Tag Archives: ERWFL League Plate

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women Development v Wormley Rovers Ladies

Sunday 19th May

ERWFL League Plate Final

Into the penultimate weekend of the season, and one more cup final doubles day to look forwards too, over to Newmarket Town FC once again this Sunday for the ERWFL Finals Day with the regional league’s show piece bringing an end the season across tiers 5 and 6 in the East. First up the League Plate Final, this season being contested by two of the league’s newcomers, Stevenage FC Women Development and Wormley Rovers Ladies.

 The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) hosting two cup competitions, the League Cup and Plate with the sides knocked out of the early rounds of the League Cup going on to contest the Plate. A slight change in format from previous years when the early rounds were contested by the Division one sides with the 12 Premier Division sides entering in the 3rd round.

The ERWFL League Plate

 This the first of two cup finals in 8 days for Stevenage FC Women Development/U23s, although the first should have been done and dusted back in March. Sadly that game against Coney Heath Ladies in the new Herts Women’s Trophy competition had to be abandoned due to a medical emergency, a Stevenage player collapsing on the pitch and had be rescheduled for this coming Sunday. First up the League Plate Stevenage’s Development side re-joining the ERWFL after a spell in the FAWNL Reserves section.

Going into Division One North, found it tough going early on collecting just 4 points from their opening 8 games but rallied towards the end of the season with an unbeaten run of 5 matches 4 wins and a draw to pull off the bottom eventually finishing 8th. That momentum in the league no doubt playing a part in their charge to two cup finals. Have had a large talent pool to draw from with 46 players used during the season, will no doubt benefit the 1st team playing in the league above. Stephanie Fausse the sides top scorers with 9 to her name this season with Ella Mercer on back on 8.

Wormley Rovers Ladies only formed a women’s side two season’s ago. Situated in a strong catchment pool of football clubs in south Hertfordshire. Going straight into the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division, were involved in a thrilling title race with the two sides who would eventually come up with them, taking the league title in their final game of the season a winner takes all game against Hertford Town Women at the top a 7 goal thriller Wormley Rovers Ladies won 4-3 to become Champions in their debut season. Going up into regional football entering Division One South this campaign.

  Haven’t found life quite so easy, have added experienced players to their squad as they looked to consolidate in tier 6. Struggling for results, have been near the bottom most of the season but keeping away from the bottom position, eventually recording an 8th placed finish like Stevenage, have saved their best form for the cup. Chelise Fleming firing in 39 goals in their debut season, has been top scorer once again this campaign, firing in 17 goals in 17 appearances. With Kasey Keen and Niamh Gallagher both on 6 goals. 

Road to the Final

  Both sides with a bye in the first round of the League Plate drawn away in the 2nd Round. Stevenage away to Division One South side, Stanway Pegasus Ladies. Remi Martin scoring a brace in the game with Holly Southam, Chloe Gregory and Ella Mercer all on target with a goal in a 5-2 win. Wormley taking on fellow Division One South side and the current late holders Hutton Ladies. A close game Wormley coming out on top to win the match 2-1 with Lily Marie Hanlon scoring both goals.

 Into the quarter finals, both sides on the road again, Stevenage taking on another Division One South side, Billericay Town Women Development. Stevenage winning the tie by the odd goal in 5 winning the contest 3-2 thanks to goals from Ella Mercer, Stephanie Fausse and Matilda Thomas O’Keefe. Wormley too taking on Division One South competition, close neighbours Cheshunt FC Women, goals from Chelise Fleming and Charis Howell securing a 2-1 victory to send Wormley into the last 4.

  Once again both sides drawn away. Stevenage playing fellow Division One North side, Biggleswade United Women, advanced into the final of the competition with Izzy Ruse and Thomas O’Keefe on target in a 2-0 win. A tough semi-final for Wormley as they were taking on Premier Division side, Barking FC Women, the hosts coring twice, Wormley firing back with goals from Fleming, Niamh Gallagher and Savannah Japal to secure a 3-2 victory and progress to the final. 

 Back to, Newmarket Town FC’s, Tristal Stadium the ground having hosted the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final on Friday evening and the men’s first team lay off final victory on Saturday. Now hosting the ERWFL Finals Day. The state of the art artificial playing surface in almost constant use hosting football of all ages throughout the season. A seated stand on one side beside the clubhouse and changing rooms. The bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drinks. The weather perfect the temperature rising nicely, the sun high in the sky and little cloud around, certainly no rain forecast.

Stevenage FC Women Development

Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Lucy Fox, Mistie Fox-Baker, Sophie Afshar, Neave Wilson (C), Amana Oguntuga, Izzy Ruse, Chloe Gregory, Isobel Matfield, Stephanie Fausse, Ella Mercer & Matilda Thomas O’Keefe. Subs –  Holly Southam, Katie Boyle, Remi Martin. Freya Rice & Anaise Corrigan.

Wormley Rovers Ladies

 Wormley Rovers Ladies starting XI – Amy Jo Hebborn, Adel Mehmet, Gracie Manning, Katie Church, Aimee Burling, Rachel Daltrey (C), Maddie Lang, Charis Howell, Savannah Japal, Niamh Gallagher & Chelise Fleming. Subs – Nicole Cooper, Taila Kirkpatrick, Monique Marshall & Lily Marie Hanlon.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The two sides walking out onto the pitch with the morning sun high in the sky. It’s Stevenage to kick-off the 1st half wearing red and white patterned shirts, red shorts and white socks. Wormley usually wearing black and red vertical striped shirts the ‘away’ side today wearing their change strip, lime green shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball lifted out to Amana Oguntuga attacking on the right for Stevenage fed on up the line for Ella Mercer, celebrating her birthday today to chase into the corner, Katie Church closing the ball down to put out of play in the corner for Wormley.

Played in deep cleared by Church out to the left for a Stevenage throw, looking to get on up the right Adel Mehmet sending in on for Savannah Japal, Mistie Fox Baker closing in for Stevenage in defence to halt the move. Wormley closing the ball down in the middle Maddie Lang on for Charis Howell played out to the left channel with Chelise Fleming pulling into space drives on looking to run into the box, Stevenage captain, Neave Wilson across to tackle regain possession.

Stevenage captain Neave Wilson moving in to tackle Wormley’s Chelise Fleming

Wormley press the ball comes to Niamh Gallagher wide left plays the ball into the area, central attacked by Fleming, slices her shot, cleared by Stevenage back out to the left for a throw. Looking for the long throw, into the edge of the box Stevenage defending look to break played up to Mercer, strong on the ball knocks it in behind for Matilda Thomas O’Keefe breaking clear left channel, Wormley goalkeeper, Amy Jo Hebborn out quickly to the top of her box to lay claim to the ball.

Evie Church clearing the ball for Wormley as Stevenage’s Matilda Thomas O’Keefe closes in

Stevenage lively at the start looking to move the ball quickly across the pitch, down the left a cross lifted over the bar. Wormley winning a throw high on their left, Gallagher and Fleming looking to team up on the ball, Wilson getting hold of the ball her clearance long dropping into the box, Thomas O’Keefe interested in a race with Manning on her shoulder the defender doing well to not only see the ball out but win a goal kick too.

Fleming making so promising runs up top, peeling left as Howell plays the ball into her, Sophie Afshar getting back at the attacker to close the ball down clear with her blocking tackle. Mercer running into the right corner after a high bouncing ball, Church and Manning linking up to get the ball up the field for Wormley.

Wormley’s Gracie Manning

Stevenage bring the ball on quickly through the middle into Thomas O’Keefe she fires the ball on with Mercer looking to make a run into the box right of goal, Manning coming to close her down, Hebborn rushes out sliding in to get hold of the ball, evades her grasp, inside her, Manning holds up Mercer as she attempts to reach it, Hebborn grounded stretching out an arm to get her glove around the ball pull it into her body.

Mercer and Thomas O’Keefe linking up well in the opening 10 minutes for Stevenage, Mercer left 25 yards out across the top of the D into Thomas O’Keefe goes to strike the ball, Manning charging it down. Positive from Stevenage. Fleming the outlet up top for Wormley as captain Rachel Daltrey finds her on the left combines with Gallagher on the wing the cross into the top of the area cleared.

Aimee Burling winning the ball at the back for Wormley to Mehmet on the left played up the wing for Japal getting on the move, plays the one two off Fleming inside her before angling the ball into the near post, caught cleanly by Stevenage goalkeeper, Lucy Fox. Fox tested again moment later as a Wormley shot is struck at her from distance, bouncing at her knees as she goes down for it, skips up, reacts sharply to grab it safely into her chest before Fleming can pounce.

Stevenage loose the ball at the back, Gallagher snatching it 20 yards out central, sends her shot high and wide. Howell is fouled as she carries the ball out to the left inside the Stevenage half. Over the set-piece herself, fires a high ball into the box far side knocked down back across to Fleming top of the area, Oguntuga on her shoulder, squeezes a shot away places it straight at the keeper.

Stevenage’s Isobel Matfield

Competitive in the middle of the park, Daltrey linking up with Fleming as the pair look to get Gallagher in on the right the pass a little heavy runs out of play. Another Wormley free-kick on the left played up into the area, Mercer up well to defend it heading the ball out for a throw on the left. Mercer clearing the ball long up to Thomas O’Keefe on the move left wing, is bundled over a free-kick won. Mercer coming up to take fired in with pace into the near post, Hebborn throwing herself to her left, saving turning the ball behind for a corner.

Wormley slow to play the ball out at times risk getting caught in possession, Thomas O’Keefe doing just that, 30 yards out central, pulls her shot wide of the right post. Mercer pressuring the ball on the right forcing Wormley to concede a corner kick. The delivery put into Wilson top of the area central shoots, rising, blocked appears to strike and outstretched hand Stevenage immediately appealing even as the deflected ball drops to Thomas O’Keefe at the far post close in turns the ball home on the angle, the goal won’t count however as the offside flag is raised against her. A frantic spell as Wormley counter attack the ball fired long up to Fleming to bring down 25 yards out left of the D, strikes the ball in low across goal, Fox with a superb save diving down to push the ball behind for a corner kick!

Busy game a lot happening, the corner kick curled in across the face of goal beyond the far post retrieved the cross however turned behind. The game open, Stevenage pushing on he ball cleared into Daltrey looks to put Fleming away in the left channel as she powers forwards, Afshar getting a vital foot in to nick the ball off the attacker or she was clear to attack the box.

Stevenage defender Sophie Afshar

Stevenage’s Izzy Ruse on the ball linking up with Isobel Matfield on for Chloe Gregory the final pass up to Thomas O’Keefe cut out by Church. Japal with the ball at her feet driving on down the right wing for Wormley, Fox Baker slides in to defend for Stevenage.

GOAL! Almost half an hour played Wormley fight to win back possession in the middle, Daltrey launching it forwards up towards the Stevenage box left of the D, Fleming looking out run on the shoulder of the back tracking defender, Fox comes racing out the other way to try and win the ball, goalkeeper and defender collide left in a heap on the floor, Fleming is still standing and in behind onto the loose ball, to walk it into the net to open the scoring 0-1.

Chelise Fleming putting Wormley into the lead

Stevenage on the attack from the restart Mercer finding Oguntuga breaking clear on the right down the line her cross squared into the box, Hebborn collecting it on the bounce on her penalty spot. Matfield putting the ball inside to Thomas O’Keefe, 35 yards out pulls her shot dragging it wide of the near post. Oguntuga offside as Mercer attempts to pick her out on the right.

Stevenage’s Ella Mercer

Wormley quick to get the ball forwards up the right Japal inside for Fleming breaking in behind, Fox taking no chances rushing out of her area to clear, takes the ball off the striker moving left, Fleming stealing the ball back has the keeper out of position as she powers her way back towards the box, the defence running back to cover the goal en masse her eventual shot, blocked and cleared.

Stevenage on the left Gregory with Matfield into Thomas O’Keefe inside the box the ball angled in low at the near post, Hebborn there to claim. Fleming strong up top making some forceful runs into the channels the midfield picking her out the ball clipped into her on the left forces her way into the box angling a low strike in across goal, Fox down smartly to save getting her body behind the ball.

Wormley pressure mounting as the 1st half draws to a close up on the right Japal with Fleming across in support the ball played in across the top of the area into Howell lays it into the path of Lang right of the D to strike on the run her shot blasted in at Fox, the keeper batting the ball away for a corner kick. The corner in across the six yard box, Stevenage look to get it clear but Wormley move to close the ball down.

Wormley’s Maddie Lang

A double change for Stevenage, Remi Martin and Katie Boyle coming on for Matfield and Fausse. Afshar doing well at the back for Stevenage getting in to tackle Fleming as the Wormley attacker surges towards the box off a Howell pass. A drinks break called late in the half with Mercer needing treatment for an injury, looks to be her knee, is determined to stay on and see if she can play on.

Mercer showing little sign of her knock as she gets in to break up a Wormley attack as Howell and Gallagher combine on the left. Fired up towards Thomas O’Keefe on the box, a coming together between her and Burling, the attacker coming off worse, needs treatment but up and allowed back onto the pitch as play resumes the first half moving into stoppage time. Church cutting the ball out at the back for Wormley as Mercer attempts to play Thomas O’Keefe in behind.

Moments left in the first half, Howell steals possession in the middle sends the ball out to Fleming pulling into the left channel, on the angle fires her shot in across the keeper, but wide of the far post too.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-1 Wormley Rovers Ladies

  The sides head back into the changing room with Wormley holding the narrow lead at he break. Chelise Fleming capitalising on a mix up at the back to open the scoring on the half hour. Wormley a threat getting forwards out wide and into the channels. Stevenage though with a positive start had a goal ruled out for offside, and a penalty shout moment before. Two contracting sides, Stevenage’s young players looking to get the ball moving quickly. Wormley with the experience finding the gaps to exploit. Set up perfectly for the 2nd half.

Both sides keen to get going out early for the 2nd half, Wormley to get thing’s underway with a change, Monique Marshall on coming into the middle replacing Church with Daltrey dropping into defence. A triple switch for Stevenage with Martin, Boyle and Thomas O’Keefe of, Fausse and Matfield back on along with Anaise Corrigan going up top in attack. Just waiting on the officials to return, referee Francesca Catchpole a pretty decent striker in her on right leading her team out.

Wormley get the 2nd half going looking to get straight on the attack, Marshall onto the ball clipping it out to the right Afshar defending as Fleming looks to go after the ball.

GOAL! Wormley pressing the ball into Japal inside right with Fleming ahead of her played across the top of the Stevenage area into Gallagher left corner turns the ball back up the line for Howell, who puts her foot through the ball angling a shot in with power high past the diving Fox to crash into the back of the net 0-2. 

Charis Howell fires Wormley into a 2 goal lead early in the 2nd half

A huge blow for Stevenage early in the 2nd half, Wormley out of the blocks quickly to double their lead. Bringing the ball on down the right played on Fausse looks to link up with Corrigan in attack, Japal racing back to help defend nicking the ball back for Wormley. Marshall making an impact for Wormley coming off the bench strong getting after the ball deep on the left with Japal the ball cleared forwards Fleming looking to attack it right channel heading for the box, Fox out well to gather the ball into her body.

Marshall lifting the diagonal ball out to Japal on the right squares her cross into the top of the area looking for Fleming, Fox again rushing on to get hold of the ball. Wormley strong on the ball, Marshall attacking right side of the area, Afshar on her shoulder sends the ball across the area into Gallagher left side her shot straight at the keeper. Wormley with a dominant start to the 2nd half.

Wormley’s Monique Marshall

Howell 25 out moving across the top of the Stevenage D, playing the ball off the outside of her boot out to Gallagher on the left, her cross cut out by Wilson, Ruse looking to bring it away is quickly closed down. Marshall fouled by Gregory wide on the right. players up to the top of the area as she stands over the resulting set-piece, puts a dangerous ball into the corridor, Fox with the acrobatic save to push the ball away from danger out for a corner on the left.

Lucy Fox with the acrobatic save to turn the ball wide for a corner.

The corner played short up the line to Fleming, turning as she breaks into the top corner of the box, fires her shot up over the cross bar. Mehmet pressing the ball, getting it up field on the right channel, Fleming bursting forwards, seeing the ball drop over her shoulder as she runs into the box, drills her shot into the side netting, a slight touch off a Stevenage player on it’s way through a corner awarded.

Adel Mehmet with Stevenage’s Anaise Corrigan

  The corner played in from the right comes out to Japal positioned outside the D, goes to shoot, stretching as she connects with the ball falling back dragging her shot wide away past the left post, pulls up immediately in pain, suffering from a nasty bout of cramp. Almost an hour played, Wormley make the change Taila Kirkpatrick on to replace Japal.

