The final weekend of fixtures for 2019 in the ERWFL this weekend, the weather unfortunately playing it’s part with 4 of the 6 fixtures scheduled in the Premier Division falling by the way side. A healthy lead at the top for Harlow Town Ladies would ensure they go into the festive period top of the pile no mater what. A close battle behind the Essex side with the top half tightly congested. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies climbing into 2nd last weekend were aiming to close the gap to Harlow as they took on Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at the weekend. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Jessica Driscoll put through on goal from the left to score. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores in the 21st minute Sade Waters with the through ball for Yasmin Cowley to round the keeper and make it 1-1. The sides drawing at the interval. Bowers & Pitsea having opportunities in front of goal denied by Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Peterborough retaking the lead with 20 minutes left Chanade Henderson with the goal to make it 2-1. Top scorer Leah Cudone on target for her 14th strike of the season five minutes later to see Peterborough win the game 3-1 and open up a 5 point gap in the sides below.
Jessica Driscoll looking to take on the Bowers & Pitsea defence (photo credit James Cox Photos)
Wroxham Women made the long journey down to North London on Sunday to play bottom side Haringey Borough Women in the Premier Division a win would put them back up into 3rd spot, as it was they left it late to salvage a point, the sides goalless at the break despite Wroxham having numerous opportunities to score whilst goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook prevented Haringey from finding the opener. The hosts breaking the deadlock in the 2nd period came very close to getting their first win of the season the game a minute into stoppage time Kirstie Kindred struck to find the back of the net to score her 5th goal of the season and see Wroxham take home a point. Move into 4th level with 3rd placed Royston and 5th placed Luton on 20 points.
ERWFL Division One North
One match affected by the weather in ERWFL Division One North this weekend, top of the table Cambridge City Ladies Development home match against Needham Market Women off. An opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap one again. East Bergholt United Ladies 2nd in the table drawing 0-0 at home to Newmarket Town Women last weekend made the trip to Norfolk this Sunday to play in form King’s Lynn Town Ladies, moving up the table fast into 3rd winning their last 4 league matches in a row a run that began away to East Bergholt back in October. A close 2-1 result then, nothing close about it this time around a King’s Lynn’s winning streak moved to 5 matches, scoring 6 without reply, 3 players all celebrating a brace, captain and top scorer Becky Russell into double figures for the season, 8 goals now for Tiffany Forshaw with Emma Corbyn on 6. The result takes King’s Lynn 2nd in the table now just a point behind Cambridge City.
A big home win at the weekend too for Newmarket Town Ladies, soon to be under new management. Craig Boneham coming in during the summer stepping down from the role. Newmarket moving swiftly to appoint Kevin Parsons taking over as first team manager. Looking on this weekend with Eddie Cuthbert looking after the team as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. A brace from top scorer Annabel Cuthbert and a long range strike from Katie Webb seeing Newmarket lead 3-0 at half-time. Cuthbert completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half her first of the afternoon would go on to score 3 more goals to give her 22 for the season, Sarah O’Rourke with her first goal for the first team also as Newmarket ran out 8-0 winners. Up to 4th in the table despite an indifferent start to the season. Congratulations too t Newmarket midfielder and dead ball specialist, Jess Linger as at just 20-years-old she made her 100th appearance for the club at the weekend.
A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women striker Annabel Cuthbert (photo credit Gary Reed)
Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One North it was a clash between two sides showing recent good form in the league Histon Ladies travelling to play AFC Sudbury Ladies, the Suffolk side coming into the game off back to back victories, Histon winning their last 3 league matches. The sides contesting a goalless draw after 90 minutes to share the points. Histon in 5th on 11 points now with Sudbury a place and point behind both well positioned to push on in the New Year.
ERWFL Division One South
Millwall Lionesses end 2019 top of the pile in ERWFL Division One South moving ahead of Hutton Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Millwall were at home taking on Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Unbeaten in the league Millwall level on points with Leigh Ramblers heading into the game the visitors showing good from with 3 straight wins in league and cup themselves. Hannah Cheeseman opening the scoring for Millwall in the 10th minute, putting away Shannan Drewe’s left wing cross. Few chances in the first half Leigh Ramblers with a strong finish Millwall holding onto their 1-0 advantage. Drewe amongst the goals in recent games for Millwall firing in a worldie early in the 2nd half to put the hosts 2-0 up. A strong start to the 2nd half Millwall adding a 3rd on the hour with Cheeseman putting away her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later Leigh Ramblers given a penalty pulling it back to 3-1. Drewe put in behind the defence to fire in across the goal to put Millwall 4-1 up and see them win the game and climb to the top of the table dropping just 2 points so far this season.
At the other end of the ERWFL Division One South table it was a much welcomed first 3 points of the season for Wodson Park Ladies as they travelled to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies at the weekend. The hosts with just the one win themselves Wodson Park losing their opening 6 matches. Leah Dunnage and Sam Garner with their first goals of the season for Hoddesdon. A brace for Christie Seakins her first goals of the season for Wodson Park and a 4th of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay seeing the visitors edge the win 3-2, takes them off the bottom on goal difference.
Harlow Town Ladies extend their winning run to 10 games in the league to move 9 points clear of the chasing pack in the ERWFL Premier Division. At home on Sunday taking on bottom side Haringey Borough Women. An emotional win too achieving a double figure scoreline getting off to a good start the goals flowing. 22 goals for the season now for top scorer Becky Shephard a poignant a special hat-trick scored on Sunday, thought are with her at this time. Plenty of goals to amongst the squad this season too with both Abbey Dell and Beth Chambers scoring a brace each with goals too for Frances Gamble, Georgia Box and captain Kaydee King. The final score 10-2.
Royston Town Women starting the day in 2nd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division travelled to play Bedford Ladies at the weekend. Royston with a string of early chances, a keenly fought match goalless at the break was to end in frustration for the visitors, Bedford capitalising to score the only goal of the game to win it 1-0, Maya Sidhu with the goal getting Bedford back to winning ways.
That defeat coupled with a 6th straight league win for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies sees then move up into 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table 9 games unbeaten now in all competition following an opening day defeat. Making the trip to Norfolk this weekend to play Wymondham Town Ladies. The hosts starting the brighter taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Rebecca Russell playing in top scorer Hannah Waters to make it 1-0. PNS coming back to level the scores in the 15th minute. A competitive contest Wymondham retaking the lead 5 minutes later with Chelsea Clarke sending a shot across the keeper. Back came PNS to equalise, the visitors going on to score two goals late in the first half to lead at the break 4-2. A 2 goal cushion PNS went on to add a 5th goal before the hour finishing up winning the match 6-2. Jessica Driscoll dual signed with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies scoring a hat-trick on her first appearance for PNS. Goals too for Emma Pollard, and top scorer Leah Cudone with Chanade Henderson scoring her first goal of the season.
The ERWFL Premier Division where the action on Women’s Football East came this weekend a trip down to Essex to watch the match between Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and Luton Town Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea’s recent form improving back to back wins coming into the game have added Terry Harrison to the management team. Luton relegated from the FAWNL making a good start to the season themselves blooding alot of youngsters plenty of talent within the club, 16-year-old Ellie Sergeant handed her first start. The wind at their backs a solid defensive display from Luton, Bowers & Pitsea enjoying more of the possession moving the ball well without creating much in front of goal. Luton happy to sit back taking the lead midway through the first half, as route one a goal as you’ll see goalkeeper Kezia Hassell kicking the ball forwards travelling with the wind behind it missed by the Bowers & Pitsea centre backs attacker Rebecca Kane running onto it in the clear to place wide of the keeper. Erica Byron firing in a superb strike from outside the box to double the lead.
Luton’s Funmi Babalola challenging for the ball
Luton 2-0 up at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea continued to move the ball well Luton standing firm as the hosts looking to pull a goal back Kane put in over the top late on no flag going on to slot home her 2nd of the match to see the game won 3-0. Luton climb into 4th spot in the Premier Division table. The full match report available further down the page.
ERWFL League Cup
One outstanding match from the group stages of the league cup played this Sunday to decide the winner of Group B. Millwall Lionesses and Cambridge City Ladies Development finishing level on points goal difference not counting. The pair going head to head again a thrilling 4-4 draw the last time they met. Cambridge the hosts this Sunday Millwall pressing for a goal in the first half not taking their chances the pair goalless at half-time, Cambridge improving in the 2nd half two young sides showing plenty of energy, Millwall ending the game strong Cambridge goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru with a couple of saves, in the end the 90 minutes couldn’t separate them and the game heading into extra-time both sides tiring Millwall awarded a penalty Shannan Drewe sending her spot kick over was to make amends in the 2nd period of extra-time a mazy run ending with a goal enough to see Millwall secure victory and progress to the knock-out stages of the League Cup, Cambridge going into the Plate competition.
ERWFL Division One North
With leaders Cambridge City Development in cup action this weekend it was a chance for the sides below to close the gap to the top once more. Frustration for 2nd placed East Bergholt United Ladies last time out losing 4-2 to AFC Sudbury Ladies were at home playing Newmarket Town Ladies this weekend. As it was defences stood firm as the pair battled out a goalless draw to both take a point from the match enough to keep East Bergholt 2nd 3 points back from the leaders.
