attack with plenty of goalscorers in their side, aren’t too many games where the sides top scorer, Laura Nicholls isn’t on the scoresheet and not so this Sunday as she scored in the 11th minute to put Wymondham into the lead. Nicholls involved in the next two Wymondham goals too setting up Mollie O’Callaghan to make it 2-0 in the 22nd minute, with striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 3-0 at half-time.
Two goals early in the 2nd half putting Wymondham in full control of the tie with Alice Ladbrooke and Waters with her 2nd of the game making it 5-0. The pair both getting on the scoresheet again as the game entered the final 15 minutes Ladbrooke making it 6-0 with Waters going on to claim a hat-trick. A 2nd successive County Cup Final appearance for Wymondham they will play either King’s Lynn Town Ladies or Acle United Ladies who saw their match at The Walks postponed.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
It was also County Cup semi-final weekend in Cambridgeshire both games surviving the snow that had blowed in, holders Cambridge United WFC from FAWPL South East Division One hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Newmarket Town Ladies. A three league gap between the sides, Newmarket very much the underdogs going onto the game but have tested themselves well against higher league opposition this season and as the 1st half drew to a close it looked as though the sides would go in level at the break. Cambridge getting a goal to put them 1-0 up in the 41st minute courtesy of striker, Lauren Gibson. A more comfortable lead for the hosts early into the 2nd half two quick goals seeing the lead increased to 3-0 with Kelley Blanchflower and Faith Hewitt firing the ball into the back of the net in the 47th and 49th minutes respectfully. That the final score as Cambridge United reach another Invitation Cup Final.
It will be a repeat of last season’s final pair too as Cambridge City Ladies also booked their final berth this Sunday, the side currently 2nd in ERWFL Premier Division hosting another side from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, St Ives Town Ladies. A tighter scoreline this one with just a single goal enough to settle the semi-final. Charlotte Gillies getting the winning goal for Cambridge City.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
Two games from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development close the gap to 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies to just a single point after they came back from 1-0 down to win 2-1 their 5th successive win in league and cup. At home on Sunday taking on 5th placed March Town United Ladies. Shannon Shaw with her 20th goal of the season putting March Town into the lead. 1-0 up at half-time Cambridge City came back to win the game and claim all 3 points. Eline Sorbye scoring both there goals in the 2-1 win her first this season.
Park Ladies are at last celebrating this season and will get tagged in a Round-Up for the 1st time in close to two season’s after they won their 1st ever match in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this weekend. Has been a tough period for the club after they raced to promotion in their 1st season. A difficult period to follow as results went against them early on their 1st season in the Premiership players then leaving the club threatened it’s very existence for a little while but the club came through these tough times again this season results have not been with them bottom of the table without a point that finally changed this Sunday.
Park were at home to the side immediately above them, Cambridge University Women who themselves are having a tough season after being amongst the forerunners in the Premiership in recent seasons. Amy Newell leads the line for Park and she was on target for 5 goals on Sunday taking her onto 14 for the season as Park clinched their 1st 3 point haul with an 8-2 victory taking them to within a point of Cambridge University Women. Chantelle Abraham, Jenna Brown also scoring their 1st goals for Park with Sian Holcroft also to target. A victory that will do wonders for morale.
Cambridge Women’s Division One Cup
Three more group matches from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup this Sunday. In Group C, Wisbech Town Ladies made it 3 wins from 3 to clinch top spot in the group and advance to the knock stage of the competition. Were at home to Orton Rangers Ladies. Josie Turner top scoring in the match getting 4 goals to her name for Wisbech Town. Top scorers Sophie Swinden also getting a hat-trick the the match with both Faye Kowalewsky and Chloe Riches getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
In Group D, Riverside Ladies had already clinched top spot winning all 3 of their matches. This Sunday Ketton Ladies were away in their final group game taking on Spalding United Ladies. A brace each for Claire Lawrenson and Emma Ward plus a goal for top scorer Fran Kavanagh seeing Ketton finish 2nd with a 5-1 win.
In Group A, Isleham United Ladies were away to Burwell Tigers this Sunday. A brace from Amy Ellis along with a goal apiece for Lily Turner and Shona Kelly securing a 4-1 win. Lauren Rouse on target for Burwell Tiger’s goal. The other group match between Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds and Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves was called off, so it remains all to play for in the group.