Mistie Fox Baker defending against, Wormley’s Chelise Fleming

  Fox Baker getting onto the ball for Stevenage left side rolled on for Gregory bursts on down the wing all the way to the by-line cutting into the box her cross put into the side netting. Stevenage looking to up the tempo as Mercer gathers the ball into her feet looks to travel, moving central is bundled over the advantage played as Corrigan races in behind after the ball, Hebborn though sprinting out to the top of her box to reach the ball first.

  Marshall lifting the ball on for Kirkpatrick looking to get on for Wormley up the right, Fox Baker getting her tackle in as the pair race to the by-line. Howell latching onto a shot from distance smashes the ball over the Stevenage crossbar. Stevenage making a double change bringing of Matfield and Afshar, on come Thomas O’Keefe and Holly Southam. Wormley strong through the middle the ball fed into Gallagher outside the D, lays it off for Fleming, turns inside to shoot from all of 25 yards out angling in across goal to the far post. Fox pushing it away to her left.

  Stevenage look to turn play around in the middle, Fausse turning on the ball to thread a pass in behind for Corrigan to attack, Hebborn racing out the other way to try and close the angle, Corrigan attempting to knock the ball wide past her to have a chance on goal, the keeper though with an excellent save stretching out her arm to get her glove on the ball snatch the ball.

Amy Jo Hebborn getting her arm out well to stop the ball getting past her.

  Fausse taking the ball out to the left attacking for Stevenage whips a cross/shot into the near post, Hebborn down to stop it knocked across the face of goal, Daltrey running back with Corrigan holding the attacker off. Stevenage with a set-piece out wide on the right curled into the box by Mercer, Hebborn up well pushing it down out away from her goal, runners closing in no one can get a touch the ball hooked clear. 

Amy Jo Hebborn up to save, Ella Mercer’s free-kick

  Wormley getting on the counter attack the ball long through the middle with Marshall providing the run strong into the box looking to get between the back tracking centre backs, Wilson getting it back to Fox, the keepers clearance striking Fox Baker full in the face leaving her floored in the box, play stopped immediately as she is treated a lengthy pause players taking on fluids.

 Fox Baker back up on her feet, as the game rolls into the final quarter hour, Fleming coming for the ball, turns and pushes into the right channel, Southam getting back into her to tackle for Stevenage. Burling in to break up a Stevenage attack clears the ball long up to Fleming breaking into the right channel, Fox Baker running back into the box after her getting her foot on the ball to play it behind for a corner kick. The delivery short into Howell curls a cross in towards the far post, headed behind.

Stevenage’s Holly Southam

  Wormley with the ball left in the corner Gallagher up the line for Fleming played in central, Mehmet latching onto the shot, dipping right in front of her Fox almost wrong footed adjusting quickly to get hold of the ball. Lang linking up with Marshall though the middle, on for Fleming the pass cut out by Southam. Oguntuga defending for Stevenage on the left stays on Marshall well as she looks to get onto the ball fed into the right channel getting a foot on the ball to block as Marshall crosses. the ball out for a throw in the corner.

Stevenage’s Amana Oguntuga with Worley’s Taila Kirkpatrick

 Dropped into Marshall on the by-line holds it up before rolling it back for Fleming to send a cross in across the face of goal, Gallagher attacking it at the far post inside the six yard box twisting to head the ball sees it cannon back off the post before the Stevenage defence scramble clear. 

Wormley’s Niamh Gallagher

  Fausse getting onto the end of a diagonal ball played across to her as she pulls away to the left squaring her cross into the top of the Wormley area, Burling doing the defending on Corrigan as she goes for the ball. Howell coming off for Wormley, Lily Marie Hanlon coming on. 85 minutes on the clock. Ruse sending the ball out to Fausse on the left angles the ball into the area, Hebborn letting everyone in the stadium know it’s hers as she comes out to gather the ball into her gloves.

  Another change for Wormley Manning coming off at the back, Church back on. Marshall fouled for Wormley on halfway as she looks to bring the ball on. The free-kick looping up into the area, dropping sharply in front of Fox, shoves the ball away, falls straight to Fleming on the penalty spot, her shot charged down.

 

  Mercer’s knee injury flaring up again, needs to come off, Martin sent on. Wormley have managed the game well their attackers pulling out wide, Marshall pushing on from midfield with space to run into, Fleming a ready outlet going forwards. The attacker seeing the ball into her feet dribbling forwards through the middle unleashing a shot 25 yards out, low into the box gathered by Fox. 10 minutes of stoppage time to be played, the game halted with an injury to Mehmet at the back for Wormley.

  GOAL! The defender back up on her feet play resuming with a drop ball, knocked long up towards the Stevenage box, bouncing in the area, Fox can’t get to it as Fleming central looks to get a touch knocked past Fox into the goal beyond 0-3.

Chelise Fleming forcing the ball home for Wormley’s 3rd goal

 A 3rd goal surely sealing the win for Wormley with the game into stoppage time. Kirkpatrick carrying the ball out to the right forwards for Fleming her touch to heavy the pass running out of play. Wormley keeping the ball well in stoppage time driving forwards looking to get the ball into the box, Gallagher wide left seeing her cross blocked, comes back up the line to Lang then Hanlon a shot fired in on the angle, straight at Fox.

  Fleming shooting narrowly wide of the right post as she controls the ball 30 yards from goal. Time almost up Stevenage lifting the ball forwards up to Corrigan in attack, turns on the ball driving into the left channel, riding a tackle stays on her feet to stab the ball on for Thomas O’Keefe racing into the box on the angle fires her shot wide across goal. The final whistle blows and Wormley celebrate winning the ERWFL League Plate in their debut season in regional football.

Full time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-3 Wormley Rovers Ladies

  An entertaining final between two contrasting sides, Wormley using their experience and strength will making a brilliant start to the 2nd half, doubling their lead in the 46th minute to press the advantage. Got the ball into their attacking players quickly and drove at the Stevenage defence forcing them back stretching play at times. Stevenage’s youngster kept going looking to pick out their attacking players in the channels, Wormley though comfortable at the back for the large part, Hebborn with a couple of useful saves too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time for the 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, asked to choose the player of the match on the day too. Luckily this one an easy decision in the finish a clear contender emerging early on. A few performances of note to mention. Firstly for Stevenage, Ella Mercer having to play through the pain barrier at times got about the pitch well looking to find space up top and link up with the attackers, won the ball well. Izzy Ruse too getting her tackles in to win the ball in the middle, Sophie Afshar and Mistie Fox Baker with some vital tackles at the back. For Wormley, Amy Jo Hebborn with a couple of important stops in the 2nd half to ensure Wormley’s two goal lad remained intact. Charis Howell getting about the middle of the park into some great positions a great strike for the 2nd goal. Monique Marshall making an impact coming off the bench for the 2nd half, strong with some forceful runs on the ball linked up well with the attack. The award though goes to Chelise Fleming. Made some fantastic runs up top. Pulling into the channels strong on the ball putting the Stevenage defence under pressure opening the scoring a willing runner throughout.

Wormley Rovers Ladies 2023/24 ERWFL League Plate winners

 Congratulations to Wormley Rovers Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Plate.

 An enjoyable first final of the day. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today. Stevenage disappointed, but have another final to prepare for next weekend, Wormley ending their season on a high. Time to find something to eat, get ready for this afternoon’s match.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Hutton Ladies v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 21st May

ERWFL League Plate Final

 The season drawing to a close soon time for a rest after a busy season but first there’s a another cup final double to cover this time from the ERWFL, holding their finals day at The New Croft home of Haverhill Rovers FC. Kicking off proceeding the League Plate final an 11am kick-of with two previous winners of the competition meeting Hutton Ladies and Newmarket Town Women.

The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid the next set up from the county divisions two Division One’s based on geography, North and South aiming for a full compliment of 12 teams in each leading to a 12 strong Premier Division and promotion to the FAWNL. With two cup competitions the League Cup and League Plate the latter between the Division One clubs knocked out in rounds 1 an 2 of the League Cup. 

This morning’s prize

 Hutton Ladies finishing as runners up this season in ERWFL Division One South behind runaway Champions Barking FC Women. Winning the League Plate in two successive occasions in 2017 & 2018. Has been quite a while since I’ve seen the Essex side in action before Covid, along with several clubs I’ve yet to get reacquainted with. One of the longest established sides in the ERWFL managed by Dennis Hindley previous with the Reserves these days have come good at the end of the season to record 5 straight wins in the league to overhaul Billericay Town Women Development to 2nd in the table. Victoria Kinsman back amongst the goals top scorer with 27 goals from 17 appearances. Lucy Critchell netting 9 goals from the 9 games she’s appeared in. Backed up by a Reserves side playing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division a step below.

  Newmarket Town Women winning the ERWFL League Plate in 2019 joining the ERWFL the season before beating Histon Ladies 3-2. Playing in ERWFL Division One North, have had an indifferent season in the league as had the whole league itself short on numbers and losing a further along the way the sides playing each other 3 times as a result. Two defeats to start the season got back in amongst it with a 3 game winning streak, bringing through a number of young players have been inconsistent ever since ending up with a 5th placed finish have saved their best form for the cup getting into the Plate final and a chance to contest for silverware at the end of the season. Like Hutton backed up by a Development team and a strong youth set-up with a number of sides competing. Lidiya Mykhaylechko, Newmarket’s top scorer with 10 goals. Abbie Corbyn signed from Thetford Town Ladies at the start of the season on 9 for the campaign with Katie Speirs and Olivia Bradley scoring 7 and 8 respectfully. 

Road to the Final

  Hutton Ladies drawn at home to Division One North side, Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses in the 1st Round of the League Plate, the sides all square sharing 6 goals in a 3-3 draw after 90 minutes, Hutton were to come out on top in extra time with 4-3 win. Victoria Kinsman netting a hat-trick with Lucy Critchell also on the scoresheet. No such drama for Newmarket Town Women recieving a bye in the 1st Round to advance to the quarter finals.

Hutton Ladies with a tough draw at home in the quarter finals taking on Division One North leaders, AFC Dunstable Ladies. A close game a single goal was to settle the tie Isobel Boyd finding the back of the net for Hutton to send them through to the last 4. Newmarket Town Women away to AFC Sudbury Women Reserves newly promoted to Division One South a late kick-off featuring in a double header with the first team the sides were to slug out a goalless 90 minutes and with extra-time yielding no break through the game was settled from the penalty spot Newmarket emerging victorious 3-1 in the shootout to reach the final 4.

Hutton Ladies having home advantage once again in the semi-finals as they were drawn against Yaxley Phoenix Ladies themselves newly promoted to Division One North. The pair sharing a 9 goals thriller! Yaxley Phoenix on the scoresheet for 4 goals, Hutton edging the tie to progress to their 3rd Plate final winning it 5-4 with goals from Victoria Kinsman, Lucy Critchell, Chloe Woolaway, Hayley Critchell and Isobel Boyd. Newmarket Town Women drawn away to fellow Division One North side St Ives Town Ladies the pair have shared some great encounters in recent season this time it was Newmarket’s day as they put 4 goals past them to advance into the Final with 4-1 victory. Holly Dryland, Niamh Bridgeman, Antonia Smith and Katie Walker all bagging a goal.

The New Croft the venue for today’s ERWFL Finals Day, home to Haverhill Rovers FC and until recently had a women’s team in the ERWFL themselves but feeling poorly treated by the club have since disbanded, Haverhill Rovers nonetheless reaffirming it’s commit to having a women side representing the club will watch develops eagerly. The main complex between the main grass pitch and artificial pitch beyond. New dugouts added to the pitch since my last visit looking very smart. The bar and kitchen open for finals day serving burgers and chips. The morning bright and sunny although there was a chilly breeze blowing to and cloud cover would develop later in the day nevertheless great conditions for playing football. The grass pitch in good condition with the odd dip that will need attention once the seasons over.

Hutton Ladies

 Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Kelly Roberts, Rianne Dimmock, Kirsty Knight, Chloe Woolaway, Abigail Fry, Katy Edwards, Isobel Crichton, Hayley Critchell, Lucy Critchell & Victoria Kinsman. Subs – Lauren Knight, Isobel Boyd & Danielle Hindley.

Newmarket Town Women

 Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Grace Joslin, Holly Dryland, Kara Wayman, Lydia Mason, Liv Caffarelli (C), Chloe Slater, Katie Hayes, Faith Entwistle, Abbie Corbyn, Katie Walker & Lidiya Mykhaylechko. Subs – Antonia Smith, Liv Bradley, Sophie Yorko, Millie O’Dwyer & Katie Spiers.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Hutton to kick-off the Plate final wearing red coloured shirts with white trim, red shorts and red and white hooped socks, Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball played back into Katy Edwards in midfield lifted out to the right for Lucy Critchell, Kara Wayman and Abbie Corbyn closing her down for Newmarket. Comes back into the middle laid forwards into the D, Newmarket captain, Liv Caffarelli heading the ball clear.

  Newmarket build on the left Corbyn bringing the ball on put in central helped onto into the right channel laid back to Katie Walker 25 yards out lines up a shot rifled in the ball coming back down off the crossbar, Krissie Glover in goal captaining Hutton getting hold of the ball as players rush in on the follow up. Newmarket making a positive start to the game Chloe Slater clipping the ball long out to the right with Katie Hayes getting forwards Hayley Critchell tackling for Hutton, Walker onto the ball to cross in top of the area cut out by Chloe Woolaway for Hutton. 

Hutton’s Katy Edwards

Edwards getting hold of the ball in the middle for Hutton lifting it forwards for Isobel Crichton running in behind the defence, goalkeeper Grace Joslin quickly out to the top of her area to claim the ball. Hutton attack on the left the ball into Lucy Critchell central back to goal turns inside the get a shot away straight into the keeper. Newmarket bring the ball on through the middle on for Walker to thread a low pass out into the left channel for Corbyn to attack, Kelly Roberts going with her the defender doing well to play the ball of Corbyn behind for the goal kick. 

Kelly Roberts with Newmarket’s Abbie Corbyn

 GOAL! Victoria Kinsman rising in the centre to win the header knocking the ball forwards for Lucy Critchell racing through the middle driving for the box shifts out to the left prodding it on for Hayley Critchell to the left corner of the area, she pulls the trigger angling a low drive across the face of goal into the bottom corner to give Hutton the lead 1-0.

Hayley Critchell congratulated by her teammates after scoring the opening goal for Hutton

  Hutton taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes attack on the right winning a corner kick. The ball played in along the six yard box coming out to Woolaway at the far post her shot blocked by Holly Dryland defending the post for Newmarket, looking to clear there area the ball is clipped back in for Kinsman attacking to the left of the goal, Joslin rushing out to put in the blocking save on the striker. 

  Newmarket win the ball at the back Lydia Mason into Faith Entwistle the ball played out to the left for Corbyn Hutton giving a foul away in a dangerous position outside the area to the left side of the area. Hayes over the ball curls it around the wall and fires her strike against the bar!

GOAL! Moments after Newmarket strike the bar for the 2nd time they are hit on the counter as Hutton win the ball back on the right Lucy Critchell and Crichton exchanging passes before Critchell picks out Edwards central to lay the ball out wide to Hayley Critchell, sweeping a cross into the six yard box Kinsman stealing in adjusts her body to meet the ball with her head and drive the ball past the keeper to double the lead 2-0. 

Victoria Kinsman scorer of Hutton’s 2nd goal

  A blow for Newmarket coming so close one end then conceding have the ball central Walker lifting in on for Lidiya Mykhaylechko to chase too much on the ball however Glover can see it out for a goal kick. Kinsman moving across the Newmarket back line to find an opening stealing in clear on the right whips a cross into the six yard box, Lucy Critchell making a central run can’t quite get there. 

 Hutton coming on left side Kinsman across to support Hayley Critchell winning a throw in the corner, Dryland doing well in defence to regain possession for Newmarket. Another ball threaded onto the left channel for Corbyn to bear down on, Glover out quickly to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Corbyn and Roberts chasing for the ball on the right, Roberts looking to see it out for a throw holding Corbyn off the winger keeping it as even as Roberts picks it up expecting the throw, dismayed when she gives away a free kick instead for handling the ball. The free-kick in the corner flashed in across the far post Chloe Staler attacking not quite able to get a touch. 

Abbie Corbyn keeping the ball in play even as Kelly Roberts thinks it’s out.

 Entwistle rushing in to make the blocking tackle inside the Hutton half comes on with the ball for Newmarket laying it out to Hayes right of the box pulls the trigger from 20 yards, Rianne Dimmock getting in the way to blocks feeling the full effect of Hayes’ strike, down for a moment but up okay to play on. 

 Edwards with room to play the ball on in midfield for Hutton Kinsman and Lucy Critchell with good movement ahead of her. Hayley Critchell picked out on the left, Dryland winning the challenge for Newmarket. Corbyn fouled on halfway the ball played forwards to the top of the Hutton area cleared by Kirsty Knight into Edwards on for Abigail Fry tackled by Slater. 