Coming up the rails at a gallop are King’s Lynn Town Ladies up to 3rd in the ERWFL Division One North table with a 4th straight league win. Bar a penalty shootout loss are unbeaten in 7 now in all competitions. The Norfolk side travelling down into Suffolk this weekend to play Needham Market Women. King’s Lynn making a strong start leading within 2 minutes a 2nd coming before 10 minutes were on the clock, Needham Market coming back creating chances King’s Lynn getting the better of the hosts to score twice more to lead 4-0 at half-time. King’s Lynn holding their advantage deep into the 2nd period Needham Market with a late fightback, Sasha Diston letting fly from 30 yards with 16 minutes left finding the top corner to make it 4-1. Captain Nicola Henderson with a goal a minute later also hit from 30 yards out bringing it back to 4-2. 10 minutes left Henderson with another long range hit getting it back to 4-3. The hosts tails up pressing forwards in search of an equaliser King’s Lynn exposing the high line to get forwards a score a 5th goal to seal the win 5-3 in the 88th minute. Emma Corbyn with a pair. Captain Becky Russell with her 9th goal of the season and a first of the season for Lily Porter and Deva Rawlings.
AFC Sudbury Ladies travelled up to the Norfolk coast at the weekend looking to build on last Sunday’s win against East Bergholt as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies still looking for their first point since joining the ERWFL. A close contest Gorleston unlucky not to get more from the match as they went down narrowly 3-2. AFC Sudbury with back to back wins up to 5th in the Division One North table, goals from Olivia Gunn, Rebecca Stephenson and Amy Thompson securing the 3 points despite the visitors ending with 10 players Evie Creaton sent off for collecting 2 yellow cards. Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake with her first of the season scoring for Gorleston.
ERWFL Division One South
One game played in ERWFL Division One South this weekend and it was a good result at home for newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies their recent good form continuing their unbeaten run up to 4 matches now with 3 wins on the bounce. Taking on 4th placed Stevenage Women Development a brace from Rebecca Dalgarno along with a goal each for Georgia Holdaway, Kate Newton and Lucy Dalgarno seeing Leigh Ramblers to a 5-1 win that moves them level on points with 2nd placed Millwall Lionesses who they play this coming Sunday. Hannah Marshall scoring the goal for Stevenage.
Back on the road this Sunday, a trip down to Essex to watch a game from the ever competitive ERWFL Premier Division, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies.
Highly competitive in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, Harlow Town Ladies leading the way opening up a gap at the top with 9 straight wins unbeaten so far this season. Incredibly close behind with just 5 points between the sides 2nd to 9th in the table. The standard improving year on year.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies playing at the highest level the club has been at winning promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division last season following a 2nd placed finish in Division One collecting their first piece of silverware too the Essex Women’s Trophy. Going from strength to strength since becoming Bowers & Pitsea having previously been Little Thurrock Dynamo’s. The main club itself housing excellent facilities that ground undergoing redevelopment. The core of the squad made up of players who have been with the club since it started this season bringing in a few new faces to bolster the ranks, Donna Fletcher from Hatfield Peveral, also joining from Hatfield Peveral attacker Yasmin Cowley who scored plenty of goals for her previous club as Hatfield rose through the league injured for much of last season undertaking a scholarship in America come the end of the season. Danni Jennings and Megan Harley from Rayleigh Town Ladies also coming in along with Sade Walters and goalkeeper Violet Hickman.
Made a promising start in the Premier Division winning three of their opening 4 matches a run of poor results followed but the club have improved getting back to winning ways back to back wins putting them back amongst the chasing pack well clear of the bottom. Announcing this week an addition to their management team, Terry Harrison coming to the club from Harlow to work along side Darren Fraser and Daniel Foord. Brings with him coaches Scott Chickelday and Ray Wells as the club looks to kick on.
Luton Town Ladies suffering relegation from the FAWNL last season. Following a period of relevant success in South East Division One challenging for a top 4 finish on several ocassions. Lost a few experienced players blooding alot of young players. Continue to do so have a strong youth set-up with several doing well for the first team. Have brought in defenders Elly Wade and Tanya Blacksley to give experience at the back. Set the early pace in the Premier Division as they look to bounce back straight away. A run in the FA Women’s Cup seeing them fall away from the top, amongst the chasing pack have lost just the once this season. Jess McKay top scorer on 11 goals not available today. Missing a few other presenting opportunities for younger players manager Nikki Baker giving 16-year-old Ellie Sargeant her first start. The sides meeting already this season in the FA Women’s Cup, Luton winning 3-0.
The Len Salmon Stadium the venue for today’s match the ground undergoing redevelopment a state of the art 3G playing surface and surrounding barrier already installed plus seated stands either side of the dugouts. The new addition the main stand a new one being build. Covered seating above the new changing rooms with plans ongoing for more improvements. The old clubhouse with bar and large function room. The weather overcast but dry little threat of rain the sun low in the sky quite a strong wind blowing from one goal mouth to the other.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Violet Hickman, Keira Adcock, Holly Moore, Donna Fletcher, Danni Jennings, Taylor Adcock (C), Yasmin Cowley, Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Georgia Fraser & Megan Harley. Subs – Danielle Styles, Sade Walters, Sophie Dowman & Atlanta Fuwa.
Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Kezia Hassall, Rebecca Ferris, Tanya Blacksley, Anne Folan, Elly Wade, Zara Carroll (C), Ellie Sargeant, Erica Byron, Olivia Abraham, Funmi Babalola & Rebecca Kane. Subs – Jade Horsley, Kelsey Gibson & Leah Tomlin.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
An accident on the M25 causing heavy delays affecting Luton’s journey kick-off put back 10 minutes. Luton switching ends at the coin toss to have the wind at their backs first half, Bowers & Pitsea to get the game underway wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. Luton in their all navy away kit. The ball pressed in the middle Luton gain possession play the ball out to the left wing, Olivia Abraham looking to take the ball on Keira Adcock across to defend gets fouled in the process winning a free-kick.
Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on through the middle Yasmin Cowley on for Courtney Fraser she spreads play to the right, Ebony Moore looking to get in behind is tackled by Luton’s Tanya Blacksley. Bowers & Pitsea getting players up to press Luton in their final third, captain Taylor Adcock in to win the ball Ebony Moore almost through to the right can’t quite take the ball in her stride. Cowley fouled inside the Luton half a free-kick to Bowers & Pitsea players up as Donna Fletcher sends it in towards the top of the area the ball running through to Georgia Fraser right of the D, aims to turn into the shot Rebecca Ferris throwing out a leg defending for Luton, Bowers & Pitsea press the ball not cleared out to the right Taylor Adcock winning a corner taken short a shot blocked on the edge of the area, Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on the ball put across to Georgia Fraser left of goal curls a ball in towards goal, Kezia Hassell with a low catch claiming the ball in goal for Luton.
Olivia Abraham battling for possession of the ball with Bowers & Pitsea’s Keira Adcock.
A good start from the hosts closing the ball down well spreading play. Luton come forwards Ferris on the right putting the pass on for Rebecca Kane running into the channel, Danni Jennings going with her for Bowers & Pitsea putting in a great tackle to win the ball back. Jennings called into action at the back moments later for Bowers & Pitsea again against Kane as a fortunate deflection sees the attacker run in behind taking the ball into the area forced left by Jennings recovering well the defender preventing the cross. Luton beginning to find some momentum of their own Ferris forwards as the visitors attack making a run into the box as the ball is helped on Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeper Violet Hickman down bravely to save at her feet.
Taylor Adcock captaining Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on
Courtney Fraser with a long range shot struck 30 yards out off target as a defensive clearance is put straight to her. The wind behind then Luton have pace in attack with Kane and Funmi Babalola looking to make runs central and into the channels. Erica Byron getting forwards from a central position as the ball is fed through to her left side outside the box good close ball control jinks inside getting a shot away as she is closed down the ball put wide across the face of goal.
GOAL! 15 minutes gone and Luton open the scoring with a goal that is as route one as you’ll ever get. The ball in the hands on Hassell at the back launches it forwards wind assisted the Bowers & Pitsea centre backs both go for it and both miss bouncing on in behind Kane is clear to take it on into the box and set herself to send it wide of the keeper 0-1.
The tail wind strong and Luton are looking to use it to their advantage, a high clearance from Ferris on the right puts Kane away on the flank and she races after it, the angle against her as she strikes the ball on the volley her cross/shot put across the face of goal. Byron left side strikes a shot from 25 yards out the ball racing wide past the far post. Bowers & Pitsea build through the middle Taylor Adcock out to Ebony Moore right side down the line cuts it back for Georgia Fraser to fire in a diagonal ball low towards the near post Cowley with the run, Elly Wade defending for Luton.
Courtney Fraser playing the ball for Bowers & Pitsea
Kane a constant threat in attack for Luton getting in behind after the ball put long on the left wraps her foot around the ball crossing the ball in towards the near post, Hickman able to get her gloves around the ball first not put off by Babalola running in. Folan defending for Luton, firstly stepping out from the back to break up a Bowers & Pitsea move through the middle, the 2nd time heading behind for a corner as the ball is crossed in from the right. The delivery from the corner over Fletcher jumping near post falls to Georgia Fraser no shot on lays it back to the top of the area for Courtney Fraser her ball fizzed back in collected by Cowley can’t dig it out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down.
Luton’s Funmi Babalola challenging for the ball
Abraham is brought down on the left attacking for Luton a free-kick awarded. Luton captain Zara Carroll a dead ball specialist to take out wide players forwards into the box she takes on the shot struck well the ball smashing against the crossbar dropping down into the area presented to Byron outside the six yard box her instinctive shot sent over on the volley.
