A 100% winning start to the season saw Luton Town Ladies top of the fledgling ERWFL Premier Division table with 3 wins out of 3 as they look to bounce back following relegation from the FAWNL last season. A long trip up to Norfolk this Sunday to take on Wymondham Town Ladies. Something of a kit clash between the pair the first half ending in stalemate 0-0. More eventful 2nd half Wymondham making a great start taking the lead on 50 minutes with Chelsea Clarke scoring direct from a corner. 2 minutes later Wymondham were 2-0 up new signing Cassie Craddock putting the ball on for captain Hannah Waters to shoot a score across the keeper. Luton responding with a quick reply pulling it back to 2-1 straight away netting from a corner. The visitors salvaging a point 10 minutes from time to see the game end 2-2 Zara Carroll and Rebecca Ferris the goalscorers.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Hannah Waters
Luton dropping two points sees their winning start end and a new leader at the top of the table as Essex side Harlow Town Ladies take over on difference. Ironically their points dropped so far were away to Wymondham too on the opening day of the season. Have since won 3 on the bounce making a fantastic start to the season, bringing in several new players over the close season have added experience and goals to their ranks. At home to AFC Dunstable Women this Sunday goals from Lucy Edmeades, Amy Nash & Kaydee King helping Harlow to a 7-1 win. Also on target were Nicole Farmer with her 1st Harlow goal, Hannah Porter also scoring her 1st goals for the club netting twice. With Becky Shephard another new addition scoring her 8th goal of the season. Louise McCay with the consolation goal for AFC Dunstable.
10 points each for Harlow and Luton at the top of the Premier Division, tight at the top as 3 sides jostle for position just a point behind. Royston Town Women nudging ahead on goal difference into 3rd spot as they extend their winning streak to 3 matches in league and cup. Were away to Hertfordshire rivals Colney Heath Ladies this Sunday, both sides with a good start to the season, injuries affecting Colney Heath last time out were again hit by an injury with defender Kelly Glynn suffering ligament damage. Goals from Charlotte South and a brace from Rebecca Vass seeing Royston leading 3-0 going into the final 15 minutes of the match. Samiara Khan pulling it back to 3-1 for Colney Heath. Sammy Tinsley scoring to secure a 4-1 victory to Royston.
An off day for Wroxham Women at home to Harlow Town Ladies last Sunday they were looking to bounce back this weekend once again at home taking on St Ives Town Ladies, the newly promoted side still looking for their first points of the season. Wroxham making a great start to the game Grace Birchall onto the end of a long clearance to strike home from 18 yards. 6 minutes later Wroxham were 2-0 up, Birchall on the scoresheet once again brought down 30 yards out scoring from the resulting free-kick. A minute later it was 3, Mary-Anne Hoy latching onto a sliced clearance out wide firing the ball back in on the angle to score her 1st of the season. Wroxham 3-0 up at the break continued to dominate in the 2nd period and despite being reduced to 10 after Rhianne Brister was sent off for collecting two yellows the hosts when on to add 3 more goals in the final 20 minutes a 2nd half hat-trick for Birchall adding to the 2 she scored first half putting her on 9 for the season. Paige Jones scoring a late goal for St Ives Town her 1st of the season nothing but a consolation.
Joining Royston and Wroxham on 9 points are newly promoted Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. This despite suffering a heavy defeat to the hands of Harlow their only loss to date however as they record a 3rd league win this Sunday at home to Haringey Borough Women. Meagan Harley firing a shot into the bottom corner to put the Essex side into the lead. A 30 rocket struck by Danielle Styles off a free-kick doubling the lead. 2-0 up at half-time Bowers & Pitsea went 3-0 up courtesy of Danni Jennings running from halfway taking on three players to send the ball home. Harley putting a shot into the roof of the net making it 4-0. Jennings too scoring a brace to see the game won 5-0.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies also victorious this weekend are in 7th spot in the Premier Division table but just 3 points behind the leaders. An away trip to Bedford Ladies this Sunday, Leah Cudone celebrating her birthday early by scoring a brace for the visitors with Gabrielle Smith also scoring her 1st goal for the club Peterborough running out 3-1 winners. Mathilda Fidler on the scoresheet for Bedford.