GOAL! Kinsman onto the ball inside the Newmarket half turning to lay it out to Lucy Critchell running into the right channel getting past Kara Wayman running into the box, Wayman attempts to get back at her lunging in attempting to win the ball only succeeds in taking out the player… Penalty! Kinsman with the ball placing it on the spot moves back and running in strikes the ball hard to the right of goal to score 3-0.

Kinsman scoring from the spot to make it 3

 Hutton going into a 3 goal lead midway through the 1st half getting on top on the Plate Final. Hayes sending the ball from the right across the area looking for Corbyn far side cut out by Woolaway deflected out to the left retrieved by Corbyn dribbles the ball back into box left side firing a cross in close to the near post again cut out by Woolaway away for a corner kick.

  The ball into the six yard box won by Hutton coming out of the area look to break, The threat neutralised by referee Charlotte Hindmarch inadvertently getting in the way of the ball outside the area, play brought back for a drop ball to Hutton. Hayes coming inside linking up with Entwistle the ball out to Corbyn left, Roberts getting in to close her down. Newmarket getting on well enough down the flanks Hayes winning a throw deep, Dimmock with the defending playing the ball back for Glover, Mykhaylechko running in to close her down pulling out knowing she can’t get there.

  The ball clear to the left regained by Dryland on for Hayes crossed in from deep, intercepted by Woolaway. Hutton dangerous on the counter running away into the channels Lucy Critchell on the right 20 yards out with a strike swerving high past the right post. Hutton making a change bringing of Hayley Critchell on the left to be replaced by Danielle Hindley. 

Chloe Slater

  Hindley straight into the action onto the ball central carrying it out into the left corner Dryland in on her to concede the corner. Swung in towards the near post, Dryland again rising to head the ball clear. The game opening up as Hindley drives on left for Hutton, Dryland in to make the blocking challenge the ball cleared out to Corbyn on the left, has Wayman going past her on the overlap the ball played on for her, Woolaway out to close her down.

  Edwards picking out Kinsman outside the area left of the Newmarket going shifting the ball inside, shapes to shoot even as Joslin comes racing out to close her down the ball struck past the keeper, but alos wide of the far post. Edwards closing down the ball in the middle puts it on for Hindley on the left passes inside to Kinsman outside the box trapping the ball in her feet looks to shift inside to shoot, Mason in to block, the ball cleared by Slater. 

Hutton with a 2nd change bringing off Crichton replaced by Isobel Boyd. The ball played long into the right channel for Boyd, Wayman across her seeing the ball back to Joslin to clear. Edwards taking on the strike from distance straight into Joslin. Newmarket making a double change bringing on Sophia Yorko and Antonia Smith for Mason and Entwistle. Yorko straight into defend putting in the tackle on Kinsman as she bursts on right side. 

GOAL! Newmarket pull a goal back pressing Hutton on the ball in the final 3rd Smith closing down lifting it high into the D for Mykhaylechko to attack, Glover rushing out t close her down making the blocking save at the top of her area the ball deflected out to the right, knocked back into the area behind the stranded keeper by Slater into Mykhaylechko to send the ball into the empty net beyond 3-1. 

Lidiya Mykhaylechko pulling a goal back for Newmarket

  Smith getting into close the ball down for Newmarket press Hutton inside their half fed on Mykhaylechko is caught offside. Hayes on the right sending the ball on for Mykhaylechko to give chase too much though Glover coming to clear it. Corbyn battling with Roberts for the ball left sends in on for Wayman running past her to take the ball on into the area left closing in on the near post fires in a low shot Glover covering her post, seeing the ball safely into her gloves. 

  Just the single minute of stoppage time to be played, time for Hutton to mount one last attack Lucy Critchell playing the ball out to Hindley on the left down the line sends it inside for Kinsman coming out to receive the ball, Dryland getting her foot in to take the ball away from her.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 3-1 Newmarket Town Women

   Hutton taking a 3-1 lead into the break as the sides head back into the changing rooms. Newmarket starting brightly rattling the crossbar in the opening minute pushing on Hutton breaking away to find the opening goal inside 10 minutes. Making some good forward runs Newmarket were again to strike the woodwork before conceding a 2nd almost immediately after Hutton going 2-0 up added a 3rd from the penalty spot midway through the 2nd half. Comfortable Newmarket making changing paying off almost instantly as Smith closed the ball down to set up Mykhaylechko to score pull it back to 3-1 give Newmarket something as they look to find a way back into the game in the 2nd half. 

Victoria Kinsman with Newmarket captain Liv Caffarelli

  No changes for either side as Newmarket get the 2nd half underway the ball out to Dryland on the right looks to get forwards support Hayes, Dimmock defending for Hutton. Newmarket press the ball on the right early on winning a throw high put on for Hayes her cross along the face of goal Walker jumping to attack far post can’t quite reach it.

Holly Dryland defending against Hutton’s Danielle Hindley

 Newmarket’s Slater sending a diagonal ball into Hayes 20 yards out on the right of the area controlling the ball shifts into the area getting a half yard on her marker to unleash a shot, cut in low Glover going one way saves brilliantly with her legs knocking the ball away to the right. 

Krissie Glover saving Katie Hayes shot with her legs

Hutton’s captain and goalkeeper, Krissie Glover

  Hutton look to get the ball down into the Newmarket half out on the left Dryland defending knocking the ball out for a throw deep, dropped into Kinsman’s feet outside the box left turns sending a cross into the six yard box Boyd closing in right post knocking the shot wide past the left post. 

  Smith regaining possession well for Newmarket in the middle sending it on for Hayes on the right wing coming back inside to shot from 25 yards out on the move over hits it sending the ball wide of the far post. A miscue at the back on the left sees Lucy Critchell steal onto a short pass and cut inside to run for the box, Slater getting back on her diving in to win the ball top of the area for Newmarket. Dryland taking the ball on up the right for Newmarket on for Hayes lifts it across the pitch to Corbyn trying to get away on the left, Roberts just about getting her foot in to knock the ball out of her path.

Abbie Corbyn

  Newmarket lively looking better now getting forwards, Hutton patient with the experience in attack to counter. Hindley coming on left sweeping a ball into the area cut out well by Yorko. Smith with Walker in the middle winning the ball for Newmarket lifted out to Hayes on the right drives forwards, Dimmock closing to challenge for Hutton. Lucy Critchell bringing the ball on into the left channel for Hutton Hindley with her the ball taken on forwards for Kinsman tracking down to the by-line before turning to cross the ball cleared by Caffarelli. 

Lucy Critchell

  Kinsman getting into space on the left playing the ball into Hindley getting up the pitch to send a waist high cross racing trough the top of the six yard box Lucy Critchell throwing a leg up and only get a glancing touch taking it on wide of the right post. Hayes and Corbyn swapping wings for Newmarket, as Fry gets the ball on for Hutton out to the left on for Hindley winning a corner. The inswinging delivery sent in across the face of goal Roberts looking to get her head on it needed a shout from Kinsman coming in ready to power the ball home beyond her as it runs out of play far side for a goal kick.

  GOAL! One chance goes begging it isn’t long before Hutton regain the ball high on the right lifting a deep cross into the area Hindley inside the box left of goal, Dryland and Slater going to clear the ball get in each others way, allowing the attacker to steal in to take the ball beyond them and send t wide across Joslin into far side of the net 4-1.

  Hutton restoring a 3 goal cushion with another corner kick on the right put in high Newmarket clear the ball back out to the right sent back into the area from deep falling for Kinsman central getting her foot over the ball to shoot drags it wide of the left post. Hutton making another change bringing on Lauren Knight for Fry. Hindley taking the ball inside from the left firing it into Lucy Critchell outside the D powering forwards Walker tracking back to challenge the shot under challenge coming in low as Joslin gets down to see it into her gloves, saves with her face instead as the ball hit a divot and skips up before her before she knows anything about it luckily deflected away behind for a corner kick. The corner played long to the far post Dryland covering clears for Newmarket. 

Katie Walker

  Dryland picking up a slight injury coming off for Newmarket at the back with Katie Spiers coming on to join the attack. Newmarket pressing hit on the break Edwards on for Hindley through the middle out to Kinsman pulling wide left inside the box fires a cross in towards the far post Lucy Critchell making a run to get onto the end of it, Joslin down well to get hold of the ball to deny the chance. 

Newmarket goalkeeper, Grace Joslin

  Smith into Mykhaylechko through the middle out to Corbyn right side Dimmock stepping in to tackle for Hutton at the back. Walker with a strike from distance for Newmarket landing on the roof of the net. Both teams battling for possession Newmarket pressing up looking for a goal, Hutton ready to break with gaps to exploit at the back. Kinsman lifting in on for Hindley through the middle, Caffarelli coming to close her down clear even as the flag goes up for offside. 

Katie Hayes

  A frantic spell as neither sides gets any meaningful possession, Hayes fouled on the left the ball to be put into the area from deep in high knocked down into Mykhaylechko lays it back for Spiers to strike from range fired wide of the left post. Hutton making changes bringing off Roberts off with Hayley Critchell back on Hindley going over to the right. Slater defends against Kinsman as the Hutton striker drives on with the ball right of the D. Newmarket pressing the ball around the Hutton penalty area, Spiers looking for an opening the door closed in front of her by Knight put out t Hayes on the left her cross swept in caught by Glover.

  Newmarket bring off Caffarelli send on Millie O’Dwyer with the clock starting to run down, Yorko clipping the ball forwards the keeper can come and gather before Corbyn can attack it. Yorko then throwing herself down in front of Kinsman to block her strike as she shifts right across the D. Woolaway getting on down the left now up with Hayley Critchell, Corbyn coming back to defend sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. The throw into Edwards top left corner of the area turns to pick out Kinsman central her low strike straight at the keeper back on her line. 

 Hutton bring Lucy Critchell off late in the game bring Crichton back on. Hindley at the back now seeing the ball back to the keeper to clear as Walker looks to put Corbyn on though to attack. Woolaway getting into the box on the left inside the six yard box Yorko across her trying to defend Joslin coming sliding down to claim the ball, Hutton appeal for a pass back, the decision given Hutton getting a in directed free-kick inside the six yard box left of the goal. A wall covering the near post Boyd plays it to Woolaway to strike a powerful right foot shot over the bar. 

  Newmarket continue to throw the ball forwards looking for a way through Hutton though are an experienced side a keeping things tight through the middle. Kinsman bursting onto the ball right channel stroking a shot over with the game moving into injury time. Newmarket putting a low cross in from the left taken by Glover, Yorko charging down the ball as Hutton counter left. Joslin coming to claim top of her area as Hutton break in the closing seconds. 

Full time Hutton Ladies 4-1 Newmarket Town Women

  Hutton Ladies win the ERWFL League Plate for a 3rd time. Leading 3-1 at the break. Newmarket looking to build on scoring late in the first half pressed well at the start of the 2nd period Glover making a great save. Hutton patient waiting for the chance to score a 4th goal and from there had control of the game could get players up behind the ball, Newmarket finding on way though. Hutton’s using their experience well. Newmarket will rue their luck first half striking the bar twice Hutton taking thier chances getting a 3rd goal from the penalty spot. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the day. A few performances to mention first, for Newmarket Holly Dryland well at left back winning a number of tackles and defending set-pieces well. Katie Hayes driving on right side getting the ball into some dangerous areas. Antonia Smith making an impact coming into the middle. For Hutton the defence was solid giving little away. Katy Edwards in control of the midfield for much of the first half getting free to spread ball into the wide players. Lucy Critchell superb running the channels and getting into some good attacking positions. The award for me though goes to Victoria Kinsman strong in the air winning the ball setting up the first goal, scoring twice and getting into some fantastic positions moving about the Newmarket back line hard to mark though out.

Hutton Ladies 2022/23 ERWFL League Plate winners

 Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning today’s ERWFL League Plate and making it a 3rd win overall.

  An exciting appetiser for the main event this afternoon, an entertaining contest as you’d expect from the ERWFL, my thanks to both sides for their help today along with Daniel Forde from the ERWFL for the team details, time for some foo then onto the next one…

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Barking FC Women

Sunday 3rd April

ERWFL League Plate

A trip down into Suffolk this Sunday to watch another match from the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Plate, with AFC Sudbury Women taking on Barking FC Women for a place in the last 4.

The Plate competition featuring the sides from ERWFL Division’s One North and South. Involvement in other cup competitions seeing this quarter final delayed the winners of today’s game be at home to fellow Division One South side Leigh Ramblers. With Whittlesey Athletic Ladies of Division One North against Hutton Ladies from Division One South.

ERWFL Division One South has been highly competitive at the top all season with 5 sides all in contention for the title for months and with 4 of the top 5 now with 2 games left looks certain to go all the way. Cheshunt FC Women in pole position behind Herts Vipers, with Barking FC Women and Leigh Ramblers Ladies 3rd and 4th respectfully both mathematically still in it but more likely to be one of the top 2 or today’s hosts.

AFC Sudbury Women currently 5th in the ERWFL Division One South table, have been playing catch up for most of the season with games in hand on their competitors an now with the top 4 all with 3 left Sudbury have 5 left with 3 games in hand the simple equation is win them all and they are champions the gap 8 points to leaders Cheshunt it could well be Sudbury’s away trip to Cheshunt in two weeks time will go along way to deciding the title. The women’s setup very much a part of AFC Sudbury as a whole with 40 players  in the academy playing for both the 1st and Reserve team. The senior woman side also reaching this season’s Suffolk County Cup final where they will play Needham Market Women for the trophy at Colchester United FC on Friday 6th May. Plenty still to play for in what is sur to be an exciting end to the season.

Success already this season for Barking FC Women as they were victorious in the final of the Essex Women’s Trophy last weekend, defeating Stanway Pegasus Ladies 2-0.

Barking FC Women, celebrating winning the Essex Women’s Trophy last weekend (photo credit Barking FC Women)

  Amongst the influx of new faces joining the ERWFL this season. A relatively new name although Barking has featured a side in the ERWFL previously. This one having previously been Collier Row Tigers who dominated the Essex Women’s Premier Division in the season before and during the pandemic. Those who remember when I still wrote the Round-Ups will know that Laura Bunton featured heavily in the goals scored for Collier Row and the same continues under the Barking badge, runaway top scorer in the league so far netting 31 goals in just 17 appearances helping Barking to a solid debut at regional level.

AFC Sudbury’s MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’ cup encounter. The artificial playing surface overlooked by the new clubhouse and seated stand with kitchen hatch. Another stand opposite with a mix of terracing and seating at the front. Covered viewing areas behind both goals. The weather again very good, mild, if a little cool in the shade. Some cloud around by no chance of rain, perfect playing conditions. Pot Kiln Primary girls todays mascots led out onto the pitch by the Sudbury players, as part of their matchday experience. Sudbury very much looking to grow the support and participation of girls into the game in Suffolk and beyond.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Faith Candice, Eboni-mae Shephard (C), Ronni Harrison, Teigan McHale, Kate Edwards, Bella Crawford, Luiza Ferdinand Da Silva, Alex Penny, Kaylee Dodd & Jess Allen. Subs – Evie Creaton, Ash Newley, Phoebe Guiver, Georgia Sleep & Amanda Short.

Barking FC Women

 Barking FC Women starting XI – Amy Lewington (C), Juliet Thomas, Lauren Taylor, Rachel Daltrey, Rebecca Killington, Rebecca Gajewska, Kiera Colthart, Grace Holt, Emma Harrison, Sarah Finch & Laura Bunton. Subs – Mia Zorbas.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A few players missing for Barking today, including regular captain, Daisy Cook with just the one substitute on the bench. Sudbury with a full bench to pick from. Sudbury to get the cup tie underway kicking-off 1st half in a all yellow kit with Barking lined up opposite wearing an all blue kit. The ball put back into Bella Crawford in midfield Barking immediately press the ball contested comes back to centre back Teigan McHale to send long upfield to the right with Alex Penny running down the Sudbury right the ball though safely in the gloves of Barking goalkeeper and captain, Amy Lewington.

  Play compact in the middle with both sides squeezing the ball, Keira Colthart looking to thread a ball through for Laura Bunton up top, runs out for a goal kick. Kate Edwards picking up the ball in the middle for Sudbury drives forwards with it tight to her feet, is fouled top of the D, no advantage as the ball spins away to the left, brought back for the set-piece. Luiza Ferdinand Da Silva over the ball, takes on the shot sending her effort up over the crossbar. Sudbury get players up the pitch pressing the Barking defence in possession, Ferdinand Da Silva on the left with a great diagonal ball clipped into the box over the defence for striker Jess Allen brings it down before sending in a low strike on the angle, well held by Lewington.