Zara Carroll’s free-kick striking the bar for Luton
The game quite open Bowers & Pitsea enjoying the better possession getting the ball forwards well the final ball lacking at times Luton keeping a good shape at the back. Kane in attack for Luton getting hold of the ball 25 yards out drives on twisting and turning to get into the area, Jennings getting back on her lunging in to make the tackle prevent her shooting the ball loose comes to Abraham to strike outside the area fires it wide across goal
Rebecca Kane breaking in behind for Luton Town Ladies
Half an hour gone and Bowers & Pitsea make the first change Fletcher coming off at the back to be replaced by Danielle Styles. Hassell kicking the ball long again bouncing on through Kane looking to get it under control, Jennings having given herself space to adjust getting to her to make the challenge and win the ball back. Megan Harley taking the ball on down the left makes ground winning a throw in in the corner, the ball headed on from the side of the area looping up, Hassell can claim above her head no one coming in, her resulting kick up field running on getting Luton a corner.
Megan Harley bringing the ball forwards for Bowers & Pitsea
Ellie Sargeant solid in the middle along side Carroll for Luton gets forwards running into space right as players are attracted to the left firing in a low cross Hickman down well at the top of her six yard box to pluck the ball into her body.
GOAL! 35 minutes played and Luton double their lead, Byron making some useful runs from midfield forwards in the left as Luton build 25 yards out strikes the ball well, a looping shot that flies over the keepers head and into the back of the net 0-2.
Erica Byron doubling Luton’s lead
Harley with a great ball forwards cuts inside Luton defend, Cowley regains possession central presses on closed down top of the area plays it wide to Ebony Moore who wins Bowers & Pitsea a corner. Whipped in central taken confidently by Hassall. Attacking right side a throw in high up the pitch Keira Adcock plays in Ebony Moore tuning inside the box to get a shot away drilled wide at the near post. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying a strong spell towards the end of the first half another corner won left side Georgia Fraser putting in across the face of goal met on the volley at the far post by Jennings send over.
Entering the closing 5 minutes of the first half Bowers & Pitsea on the attack Harley on the ball left side playing the pass on for Courtney Fraser making the run into the channel cuts inside well to deliver a cross central into Georgia Fraser her first touch wrong footing the defender giving her space to shot set to pull the trigger Carroll dives in get a foot in to block the ball. Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on a throw won deep on the left Georgia Fraser crossing in Cowley can’t get it under control cleared out to the top of the box Keira Adcock latching onto it her shot held by the keeper.
Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll.
Luton always ready to break hit Bowers & Pitsea on the counter Kane peeling off the defence onto a through ball to turn and strike left of the D, Hickman making a good save with her legs keeping the ball out. Carroll fouled bringing the ball forwards 35 yards out picks herself up to take it put in on target Hickman behind it palming the ball up clattering into the post as she pushes it away from the advancing attacker chasing in on the follow up. Okay after treatment. Bowers & Pitsea with one last attack in the first half Courtney Fraser winning the ball her pass forwards unable to fin Georgia Fraser running clear on the right, cleared straight to Cowley right outside the area can’t get a clean strike of the ball her scuffed shot gathered by the keeper.
Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-2 Luton Town Ladies
Luton leading 2-0 at the break have created the better opportunities in front of goal using the wind to their advantage. Solid at the back Bowers & Pitsea unable to get in behind have enjoyed the majority of the possession looking to move the ball around get players forwards the final ball lacking at times and the clinical finish lacking. Trailing by 2 goals pressure late on to try and find a goal to narrow the advantage Luton always ready to hit on the counter attack.
A change for Bowers & Pitsea at half-time Sade Walters on for Courtney Fraser. The light starting to fade and with it the wind as Luton get the 2nd half underway. Taylor Adcock putting her foot in to win the ball in the middle for Bowers & Pitsea passes the ball forwards for Fraser she looks to release Ebony Moore on the right in behind the ball running into the box, Hassell quickly out able to claim first for Luton. Bowers & Pitsea pushing forwards at the start of the 2nd half Harley’s shot from outside the box taking a deflection as it runs wide across the six yard out out for a corner. The delivery into a congested six yard box, Luton scramble it away to safety.
Tanya Blacksley looking to clear the ball for Luton
Bryon takes hold of the ball in attack for Luton right side has support from Babalola out wide plays her in she takes on the shot on the angle Hickman down in front of goal central pushing the ball wide past the far post for a corner kick. Folan putting the ball in over.
Jennings busy at the back for Bowers & Pitsea winning the race with Babalola to take the ball as Kane flicks it on. Kane beating the offside trap runs in behind central into the box, Jennings with a great recovery to get back on her putting in a challenge six yards out to prevent the shot getting the ball back to her keeper. Cowley up the other end 30 yards out with time and space not closed down encouraged to shoot puts the ball wide. Up the other end Kane is played through central into the box gets a shot away Hickman sliding in to block saving well the rebound out favouring her defence to clear.
Ellie Sargeant battling in midfield for Luton Town Ladies
Sargeant on the ball for Luton spots Abraham moving on the left the pass into her feet the flag goes up as she strays offside. Play stopped for an injury as Sargeant and Holly Moore collide the latter coming off worse is okay after receiving treatment. A higher line from Bowers & Pitsea now as they look to get a goal back Kane finding room in behind as she moves across the field away to the right strikes a shot on the half volley on target fizzed in Hickman palms the ball up into the air taking the catch even as Byron closes her down on the line. Hickman catching well from another Kane ball in from the right as she moves across the back line to get in behind beating the flag.
Sargeant putting the ball on for Abraham breaking left her diagonal ball into Kane top of the area, Styles in to make the tackle win it for Bowers & Pitsea. Luton make a change with just over 20 minutes left to play, Abraham coming off on the left, coming on Jade Horsley to make her Luton debut. Sophie Dowman on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore. Jennings with more superb work in defence for Bowers & Pitsea first defending against Kane as she looks to get away then standing up to block Babalola as she looks to drive on with the ball. The floodlights needed are switched on.
Bowers & Pitsea’s Danielle Styles
Horsley on the left picking out Kane as she makes the run ahead of her into the channel Holly Moore defending for Bowers & Pitsea. The hosts get forwards to win a corner the ball played in near post defended by Luton’s Blacksley. The game open both sides looking for the next goal Bowers & Pitsea to pressure Luton late on, the visitors to make the 3 points safe Luton’s Horsley adding pace to the attack runs into space on the ball whips a great cross in across goal Babalola racing in heads over from six yards out.
Carroll back to cut out a cross put in from the left, Harley getting a 2nd opportunity to put the all in lands on the roof of the net. Byron brought down in the middle a free-kick for Luton another opportunity for Carroll to put the ball forwards knocked down well by Kane central top of the area into the path of Babalola her shot from 20 yards out straight into the gloves of the keeper. Ebony Moore back on for Bowers & Pitsea with a good piece control central lays the ball back for Holly Moore to curl in a shot from 25 yards out doesn’t trouble the keeper the game entering the final 5 minutes.
The wind returning getting decidedly chilly too. Harley firing in a shot from range drops short controlled by Fraser turns to lay it back to Dowman top of the box leaning back her attempt put over the bar.
GOAL! Into the final minute and Luton hit Bowers & Pitsea with a late sucker punch to kill off the game. Byron lifting a great pass forwards Kane having beaten the offside trap on several ocassions is offside this time but no flag raised continues her run carrying the ball to the top of the area right of the D puts her foot through the shot sending a fiercely struck low drive past the keeper 0-3.
2 goals for Luton’s Rebecca Kane
From the restart Fraser takes on the long range effort in an attempt to catch the keeper off guard, falls short however Hassell gathering. Kane and Babalola combining in attack on the right winning Luton a corner kick, defended by Fraser, Bowers and Pitsea race forwards on the counter attack Holly Moore carrying the ball forwards on to Ebony Moore inside to Dowman 25 out lays it back to Holly Moore to hit first time the ball racing narrowly wide of the post.
Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-3 Luton Town Ladies
Luton winning 3-0 to claim the 3 points lift them up the Premier Division table. A solid performance keeping it tight at the back waiting for their opportunities to attack, 3 clinical finishes to win the game. Tight at the back hard to break down. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying good spell of possession moving the ball well, just lacking in the final third, good opportunities created just not exploited.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders as usual. For Bowers & Pitsea no doubting has to be Danni Jennings put in a real shift at the back on hand on several ocassions to put in the vital tackle. Overall hard to single out an individual for Luton the defence solid keeping a good shape. Carroll in the middle and Kane up front with some good runs the award though goes to Erica Byron several timely runs through the middle setting up Kane for her 2nd goal and a superb hit for her goal.
Always competitive in the ERWFL the Premier Division a strong league this year. Good to get a trip down to Essex in been a while. Safe to say I haven’t missed the M25 though. My thanks to both clubs for the team details as ever much appreciated.
Harlow Town Ladies fantastic start to the season continues unabated as they move 8 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with their winning streak moving onto 9 matches. The only points dropped to date way back on the opening day draw against Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow’s 9th straight win coming on the road this weekend a trip to Bedfordshire to played AFC Dunstable Women. A 7-1 win in the reverse fixture back in September. AFC Dunstable working hard to improve, Harlow not at their best at the weekend still finding the back of the net for three goals to come away with the three points. Abbey Dell, Chloe Bassett and a 19th of the season from Becky Shephard securing the victory.