Essex Women’s Division One
Also a total wipe-out of the fixture list in Essex on Sunday with just one league match surviving across the two divisions. In Essex Women’s Division One 4th placed Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves close the gap up to the top 3 to just 2 points with a comfortable result at home to Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway on target for a hat-trick in the match top scoring for Brentwood, there was a brace each for Kirstie Jackson and Emma Mackie with Paida Dedza and Chloe Wilkinson both getting a goal each in a 9-2 win. Eleasha Reeves and captain Isabelle Wallings getting the goals for Rayleigh Town Ladies.
Alot of fixtures across all leagues yet to squeeze in as we approach the last weekend of March, fingers crossed for a dry April and May.
A few postponements affecting the ERWFL this Sunday as pitches remain water logged following the recent snow fall and a new band of rain coming in over Friday and Saturday. Two matches beat the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division with the top two Billericay Town Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies in action.
Billericay Town Ladies 7 points clear at the top of the table were at home on Sunday taking in local rivals Brentwood Town Ladies. A hat-trick from captain Lindsey Morgan (pictured) along with a strike from top scorer Paris Smith seeing the hosts to a 4-1 victory. Marie barker with the goal for Brentwood. With 4 league games left for Billericay they have a healthy lead at the top of the Premier Division table and know if they pick up maximum points from those matches that they cannot be caught.
Second placed Cambridge City Ladies are enjoying a strong season themselves, a narrow victory on Sunday moving them onto 26 points 4 clear of 3rd placed Acle United Ladies who have 3 games in hand. At Creasey Park taking on 7th placed AFC Dunstable Ladies. A hard fought win Stacey Fullicks netting the goal to give Cambridge City the lead, finished the game with 10 however with Sarah Mosley sent off.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding quarter final tie to be played in the ERWFL Cup at last took place on Sunday between two sides that have had to endure a long period of inactivity. Acle United Ladies in action again for the 1st time in 5 weeks, for Royston Town Ladies the whole of February was a washout their last game on 28th January a few midweek matches coming up to help get them back on track.
On to the match both sides creating chances the deadlock was broken late in the 1st half with Royston getting their noses in from Hayley Graham putting the ball into the back of the goal to give the hosts a 1-0 half-time lead. Royston coming close to doubling their lead early in the 2nd half, Acle pushed them looking to get back on level terms the equaliser coming on the hour Laura Holden making the run to put Megan Todd’s cross home. Into the final 20 minutes and Acle went on to take the lead, Todd on target to make it 2-1. Royston battled to get back level the tie settled in the final minute as Acle’s Kate Pasque scored to make it 3-1 and send Acle through to the semi-finals where they will be away to Billericay Town Ladies.
ERWFL Plate
Like the ERWFL Cup one outstanding tie remained in the quarter finals of the Plate competition with Division One North side Cambridge United WFC Reserves hosting Division One South counterparts Hutton Ladies. This one looked to be a really close one on paper two sides evenly matched and the tie itself when all the way to extra time. Teonie Peyton putting Cambridge into the lead the hosts holding a 1-0 advantage at the break. Hutton coming back in the 2nd half to level the scores through a Laura Allen goal. The tie heading all the way into extra-time, Lucy Critchell scoring her first goal for the club to win the tie for the Essex side setting up a semi-final clash at home to another Cambridge shire side Histon Ladies.
ERWFL Division One North
One game played in ERWFL Division One North on Sunday top versus bottom with Silver End United Ladies travelling to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. The hosts getting off to a fast start in recent games scoring in the opening minutes, Silver End working hard to keep their goal intact were awarded a free-kick past the half hour, Megan Jiggins on the set-piece sending the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0. A lead at the break Wymondham Town came back to level the scores 20 minutes into the 2nd half striker Hannah Waters brought down inside the box, top scorer Laura Nicholls stepping up to put the ball home for 1-1. Late drama the winning goal coming in the final minute of the match it was jubilation for Wymondham, heart break for Silver End with Nicholls hitting her 37th goal of the season for a 2-1 win taking Wymondham 4 points clear at the top of the table.