    Penny running away with the ball down the line on the right fires a cross in knee height towards the near post, Allen with the touch looking to turn into the shot her effort blocked by Barking’s Rachel Daltrey. Sarah Finch taking the ball on from Juliet Thomas on the right for Barking sends it on for Bunton peeling into the right channel, strong on the ball moving into the box, Sudbury’s Ronni Harrison going with her lunging in to make the blocking tackle deflecting the ball behind for a corner. The corner driven in near side, Barking’s Rebecca Killington coming on to meet it turning the ball behind at the near post.

Juliet Thomas clearing the ball for Barking

  Thomas stealing in on the ball right side getting on up the pitch with Finch the pair exchanging passes before Finch pulling wide lifts a cross into the box, easily gathered by Sudbury keeper, Millie Carter. Edwards in the middle with Ferdinand Da Silva who sends a cross field ball out to the right for Penny to take in her stride moving down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Kaydee Dodd arriving centre of goal not able to get a telling touch as the ball bounces wide. Ferdinand Da Silva top of the box right driving a shot wide as the ball is clipped high into her from the right.

 GOAL! Opportunities coming for Sudbury it is the hosts who concede the opening goal on 11 minutes, Barking’s midfield 3, Rebecca Gajewska, Colthart and Grace Holt working the ball well between them sending it long up to Bunton shifting into space on the left takes the ball on before shooting on the angle her strike fired in across the keeper nestling in the bottom corner 0-1.

Laura Bunton opens the scoring for Barking FC Women

  Thomas doing well on the right winning the ball for Barking gets up the pitch in support of Holt, going into a 50/50 challenge with Sudbury captain Bonni Shephard the right back comes off the worse going down in some discomfort. A pause in play so she can receive treatment. Is up tentatively as allowed back on as play resumes. Shephard defending on Finch as Colthart central winning the ball stabs on from the left into her, forced wide, Shephard keeps on her tackling to put the ball out for a throw in. 

Sudbury captain Bonni Shephard

 Following a Sudbury corner, Thomas is down again struggling with her injury Barking forced into an early change bring on Mia Zorbas in a straight swap at right back. Allen peeling off the back of the Barking defence into the area right of goal latching onto the ball and striking it over the bar on the angle. A competitive opening 20 minutes, a little frantic at times Sudbury seeing more of the ball in the final 3rd. Zorbas in a contest with Dodd on the left has to stab the ball out for a throw as Dodd battles to get in behind. 

  Edwards linking up with Shephard on the left moves inside going on towards the area before being tackled by Barking’s Killington. Sudbury pressing the ball well forcing errors from Barking keeping the ball inside their opponents half. Shephard left lifts it on for Dodd to run down into the corner, keeping the ball moves back to fire in a low cross near side, cut out by Gajewska then put out for a corner kick. Put in to the near post cut out by Zorbas comes back to the taker to lift back into the box  knocked back central at the far post Ferdinand Da Silva coming on can’t get a touch before Barking scramble it away.

Keira Colthart in the middle for Barking

 GOAL! Edwards out on the left flanks keeping the ball in play getting on down the line crosses into the box, Finch looking to cut it out not getting it away the ball cleared beyond her charged down by Ferdinand Da Silva left of the D, lifts the ball into Allen right side her touch knocking the ball down into her feet inside the six yard box to prod pass the keeper and level the scores 1-1.

Jess Allen levelling the scores for Sudbury

  Edwards making some strong runs on the ball through the middle for Sudbury taking the game to Barking, passes to Dodd on her left her cross lifted into the six yard box claimed by Lewington. Sudbury coming on in numbers Allen’s cross cleared straight to Ferdinand Da Silva out to Penny right side her cross scooped up landing on the roof of the net. Another pause for treatment, Sudbury making their first change Ash Newley on for Ferdinand Da Silva who has taken a knock.

Barking’s Rachel Daltrey

   Play brought back for a free-kick for Barking after Colthart is fouled in the middle. The ball floated up into the area Bunton up well to head the ball down to her left for Finch to take on moving towards goal the blocking tackle again comes in defecting the ball out for a corner. Goes long through everybody at an inviting height. Sudbury come right on for Allen driving on cuts the ball back to the top of the area, Edwards picking it up powers into the box forced out right to the by-line nevertheless screws a cross back in along the face of goal, cleared. Sudbury creating plenty of opportunities going forwards winning the ball back in the middle.

 GOAL! Sudbury pressing the ball on the right winning a corner with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half. The ball fizzed in with pace near side, Crawford there to met it turning the ball goalwards, neither Zorbas back on the line for Lewington can keep it out as it squeezes in between them 2-1.

Bella Crawford putting Sudbury into the lead

  Barking players voicing their frustration with a few decisions going against them, the referee having words. Edwards over a free-kick 25 yards out to the left of goal. Goes for the shot on target bouncing once Lewington set right behind it can see safely into her gloves.

GOAL! 3 minutes after taking the lead Sudbury add a 3rd goal. Allen out on the right side winning the ball high driving forwards with it into the box striking it low and hard towards goal, Lewington with an instinctive save with her legs the ball spinning away to the right, straight to Allen who makes no mistake the 2nd time 3-1.

  Sudbury finishing the half strong confident coming back from a goal down to lead 3-1 have a throw in high on the left Edwards into Allen left of the D some 20 yards out, her shot swerving as it rises towards Lewington the goalkeeper knocking it down and falling onto the ball. Bunton hasn’t seen much of the ball operating up top Holt finding her on the right sends a cross in on the angle looking for Finch running in from the left, Teigan McHale cutting the ball out for Sudbury.

Rebecca Gajewska on the ball for Barking

  Finch on the left now striking a shot on the angle from 20 yards out rising, taken high by Carter in the Sudbury goal. Edwards with Dodd on the left looking to play a one two get into the area Zorbas cutting it out putting the ball behind for a corner kick. The set-piece delivery dropping inside the six yard box a stooping head turning it goalwards is blocked on the line cleared out wide left to corner taker Penny lifts a high ball in towards goal, dangerous threatening to drop under her cross bar Lewington back on her line taking the ball down.

Sudbury’s Kaylee Dodd

  Penny into the corner with the ball on the left putting a cross into the area helped on across goal, comes back in off the far post before being scrambled away. Edwards with a fantastic cross field pass out to Penny on the right taking it in her stride sends her first time strike over the bar. Barking with few opportunities to get into the Sudbury box Emma Harrison on the right taking the ball on has Bunton ahead of her turning inside from the line to power into the area attempts to find Colthart making a central run, McHale with another timely interception.

 GOAL! Into first half stoppage time, Barking’s defence dwell on the ball outside their area, Allen charging it down after it in behind as it deflects into the box right of goal, blasts it past the keeper into the back of the net to score her hat-trick 4-1.

A 1st half hat-trick for Jess Allen

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 4-1 Barking FC Women

  A late blow for Barking at the end of the 1st half, going into the changing rooms trailing 4-1 despite scoring the opening goal on 11 minutes. A cagey start from both sides Sudbury taking a little while to settle, were getting players on well pressing the ball and forcing errors from Barking who have been a little slow to move the ball. Hit with an early injury blow, Thomas needing to come off had looked a threat supporting Finch on the right. Bunton with a clinical finish to open the scores. Sudbury coming back to level midway through the 2nd half going onto score 2 quick goals to take the lead Allen with a 1st half hat-trick making it 4-1 in stoppage time. A mountain for Barking to climb if they are to get back into this tie and you feel the next goal scored has to be theirs.

  Thomas still showing signs of discomfort is unlikely to make a return meaning Barking will have to press on with the 11 they have on the pitch, having seen Sudbury before they like to rotate players regularly in the 2nd half and being a young side have plenty of energy in reserve. Barking to get the 2nd period underway. Back into the middle played out to Finch on the left, Faith Candice winning the ball back for Sudbury. 

Sudbury defender Faith Candice

  Allen on the right pressing the ball forcing a corner kick to be conceded. The ball sent long through the area reclaimed far side lifted in to the far post Dodd meeting it knocking it down towards goal striking the base of the post, play stopped however with an offside flag. Barking sloppy at the back at the start of the 2nd half as Sudbury press hard Dodd on the left nicking the ball firing a cross into the area cut out by Taylor. 

GOAL! 47 minutes played and Sudbury add to their tally the ball with Crawford in the middle presented to Edwards ahead of her takes the ball on stealing in through the defence bearing down on goal one on one with the keeper has time to pick her spot and calmly slots it to her left into the bottom corner to score 5-1.

Kate Edwards with a goal early in the 2nd half for Sudbury

  A huge blow to Barking at the start of the 2nd half their task becoming all the more harder. Finch on the left looking to move the ball is tackled by Candice sliding in, comes off the worst down for a moment needing treatment but is okay. Newley central for Sudbury races on with the ball lifting it on for Dodd who with a great touch brings it down attempts to thread it in behind for Allen peeling away right, just a little too much for her to win the race with Lewington coming out to claim.

   Holt on the move through the middle with the ball for Barking laying it on for Bunton into the area, Ronni Harrison getting across the attacker to shield the ball out for a goal kick. Dodd on the right playing a one two with Newley who continues her run down into the corner with the ball checking back on the by-line to fire in a cross towards Allen at the near post she sends it in across goal, Lewington down low with a smart save.

Ronni Harrison winning the ball for Sudbury

   Barking continue to battle for possession in the middle are frustrated, Colthart riding a challenge on for Bunton 20 yards out unleashes a shot, lacking power runs through safely to Carter in goal. Bunton is a busy player in attack getting about the back line opportunities limited so far pulling away to the right blasts a shot behind on the angle from 25 yards. Taylor from the back for Barking on to Finch left whips a cross into the box, Ronni Harrison there to clear for Sudbury unopposed. The break is on a diagonal ball finding Allen top of the D shoots early but can’t place it wide of the keeper.

Barking’s Sarah Finch

   A heavy collision on the touch line between Dodd and Killington. The Sudbury winger coming off the worst down with a bloody mouth. A sore one needs to come off let it get seen to, Evie Creaton coming on in her place. Allen moving left cutting the ball wide into Penny she takes it on into the area unchallenged, firing in a shot sees her effort come back off the base of the post. Sudbury keep coming forwards Zorbas defending for Barking in the corner before Penny finds Newley right of the D her shot sent wide.

Sudbury’s Ash Newley

  Barking attack Colthart with Bunton on the right on for Finch back to Bunton her shot deflected wide at the near post for a corner kick. A change before it’s take for Sudbury Georgia Sleep on for Candice, going up front Allen somewhat miffed at being moved to the right side. The corner in from the right comes to Gajewska can’t get it down into her feet in time before her shot is charged down the ball cleared. 

GOAL! Allen right playing the ball on for Sleep gets the better of Killington to break into the area right of goal her shot rising on the angle smashing against the crossbar coming down to the left side with Penny arriving unmarked to push the ball into an empty net to make it 6-1.

Alex Penny on the score sheet for Sudbury

  Time for another change from Sudbury as they bring on Phoebe Guiver for Crawford. Zorbas fouled Penny out on the left a free-kick for Sudbury 25 yards out. Allen over the ball takes on the shot angled in Lewington punches it down and scrambled to smother the falling ball. Sudbury coming on at will Barking struggling to clear there lines keep possession in the middle. A diagonal ball lifted into the area from the left finds Allen running in far post sends her first time effort wide as it clips the upright.

GOAL! Sudbury are able to come on at will Edwards with Newley in the middle on for Allen right of the D inside to Sleep who lays it out to Penny wide she in turn lifts it up towards the right post with both Sleep and Allen providing the run falls to Allen to slot home for her 4th of the match 7-1.

 GOAL! Soon after much to Barking’s dismay Sudbury go on to add another. The ball with Barking in the middle pressed hits the referee unable to avoid it. A drop ball the result Sudbury putting  on to Penny left channel she plays a diagonal pass in behind for Allen running in on goal right side smashes her strike in over the keeper to score 8-1.

Jess Allen bringing the ball down

  20 minutes left to play Sudbury on a high Barking reeling conceding 8 goals still look to be positive Finch with Bunton on the left side of the D tries to pick out Harrison running through the middle, can’t quite pick her out the ball cleared. Edwards stealing in on the ball top of the area taking it to the by-line right cutting it back to Sleep on the penalty spot her shot in low held by the keeper. 

  The hosts break through the middle up to Allen with Sleep in attack Sleep on into the box one on one with the keeper tries to pick her spot Lewington with a superb save with her feet to deny her. Barking moving the ball well in burst short passes but lacking a cutting edge. Crawford and Dodd ready to return for Sudbury with Edwards and Penny coming off. 

GOAL! Pressure high up the pitch from Sudbury all game, brings them a 9th goal. Attacking left the ball cut out in the box by Taylor is closed down pinging back and forth rebounds through to Allen clear on the right side the smash a shot in low across the keeper for her double hat-trick 9-1.

  A free-kick to Barking top of the circle Emma Harrison decides to have a crack at goal put through on target Carter takes it on the bounce central even as Bunton rushes in on her. Carter then out to her right side to slide in and claim at the feet of Bunton as Emma Harrison sends the ball on. Guiver with good foot work playing the ball out to Sleep left inside the box Zorbas getting across her well to see the ball back to her keeper. Allen with help from Guiver on the right drives on before flashing a cross into the box just behind Sleep central. 

Evie Creaton

Guiver shifting the ball between her feet again playing a one two with Allen on the wing getting the return ball 20 yards out curls a shot in caught by Lewington. Dodd 25 yards out left of the D allowed time to shoot sees her effort come down off the crossbar. Sudbury dominating play through the middle Newley into Sleep inside the D Daltrey tackling the ball running behind for a corner. Sudbury making another change with 7 minutes left to play McHale coming for for Amanda Short.

Barking’s Rebecca Killington battling for possession with Sudbury’s Evie Creaton

  Taylor with a vital interception at the back as Sudbury break left the diagonal ball meant for Allen racing clear in behind. Lewington holding onto a shot at her near post driven in by Dodd out wide. Guiver outside the box getting hold of the ball working it well between her feet before skipping inside and driving a low strike wide of the goal. 

GOAL! Guiver makes it double figure moments later as a tired Barking don’t clear their back line latching onto it left of the D Guiver controls shifting the ball before curling a shot wide of the keeper 10-1.

  Penny comes back on for Sudbury to see out the closing minutes replacing Allen. Finch dropping back to assist the defence late on Taylor on the left as Barking come on the right Emma Harrison with Bunton ahead of her crosses into the box Taylor looking to get hold of the ball tackle by Short. Edwards and McHale back on replacing Ronni Harrison and Shephard. Sudbury regularly bringing on fresh legs Barking with none to bring on. Emma Harrison left for Barking getting the ball down off a throw in sees her shot blocked by McHale. 

  Finch at the back defending well against Sleep as she looks to turn and shoot after seeing the ball into her body off cross on the left. A inswinging cross claimed well by Carter in the Sudbury goal as Holt feeds Bunton in down the left. Into stoppage time Guiver lively on for Sleep left into the box, Zorbas and Finch defending for Barking.

A double hat-trick for Sudbury’s Jess Allen

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 10-1 Barking FC Women

  Full time and a big win for Sudbury sees them progress to the last 4 of the ERWFL League Plate to face Leigh Ramblers Ladies at home date to be confirmed. A dominant display 2nd half having led 4-1 at the break and early goal 2nd half killing off and Barking hopes of a come back goals coming at regular intervals afterwards with fresh legs coming on against an 11 who were tiring. Coming on at will took advantage of a dispirited opponent to hammer home the advantage giving them plenty of confidence going into their final games. No doubt this isn’t the Barking side that has acheived so much this season a brutal defeat can only regroup and go again.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A good all-round performance from Sudbury a few performances to mention. Firstly for Barking, Kiera Colthart worked hard in the middle to try and win the ball get it into Bunton up top. Sarah Finch on flanks with some useful runs when she was able to get forwards. For Sudbury Teigan McHale was assured at the back. Kate Edwards in midfield was sensational with some great ball winning tackles and driving runs forwards. The award though goes to double hat-trick scorer Jess Allen. Was a constant threat in attack peeling of the defence and finding goal scoring opportunities a first half hat-trick putting Sudbury in control of the game. Carried on in the same vein 2nd half albeit moving to the right of attack didn’t slow her down as she went on to add 3 more goals some great finishes.

  An enjoyable trip to the MEL Group Stadium, a warm welcome from a club who is trying hard to give their female players the opportunities they deserve in the game. My thanks to both for sides for their help with the team details always appreciated, plenty of goals in this one after to extremely rare 0-0’s.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – East Bergholt United Ladies v Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

Sunday 13th March

ERWFL League Plate

 A trip down into Suffolk this afternoon to watch a match from the quarter Finals of the ERWFL Plate with East Bergholt United Ladies taking on Whittlesey Athletic Ladies for a place in the last 4 of the competition. 

  The ERWFL Plate contested between the Division One, North and South sides within the regional set-up taking place after rounds one and two of the League Cup have been completed. 