Plenty of challenges to come for Harlow as the chasing pack look to close them down and take points off each other in the process, with 2nd placed Wroxham Women’s match away to St Ives Town Ladies postponed it was an opportunity for Royston Town Women to move above them as they played host to Colney Heath Ladies. Top scorer Rebecca Vass finally breaking the deadlock to put Royston 1-0 up at half-time with her 17th strike of the season. Colney Heath have their own goal machine this season Samaira Khan prolific in front of goal since joining in the summer putting the visitors level early in the 2nd half. A goal disallowed for offside, Vass then fired Royston back in front with her 2nd of the match Colney Heath responding straight away to equalise for a 2nd time, Khan with her 2nd of the. Khan then bringing up her hat-trick to put Colney Heath into the lead with 80 minutes left to play. 19 goals for Khan now. Royston frustrated at conceding awarded a late minute penalty, Joanne Rutherford stepping up to take and salvage a point. Enough to take Royston 2nd in the Premier Division table.
Games in hand on the three sides above them Peterborough Northern Star Ladies climb up to 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division table with their 4th straight league win. At home this Sunday playing Bedford Ladies. Winning 3-1 in the reverse fixture back in September their good form continued as they emerged 5-2 winners to collect the 3 points. Leah Cudone netting a brace top scorer this season with 12 so far. Emma Pollard alos on target for a goal along with Evie Driscoll-King and Faith Horner scoring her first goal for the club. Priya Bhatti and Natasha Fensome scoring the Bedford goals.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Faith Horner
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies ended a run of 5 straight losses with a great result away to Colney Heath last time out winning 2-1. Were looking to build on recent performances having made a good start to life played in the ERWFL Premier Division for the first time. Away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women this weekend. The Essex side taking the lead on 18 minutes Georgia Fraser cutting the ball back towards the top of the area for Megan Harley to put away her 9th goal of the season. Fraser setting up the 2nd goal too flicking the ball on for Yasmin Cowley to run in behind the defence and score 6 minutes later. A 3rd goal coming late in the first half Taylor Adcock captaining the side scoring her 1st of the season firing in a 35 yard free-kick. A comfortable lead for Bowers & Pitsea at half-time. Donna Fletcher with a 30 yard shot putting the visitors 4-0 with nearly an hour played. An own goal adding a 5th in the final 10 minutes, Haringey netting a late consolation in the final minute, Bowers & Pitsea up to 8th winning 5-1.
ERWFL Division One North
With the leaders, Cambridge City Ladies Development seeing their match away to Gorleston Ladies called off on Sunday it was an opportunity for 2nd placed East Bergholt United Ladies to close the gap to within a point at the top should they win away in their Suffolk derby with AFC Sudbury Ladies this weekend. Megan Partridge formerly of Sudbury putting East Bergholt into the lead. Sudbury with a chance to level from the penalty spot, Becca Stephenson clinical with her 5th goal of the season to make it 1-1. Sudbury going on to taking the lead Charlene Roach finding the top corner from close range. Amy Thompson showing good footwork inside the box getting a shot away taking a wicked deflection onto the post and back across the line to grab her first for the club. Evie Creaton with a bullet header down into the East Bergholt goal to celebrate her first of goal to put Sudbury 4-1 ahead. Georgia Lockerbie with a late goal pulling it back to 4-2 for East Bergholt. Sudbury’s new look young side picking up just their 2nd league win of the season, the first of course against leaders Cambridge City Development.
Needham Market Women’s match away to Histon Ladies also postponed on Sunday it’s now getting very tight in the middle of the Division One North table, King’s Lynn Town Ladies finding their form after losing their opening two league matches, a 3rd straight win coming away to Newmarket Town Women on Sunday. Emma Corbyn with her first goals of the season netting a brace. Captain Becky Russell with a goal taking her onto 8 so far this season. Nikita Morris also on the scoresheet in a 4-0 result with her first goal for the club.
ERWFL Division One South
A full fixture list in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend. Hutton Ladies leading the way a perfect start winning 4 from 4 were looking to make it 5 from 5 as they played host to bottom side Wodson Park Ladies, the Hertfordshire side still looking for their first points of the campaign with 5 straight defeats. Hutton scoring plenty of goals, in particular top scorer Vicky Kinsman on target once again this weekend to bury 4 more goals taking her to 28 for the season in just 8 matches. Kate Lowen also celebrating a goal as the Essex side ran out 5-1 winners.
Looking to chase Hutton down are Stevenage Ladies Development and Millwall Lionesses 2nd and 3rd level on 10 points each after 4 played both unbeaten meeting this weekend Millwall the away side fielding the bare 11 on Sunday battling to a goalless draw at the break. Shannan Drewe firing home her 11th goal of the season putting Millwall into the lead early in the 2nd period. Millwall fighting to keep their lead intact a clean sheet for Kelly Webster seeing Millwall win the 3 points to en Stevenage’s unbeaten record and move 3 points clear in 2nd spot.
A high scoring match to end this weeks ERWFL Round-Up. Initially listed a 0-0 on full-time was told on two fronts it actually ended 9-5 between Lawford Ladies and Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Corrected on full-time now but still reading a 0-0 at half-time I don’t believe that either. A tough start to the season for both Lawford earning their first point of the season against Leigh Ramblers Ladies 3 weeks ago back in league action this Sunday away to Hoddesdon with just the 10 available. Conceding 5, battled through to hit their opponents for 9 up the other end to win their first game of the season. Daisy Canny often Lawford’s talisman on target for 7 goals in the match. Nancy Bulter with a brace scoring her first goals of the season.
The top two meeting the the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday with Wroxham Women 2nd making the trip down to Essex to play leaders Harlow Town Ladies. Having lost to Harlow twice this season already in the league and FA Women’s Cup illness and unavailability making thing’s tough as the Norfolk side look to close the 3 point gap at the top. Harlow quickly on top scoring within the opening 90 seconds. A further injury blow for Wroxham seeing Grace Parker forced off Harlow continued to push forwards taking a 2-0 lead a 3rd goal coming late in the 1st half 3-0 up at the break. Wroxham putting in the shift, Harlow strong Amy Bell with a double save the hosts went on to take a 4 goal lead. Wroxham battling striker Kirstie Kindred brought down in the box scoring from the resulting penalty. Rhianne Brister scoring to pull it back to 4-2. Harlow would have the final say Becky Shephard scoring their 5th goal to see them do the league double over Wroxham winning 5-2.
Fantastic action shot from Sunday’s match (photo credit Proud of Harlow)
As Harlow open up a 6 point lead at the top of the Premier Division it remains very tight amongst the chasing pack, Royston Town Ladies up to 3rd in the table now joining Wroxham on 19 points as they won at home on Sunday a comfortable result in the finish taking on newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies, Rebecca Vass prolific in front of goal this season following her move from Bedford Ladies on target for 5 goals in the match taking her tally to 16 for the season. Emma Slater also scoring for Royston along with Samantha Edgar in a 7-2 result. Katie Stancombe with her 1st goal of the season and Georgia Stancombe scoring the goals for St Ives.
Didn’t get a mention last week as their weren’t enough games played in the ERWFL to see a Round-Up produced was a very good result for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies they lost 3-2 to leaders Harlow Town Ladies, a loss may not sound like a good result but it was a much improved performance compared to the 16-1 drubbing they suffered in the reverse fixture at the start of the season a blip on what has other wise been a solid first season playing in the Premier Division. Giving the Essex side a bit of confidence as they travelled to Hertfordshire to play the 3rd placed Colney Heath Ladies this weekend, in good form themselves. Bowers & Pitsea edging the first half taking the lead on the half hour Yasmin Cowley’s strike taking a deflection on it’s way into the back of the net. Colney Heath coming back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half. 1 all heading into the final 6 minutes, Cowley finding space there to receive Megan Harley’s cut back to score her 2nd of the game and win it for Bowers & Pitsea.
For the 2nd successive weekend it was a Bedfordshire derby as Luton Town Ladies made the short trip to play rivals Bedford Ladies. Meeting in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup quarter finals with Luton hosting last weekend they won 7-1 to advance in the competition. A much closer result this time around in the league with both sides on 14 points heading into the game. Luton with an early lead Rebecca Kane heading in on 3 minutes from a Zara Carroll free-kick. Bedford coming back to level within 10 minutes the visitors then going 2-1 ahead through a controversial free-kick. All action first half Kane on target for her 2nd of the game making it 2-2 to Luton with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st period, Kane than rounding the keeper in the final minute of the 1st half to complete her hat-trick put Luton 3-2 ahead. That how the score remained heading into the final 10 minutes Luton getting themselves a 2 goal cushion as Erica Byron smashed a shot into the roof of the net. Bedford coming back to make it 4-3 Luton holding out for the victory.
Wymondham Town Ladies are up to 7th in the Premier Division table 4 points behind 2nd and 3rd placed Wroxham and Royston now winning for the 4th time this season, were at home taking on bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Hannah Waters rounding the keeper in the 5th minute to put the hosts into the lead. Waters doubling the advance in the 22nd minute. 14 goals for the season now for Waters. Midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan amongst the goals too this season for Wymondham scoring a brace in the match to keep pace with Waters on 14 goals her first of the day making it 3-0 after the visitors failed to clear a corner. 3-0 up at half-time Laura Nichols released by Rebecca Russell through on goal to round the keeper and score in the 63rd minute putting Wymondham 4-0 up. O’Callaghan’s 2nd coming soon after scoring from a good run forwards. Katie Knights on hand to score after Haringey fail to clear from a corner in the 70th minute making it 6-0. The visitors going straight up the other end to score a consolation. Nichols celebrating her 2nd of the game wrapping up a 7-1 victory for Wymondham in the 90th minute once again set-up by Russell.