ERWFL Division One South
One game also in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend and a big one too with 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies hosting 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies both side in contention for runners-up spot 3 points between the sides. Always going to be a competitive fixture Sophie Dowman getting on the scoresheet for Little Thurrock, Harlow Town getting goals through Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscomb to claim the 3 pints with a 2-1 win takes them into 2nd above Little Thurrock on goal difference.
A much shortened version of the ERWFL Round-Up to bring you this week but that doesn’t mean alot of games were called off just thee sides were off elsewhere taking part in their various County Cup competitions and will pop up in another Round-Up eventually… Two games were postponed however in the Premier Division so we start in ERWFL Division One North. One game played and at last Wymondham Town Ladies go top of the table was only a matter of time unless someone could end their unbeaten run in the league that wasn’t to be this Sunday at home to Cambridge United WFC Reserves.
Wasn’t the best of starts to the game however for Wymondham as striker Nadine Basson was forced off injured a real concern as she has suffered long term knee injuries in the past. Hoping the damage isn’t too serious and I’ve already spoken to her extend my wishes here too for a speedy recovery. Wymondham have plenty of goals in their side without one of their strikers and top scorer Laura Nicholls kept up her fine goal scoring form opening the scoring in the 15th minute, 1-0 was son 2-0 Brooke Cheal with the shot to score for the hosts. Five minutes before the break Wymondham were leading 3-0 with Nicholls moving scoring again to move onto 35 for the season.
Kayleigh Holloway getting on the scoresheet early in the 2nd half extended Wymondham’s lead further. Cambridge pulled it back to 4-1 in the 53rd minute captain Ebony Rule with the strike from distance. Vice-captain Leah Newcombe getting a goal on the hour to make it 5-1 to Wymondham, Kristen Hummel also scoring for the home side in a 6-1 win to take them top.
ERWFL Division One South
One game played in ERWFL Division One South this weekend too with leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves looking to bounce back from suffering their 1st defeat of the season away to Hutton Ladies on the road again this time too Bishops Stortford Ladies. In the end running out comfortable winners with Daniela Martucci scoring a brace in the match their were goals too for Rebecca Brooker, Emily Scofield, Hannah Marshall and substitute Mary Lisle an own goal completing a 7-1 win to move Stevenage 12 points clear at the to. Brogan McHale with the goal for Bishops Stortford.
A postponement hit fixture list across the whole of the ERWFL this weekend seeing just the 4 games being played on Sunday. One game in the Premier Division with AFC Sudbury Ladies hosting Bedford Ladies. Stacey Teager scoring for the hosts the side having to settle for a share of the points in a 1-1 draw. Is enough to move Bedford Ladies up above Writtle Ladies into 4th place in the table.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North, 2nd placed Wymondham Town Ladies extend their unbeaten run to 10 games as they move to within 2 points of leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies with their 9th win away to Ipswich Town Ladies Development on Sunday. Alice Ladbrooke scoring late in the 1st half to give Wymondham Town the 1st half lead. Chelsea Clarke was on target early on on the 2nd half to double the advantage to the visitors. Cassandra Craddock pulling it back to 2-1 with 15 minutes left gave Ipswich Town a chance of a comeback, however Wymondham Town’s top scorer, Laura Nicholls made the result save with a little over 5 minutes left to play. Wymondham Town looking strong with 3 games in hand on the leaders.
ERWFL Division One South
In ERWFL Division One South, 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies saw their 100% winning start to the season come to an end last weekend at home to Harlow Town Ladies losing 6-2 got back to winning ways this Sunday away to Bishops Stortford Ladies, not that they got off to the best of starts Bishops Stortford getting a 2-0 lead. The Essex side coming back into the game reducing the deficit to 2-1 before half-time whistle went on to dominate the 2nd half winning the game 6-3. Georgia Fraser the clubs top scorer this season adding another brace to her tally of 13 goals. Ebony Moore, Kerri Thomas and captain Abbie Simmonds were also on target with a goal each along with Danielle Styles but along with scoring she was also red carded in the match. Brooke White scoring a brace for Bishops Stortford with Rebekah Coppen also on target.
A great result for bottom side Hertford Town Ladies at the weekend as they picked up just their 2nd league win of the season away to Harlow Town Ladies. Sarah Walker captaining Harlow Town scoring in the 14th minute. Hertford Town going on to win the match 2-1, Bilge Taspinar and Donna Watts with the goals.