 Haven’t seen East Bergholt United Ladies in a while, not since joining the ERWFL  in fact back in 2019. Prior to that enjoyed a couple of very successive seasons in the Suffolk Women’s County League, back to back league and cup doubles in 2017/18 and 2018/19. A  strong youth set-up within the club it was a natural progression to take the women’s side up into the regional setup test themselves at a higher level. Of course we know what happened next 2 null and void seasons heavily affecting development throughout the pyramid. 2021/22 being much more settled and likely to go the distance now with some finals to look forwards too.

  East Bergholt United Ladies put into a strong Division One South this season with 9 sides completing have struggled for results 4 straight defeats to start the season, before recording victories over Billericay Town Ladies Development and Wodson Park Ladies. Another lean spell over Christmas however 4 points won in their previous two matches have moved East Bergholt clear of the bottom two giving them some momentum coming into today’s cup fixture. Elena Nitsche their top scorer with 13 so far from 9 played. Received a bye into the quarter finals.

  Taking my first look at Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Newcomers to the ERWFL having joined with the intake of new sides this season after the promotion pool was widened to allow more clubs to enter regional football. A new side altogether making their debut the season before in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, having formerly been ICA Sports Ladies U18s side. A strong start to the season one of the few league to complete it’s fixtures after the various lockdowns finished in 6th position. Close to Peterborough, the club joining the ERWFL Division One North featuring 7 sides. Opening the season with a 3-3 draw with eventual champions Needham Market Women. Have been involved in a tight contest for the mid-table spots throughout recent results seeing them slip to 2nd bottom with 2 matches will be look to gain a place or two.

 Involved the 2 more cup competitions have semi final in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup to look forwards too next weekend. In the ERWFL League Plate progressed to the quarter finals with a 2-0 away victory over Division One South side Wodson Park Ladies, with goals from Chelsea Burr and Holley Ross. Burr and fellow striker Annie Posnett scoring the bulk of Whittlesey’s goal this season with 28 between them, Burr scoring 13 from 12 played whilst Posnett has 15 goals from 11 appearances.

East Bergholt Sports Ground the venue for today’s match, the sports ground accommodating, bowls, cricket, football and tennis. Home of East Bergholt United FC’s adult and youth sides. The pavilion/clubhouse overlooking the grassed sports pitches. Well used today’s playing pitch offering good width, a strong breeze blowing across the ground with unfortunately rain forecast. Set-up with my back to it hoping the wind would calm enough for the umbrella to go up and I could perform my usual juggling act between that the camera and notepad.

East Bergholt United Ladies

 East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Zoe Adams, Jess Clarke, Katie Bruce, Deban Howlett (C), Jell Gill, Millie Wilding, Megan Partridge, Stacey Desborough, Kira Wealls, Jess Quinsee & Vic Hall. Sub – Shannon Cameron.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  Whittlesey Athletic Ladies starting XI – Danni King, Brooke Harley, Lauren Mapleston, Lauren Fort, Sophie Ellen, Maddison Moore, Hannah Murphy (C), Holley Ross, Hannah Johnson, Aliyah Palmer & Chelsea Burr. Subs – Megan Mapleston & Grace Spencer.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both Elena Nitsche and Annie Posnett missing for both sides this afternoon, East Bergholt naming just the one substitute. Whittlesey with 2 on the bench and a change of keeper following the sending off of regular keeper, Milena Vygovskaja last time out serving a one game ban in between the sticks for today’s game is outfield player Danni King. The rain beginning to fall steadily a kick-off approaches the wind dying somewhat. East Bergholt to kick-off the first half wearing green shirts with black trim, black shorts and socks with Whittlesey lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to captain Deban Howlett on central defence she sprays the ball out to the right looking for Kira Wealls, Holley Ross tackling for Whittlesey her pass sent long out to Aliyah Palmer over on the right in attack, Jess Clarke forcing her wide for East Bergholt the full back seeing the ball out for a throw in.

Both sides looking to get the ball out into the wide areas early on Clarke in again to deny Palmer as she looks to take the ball on down the right, East Bergholt playing the ball crossfield into Wealls, Lauren Mapleston at left back in to close her down for Whittlesey. With players drawn to the right, Mapleston has space to run into as the ball pops free out to her travels with it before Chelsea Burr up top provides the passing option drifting out into the left channel taking the ball on to the by-line whips a cross looping into the six yard box, East Bergholt keeper, Zoe Adams able to claim it unopposed.

East Bergholt captain, Deban Howlett with Whittlesey attacker, Chelsea Burr

  Howlett with a timely interception at the back, needed as Ross nips in to steal the ball centrally lifts it forwards for Palmer. A free-kick for East Bergholt in the middle played out to Clarke on the left powers on before laying it into the path of Jess Quinsee the attacker taking the ball down the left wing, whipping a cross into the six yard box caught cleanly by King in the Whittlesey goal. Whittlesey captain Hannah Murphy in to win the ball in the middle, linking with Ross the ball played forwards bouncing in front of Howlett a tricky one for the defender to deal with, with Burr chasing, experienced though composure to play the ball and clear. 

Holley Ross with the ball for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  Burr looking to take on the East Bergholt defence as play is turned around in the middle Palmer racing on with it right channel Burr moving to that side the ball rolled into her path lets fly from outside the box, her shot racing wide of the right post. East Bergholt attack on the right Wealls winning a throw high up the pitch, Vic Hall coming to head the ball on central top of the D into Quinsee she is upended the hosts awarded a free-kick. Quinsee over the ball 20 yards out right of the goal, the shot bouncing up in front of the keeper, King adjusting well to knock it away to her right allowing her defence to clear. 

   East Bergholt gaining some momentum in attack, Whittlesey switching off a little presenting the ball back to the hosts as they press the advantage out on the right the ball fired in central, Stacey Desborough playing it out to the left, Clarke advancing striking from distance her effort wide across goal. Playing 3 up front East Bergholt are looking for Wealls and Quinsee to provide width left and right, keeping Whittlesey’s full backs penned back. Desborough finds herself free on the right looking to drive forwards, Ross gets back on her to defend for Whittlesey the ball not cleared as Hall and Millie Wilding regain possession 25 yards out the shot from distance struck wide of the far post. 

Millie Wilding taking a shot for East Bergholt

  Clarke over on the left with a set-piece players up into the area for East Bergholt the ball floated in central, Howlett twisting as she heads the ball down towards goal, King right behind it able to collect on the bounce without challenge. East Bergholt pushing hard Megan Partridge on the ball central forwards for Quinsee her touch left taking her into the area on the angle wraps her foot around the ball a rising shot powerful smashes down off the cross bar bouncing before Quinsee as King comes to close stoops to head the ball from close range places it wide of the near post. 

 Up the other end Burr is working hard agianst the East Bergholt defence but is often forced wide, players not getting close to support. Desborough plays the ball out to Hall on the right going on her cross is lifted into towards the top of the area, defended by Whittlesey’s Lauren Fort, half hearted appeals for handball from East Bergholt but play continues. Ross with a strong tackle in the middle gets the ball out to Burr peeling left her crossed ball dropping for Palmer to drive at the East Bergholt box, she is denied by Jess Gill’s well timed tackle at the back.

Chelsea Burr holding off East Bergholt’s Katie Bruce

  A double save of sorts from King in the Whittlesey goal as East Bergholt running on with the ball through the middle let fly with a strike from distance angling in King leaps but can’t get there the ball though smashing against the crossbar for a 2nd time for the hosts dropping down hitting King on her backside as she lands pushing it out to the right, King quickly to her feet as Wealls comes surging in to smash the lose ball goalwards from six yards out on the angle, King saving with her gloves palming the ball away.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies goalkeeper, Danni King

   Whittlesey definitely on the back foot errors at the back giving the ball back to East Bergholt the hosts buoyed as they press forwards, risk getting hit on the counter with Ross winning it back centrally putting it through for Burr taking on the strike on the right 20 yards out putting the ball over Adams crossbar. Ross and Murphy battling for the ball in the middle, Ross right on for Burr, Adams is quickly off her line out to the top of her area to deal with the threat for East Bergholt. 

East Bergholt’s Jess Clarke

  Palmer taking the ball on down the right side for Whittlesey 20 yards out cutting the pass inside for Burr, a cleaver back heel to wrong foot her marker turning into the shot her attempt straight at the keeper a straight forward save for Adams. The rain has stopped the umbrella abandoned which is just aswell as this is a thoroughly enthralling contest. Palmer twisting away right side on the ball squares it inside for Burr, Katie Bruce moving in to support Howlett, the Whittlesey striker finding no way through. 

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Aliyah Palmer

  Partridge putting the pass out to Wealls racing clear on the right in behind taking the ball down the line whips a fantastic ball in across the six yard box, Quinsee flying in with an outstretched leg at the far post can’t quite reach it to turn it home. A great touch at the back from Whittlesey defender Sophie Ellen to control and clear inside her box as Howlett up the opposite end plays a dangerous ball forwards as she clears the ball. 

 Palmer on the right playing the ball over to Murphy in space on the left sends it forwards for Burr the striker taking the ball into the corner keeping possession well before digging out a looping cross into the box. Caught by Adams. Hall sends the ball out to Bruce on the right as she bombs forwards sending a high ball into the area looking for Wealls, too close to King though the keeper able to claim the ball. Bruce is replaced then as East Bergholt make there first change bringing on Shannon Cameron a straight swap at right back. 

East Bergholt’s Kira Wealls with Whittlesey’s Lauren Mapleston

  Whittlesey much more composed now taking the game to East Bergholt defending a high line Ellen chests the ball down on halfway then plays it on for Burr peeling away into the left channel on into the area striking the shot on the angle over the bar. Play back and forth, East Bergholt finding Hall over on the right in the corner holds the ball up then turns to deliver a cross into the box, turned goalwards straight into King’s gloves however. Murphy in to win the ball centrally strong moves to the right on for Palmer goes on before firing an angled shot in along the ground held by Adams down at her near post.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Maddison Moore

  East Bergholt winning the ball back on the left spray it diagonally forwards with Wealls clear of her marker right of the D. waiting for the ball to come across her to strike it takes a wicked bobble before her seeing Wealls catch it with the underside of her boot scuffing her shot harmlessly wide. A pause in play with Wilding having taken a knock for East Bergholt, okay after treatment Whittlesey make a change bringing Megan Mapleston on for Harley, Hannah Johnson moving to right back.

  GOAL! The deadlock is broken late in the first half, Whittlesey with possession in the 41st minute a good triangle between Lauren Mapleston, Ross and Murphy on the left Murphy feeding the ball on for Burr pulling free on the left drives forwards players bomb on in support. Taking the ball on Burr whips an angled shot in towards goal, dipping Adams gets up well to get a glove on the ball turn it down away to her left, unfortunate as Clarke goes to clear it she slips, Murphy arriving has the composure to get her foot up over the ball lift it over the defender and into the goal beyond 0-1.

Captain Hannah Murphy putting Whittlesey into the lead

  East Bergholt press the ball from the restart Wilding with Partridge on for Quinsee, Fort into defend for Whittlesey. The visitors break on the right Palmer racing forwards with the ball releasing an early strike angled in low, Adams down smartly with a fingertip save to deflect the ball wide of her far post. A corner on the left set in across the six yard box met by Palmer turned low towards goal, Adams saving back on her line. 

  Wealls and Quinsee switching flanks late in the first half the later over on the right now looking to take the ball on down the line tackled by Lauren Mapleston for a throw in the corner. East Bergholt work in a dangerous cross from the throw in near side spilt by King, Johnson able to scramble it to safety at the far post. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the 1st half Ros putting the ball out to Burr moving left, Cameron defending well for East Bergholt. Burr strong on the ball checks inside from the left firing a ball across the top of the East Bergholt area Ross closing in right of the D, a vital interception from Gill to stop her stealing through on goal. 

Half-time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  An entertaining first half draws to a close with Whittlesey Athletic Ladies holding a narrow 1-0 lead over east Bergholt United Ladies. Could have easily been the other way around with East Bergholt carving out a number of good opportunities in attack striking the crossbar twice. Playing three up top taking the game to Whittlesey the visitors switching off putting themselves under pressure still a threat on the counter attack, Burr working hard up top if lacking support at times. Whittlesey held out however and finding some good passages of play created chances to going on to take the lead late in the first half. The game still very much open as the teams emerge from the changing rooms hoping the rain will stay away for the 2nd half, extra-time and penalties if required.

  No changes for Whittlesey. East Bergholt making a switch, Bruce back on in the middle for Hall with Desborough moving forwards to join Wealls and Quinsee in attack. Whittlesey to get the 2nd half underway. The ball out to the right won by Quinsee for East Bergholt, back to Clarke she attempts to play the ball over the top, Whittlesey recovering in defence to clear the ball. Cameron right side bringing the ball forwards playing it inside for Desborough outside the area right of the D, Ellen in to close her down defending for Whittlesey. 

  The hosts looking to take the game to Whittlesey straight from the off Wilding winning it centrally with Bruce on for Desborough again closely watched by Ellen. Burr still leading the attack for the visitors, closely monitored by Gill on halfway stopping her getting in behind. Palmer over on the left twists inside travelling towards the box, Howlett stepping out to challenge winning the tackle. Murphy busy in the centre battling for possession for Whittlesey finds Burr on halfway lays it on for Ross getting forwards with Palmer on the left, taking the ball on Cameron comes to close her down well for East Bergholt. 

East Bergholt’s Katie Bruce

  East Bergholt are intent on pushing players on pressing Whittlesey on the ball inside their own half. Wealls on for Desborough shifting right her cross in not collected by King dropping loose inside the six yard box is scrambled away to safety. Quinsee on the left receiving the ball steals on into the area after the ball, Ellen getting across in the nick of time to slide in take the ball. Murphy in strong to regain possession support from Moore, then Ross out to Burr left of the area her cross back along the 18 yard line, cleared by Clarke with Palmer stretching for it.

 Ross comes off then as Whittlesey make a change looking to match East Bergholt with 3 up top, Grace Spencer on to join Palmer and Burr off comes Ross. Quinsee with the through ball to set Desborough away, just too much on it allowing King to claim it first. Whittlesey unsettled making mistakes as East Bergholt press. The hosts push on the right Wealls in her cut back to the top of the area missed before Partridge plays Desborough through on goal right side in the box, King coming sliding in the ball there to be won Desborough goes to ground sliding in catching King as she sees the ball into her midriff. The King down a pause on play as she recieves treatment. Looks to be a leg injury is up gingerly is okay to continue as Ross returns to the action for the visitors replacing Moore.

Stacey Desborough attacking for East Bergholt

  Howlett winning the ball at the back for East Bergholt her clearance finding Wealls out on the right takes the ball on down the flank whipping a good ball in near post, Desborough running in twists to try and connect her header, is taken well by King nonetheless. Clarke able to travel with the ball on the left for East Bergholt lifted on for Quinsee powers forwards to the by-line before lifting a cross into the near post Fort getting there before Desborough. Midway through the 2nd half and East Bergholt are knocking on the door as they search for an equaliser, Whittlesey’s defence standing firm.

  East Bergholt keep coming forwards, Clarke left inside for Wilding onto Bruce played out to Partridge right she shot from 25 yards out charged down by Ellen. Wilding with a shot from distance 30 yards plus, King with a faint touch taking it wide a corner on the right. Played in near side defended by Ross out for a 2nd corner. The 2nd delivery angled in near post Gill attacking it putting the ball wide for a goal kick.

Holley Ross looking for a pass for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

   Wealls on the right with an angled shot driven in low from 25 yards out collected safely by King at her near post. East Bergholt on top piling forwards at will Whittlesey battling hard at the back unable to get any meaningful possession up top. Spencer moving out to the left to receive a pass from Murphy is tackled by Cameron at the back for East Bergholt. The visitors could do with another goal to take the pressure off Burr continuing to cause problems in attack getting hold of the ball from a throw in on the right outside the D unleashing a low strike put straight at Adams back on her line. 

Megan Mapleston

  Partridge playing the ball on for Desborough going left for East Bergholt taking the ball on to the by line lifts a cross into the box, no one attacking it as King catches the ball high. Palmer comes off for Whittlesey with Moore coming back on. Partridge brought down outside the box right side a free-kick won. The shot sent over the bar. East Bergholt are getting crosses into the Whittlesey box but all too often no one is there to attack them the perfect cross coming in from the right is put on a plate in front of goal six yards out but frustratingly the opportunity goes begging the ball missed. 

Jess Gill defending for East Bergholt

  East Bergholt keep coming, King with a magnificent double save to keep Whittlesey’s lead intact as Clarke free on the left comes on with the ball angling a dipping shot in towards the top corner King get up stretching to push the ball away to her left dropping beyond the far post the ball attacked blasted back in the keeper reacts to blocking to save the shot at close range!