ERWFL Division One North
The top two in ERWFL Division One North due to meet at the weekend, East Bergholt United Ladies due to host leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development saw their match called off. The postponement an opportunity for the sides below to close the gap to the leading pair. Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies finding their form in the league were looking to make it 3 wins on the bounce as they travelled to the Norfolk coast to play Gorleston Ladies. New signing Poppy Kelly scoring a hat-trick along with a goal from Alison Wright seeing Histon win comfortably 4-0 to climb into 3rd place in the table 2 points behind East Bergholt.
Women’s Football East made the journey to Bloomfields home of Needham Market Women on Sunday to watch their match against Newmarket Town Women. New to the league Needham Market had secured their first win playing at this level for the first time at home to Suffolk rivals AFC Sudbury Ladies a fortnight ago, victory in the County Cup following had the opportunity to make it 3 wins on the spin as they took on Newmarket, the full match report can be found further down the page. Newmarket settling quicker, forcing an error from a corner to take the lead captain Sasha Diston heading into her own net a further error from the goalkeeper seeing Newmarket take a 2-0 lead Lauren Deller striking from outside the box and the ball was presented to her. A life line for Needham Market coming late in the first half Newmarket’s goalkeeper with the error this time failing to collect Lois Balfour’s through ball for Francesca Rainbird the Needham Market winger tenacious winning the ball and sending it into the back of the net.
Needham Market captain, Sasha Diston with a goal for each side
Needham Market coming out with a strong start to the 2nd half equalising straight away a corner won dropping inside the six yard box a fortunate deflection putting it straight at Diston to score and make it 2-2. An intriguing match open could have gone either way Needham Market taking the lead for the first time in the game scoring from another corner the ball knocked down into the feet of Rainbird she struck it back in off the underside of the bar. Annie Northwood giving Needham Market a two goal cushion as Newmarket pressed for a reply the visitors managing to get it back to 4-3 with seconds left no time to mount another attack Needham Market joining Newmarket of 7 points for the season.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies losing their opening two league games in Division One North got thier first win under their belt away to East Bergholt United Ladies back on October. Postponements and cup matches since were hosting another Suffolk side this weekend as they made it back to back wins in the league taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. Goals from captain Becky Russell and a first of the season for fellow midfielder Tegan Wheeler securing the 3 points courtesy of a 2-1 win.
ERWFL Division One South
Leigh Ramblers Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL join Stevenage FC Women Development and Millwall Lionesses on 10 points the trio now all 2 points behind leaders Hutton Ladies. Away from home this weekend playing the only match in the Division were taking on Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Emily Diwell on target netting 4 times in the match as the Essex side ran out 10-2 winners. Rebecca Dalgarno scoring a brace, with 3 more players celebrating their first goals of the season, Chloe Gilligan also bagging a brace with Paige White and Connie Mashford off the mark for the season. Lauren Hasler scoring in the first half for Hoddesdon with Jo Brookman scoring her first goal for the club in the 85th minute.
A highly competitive ERWFL Premier Division this season with the sides all the way down to 8th in a good position to challenge what is an ever changing picture at the top of the table, whether one side can get a grip on top spot and go on to dominate remains to be seen right now it’s wide open. The lead changing once again. Wroxham Women going top last weekend at home this Sunday facing Bedford Ladies. Always a competitive tussle between the sides (and yes I am referring to when Wroxham were Acle United Women) no less so in their new colours chances for both in the first half Wroxham seeing a shot in added time bounce down off the bar and over the line before being plucked back by the keeper but despite their protests the sides heading in goalless. Bedford awarded a penalty on the hour to take the lead added a 2nd 5 minutes later. Wroxham making a couple of good comebacks already this season fighting back once again Kirstie Kindred firing home to bring it back to 2-1 with 15 minutes left top scorer Grace Birchall getting the equalling goal, clear cut chances for both sides to win the game missed, the points shared.
That result sees previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies return to the top of the table, although they themselves very nearly let it slip at home at the weekend, the Essex side hosting Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow getting into an early lead Wymondham failing to clear from a corner the ball put over the line. Proved to be the difference between the sides. A 1-0 lead for Harlow at half-time when 2-0 early in the 2nd half capitalising on a mix-up at the back to make it 2-0. Wymondham with a quick response getting it back to 2-1 in the 48th minute Jac Ball shooting across the keeper to get her 1st goal for the club. Harlow straight back with a 3rd goal 3-1 up made it 4-1 with less than 15 to play, Becky Shephard with a brace, along with goals for Frances Gamble and Chloe Bassett. Wymondham with a late fight back scoring twice in the closing minutes to get it back to 4-3 setting up a tense finish, Mia Etheridge crossing for Katie Knights to score and Sarah Payne flicking on a goal kick to put Laura Nicholls in to score her first of the season (hard to believe it’s taken until November to say that although she has only featured in 4 games so far this season.) Harlow with the 3 points maintaining their unbeaten start to the season top on goal difference.
Colney Heath Ladies amongst the early season front runners too back up to 3rd on the ERWFL Premier Division table winning away to AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. A 15-1 for Colney Heat in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. Ex-Dunstable player Samaira Khan with a hat-trick that day repeated the feat this time around, to put her on 14 goals for the season, scoring twice in the first half after Lucy Hancock had opened the scoring in the 12th minute for the visitors. Colney Heath 3-0 up at half-time Hancock on target for her 2nd of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Rianne Townsend-Brown making it 5-0 on the hour. Hannah Ring making her first start for Dunstable with a goal to prevent a clean sheet for Colney Heath before Khan added her 3rd late on to see the game won 6-1.
Royston Town Women climb to 4th in the Premier Division table, 3 points behind leaders Harlow with games in hand on Wroxham and Colney Heath. The Hertfordshire side away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. The game looked to heading for a goalless opening 45 minutes. Royston with a corner late on the ball hooked in by Emma Slater. Royston adding to their lead early in the 2nd half Joanne Rutherford onto a through ball to make it 2-0 a 3rd goal coming quickly after Danielle Carty with a great strike on 58 minutes to make it 3-0. A devastating spell from Royston going 4-0 up 2 minutes later Rutherford from a free-kick scoring her 2nd of the match. Haringey getting a quick reply to bring it back to 4-1 but that would be as good as it got as Royston went on to win the 3 points comfortably.
The game between newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies falling foul to the weather.
ERWFL Division One North
The weather playing it’s part in both ERWFL Division One North & South this Sunday to. King’s Lynn Town Ladies home game against Histon postponed whilst in the South, Millwall Lionesses match away to leader Hutton Ladies also suffered.
Two games played in Division One North on Sunday, league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development away to Newmarket Town Women. A 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture just 3 weeks ago, Newmarket keen to close the gap on the leading side after making a slow start. It was Cambridge who would make a fast start this Sunday taking the lead just 3 minutes into the game Bella Simmons on target for her 11th goal of the season Newmarket coming back to level the scores inside 20 minutes with Annabel Cuthbert getting her 12th goal of the season. All square at the break Cambridge retaking the lead with 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half after not capitalising on early chances, Ellie Cullum rifling the ball into the roof of the net from 25 yards out. Her 5th of the season proving to be the winning goal.
A Suffolk derby saw newcomers Needham Market Women at home playing AFC Sudbury Ladies. Sudbury starting the game well creating opportunities, Needham Market still looking for their first league win at this level growing into the game with chances as the 1st half wore on, the visitors taking the lead from a free-kick late in stoppage time the ball finding it’s way in. 1-0 Needham Market goalkeeper Amber Leeks injured unable to continue, outfield player Milly Carter donning the gloves. Needham Market starting the 2nd half well getting a goal back within 3 minutes of the restart Jodie Sharp crossing for Amber Sparkes to tap home. Needham getting forwards well further opportunities created taking the lead just past the hour Sparkes with a good run jinking into the box opening up her body to shoot high into the net. Carter with a fine save to tip the ball over at the other end saw her defence concede a penalty moments later a chance for Sudbury to level from the spot a superb top draw save from the substitute keeper going left getting a firm hand on the ball to turn it out. The win secured in the final 10 minutes Lois Balfour deadly for the Reserves this season striking from distance her shot in off the post.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games in Division One South on Sunday and with the leading pair not playing it was a chance for Stevenage FC Women Development to close the gap as they travelled to play Wodson Park Ladies who were still looking for their first points of the season. Stevenage unbeaten in the league winning the game 4-0 to join 2nd placed Millwall on 10 points, the goal scored by Hannah Marshall, Sofia Carpenter, Katherine Taylor and Emily Schofield.
Stevenage FC Women Development pictured before thier game with Wodson park on Sunday (photo credit Stevenage FC Women)
Also without a point on the board in Division One South were Lawford Ladies a difficult start to the season short on numbers so are hosting newcomers Leigh Ramblers Ladies. A full side available this weekend it was a much needed point earned as the sides finished 1-1 at the final whistle. daisy Canny with her 5th goal of the season on target for Lawford.
All change at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division once again this Sunday with Wroxham Women taking over the lead for the first time this season over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who achieved the same feat last weekend. This weekend Peterborough Northern Star’s match away to Royston Town Women falling foul of the weather.