Danni King with a brilliant double save for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  The game moving into the final 5 minutes has been all East Bergholt 2nd half but still no way through Whittlesey fighting to retain their advantage. The sun even trying to make an appearance late in the afternoon, as East Bergholt win a throw high up the pitch, Gill up to take a long one on for Desborough who has caused the Whittlesey defence a few issues, not this time as Johnson tackles to take the ball away from her. 

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Hannah Johnson

 Pushing up the break still remains a threat as Whittlesey clear up to Ross central on for Burr in the middle, Cameron holding her up well forcing her wide as numbers get back to defend. Burr doing well however to win a free-kick out wide. Players come forwards, Ellen no able to get it under control before Clarke nips in to clear to the right. Murphy after the ball sends her cross/shot onto the roof of the net. Whittlesey are a very young side and they don’t as a rule run the ball into the corner to run down the clock. Burr clipping in a shot from the left saved by Adams as Ross snatches it back in the middle. 

  Into a very nervy stoppage time, East Bergholt doing all they can to win it going to 3 at the back late on with Gill pushed up into attack. Whittlesey have everyone back to defending no gaps to exploit Fort charging the ball down as it is played in across the top of the area before it is scrambled away to the right. The final whistle blows and Whittlesey win an enthralling cup tie by a single goal to move into the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Plate.

Full time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies 

  A thoroughly entertaining game in the finish won by Hannah Murphy’s goal scored late in the 1st half for Whittlesey. The visitors with a long trip home having another semi-final contest to look forwards too. Were made to work hard for the victory by the hosts as East Bergholt dominated the attacking play 2nd half taking the game to there opponents could find no way through however with Danni King pulling off a fantastic double save late on. A find effort from East Bergholt nonetheless who should be heartened by the number of chances they created if bitterly disappointed to come away with a defeat. Whittlesey had to battle to keep their clean sheet intact and were in need of a 2nd goal just couldn’t get enough of the ball in the final 3rd to get their attackers into the game. A great contest especially for the neutral.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A number of performances of note to mention first. Starting with East Bergholt, Stacey Desborough good in midfield 1st half, posed a great many problems for the Whittlesey defence joining the attack 2nd half. Out on the flanks both Jess Quinsee and Kira Wealls make some great attacking runs and created a chances both on another day would have been celebrating a goal. For Whittlesey, Hannah Murphy put in a number of good tackles in midfield winning possession and looking to set attacks going scoring the winning goal. Along side her Holley Ross had a solid game challenging for the ball and taking it forwards to  try and link with the attack. Chelsea Burr working hard up top alone at times moving across the East Bergholt defence to find openings. Today’s award though goes to goalkeeper, Danni King. May not be her natural position but she was superb pulling off a number of brilliant saves to ensure her side kept a clean sheet to progress to the last 4.

A thoroughly entertaining cup tie, great to catch up with East Bergholt 1st time seeing them at home too a fine effort just missing out. My first look at Whittlesey Athletic, a long journey home so much better after a win, had to work for it but rose to the occasion. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

The Round-Up – ERWFL 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL Premier Division

Four games beating the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday. Luton Town Ladies 3rd in the table going into the weekend hosting 3rd fro bottom St Ives Town Ladies. Luton with a fantastic gesture offering all gate money plus more to a charity of choice in memory of St Ives player Charlene Martin who was laid to rest earlier in the week after losing her battle with bowel cancer. An emotional period for St Ives. 

Luton with an opportunity to climb above Peterborough Northern Star into 2nd spot in the table starting well taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Funmi Babalola on target to score her 10th goal of the season. St Ives goalkeeper Kira Markwell with a couple of fine saves to keep Luton from adding to their tally, the host though getting a 2nd goal at the close of the first half Jess McKay on the end of a Zara Carroll free-kick to put the ball away for her 17th goal of the season. St Ives coming out 2nd half looking to pull a goal back neither side with any clear cut chances the game heading into the final 15 minutes, Markwell again saving well. Luton with a corner kick on 79 minutes the ball put into the area by Erica Byron, Leyah Maddix getting onto the end of it to score her first goal and see Luton win the game 3-0. Move up to 2nd six points behind leaders Harlow with a game in hand and a game at home to Harlow to come.

Fourth placed Bedford Ladies made the short journey to play Bedfordshire rivals AFC Dunstable Women at the weekend. Bottom of the table Dunstable rebuilding their side looking to give it a go as they attempt to avoid relegation just 2 points on the board so far this season, Bedford in good form recently getting off to a fantastic start Maya Sidhu putting them into the lead inside 2 minutes. Bex Cray with a couple of early chances too for Bedford one striking the post, Dunstable coming back to level early though 1-1 inside 10 minutes a shot striking the crossbar put away on the follow-up. The hosts going on to take the lead in the 18th minute Nina Regolo with a fine save conceding a corner Dunstable capitalising on the set-piece making it 2-1. Bedford’s turn to come back into it midway through the half, defender Gemma Franklin with the pass out to Sidhu on the right she in turn putting it across for Natasha Fensome to send home 2-2.

  Bedford retaking the lead with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Fensome playing in Setor Acolatse with the header saved but pouncing on the loose ball to score 3-2 up Dunstable with a quick response the scores levelled for the 3rd time in the match again from a corner. The scores all square at the break the game played in windy conditions. Both keepers called into action saving in the 2nd half as both sides pushed on looking for another goal Dunstable fighting getting their noses back in front with 15 minutes left, Regolo saving with her legs as cross put in from the flanks, the ball loose Dunstable quickest to it the shot deflected and in. Dunstable coming so close to recording their first league win of the season the game deep into stoppage time Bedford finding an equaliser in the 95th minute, good work on the ball by captain Priya Bhatti on the left the ball put on for Fensome to strike of the volley to see it finish 4-4! The point enough to take Dunstable off the foot of the Premier Division table their goals scored by Sasha Manders, Jodi McClelland, Danielle Snowden and Chelsea Jeffery.

Haringey Borough Women themselves without a win this season now bottom on goal difference as they missed out on their first win of the season after a late fight back and last gasp winner from hosts Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. Travelling with the bare 11 Haringey fought well getting themselves into the lead. 15 minutes to go and Colney Heath drew level Charlene Moreton scoring on the volley. Christina Freestone scoring the winning goal with a fine strike with what proved to be the last kick of the game.

Another high scoring encounter at the weekend between Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies. Wymondham making the long journey down Essex, neither side with any clear cut chances in the opening 15 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking the lead in the 21st minute awarded a free-kick put away by Megan Harley, her 13th goal of the season. Wymondham coming straight back to level the scores Mollie O’Callaghan lobbing the keeper to make it 1-1. Chances for both after that Georgia Fraser striking the bar, Wymondham straight up the other end to take the lead Hannah Water setting up Freya Symonds to round the defence and score. Wymondham leading 2-1 at the break.

Wymondham Town Ladies midfielder, Mollie O’Callaghan

 A great start to the 2nd half by Wymondham, extending their lead in the 57th minute Chelsea Clarke with the pass for Waters to shoot past the keeper. 3 minutes later Wymondham were 4-1 ahead Waters with her 2nd of the match O’Callaghan with the assist. Bowers & Pitsea pulling it back to 4-2 with a little over 15 minutes to play, Courtney Fraser with a great strike from outside the box to find the top corner. Wymondham straight back to restore their 3 goal cushion Symonds away on the right a dangerous ball into the six yard box turned into their own net by the Bowers & Pitsea defence. The game moving into stoppage time O’Callaghan with the free-kick, Mia Etheridge rising to head the ball in to make it 6-2. Georgia Fraser getting a goal in the closing moments for Bowers & Pitsea to see it end 6-3.

ERWFL Plate

A County Cup final appearance for Histon Ladies in midweek, they were in Cup action too at the weekend in the last of the ERWFL Plate quarter finals away to East Bergholt United Ladies. Not much between the sides in the first half going in at 0-0 Histon with the better chances. The 2nd period following a similar pattern Histon eventually getting their noses in front with 20 minutes left to play Alison Wright with the header at the near post initially blocked finding it’s way over the line. The win sealed in added time with captain Sophie Lanham chipping the keeper to see Histon take it 2-0.

Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies Development

North ERWFL Division One North

Two games played in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend whilst a three games were lost in Division One South on Sunday, it was to one of these Women’s Football East headed too, 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies making the switch to 3G to avoid a 3rd weekend without a game were taking on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. The visitor finding life tough having made the step up to regional football this season without a point on the board and new it would be a tough ask today against a full strength King’s Lynn side as they travelled with the bare 11 several players missing, players carrying knocks and out of position. King’s Lynn were straight on the front foot creating chances Brianne Dyer busy in the Gorleston goal, Rachel Skinner from a tight angle wide on the right opening the scoring her ball in across goal finding the far corner. Nikita Morris doubling the lead after captain Becky Russell’s shot from the top of the box was blocked latching onto the ball near post to turn and smash high into the net. Emma Corbyn seeing King’s Lynn into a 3 goal lead putting in a Russell cross at the near post. Gorleston with little opportunity to get forwards in attack player manager Sophie Gillett with a tremendous strike on the half volley from 25 yards out getting it back to 3-1. King’s Lynn straight back up the other end to make it 4-1 before half-time a double save from Dyer in vain as Millie Hopkisson closing it scores from close range at the near post. 

King’s Lynn always looking to get forwards against Gorleston on Sunday

  4-1 up at half-time King’s Lynn ran riot in the 2nd period racking up the goals as they closed to gap at the top to a point on leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development. Getting off t a fantastic start a hammer blow for Gorleston scoring two quickfire goals Hopkisson and then Corbyn with their 2nd goals each. Corbyn with another effort ruled out for offside. The goals kept on coming Zara O’Neill on in the 2nd half to make her King’s Lynn debut with a great run into the box to get her first goal. A frustrating game for attacker Tiffany Forshaw a host of missed chances 1st half got off the mark to fire King’s Lynn into an 8-1 lead. Both she and O’Neill would go in to score 4 goals each as Gorleston tired, Becky Russell also on the score sheet scoring from a corner kick to see the game finish 15-1. The full match report available further down the page.

Tiffany Forshaw on the scoresheet for King’s Lynn early in the 2nd half going on to score 4.

Zara O’Neill with 4 goals on her debut for King’s Lynn

  Also in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday it was another Suffolk derby match with Needham Market Women up to 3rd in the league away to AFC Sudbury Women. This game a tale of two halves Sudbury with some excellent play in the first half Needham Market not at their best the hosts though unable to breach their opponents defence both keepers making crucial saves saw it goalless at the break. Needham Market dug deep improving in the 2nd period the break through coming in the 70th minute Amber Sparkes setting up Nia Evans controlling the ball before smashing it into the top corner. The 3 points sealed 2 minutes from time with Sparkes striking to find the top corner. Needham Market winning 2-0 are now 6 points behind leaders Cambridge City with a game in hand and have yet to play them 2 potentially huge matches back to back coming up at the end of the month, King’s Lynn will certainly be an interested observer.

 

 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 23/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 23rd February

ERWFL Cup

First it was Storm Ciara and then came along Storm Dennis putting pay to the majority of fixtures across the East on successive weekends. The ERWFL suffering as much as most the ERWFL Cup and Plate quarter finals scheduled for a fortnight ago there was better weather this time around wit only only 11 fixtures lost due to waterlogged pitches. Three of the four League Cup quarter finals taking place this weekend it was to one of those Women’s Football East headed at the weekend a trip down to Bedfordshire to watch Premier Division side Bedford Ladies up against ERWFL newcomers Millwall Lionesses. 

Millwall Lionesses having to rebuild starting again in the ERWFL the only Division One side left in the last 8 of the ERWFL Cup unbeaten top of their league up against a Bedford side winning their last 6 matches in league and cup up to fourth on the Premier Division table. Millwall starting brightly putting Bedford on the back foot gaining confidence winning a series of corners one on those eventually counting a ball put in evading the keeper Olivia Gregory close in bundling it home beyond. Bedford coming into it both sides creating good opportunities in front of goal, could easily have been 3-2 either way at the break. As it was Millwall holding a slender one goal advantage. Bedford losing their goalkeeper Lauren Webb through injury full back Nina Regolo taking over in goal.

Olivia Gregory scoring the opening goal for Millwall Lionesses pictured with Bedford’s Alicia Cobb

  The 2nd half again a fairly even contest both sides getting forwards well Natasha Fensome leading the attack for Bedford making some great runs playing across the Millwall defence getting through on goal chipping the keeper at close range to equalise. The hosts thinking they had won it in the 90th minute Fensome shooting across the keeper to put them 2-1 in front. Millwall pushing on Daniella Correa playing the ball into the area Samantha Middleton after it the keeper coming hands on the ball Middleton shoved in the back colliding with her a penalty awarded. A long delay before it’s taken Middleton sustaining a nasty injury can’t play on. Millie Connell with the spot kick cool as ice to hit it wide of the diving keeper to send the tie into extra-time.

Bedford’s Natasha Fensome equalising for Bedford before putting them into the lead on 90 minutes.

 The extra period of play seeing both sides continuing to push forwards looking for an opening and still a hard game to call. The break through coming early in the 2nd period of extra-time, Fensome playing the ball crossfield to Maya Sidhu top of the area left of the D a composed strike to put the ball into the bottom corner. The knockout  blow coming from a free-kick wide on the left Shianne Swarres with a superb delivery her ball in evading everyone to drop over the line. Millwall pressing on in attack conceding a 5th goal at the death Bedford sending a ball in from the left brought under control at the far post by Setor Acolatse sending it back across goal Fensome rushing in completing her hat-trick. The full match report can be found further down the page. 

Bedford Ladies will be away to Hertfordshire side Royston Town Women in the semi-finals of the League Cup after they beat Norfolk side Wroxham Women in their last eight tie on Sunday afternoon. Wroxham with good possession at time thwarted by the keeper on a few ocassions. Royston with a disciplined game themselves taking the lead through top scorer Rebecca Vass lobbing the keeper to make it 1 nil. The tie made safer with 10 minutes left to play a fine finish from Emma Slater to make it 2-0, Vass seeing a good chance saved by Wroxham’s Amy Bell late on. 2-0 enough though for Royston into the last 4 of the competition and what is sure to be a tough match at home to Bedford.

Another ERWFL Cup tie going all the way on Sunday saw Wymondham Town Ladies and Luton Town Ladies go all the way to a penalty shootout. Wymondham reaching a 4th successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup final the weekend before had knocked out league leader Harlow Town Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup were at home in the quarter finals taking on Luton Town Ladies who themselves are through once again to the Bedfordshire County Cup final. Nothing could separate the sides after 90 minutes both sides with opportunities, goalkeeper called into action the game heading into extra-time a further half hour though seeing no goals. Onto penalties Wymondham edging it winning through 5-4 to book their spot in the last 4 of the competition where they will be away to either Peterborough Northern Star Ladies or Colney Heath Ladies.

ERWFL Premier Division

One league match played in the ERWFL this Sunday in the Premier Division, leaders Harlow Town Ladies making the trip to North London to play 2nd bottom side Haringey Borough Women. A clutch of new signings made by Harlow recently as they look to have the squad in good shape to make a final charge for the title. Unbeaten so far winning 11 of their 13 matches scoring goals too rattling in a double figure scoreline at the weekend. Becky Shephard top scorer in terrific form this season netting another hat-trick. A hat-trick too for striker Georgia Box her first season with Harlow hampered by injury moving onto 8 goals. Chloe Bassett netting a brace there were goals too for Amy Nash, Abbey Dell and Bethany Chambers. Harlow winning 11-1 to move 7 points clear at the top.

ERWFL Plate

Three quarter finals played to in the ERWFL Plate this Sunday. Cambridge City Ladies Development leading the way in Division One North hosting Stevenage FC Women Development in the last 8. Carla Penny in good form in attack for Cambridge so far this season putting the hosts into the lead. Cambridge with a dominant performance at times going on to win the game 2-0 with Penny on the scoresheet for her 2nd of the game taking her to 17 for the season. Cambridge will be making a trip down into Essex in the semi-finals to play fellow ERWFL newcomers Leigh Ramblers Ladies.

 Leigh Ramblers Ladies were at home to fellow Division One South side Wodson Park Ladies in the quarter finals of the Plate. Leigh Ramblers showing good league form stepping up into regional football this season level at the top with Millwall Lionesses. Wodson Park after a difficult start to the season showing great form themselves in recent games pulling away from the bottom of the table. Georgia Holdaway joining the Leigh Ramblers squad this season has been amongst the goals on target for another 2 at the weekend moving her onto 11 for the season. Megan Thomas putting the ball in the back of the net aswell to celebrate her first goal of the season securing a 3-1 win to sent Leigh Ramblers into the ERWFL Plate semi-finals.

Hutton Ladies with a 100% record still in ERWFL Division One South were back to back winners of the ERWFL Plate just a couple of seasons ago, travelled up to the east coast this weekend to play Norfolk side Gorleston Ladies in the quarter finals of this season’s competition. Hutton scoring plenty of goals whilst not conceding many at the other end. Gorleston finding life in the ERWFL tough since making the step up to regional football. The game played in windy, rainy conditions, Hutton having the wind to their advantage in the 1st half creating chances and scoring goals leading comfortably at the break 6-0. Gorleston working the ball around well hitting the crossbar. Had the wind 2nd half pulling a goal back straight away and put pressure on Hutton in the 2nd period an improved performance their goal scored by Hannah Croft. Hutton though adding another goal themselves to run out comfortable winners into the semi-finals. Vicky Kinsman adding another 2 goals to her impressive tally now 32 from just 10 appearances. A brace too for Sally Appleton along with a goal each for Kelly Roberts, Lauren Knight and captain Abigail Fry. Hutton will be away to either East Bergholt United Ladies or Histon Ladies.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

ERWFL Cup

A break from the league this weekend in the ERWFL (well almost) with the knock-out stages commencing for both the League Cup and Plate competitions. The first half of the season seeing the 16 Division One sides North and South competing in a group format, 4 sides playing each other once with the group winners progressing the the League Cup joining the 12 Premier Division sides the rest going on to compete for the League Plate.

  Newmarket Town Women, Millwall Lionesses, Needham Market Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies to 4 Division One sides to win their groups all draw against higher league opposition in the League Cup. All 4 involved in a close game. 8 ties in the 1st Round just 7 played at the weekend. The game between Wymondham Town Ladies and Harlow Town Ladies cancelled after Harlow’s parked mini-bus was hit by a lorry at the services on their way up to Norfolk. Everyone okay, a new date for the tie to be announced.

Wroxham Women were drawn away to ERWFL newcomers Needham Market Women the in first round of the League Cup on Sunday. Needham Market making a good start to the game early chances, it was Wroxham though who opening the scoring captain Anna Larkins getting forwards from full back on the 14th minute her cross come shot finding the back of the net. Needham Market coming back to level the scores 6 minutes later, Amber Sparkes bringing the ball on from halfway shooting from 20 yards out making it 1-1. Needham Market coming close to leading before the break it was level at half-time. Larkins on target to score her 2nd of the match restring Wroxham’s lead before the hour. The visitors going further ahead in the 67th minute with Lauren Bullard scoring the goal. A 2nd for Bullard coming with 10 minutes left heading in a corner to put Wroxham 4-1 up. Alot of stoppage time to be played with both sides seeing a player needing lengthy treatment for injury. Needham Market having chances all game mounting a late fightback 3 minutes into injury time Abbie Wilkinson scoring her first first team goal to get it back to 4-2 turned provider 3 minutes later setting up Annie Northwood to pull it back to 4-3. Needham Market finishing strong time running out however Wroxham progressing into the quarter finals.

Luton Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies meeting for the 3rd time this season having been drawn out to play each other in the 1st Round of the League Cup having met twice in the league and in the Women’s FA Cup this season. Both matches at Bowers & Pitsea ending in 3-0 wins for Luton. This Sunday’s League Cup tie Luton’s home ground The Branche. Funmi Babalola putting Luton in front on 11 minutes scoring her 8th goal of the season. Bowers & Pitsea breaching Luton’s defence for the first time this season coming back to level with 20 minutes on the clock Yasmin Cowley 7th goal of the season. The pair drawing 1-1 at half-time. Luton getting back in front with 20 minutes left on the clock Kelsey Gibson putting Jess McKay through on goal to score her 10th goal of the season. The win assured in the final minute McKay with a superb finish to score her 2nd of the match and see the tie won 3-1.

  A 3-1 win at home too for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies at the weekend in the first round of the League Cup as they took on St Ives Town Ladies. Peterborough 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division scoring plenty of goals this season and in every game so far this season. Leah Cudone with a penalty on target for her 16th goal of the season , Evie Driscoll-King and Amy Magnus with her 1st goal for the club in only her 2nd appearance for the 2nd scoring the winning goals. Georgia Stancombe netting the goal for St Ives Town.

Penalty box action from Peterborough Northern Star v St Ives Town (photo credit James Cox)

Royston Town Women enjoying a good season in the Premier Division hosting another of the Group stage winners, King’s Lynn Town Ladies riding high in Division One North 2nd unbeaten in open play since mid-October winning 6 straight games in the league along with all three group matches. Good work with the ball at her feet from Georgia Gannaway leading to an own goal to see Royston take the lead. A free-kick struck in from distance seeing King’s Lynn bring the scores level 1-1 the score at the half-time interval. Royston captain Amy Cooper scoring her first goal of the season bundling the ball in from a corner to restore Royston’s lead, a fantastic break away goal from King’s Lynn bringing the Norfolk side back level for the 2nd time in the tie. The winner coming with 5 minutes left on the clock Emma Slater blasting in the goal her 8th of the season to see Royston into the quarter finals 3-2.

Newmarket Town Women winning Group A were at home to Premier Division side Bedford Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup this Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield heading Newmarket into the lead, Bedford though coming back quickly to equalise and then take the lead themselves through to strikes from range by Jasmine Ajayi and Natasha Fensome. 2-1 the lead at half-time both sides finishing the game with 10 players with both Newmarket’s Katie Webb and Bedford’s Ashley Emerton sent off. N further goals added in the 2nd period Bedford into the quarter finals.

Three of the Division One sides suffering narrow defeats in their clashes with higher league opposition, Millwall Lionesses the side to cause the upset and reach the last eight of the League Cup were drawn away to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women, working hard to improve every game Dunstable leaving the pitch frustrated having created a host of chances but failing to score Millwall Lionesses restricted in attacking opportunities scored from a free-kick to clinch a narrow 1-0 victory.

The final League Cup tie to report on saw Colney Heath Ladies travelling to play Haringey Borough Women in the 1st Round. The club 2nd bottom in the table coming close to getting the opening goal on 10 minutes hitting  Colney Heath on the counter 1 on 1 with the keeper Amy Butler with a superb save to deny Haringey. The hosts keeper with a great save to deny Samaira Khan up the the end 2 minutes later. Khan leading the goal scoring charts for Colney Heath heading in her 22nd goal of the season 3 minutes later to put the visitors into the lead. A hand ball inside the box seeing Colney Heath awarded a penalty Lucy Hancock stepping up to score to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes played. Colney Heath starting to dominate going on to add a 3rd goal before the half hour Khan crossing for Adrienne Milton to score. Haringey getting it back to 3-1 scoring on the follow-up after the initial shot was saved. Sheree Oliver nodding in Charlene Moreton’s cross late in the half to see Colney Heath 4-1 up. Not many chances created 2nd half Colney Heath comfortable though safely through to the last 8.

ERWFL Plate

  Three ties played in the 1st Round of this season’s League Plate competition won by Newmarket Town Women last season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies in good form going into the weekend 2nd in Division One South at home to fellow league side Lawford Ladies who have been struggling for numbers during the season. The visitors once again short of a full side in the 1st Round of the Plate Leigh Ramblers young side full of confidence, adding Georgia Holdaway to their squad this season. On target for a hat-trick at the weekend taking her tally to 8 for the season. There was also a brace each for Rhiana Castle and Megan Downes with her first goals of the season. Connie Mashford also getting her name on the scoresheet in a comfortable 8-0 win. 

  High scores in the other two 1st Round ties too at the weekend. Wodson Park Ladies struggling for form in the league this season with just one win hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies the Suffolk side finding some form after a tough start themselves. The visitors scoring twice, Wodson Park bringing in new faces to add to their squad progressing to the quarter finals of the League Plate with a 4-2 victory. A 5th goal of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay plus a hat-trick for Kristina O’Connell her first goals for Wodson Park making just her 2nd appearance.

East Bergholt United Ladies completing a trio of home wins in the 1st Round of the League Plate at the weekend beating Division One South side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies 6-2 to reach the quarter finals following a solid start to life in the regional leagues having joined the ERWFL this season. Cara Savage with a brace scoring her first goals of the season for East Bergholt. A first goal of the season too for Tiffany Reeves along with brace for Stacey Teager. 

ERWFL Division One South

Just the one league fixture played at the weekend in Division One South and a lack of games through postponements seeing Hutton Ladies knocked off top spot down to 3rd behind Millwall Lionesses and fellow Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Were playing their first game since the 1st of December  a 100% record from 5 games played were at home to Stevenage FC Women Development who had suffered similarly having not played since the 8th December. Keen to get going both sides with plenty of goals in them shared 8 between them both scoring 4 to see the points shared Stevenage scoring 4 past a Hutton side that had only concede 3 in their previous 5 matches. Hutton losing their 100% record still unbeaten the top scorers in the league go back to 2nd 3 points behind Millwall with a game in hand. Kate Lowen scoring a brace with captain Abigail Fry and top scorer Vicky Kinsman both getting a goal each for Hutton. Nicole Emmings netting a hat-trick for Stevenage with Sofia Carpenter also on the scoresheet.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 12/05/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th May

ERWFL League Cup

A big weekend in the ERWFL calendar as the season draws to a close the league titles settled, this Sunday it was the turn of the cup competitions the League Cup and Plate. Women’s Football East was at both games and as I already written over 7,000 words in those match reports shall simply say to read the full report simply scroll down the page to the previous posts.

Nevertheless we’ll start at the end. The winners! Beginning with the League Cup, Cambridge City Ladies looking to do the double having won the Premier Division taking on Bedford Ladies. A fast start to the game from Bedford saw them race into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 5 minutes, captain Michelle Byrne from a corner and Eden Kibron shooting across the keeper the goalscorers. Cambridge making a sluggish start slowly getting back into it making changes, a free-kick fired into the near post spilt by the keeper seeing Megan Tonks fire home to make it 2-1 before half-time. 

  Hannah Bodily sending a shot in from outside the box to make it 2-2 in the 2nd period both sides creating further chances, none taken the game heading into extra-time a tense period of extra play following neither side finding the winning goal it went all the way to penalties. Cambridge up first scoring, then goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru saved Bedford’s opening penalty, scoring there next three, Bedford having scored their next two penalties had to score their 4th to stay in it put wide, Cambridge City were the side celebrating winning the League Cup and doing the double.

Cambridge City Ladies 2018/19 ERWFL League Cup winners

ERWFL League Plate

Before the League Cup Final, Histon Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies met in a morning kick-off to contest the League Plate Final. Another closely fought game. Newmarket taking an early lead awarded a free-kick, Jess Linger shooting from distance her shot not kept out. Histon though were soon back on level terms awarded a free-kick of their own wide on the area Kaya Haq striking it well putting her shot over the keeper in under the bar at the far post. Histon going on to take the lead themselves scoring from another fee-kick put into the box, the ball falling to Rebekah Finch to score from close range.

  2-1 to Histon at half-time Newmarket making a bright start to the 2nd half were level on 55 minutes a young striker Annabel Cuthbert getting free at the far post to stab a shot under the keeper. 2-2 the game moving into the final 15 minutes Newmarket scoring a 3rd goal. Hannah Rogers straight from a corner. Proving to be the winning goal Newmarket winning silverware in their debut season in the ERWFL.

Newmarket Town Ladies, 2018/19 ERWFL Plate winners

ERWFL Premier Division

Two games played in the ERWFL Premier Division too this Sunday and both involving the battle for 2nd place. Royston Town Ladies holding the spot going into their final game of the season were at home to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. Level on points with 3rd placed Acle United Women, Royston started positively against Peterborough even early on the visitors opening the scoring through Katie Steward who then make it 2-0 past the half hour. Leah Cudone on target with a goal too to see Peterborough leading 3-0 at half-time. 

  2 quick goals at the start of the 2nd half from Emma Pollard and Vicky Gallagher with a stunning strike making it 5-0 to Peterborough with less than 5 minutes played in the 2nd period. Steward going on to complete her hat-trick minutes later to make it 6. Another goal for Steward making it 7-0 with her 19th goal of the season. Royston getting a consolation goal back through Charlotte South. Cudone found the back of the net for her 2nd of the afternoon to see Peterborough win convincingly 8-1 to keep alive their hopes of a 5th placed finish and inflict a damaging defeat on Royston.

 Costly in their final game to as they finish 3rd, over taken by Acle United Women who were playing their last ever game under that name as they become Wroxham. Playing their final game at Wroxham’s Trafford Park to showcase their talents to their prospective new support ended on a high taking on Colney Heath Ladies who were ending the season positively themselves this game abandoned earlier in the season. Grace Birchall firing Acle into the lead first half. Charlene Moreton getting Colney Heath back on level terms the sides all square 1-1 at half-time. Acle coming up with the winning goal 2nd half Birchall scoring her 2nd of the game and 33rd of the season over all to see Acle win the game and in doing so clinch runners-up spot.

ERWFL Division One

 Likewise there were two games played in Division One this Sunday. King’s Lynn Town Ladies coming on strong towards the end of the season up to fifth with games in hand on the sides above were away to bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies playing their final game of what has been a very difficult season. The hosts scoring twice through Natasha Coppin and Poppy Kelly, King’s Lynn coming back to Norfolk with the 3 points in the bag scoring 6 up the other end with 4 of those goals belonging to Rachel Skinner her first goals for the club. Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse and Annie Rooks celebrating the other goals two games left go to champions and unbeaten St Ives Town Ladies next.

   In the other game on Sunday in Division One their were plenty of goals to as Hutton Ladies hosted Lawford Ladies playing their final game of the season. Vicky Kinsman scoring her 49th goal (1st team) of the season for Hutton along with a goal for Rosi Webb and a 1st goal for Danielle Cliffe. Lawford matching them up the other end however scoring three themselves to end their first season in the ERWFL on a positive note.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 12th May

ERWFL League Plate Final

Histon Ladies v Newmarket Town Ladies

 Another cup final double bill this Sunday a trip to Hertfordshire for the ERWFL Finals Day. First up kicking off at 11am the League Plate Final this season being contested by Histon Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies.

The ERWFL League Plate

   Hutton Ladies winning the ERWFL League Plate previously, celebrating back to back wins having successfully defended the trophy last season beating Stevenage Ladies Reserves. A new name on the trophy this season. 

  Histon Ladies are an established side within the ERWFL, this their 3rd season playing as Histon having previously been known as Great Shelford Ladies. The link up with Histon seeing a pathway created between Histon’s youth sides through to adult football. Backed up by a Reserves side play at The Glassworld Stadium. Two league games left after today’s final are comfortable in mid-table in what has been a very competitive league this season, currently 8th can still gain a position or two. 

Newmarket reaching a cup final in their debut season in the ERWFL. Joining this season suffering an opening day loss then found thier feet to go on a run of 6 games unbeaten to climb the table and put them in amongst the top 4 sides, amongst the title challengers for a while have tailed off currently 4th will secure that position at least with a win in their final league game of the season next Sunday a top half finish guaranteed. Winning through to a cup final capping off a successful start to life playing at regional level. Plans in place for a new development side next season. Winning through to the final the club knew they would be without a number of key players for the game today away for various reasons.

Road to the Final

 The Division One sides knocked out of the League Cup itself in the 1st and 2nd round going on to contest for the League Plate. Straight to a quarter final. Histon were drawn away to league newcomers Hatfield Peverel Ladies the Essex side 2nd bottom in the table, goals form Sophie Lanham and Georgina Huse securing a 2-0 win for the visitors. Newmarket were also on the road taking on Hertford Town Ladies. Goals form Beth and Jodie Woodfield along with a brace from Abbi Griffin seeing Newmarket through to the last 4 courtesy of a 4-1 win.

  Two tough looking games in the semi-finals with 4 sides all fancying their chances of reaching the final. Histon away to 3rd placed Stevenage Ladies Reserves, drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes of play the game heading into extra-time. Histon coming up with the winning goal to reach today’s final. Newmarket Town Ladies at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, who they had beaten in the league at Hoddesdon just the week before coming back win the game 3-2 with a last gasp winner form young striker Annabel Cuthbert. Newmarket having the better of their opponents in the semi-final with goals from Jess Linger and Cuthbert sending them through to the final winning the game 2-0.

 The ERWFL Finals Day once again being played at The County Ground, Letchworth. The stadium seeing some redevelopment, prominently a new playing surface the pitch now 3G. The bar area also upgraded a new cafeteria serving hot and cold drinks. The main seated stand along one side of the pitch. The weather fantastic still, clear blue skies and warm. The 3G pitch new holding alot of rubber.

Histon Ladies starting XI – Keeley Robinson, Lucy Julian, Kaya Haq, Briannah Baker, Tessa Shaw, Alison Wright, Georgia Day, Kayleigh-Jo Castell, Katie Seagrave, Rebekah Finch & Sophie Lanham (C). Subs – Rebecca Lenton, Kirstie Smith, Kirsty Geal & Danielle Briggs.