Wroxham Women 2nd in the table travelling down to play Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A 3G playing surface. Bowers & Pitsea looking to arrest a poor run of league results after a fine run in the Women’s FA Cup was brought to an end last weekend. Wroxham looking for a 4th straight league win. An even start to the game Bowers & Pitsea coming close to opening the lead striking the woodwork with 2 efforts. Wroxham going 1-0 in the 34th minute, top scorer Grace Birchall receiving a crossfield ball from Naomi Cooper cutting inside to beat the keeper. Cooper again setting up Birchall to score her 2nd of the game. Bowers & Pitsea pulling a goal back late in the first half Megan Harley shot firing its way in from 30 yards out. Wroxham restoring their 2 goal lead in stoppage time Birchall out pacing the defence through to score her hat-trick and make it 26 goals so far for the season. Bowers & Pitsea striking the woodwork for he 3rd time in the match in an attack that saw Wroxham goalkeeper Amy Bell forced off injured defender Grace Parker donning the gloves. Wroxham though finishing the match strongly a host of chances getting a 4th goal deep into stoppage time, a long range free-kick struck by Naomi Cooper finding the bottom corner her 1st goal of the season. Wroxham moving to the top of the table winning 4-1.
Previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies back in league action themselves this weekend after enjoying a run in the Women’s FA Cup, surrendering their lead in the Premier Division in that time were back at home this Sunday taking on St Ives Town Ladies in the league, Harlow unbeaten in the league dropping just 2 points. In fine goal scoring form too the Essex side taking the lead through top scorer Becky Shephard free at the near post to score off Chloe Bassett’s left wing cross. Shephard going on to score a hat-trick to put her on 13 for the season. Captain Kaydee King making it 2-0 to Harlow scoring with a looping header off a free-kick. Tayla Handscombe put away on the left smashing the ball in high on the angle from outside the box to put Harlow 4-0 up. A strong first half from the hosts Bassett played through on goal by Amy Nash on halfway to score their 6th. St Ives pulling a goal back before King headed home from another set-piece to make it 7-1. Beth Chambers and Hannah Porter also celebrating a goal each in a 9-1.
4th versus 5th saw Luton Town Ladies away to Colney Heath Ladies this Sunday both in good form recently incredibly tight in the top half of the Premier Division table. Luton starting well creating chances, Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler with a vital save. The hosts coming back into it striker Rianne Townsend-Brown put through to play the ball over the advancing keeper her effort back off the bar on 21 minutes. Goalless at the break, Luton taking the lead early in the 2nd half Funmi Babalola stealing the ball off the defence running in on goal to score. Colney Heath getting back on level terms 10 minutes later Samaira Khan firing into the roof of the net to make it 1-1 with her 11th strike of the season. Colney Heath exerting late pressure in the game Luton standing firm Elly Wade saving on the line to ensure the points were shared.
The Premier Division leaders can’t afford to let their foot off the gas at all incredibly close in the table all the way down to 8th, Wymondham Town Ladies with several players out injured long term winning at home on Sunday to put them on 12 points are only 6 off top spot were taking on AFC Dunstable Women struggling for points at the bottom of the table as their new look squad is still settling. Wymondham bringing in several players to bolster thier squad over the close season have goal scorers within their ranks young midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan opening the scoring inside 15 minutes shooting into the top corner to make it 1-0. New signing Mia Etheridge involved in the build up to the goal involved again for the 2nd just a minute later setting up captain Hannah Waters to score. Freya Symonds another new arrival in the summer scoring to put Wymondham 3-0 up midway through the 1st half. A dominant opening half hour Waters with the assist to set up O’Callaghan on 31 minutes to make it 4-0. O’Callaghan scoring from 25 yards out at the end of the 1st half to complete her hat-trick and see Wymondham leading comfortably 5-0. Dunstable battling 2nd half preventing Wymondham from adding to their tally managing to get a goal back themselves with 15 minutes left to play Louise McCay the scorer.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan
A point ahead of Wymondham in 7th are Bedford Ladies, they picked up the 3 points with a comfortable win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Amy Magnus getting her goals account for the season opened scoring a hat-trick. There was a brace each for Lauren Murray and Setor Acolatse with both Maya Sidhu and captain Priya Bhatti also on the scoresheet with a goal apiece in a 9-1 win.
ERWFL League Cup
Plenty of goals scored in the final round of group matches in the ERWFL League Cup this Sunday with the Division One sides battling for a place in the knock out stages of the competition the 4 group winners going on to join the Premier Division sides with the rest entering the Plate competition.
To one of these games Women’s Football East headed this Sunday, a landmark occasion personally with the last report written my 400th since I started scribbling on a notepad at games. Enjoyed every minute of it and plenty more to come.
Onto the game headed to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies in Group D, both with a win and a loss in their previous games, needed King’s Lynn Town Ladies to slip up away to Leigh Ramblers to have any chance of progressing. Hutton top of Division One South with a 100% record scoring plenty of goals, Histon coming into the game on a good run of results. Hutton getting off the the better start Histon not settling, the Essex side creating opportunities taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Clare Edmonson scoring her first Hutton goal with a looping effort top of the area to beat the keeper on the line dropping under the bar. Despite their dominance Hutton leading by just a single goal at half-time Histon finishing the half well encouraged entering the 2nd half.
Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball
Came very close to equalising Sophie Hopkins by line cross put in across pushed away by the keeper straight at substitute Rebekah Finch unable to get her foot up around the ball, Hutton broke to score up the other end the ball laid back to the top of the area for top scorer Vicky Kinsman to make it 2-0. Histon coming back to make it 2-1 straight away striker Poppy Kelly with a terrific shot across the keeper after shifting the ball well top of the area. Again Hutton came back to restore their 2 goal lead Kinsman captain Abigail Fry running clear taking the ball round the advancing keeper unselfishly setting up Kinsman to tap home into an empty net. Histon kept attacking Hutton comfortable to hit on the break adding a 4th through an unfortunate own goal with less than 10 minutes left Kinsman completing her hat-trick at the death to see the game won 5-1. The whole match report can be found further down the page.
Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick
In the end Hutton having to settle for 2nd place in Group D, there only loss of the season coming away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the competition a week ago the Norfolk side buoyed by that result travelled down to Essex to play newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies knowing a positive result would guarantee top spot. Tiffany Forshaw getting her 5th goal of the season and a 1st of the season for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse securing a 2-0 victory for the visitors.
Group A down to three sides following the sad withdrawal of Bishops Stortford Ladies from the league. Their opponents awarded the wins Stevenage FC Women Development not in action moving onto 6 points joining Newmarket Town Women who had beaten Bishops Stortford 13-0 before they pulled out another good result beating Stevenage 4-0 seeing them head into their final game at home to East Bergholt looking to make it a clean sweep in the group. East Bergholt with 3 points on the board could yet finish on 6 themselves and got off to a great start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes extended the advantage on 30 minutes to lead 2-0 at half-time, Newmarket with a mountain to climb as East Bergholt struck again early in the 2nd half to lead 3-0, Megan Partridge with a brace along with a goal for Stacey Teager. Katie Webb setting up Annabel Cuthbert seeing Newmarket get it back to 3-1 on the 54th minute. Cuthbert battling her way through the East Bergholt defence to net her 2nd of the match midway through the half. Moments later the comeback was complete Chloe Slater with the strike to make it 3-3. Newmarket winning the League Plate in their debut season in the ERWFL winning the game in the final 3 minutes, Cuthbert scoring from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick after Katie Webb was brought down inside the box. Newmarket winning Group A.
Group C yet to be decided Gorleston Ladies away match against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies falling foul to the weather. Needham Market Women topping the group with 2 wins from 2 likely to progress after their opponents Wodson Park Ladies couldn’t get a side.
In Group B it was all going to come down to who could score the most goals with Cambridge City Ladies Development and Millwall Lionesses on 4 points drawing 4-4 when they mat in the competition after winning their opening matches. Cambridge City at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies this weekend. Suffering a surprise 2-1 loss to them in the league itself last time out looking to make amends this time around had top scorer Carla Penny back in the starting line up and she carried on where she left off finding the back of the net for 4 goals. Ellie Cullum on target for a brace along with a goal for Freya Standing securing a 7-0 victory.
Millwall Lionesses were at home taking on Lawford Ladies who were short of numbers on the day. Again the sides meeting in the league last weekend Millwall coming out on top winning comfortably 10-3. Emily Stanley opening the scoring off an Ellis Lunn cross after just 7 minutes. Shannan Drewe adding a 2nd goal in quick succession. Ellis Lunn scoring a 3rd Millwall goal with 20 minutes gone. Thalia Broadman making her Millwall debut scoring her first goal for the club on 22 minutes netting from a 25 yard strike. Captain Ruby Snowden putting Millwall 5-0 up. Drewe rounding the keeper making it 6-0 completing a 1st half hat-trick. Broadman with her 2nd of the game seeing Millwall dominant leading 8-0 at half-time. Hard work for Lawford, Millwall kept coming 2nd half adding more goals. Snowden seeing a shot in off the post in the 48th minute. Millie Connell striking from the edge of the 18 yard box to bring up double figures. Hannah Cheeseman recently signed scoring a quickfire brace. Broadman getting a hat-trick on debut to make it 13-0. Drewe going on to add a further 2 gals giving her 5 in total. Stanley netting a 2nd goal. Snowden the 3rd Millwall player to celebrate a hat-trick with Elissa Stonebrook opening her account late on to see Millwall win 18-0 to top Group B and progress to the knockout stages.