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Olivia Orme, Beth Woodfield (C), Olivia Cafferelli, Jess Linger, Antonia Smith, Sarah O’Rourke, Laura Bailey & Annabel Cuthbert. Subs – Lauren Deller, Molly Agnew Hannah Rogers & Eleanor Mcleish.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Dominika Szary back on goal for Newmarket having missed the semi-final with Hoddesdon through suspension. Newmarket with the kick-off 1st half getting the final underway wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and blue and yellow hooped socks. Histon opposite wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball charged down straight away by Histon, Georgia Day on Newmarket’s Jess Linger the deflecting all the way back to goalkeeper, Keeley Robinson for an early feel of the ball. 

Histon’s Alison Wright winning the ball

 Both sides closing down the ball forwards by Histon defended by Newmarket played on through the middle for Annabel Cuthbert getting hold of it looks to take players on driving towards the box the Histon defence converging to close her down full back Lucy Julian in to clear the ball up field. Sarah O’Rourke seeing the ball into her feet inside the Histon half plays a great diagonal ball on into the area for Cuthbert making a run, latches onto the shot Robinson down to make the parrying save the ball back to Cuthbert sends it back in towards goal the Histon keeper saving as the ball comes off the post. 

Attacking intent from both sides Histon captain, Sophie Lanham in attack moving out to the right winning her side a corner kick. The delivery defended near post back to the taker the cross long kept in past the far post by Kayleigh-Jo Castell put back up the line the ball put into the top of the area defended. Kaya Haq coming on from left back for Histon with a fantastic diagonal pass long to Katie Seagrave bursting in behind on the right wing takes on the shot early 25 yards out the ball whistling over the crossbar. Histon gaining momentum in the final 3rd winning the ball high put forwards into Lanham right off goal 25 yards out has a shot the low strike gathered by Szary back on her line. 

  GOAL! 10 minutes played and Newmarket get themselves an early goal. Awarded a free-kick central as the ball in picked up by Laura Bailey and she his barrelled over carrying it towards goal. Newmarket’s dead ball specialist, Jess Linger to take. Strikes the ball well on target Robinson getting something on it by not enough to keep the ball slipping past her and into the back of the net 1-0.

Jess Linger scorers of the opening goal

   Straight from the restart Histon look to get on the offence, good footwork from Alison Wright central to evade a challenge and bring the ball on attempts to lift it over the top the flag up against Day inside the area. Holly Dryland goes on the overlap past O’Rourke on the right for Newmarket. Haq closing the full back down quickly tackling to prevent the return pass. 

  GOAL! Newmarket’s lead short lived as Histon come back to level the scores awarded a free-kick out on the right Seagrave fouled past the 18 yard line, Haq coming across to take it. Struck well in towards goal Szary can’t reach it as it dips under the cross bar and in at the far post 1-1. 

Kaya Haq with the levelling goal for Histon

  Rebekah Finch seeing a poor kick out from goal fall to her the ball deflected on into the box gives chase, Olivia Orme back well pressure charging the shot down taking the pace off for Szary to collect. Histon pushing on up the right wing a throw won top of the area drops to Wright 20 yards out central shoots with her left foot dragging the ball wide of the near post. Seagrave showing great pace on the ball down the right for Histon a cross flashed into the near post cut out by Newmarket defender Olivia Cafferelli. A great response from Histon to going behind Wright strong in the centre.

  A free-kick for Newmarket wide right Linger to play the ball into the six yard box, lifts it high, Robinson rising well to make the claim through a crowd is clattered upon landing as her defence scramble the ball away, but okay to continue after treatment. Szary up the other end out of her area rapidly to deal with a forwards pass that sees Lanham in to attack. O’Rourke with a great receive and turn inside the Histon half to put the ball on for Cuthbert racing in behind the Histon back line left of the D opens up her body to shoot across the keeper, to straight at Robinson at her quickly the keeper palming it away. 

Newmarket’s Sarah O’Rourke

  Cuthbert on the move again after a ball on the right wing, Briannah Baker sliding in to tackle catching Cuthbert the advantage played by referee Stacey Fullicks as she maintains her footing to run on past and cut a cross back into the area, Tessa Shaw sliding in to win it for Histon the ball coming out to Newmarket’s Chloe Slater top of the area she sends a shot over the bar. Baker booked for the earlier foul. Cuthbert spinning in behind as the ball is played into her feet left into the box, Robinson quickly out to close the angle slides in well to make the save at the attackers feet.

  GOAL! Half and hour played and Histon go on to take the lead, have a free-kick inside the Newmarket half on the right played in from deep the ball into the six yard area not dealt with by the Newmarket defence popping out to Finch at the near post getting hold of it to turn unopposed and fire the ball home from close range 2-1.

  Newmarket come forwards right side O’Rourke fouled a free-kick Linger on it the ball put on into the area, Robinson able to collect on the bounce. Histon push on through the middle the ball lost Slater with it out to Dryland making a run on the right wing the diagonal ball played into the top of the area early, Julian there to clear for Histon. Wright down in the middle having taken a knock on the ankle players from both sides taking on fluid whilst she receives treatment. Is a competitive game played at a good tempo.

Histon’s Sophie Lanham looking to get in to attack

  O’Rourke putting the ball on for Dryland off on a run down the right wing her cross cut back along the top of the Histon area helped on into the centre for Antonia Smith making a run from midfield catching the ball strikes it well rising sees her effort smash down off the crossbar. Seagrave out right for Histon bursting forwards played on by Lanham her cross met and cleared by Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield. 

Newmarket’s Antonia Smith

  Wright strong in the tackle central for Histon winning it 40 yards out as Slater looks to play it forwards for O’Rourke right side the past through for Lanham beating the offside trap, Szary with a good starting position out sharply to the edge of her area to claim the ball. Scrappy towards the end of the first have both sides rushing their passes, Bailey on the left attacking for Newmarket stopped by Shaw. Baker tackling Cuthbert outside the box as Linger threads a ball on. A late flag halting Smith as she breaks beyond the attack for Newmarket Bailey attempting the flick on.  

Half-time Histon Ladies 2-1 Newmarket Town Ladies

  Histon with the narrow advantage at half-time coming back from a goal down to lead 2-1 at half-time. A competitive match so far both slides putting alot on energy into it confident closing down a positive going forwards, chances for both sides to score more goals set-pieces unlocking both defences. Is warm out there midday fast approaching little cloud in the sky. The pitch carrying alot of rubber still slow the ball not racing on. Fairly evenly matched all to play for 2nd half.

Histon with a couple pf changes Danielle Briggs and Kirsty Geal on replacing Julian and Castell as they get the 2nd 45 underway. Molly Agnew on for Newmarket wide right in place of O’Rourke. Histon with the ball central played out to Seagrave attacking right into the area after it, Orme getting back on her to push her wide of goal, Seagrave managing to get a shot away nevertheless the ball safe on Szary’s gloves at her near post. Newmarket gain ground on the left Bailey turning back inside plays it central to Smith in an advanced position 20 yards out her shot lacking any power at it runs along the ground wide of target Robinson gathers.

Laura Bailey bringing the ball on for Newmarket

  Agnew getting on with the ball on the right wing for Newmarket to the byline sends a cross back up towards the top of the area, Wright tracking back superbly to win and clear for Histon. Cuthbert shoots wide across goal for Newmarket after getting into the area following good hold up play to spin in behind. Cuthbert charging on looking to get away through the middle in attack, Baker back on her with a somewhat clumsy challenge outside the area effective however as the ball runs behind for a corner. Robinson dealing with the corner for Histon. Geal bringing the ball on left side for Histon is closed down by Dryland and Woodfield.

  GOAL! as with the first half Newmarket score again 10 minutes into the 2nd half building on a bright start getting the ball up into Cuthbert quickly a delivery in sent on from the right side Newmarket’s young striker getting free at the far post to stab a shot under the keeper and into the bottom corner to level the scores 2-2.

Annabel Cuthbert getting the equalising goal for Newmarket Town Ladies

  Dryland comes off having picked up an injury, Hannah Rogers sent on for Newmarket goes to left back, Orme over to the right. Geal storming on for Histon left wing fires a cross low into the area Cafferelli with the interception central for Newmarket. Smith fouling Lanham as she gets hold of the ball central top of the circle the ball forwards Newmarket defend. Bailey getting forwards with the ball Cuthbert providing the run ahead of her moving left, Baker stays with her. Smith central for Newmarket threads a pass on for Bailey getting to the top of the box left side gets a shot away a low strike racing wide past the far post.

Histon Ladies, Danielle Briggs

 

  Rogers getting on up the pitch left side for Newmarket a terrific ball played long into the area met at the far post by Agnew turned goalwards, Robinson across her goal seeing the ball fired straight into her. Woodfield coming to close down Wright as she attempts to turn and get a shot away from 25 yards out, Day playing in forwards into her. Histon bring off Finch with Kristie Smith coming on to join the attack. Slater gets on with the ball right with support for Bailey and Rogers the ball inside to Cuthbert a corner conceded on the right. Newmarket to play the ball in put in long to the far post for a moment looked like it had crept in under the bar but instead narrowly over and dropping behind the net. Newmarket press the attack the ball on seeing Cuthbert threatening to break in clear, Shaw back to defend tackling to concede the corner. 

  GOAL! The game entering the final 15 minutes and Newmarket get their noses back in front scoring direct from a corner the ball on the right played in by Rogers an inswinging ball under the bar Robinson goes for it but can’t get a telling touch as the ball flies over her into the far corner. 3-2.

  Rogers on the left forwards for Bailey, Shaw getting across to slide in and put the ball out for a throw. Bailey getting forwards at will for Newmarket now as Histon frustrated cannot get the ball to stick in attack late on, Agnew forwards right of the D Bailey fires the pass into her Agnew dragging her shot wide away from goal. Newmarket make a change with Lauren Deller coming on in place of Smith. Bailey fouled by Shaw as she brings the ball on a free-kick for Newmarket wide left, Linger on it the delivery into the six yard box claimed well by Robinson. 

Beth Woodfield defending as Kristie Smith brings the ball on for Histon

  Lanham takes a blow to the head as she and Cafferelli contest a ball lifted forwards into the box from midfield. Is brought off with Rebecca Lenton coming on. Bailey keeping the ball well up field for Newmarket running down the clock as Histon are desperate to get hold of it build an attack. Wright out to Seagrave over on the left gets forwards a cross driven in central early, Lenton the target, Cafferelli in front of her to regain possession for Newmarket. 

  The game entering stoppage time, Newmarket doing well to keep the ball up the other end working hard to force Histon into rushing their passes, their opponents can’t get anything meaningful in the final third. Briggs breaking with the ball on the right for Histon is fouled by Cafferelli. A change before the free-kick is taken, Finch back on the field. Briggs to take doesn’t make it count put behind near side. Newmarket send on another youngster 16-year-old Eleanor McLeish in the closing minutes for Agnew, a throw won on the right Newmarket play it down the line Bailey taking it into the corner. One last chance for Histon as Wright wins them a corner on the left, taken short however Newmarket clear their line quickly to see Histon’s attackers flagged offside. 

Full time Histon Ladies 2-3 Newmarket Town Ladies

  The full time whistle blows and Newmarket are the side celebrating winning the ERWFL League Plate Final 3-2 and winning an unexpected piece of silverware to cap a strong debut season in the regional leagues. An entertaining final played between two evenly matched sides, chances created the momentum shifting one way then the other, good spirits, hotly contested especially in midfield. Histon responding well to losing an early goal, Newmarket getting it back to 2 all before getting their noses in front with 15 minutes left and from then on in preventing Histon from getting any foothold up the other end. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. A few names to mention, Alison Wright superb for Histon strong in midfield winning the ball and getting passes on to the attack. Katie Seagrave a threat on the right especially first half. For Newmarket Annabel Cuthbert just 16 shows great movement and pace in attack, Jess Linger has a fantastic range of passes and a threat from any dead ball situation. The award however goes once again to the player who got it in the semi-finals Laura Bailey terrific on the left getting forwards, timely runs her link up play excellent and towards the end kept the ball well frustrating Histon.

Newmarket Town Ladies, 2018/19 ERWFL Plate winners

Congratulations to Newmarket Town Ladies on winning the ERWFL League Plate Final.

 An enjoyable first final of the day, between Histon and Newmarket, evenly matched a good contest, time for something to eat and a much needed cup of tea the 2nd game of the day not too far away.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 21/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st April

ERWFL League Plate

 Newmarket Town Ladies were hosting Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Easter Sunday as they met in the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Plate a week after meeting in the league itself. Annabel Cuthbert scoring a hat-trick to win the game 3-2 for 10 player Newmarket the wining goal scored with just 20 seconds left to play. At Newmarket meeting in the cup, Histon Ladies awaiting the winner. Newmarket making a positive start to the game few chances from open play for both sides Newmarket shooting wide across goal looking a threat from set-pieces Jess Linger good from dead ball situations coming close with one strike from distance putting Newmarket into the lead late in the first half a shot from 35 yards out getting the faintest of touches from keeper not enough as it smashed against the crossbar and over the line.

  Newmarket 1-0 up at half-time dealt well with Hoddesdon in the 2nd half a hot day, the score remained 1-0 for much of the 2nd half Newmarket looking comfortable but Hoddesdon were never out of it Kristina O’Connell running clear into the area pulling a shot wide across goal. 5 minutes left and Newmarket found a 2nd goal, a fantastic assist from Jodie Woodfield (so I’ve been corrected) putting striker Annabel Cuthbert through one on one with the keeper to shoot past her and score. Newmarket into the League Plate Final on Sunday 12th May winning 2-0.

Jodie Woodfield with the assist to see Newmarket win the game 2-0

ERWFL Premier Division

 Two games played this Easter Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division, a trip down south for 3rd placed Wymondham Town Ladies to take on 3rd from bottom Haringey Borough Women. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with strikers Hannah Waters and Laura Nicholls combining for the latter to score. 40 goals now this season for Laura Nicholls. 1-0 up at half-time Haringey got straight back on level terms in the 2nd half making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. Waters restoring Wymondham’s lead midway through the 2nd half scoring to make her 2-1 with her 24th goal of the season. Again Haringey came back to level within 5 minutes of going behind. 10 minutes left on the clock Wymondham with a free-kick just outside the centre circle, Chardonnay Johnston with a screamer finding the top corner to put Wymondham 3-2 ahead and this time they didn’t let it slip to win the game.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Chardonnay Johnston

 A week after knocking them out of the League Cup to reach the final of the competition Bedford Ladies returned to the Branch Bros Stadium to take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the Premier Division. Bedford coming out on top in a close game a week ago winning 2-1. There wasn’t much in it again with just a single goal enough to see all 3 points secured, this time however the result going Peterborough Northern Star’s way the 5th placed side scoring through Jessica Driscoll.

ERWFL Division One

 4 league matches played in ERWFL Division One this bank holiday weekend with a clash between the top two seeing St Ives Town Ladies  now needing just a point to win the title in their debut season in the league. Unbeaten at the top of the table St Ives were hosting 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this Easter Sunday. The Essex side knowing they needed to win if they wanted to keep alive their own title ambititions, no easy task against a side unbeaten in the league and long before joining the ERWFL. Bowers & Pitsea starting well St Ives keeping them out however the sides heading in level at the break. The deadlock broken just past the hour with St Ives awarded a penalty Katie Stancombe fouled inside the box, Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring from the spot to make it 1-0. The lead doubled just 3 minutes later Ruth Fox powering a header home from a corner, St Ives weathering a late storm to win the game, next up Newmarket Town Ladies, the last side to beat them in the league back in 2017.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies are up to 5th spot in ERWFL Division One after mounting a 2nd half comeback in Essex to over turn a 2-0 half-time deficit. Hutton Ladies in 6th the hosts this Easter Sunday scoring twice in the 1st half. King’s Lynn Town Ladies meeting Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final this coming Sunday at Carrow Road matching their score coming back in the 2nd period to score 3 goals and win the match to extend their winning streak to 3 matches. Tiffany Forshaw, Becky Russell and Emma Corbyn with the goals.

   Histon Ladies were hosting Lawford Ladies at the Glassworld Stadium this Easter Sunday. Jade Heath scoring her first goal of the season putting Lawford into the lead. Histon awarded a penalty kick on the half hour Sophie Lanham tucking it away to level the score. Lawford getting back into the lead 5 minutes later with Heath on target for a 2nd goal to put the visitors 2-1 up at half-time. Histon getting it back to 2-2 on the hour with Kirstie Smith playing the ball in from wide sending a shot over the keeper to score. Both sides taking a point from the game.

  Hertford Town Ladies got back to winning ways in Division One coming home with the 3 points travelling away to Hatfield Peverel Ladies this Easter Sunday. Despite Jasmine Cox scoring twice for Hatfield Peverel they conceded twice as many at the other end to see Hertford Town win the game 4-2.