The Women’s FA Cup pushing this weeks ERWFL Round-Up back a bit. Plenty of action to cover and it is an ever changing picture at the top of the Premier Division table with new leaders at the top. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving a point clear at the top winning a 4th straight league game away to Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Taking advantage of previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies involvement in the Women’s FA Cup. Leah Cudone a prolific attacker wherever she’s played joining Peterborough Northern Star this season put 4 into the back of the net on Sunday against bottom side Haringey to take her tally to the season into double figures. A first goal of the season too for Georgia Coulson as Peterborough wrapped up a 5-1 win their only loss in the league so far this season coming on the opening day.
10 goals so far for Peterborough Norther Star Ladies, Leah Cudone (photo credit PNS Ladies)
Wroxham Women taking advantage too to Harlow’s involvement in the Women’s FA Cup despite the Essex side knocking them out in the previous round to move above them in the Premier Division table into 2nd. Back in action at home after two weeks were taking on Colney Heath Ladies, the Hertfordshire side showing good form recently to climb up the 2nd in the Premier Division table. Wroxham bringing that spell to an abrupt end taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Amber Rowland played in to shoot and find the bottom corner. Grace Birchall amongst the goals for Wroxham early in the season netting her 23rd goal from just 9 appearances midway through the 2nd half, running into a long ball to beat the defence and shoot into the top corner. An own goal from Colney Heath seeing Wroxham leading 3-0 at half-time. Lauren Bullard introduced by Wroxham at the start of the 2nd half making it 4-0 in the 58th minute would go on to get a 2nd midway through the half to help secure a 5-0 win for Wroxham.
Royston Town Women another side taking full advantage of others involvement in the Women’s FA Cup to climb up into 4th spot in the ERWFL Premier Division. Just 3 points behind the leaders level on points with 3rd placed Harlow now. Unbeaten in 4 in the league now won comfortably away from home this Sunday taking on AFC Dunstable Women. Just the bare 11 for Dunstable struggling at the bottom of the league Royston have goals in their squad this season notably from Rebecca Vass the new signing scoring 4 against Dunstable to take her to 11 for the season. Emma Slater and Ellie Wilkerson both getting a goal each with first goals of the season too for Angharad Chambers and Georgia Gannaway. An 8-0 win for Royston.
ERWFL Division One North
Four wins and a draw to start the season for newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies Development were leading the way in the ERWFL Division One North as they travelled to AFC Sudbury Ladies at the weekend. The hosts relegated from the ERWFL Premier Division losing their opening 2 league games without a point on the board a new look side this season a young squad. A great start to the match for the hosts though taking the lead in the 15th minute Rebecca Stephenson firing in a great shot from the top of the box taking a nick off a defender to loop up into the top corner. Sudbury going 2-0 up midway through the 1st half, Stephenson to target again striking from a long way out to celebrate her 2nd of the game. Minutes later Sudbury were down to 10 as goalkeeper Amelia Carter was sent of bringing down striker Bella Simmons outside the box. Sudbury lead 2-0 at half-time playing the 2nd half with 10. Battled hard in defence, Cambridge getting it back to 2-1 straight after the restart with Simmons scoring. Sudbury frustrating thier opponents wasn’t to be Cambridge’s day as they failed to find another goal Sudbury getting their first win under their belts.
A local derby elsewhere in the ERWFL Division One North with Suffolk sides East Bergholt United Ladies & Needham Market Women meeting in the league for the 1st time both promoted to the ERWFL this season following a season long battle last season at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Contrasting starts to the season, East Bergholt beginning with 2 straight wins before losing to Cambridge City a third win keeping them 2nd in the table a loss last time out narrowly at home to King’s Lynn. Needham Market Women have played just one league match to date a 3-3 draw against Histon Ladies. Meeting this Sunday the sides enjoying another close game in the end a single goal enough to secure the 3 points the win going to hosts East Bergholt, ex-AFC Sudbury player Megan Partridge on target for her 5th goal of the season since joining the club. East Bergholt moving to within a point of leaders Cambridge City.
A single goal too enough to win the 3 points for Histon Ladies away from home on Sunday taking on Newmarket Town Women in the ERWFL Division One North. A frustrating start to the season for Histon Ladies, just one point won in 3 league games coupled with two cup defeats. Bringing in several new players to bolster the squad over the close season have started to find some form back to back wins in league and cup were looking to make it 3 on the spin away to Newmarket who were keen to get their season going themselves making a good start themselves with a win and a draw. A hard fought win going Histon’s way in the finish the winning goal coming on the hour, Poppy Kelly latching onto Lauren Martin’s through ball to shoot past the keeper. Histon up to 3rd in the table with 7 points on the board.
ERWFL Division One South
Two game played in the ERWFL Division One South this weekend and with the top two not in league action it was a chance for 3rd placed Millwall Lionesses to close the gap as they hosted bottom side Lawford Ladies. The bare 11 for Lawford, Millwall making an unbeaten start to the season with 2 wins and a draw. Millwall getting off to a brilliant start getting themselves into a 4-0 lead inside 15 minutes! Ellie Lunn finding the bottom corner to open the scoring in the 7th minute. Molly Hawkins scoring from close range doubling the lead in the 12th minute. Hawkins with a quick fire double chipping the keeper on the volley to make it 3-0. Shannan Drewe intercepting and firing in a shot across goal bringing up the hosts 4th. Lawford rallying somewhat battling hard at the back. Millwall striking the woodwork. Lawford pulling a goal back in the 34th minute the ball lifted over the keeper. Hawkins though completing her hat-trick to see Millwall leading 5-1 at the break.
Millwall slow out of the blocks 2nd half, Lawford pulling it back to 5-2 scoring from a corner. 10 minutes into the 2nd period and Millwall themselves were back amongst the goals Ruby Snowden firing into the top corner to make it 6-2. A 7th goal brought up on the hour with Samantha Middleton getting on the scoresheet with the finish. An 8th goal soon following Drewe rifling home for her 2nd of the match. Lawford not giving up by any stretch getting on the scoresheet for a third goal themselves bringing it back to 8-3. Drewe seeing her shot saved new signing Hannah Cheeseman chasing in on the follow up sending the ball over the line for her first goal for the club. Snowden getting her 2nd goal of the match to see Millwall reach double figures with 15 minutes left. A 10-3 win seeing Millwall move level on 10 points with 2nd placed Stevenage FC Women Development.
Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One South newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies young guns were at home to Wodson Park Ladies. A win and a loss for Leigh Ramblers so far from 2 league games played. Wodson Park yet to win a point frustrated at the start of their season. Leigh Ramblers bringing in Georgia Holdaway this season, amongst the goals last season playing for Brentwood was on target again this weekend for her 3rd goal since joining the club. Emily Diwell also on target getting her third goal of the campaign to see Leigh Ramblers win the match 2-0 to move clear in 4th place in the table.
ERWFL League Cup
Postponed from a fortnight ago ERWFL Division One South leaders Hutton Ladies were away to Norfolk side King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the ERWFL Cup group stage this weekend. The Essex side with a 100% success rate so far in league and cup matches to start the season and scoring plenty of goals in the process, a strong start for Hutton, King’s Lynn making an indifferent start doing well to keep their opponents for scoring this weekend for the first time this season Hutton drawing a blank in front of goal. King’s Lynn going on to win the match 3-0. Captain Becky Russell scoring twice to move onto 5 goals for the season with attacker Oksana Imanalijeva scoring her first goal of the season.
Continues to be very tight on the ERWFL Premier Division, now a 4 way tie at the top on 13 points, with everyone else bunched up behind, all the way down to 10th place St Ives Town Ladies who lay 6 points behind the leading pack. Harlow Town Ladies despite not being in action holding onto top spot on goal difference, Colney Heath Ladies in County Cup action this weekend retaining 2nd spot, joining the pair on 13 points at the top of the table are Luton Town Ladies & Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.
Luton Town Ladies back up into 3rd place were back in league action for the 1st time in 3 weeks having lost for the first time this season away to current leaders Harlow Town Ladies. At home this Sunday were taking on bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Luton taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes Funmi Babalola scoring her 4th goal of the season. Haringey holding Luton at bay for another half hour before the hosts doubled their lead Zara Carroll’s shot finding the top corner. Jess McKay making it 3-0 with her 7th goal of the season late in the first period. A 4th goal coming early in the 2nd half Erica Bryon scoring her first goal of the season on 47 minutes would go on to score a hat-trick with two quick fire goals on the hour. a 6-0 the goals flowed then for Luton on top adding a further 5 to win the game 11-0. Babalola going on to complete her hat-trick, Carroll adding a further goal along with a brace for Rebecca Kane.
Katie Steward
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies away to AFC Dunstable Women at the weekend like Haringey with just the one point on the board. Peterborough Northern Star undefeated since a narrow loss on the opening day gunning for a 3rd straight win. A brace each for Leah Cudone taking her to 6 goals for the season and last seasons top scorer Katie Steward seeing Peterborough Northern Star head home with the 3 points to put them level amongst the leading pack on 4th spot.
Leah Cudone
7 points earned from their last 4 league games Bedford Ladies climb up to 7th spot in the ERWFL Premier Division onto 10 points level with 6th placed Royston Town Women albeit having played 3 games more and just 3 points from the leading quartet. Bounced back from last weekend defeat away to Wymondham Town Ladies to win the 3 points at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who find themselves slipping down the table after making an encouraging start to the season. Bowers & Pitsea making a great start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes new signing Yasmin Cowley striking for her first goal for the club. Bedford coming back to quickly equalise the initial shot well saved Carissa Kaczorowski there on the follow up to send the ball over the line to make it 1-1. The sides level at half-time Bedford would go on to find the winning goal midway through the 2nd half. Maya Sidhu in plenty of space on the left a through ball finding her taking the ball on to slot into the bottom corner to put Bedford into the lead.
ERWFL Division One North
Cambridge City Ladies Development making a fantastic start to the season following promotion to the ERWFL playing in Division One North 4 wins from for so far, were defending their 100% start at home to Newmarket Town Women this Sunday the visitors with a 100% win record themselves albeit having played just the one league match so far. Newmarket starting well taking the lead on the 17th minute, winning a corner Chloe Slater to put the ball in, Beth Woodfield heading on across goal, Jodie Woodfield nodding in from close range to make it 1-0. Striker Annabel Cuthbert making it 2-0 with her 8th goal of the season. A chance to go 3 up from the penalty spot missed by Cuthbert towards the end of the first period hitting the bar. Cambridge’s defence working hard to keep Newmarket at bay needed a better 2nd half performance. The hosts awarded a penalty on the hour dispatched by Carla Penny to put her joint top scorer on 9 with Bella Simmons making it 2-1. Cambridge pressing for another goal forcing a good save from Newmarket keeper Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls. The hosts given a 2nd penalty with 20 minutes to go Penny successful from the spot levelling the scores to see Cambridge & Newmarket share the points losing their 100% starts stay undefeated.
Far from the start to the season that King’s Lynn Town Ladies were looking for losing their opening two league matches in ERWFL Division One North postponements halting their season for the past two weekends were finally back in action this Sunday the Norfolk side travelling down into Suffolk to play newly promoted East Bergholt United Ladies who have made a promising start to the season playing at a higher level winning 3 of their opening 4 league games currently 2nd in the table. King’s Lynn beginning the match well dominating early on getting into the lead midway through the first half, striker Tiffany Forshaw firing home her 4th goal of the season. The lead doubled on the stroke of half-time captain Becky Russell driving a shot in, King’s Lynn 2-0 up at half-time. East Bergholt came out battling in the 2nd half looking to get back into the match eventually pulling a goal back in the final quarter hour Katie Bruce on target with her first goal of the season. King’s Lynn holding out to claim their first league points of the season.
Histon Ladies with just a point on the board after 3 played in Division One North were looking for their first league win of the season this Sunday at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. A chance to take an early lead as the hosts were awarded a penalty in the opening couple of minutes. Alison Wright to take scoring off the rebound to make it 1-0. Sydney Graham on target to score her first goal for Histon in the 36th minute seeing them into a 2-0 lead at the break. Histon creating further chances in the 2nd period Graham hitting the bar and Sophie Hopkin seeing a shot pushed onto the post Sudbury pulled it back to 2-1 in the 81st minute with scoring her first goal of the season to set up a nervous finish Histon though celebrating the win at the final whistle.
Histon Ladies, Sydney Graham (photo credit Gary Reed)
ERWFL League Cup
One game from the group stage of the ERWFL League Cup played this Sunday postponed from last weekend, in Group C Gorleston Ladies hosting Needham Market Women. Both new to the league. Jason Croft stepping down as Gorleston’s manager this week, oversaw the clubs rise through the leagues gaining two promotions. Player/coach Sophie Gillett stepping up to become manager as the club look to build within the ERWFL. Needham market keen to to make their mark in the ERWFL. A close game scrappy on occasions Gorleston working hard with Needham Market creating opportunities early on the visitors taking the lead in the 11th minute with captain Nicola Henderson’s cross sot finding it’s way over the line. Gorleston proving hard to break down Needham Market without creating too much to trouble Needham market at the other end the hosts having one ruled out for offside, Henderson’s early goal proving the difference.
Was once again another great weekend for Colney Heath Ladies in the ERWFL Premier Division, once again they were the only top 6 side in action in the league on Sunday and took full advantage with back to back wins to climb up into 2nd in the table level on points with leaders Harlow Town Ladies. Away this Sunday were playing newly promoted Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Colney Heath rattling the post in the opening minutes with captain Sheree Oliver striking from 18 yards out. The visitors lacklustre for a spell after came to life again on the half hour another warning shot with Charlene Moreton seeing a shot cannon off the bar. The opening goal scored with 7 minutes left of the first half Samaira Khan with the cutback for Oliver to tap home. A corner won a minute later the ball in controlled by full back Eustacia Randles inside rifling the ball into the roof of the net to make it 2-0 and see her celebrate her first goal of the season.
Opportunities for Bowers & Pitsea trailing 2-0 at the break were soon trailing by 3 Colney Heath scoring again 4 minutes into the restart, Samaira Khan proving to be a potent goal threat since joining from AFC Dunstable scoring her 8th goal of the season. Goalkeeper Amy Butler saving to deny Bowers & Pitsea a goal the visitors awarded a penalty on the hour a clinical finish from Lucy Hancock t make it 4-0. Khan wrapping up a 5-0 win scoring her 2nd of the match with 15 minutes left.
A run of frustrating results for Wymondham Town Ladies was brought to an end at home this Sunday was they recorded their 2nd league win playing Bedford Ladies. The Norfolk side taking the lead in the 23rd minute Hannah Waters lobbing the keeper to score her 8th goal of the season. Chelsea Clarke involved in the build-up to that goal had the assist to see Waters double the lead just 3 minutes later. Bedford catching Wymondham in possession Carissa Kaczorowski capitalising to pull it back to 2-1 before half-time. That how the scores remained leading up to the final 15 minutes of the game Mollie O’Callaghan sending a shot across the keeper to give Wymondham a 2 goal lead. Wymondham adding a 4th goal with 10 minutes left to win 4-1 O’Callaghan seeing her corner headed against the Bedford crossbar by one of their own defenders Freya Symonds pouncing on the rebound to score.
St Ives Town Ladies are beginning to find their feet and confidence playing at this level for the first time have now collected 7 points from their last 3 games after losing their opening 4 league games since winning promotion as Division One champions last season. Away to struggling Haringey Borough Women this weekend came home with all 3 points in the bag. Attackers Georgia Stancombe and Tierney Coulson both getting on the scoresheet with a goal each along with captain Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring from the penalty spot in a 3-1 win.
ERWFL League Cup
The 2nd Round of group games from this season’s new look ERWFL Cup played this weekend the 16 (now 15) Division One sides North & South divided up into 4 groups of 4 playing each other once with the group winners progressing to the knockout stages. 7 matches scheduled the weather playing it’s part unfortunately seeing the games between Gorleston , & Needham Market & King’s Lynn & Hutton postponed. AFC Sudbury awarded an away win over Lawford Ladies left 4 to be played.
In group A, Newmarket Town Women were hosting Stevenage FC Women Development both starting with a win. Newmarket’s win however against the now withdrawn Bishops Stortford and not sure that result win count. Nevertheless playing Stevenage in good form in Division One South, Newmarket picked up another great result winning the match 4-0. Young striker Annabel Cuthbert scoring a brace in the game has 7 goals now from 5 played. Katie Webb not far behind with a goal in the game to take her to 6 goals from 5 played. Lauren Deller also on the scoresheet with her 3rd goal of the season.
A 100% winning start to the season in both league and cup for Cambridge City Ladies Development topping Division One North were away to Millwall Lionesses unbeaten in 3rd in Division One South this Sunday also winning their opening League Cup group match. Meeting in group B. An early goal for the hosts Ellis Lunn chasing the ball down forcing an error from the keeper to tap home into the empty net beyond. Cambridge getting it back all square midway through the 1st half Ellie Cullum seeing her initial shot come back of the keeper slotting the ball in to make it 1-1. Lunn from close range restoring Millwall’s lead, Cambridge hitting back with an instant reply Bella Simmons pouncing as the hosts failed to deal with a long ball. 2-2 at the break. Millwall taking the lead again on the hour Cansu Mentash getting onto the end of a corner to find the back of the net. The clock closing down to the final 10 minutes Millwall extended their lead Shannan Drewe striking to find the bottom corner from outside the box. Again Cambridge came back with an instant reply Simmons with her 2nd of the game to make it 4-3. The visitors rescuing a point in the final minute of the game Rachel Pearce scoring the goal to see it finish 4-4.
All very tight in Group C with 3 sides all on 3 points now. Wodson Park Ladies losing their opening group game against Gorleston away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Sunday. Hoddesdon losing to Needham Market in their opening group match was a vital victory in the competition for Wodson Park as they collect the 3 points courtesy of a 4-0 win.
Was also a vital win in the competition for Histon Ladies on Sunday away to Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies both losing their opening group D games to King’s Town Ladies & Hutton Ladies respectfully that game called off a chance for one or the other to join the pair on 3 points. Goals from Siobhan White and Poppy Kelly on her debut seeing Histon leading 2-0 at half-time. Leigh Ramblers battling back 2nd half to level the scores with Rebecca Dalgarno and Georgia Holdaway on target with a goal a piece. Kelly scoring an 89th minute winner for Histon was unfortunate to see a penalty saved in injury time to deny her a hat-trick.