ERWFL Division One North
Has been something of the slow start to the league campaigns in both the ERWFL Division One North and South this season, cup games taking priority at the start of the season on most cases 5 of the 16 sides competing in both division still to get off the mark. Two games in Division One North this Sunday. Newly promoted East Bergholt United Ladies one of the few to have actually played a league match prior to this weekend top after a 7-1 win away to fellow promoted side Gorleston Ladies. This weekend they were at home looking to make it 2 wins from two as they took no Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead Jessica Clark on the run striking from 35 yards putting her shot over the keeper on 7 minutes. Histon competing hard looking for a reply efforts narrowly wide one striking the bar. East Bergholt holding their 1-0 advantage heading into the final 15 minutes made thing’s more comfortable Charlotte McGrath finding space to shoot and find the bottom corner from 15 yards out. East Bergholt winning 2-0.
Also marking their ERWFL debut with a win are Cambridge City Ladies Development. A tough test to start the campaign away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A closely fought 1st half Cambridge City coming closest with Carla Penny striking the post. The dead lock broken just before half-time Penny finding the back on the net this time from 18 yards out. The visitors defending a slender lead began the 2nd half well adding another goal Freya Standing volleying in to make it 2-0. King’s Lynn battling back pulling it back to 2-1 with captain Becky Russell scoring from a free-kick. Cambridge City hitting King’s Lynn on the counter to score a 3rd, Bella Simmons carrying the ball out of defence setting up Standing to score her 2nd of the game to see Cambridge City win their league opener 3-1.
ERWFL Division One South
The ERWFL can be a brutal league at times and feature some eye watering scorelines, this weekend no exception in Division One South. Stevenage FC Women Development having started their season with a 6-0 win over Hoddesdon Tow Owls Ladies, were at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies this weekend. The host were short on numbers with just 10 available. Up against a Stevenage side that could name five on the bench. Several additions to the Stevenage squad over the summer, young exciting talent added to an already experienced bunch the hosts proving too strong with no less than 7 players opening their goals account. Paige Prior on her debut scoring 5! Lucy Bolitho scoring 4, Rebecca Brooker on target for a brace there were 1st goals too for Louise Godden Louise Sollis, Danielle Ransom and Sherrie Evans. Sofia Carpenter on target for a hat-trick, Emily Schofield and Chloe Gunn also getting goals in a crushing 20-1 win. Georgia Sleep scoring the Bishops Stortford goal.
A tough start to the season too for Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies losing their opening league fixture were away to new side Millwall Lionesses making their league bow this weekend. Ellis Lunn getting Millwall off to a flyer scoring in the opening 5 minutes was celebrating a hat-trick before 20 minutes. Katie Klosinski making it 4-0 in 21 minutes. Millwall dominating early on. 5 more goals to the hosts before half-time. Lunn adding 2 more to her tally. Klosinski with her 2nd along with goals for Molly Hawkins and captain Emily Stanley. Millwall ruthless leading 9-0 at half-time. Shannan Drewe bringing up a 10th goal for Millwall 5 minutes into the 2nd period the hosts awarded a penalty, Drewe on target from the spot. A lull in play then with no more goals added until the final 10 minutes with Hawkins scoring twice to celebrate a hat-trick. Millwall winning 12-0.
Amongst the goals Ellis Lunn scoring 5 for Millwall Lionesses (photo credit Millwall Lionesses)
Hutton Ladies began their ERWFL Division One South campaign at home to the same opponents they faced last Sunday in the League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Hutton beating the newly promoted side 7-1 then. Another win for Hutton this Sunday the 3 points coming courtesy of a 4-0 win. Last season’s runaway top scorer Vicky Kinsman scoring a brace there were goals too for Sally Appleton ad Hayley Piggott with her first of the season.
A return trip to Peterborough this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier League with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies hosting early leaders Colney Heath Ladies.
The standard within the league improving year on year is highly competitive at this level and rarely disappoints in entertainment. Several sides have recruited well over the summer and could will be intriguing to find out who winds up on top. Both of today’s opponents enjoy a good relationship and support from within the wider club.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving across to join the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) last season having previously been with the East Midlands regional set-up. A strong outfit pushing towards the top of the league they were among the front runners early on before injuries and lack of numbers took their toll towards the end of the season. A need to recruit and strengthen the first team, they have brought in several new additions with the likes of Kayla Dortch, Kimberly Fairweather, Gabrielle Smith, Eleanor Spendelow and Leah Cudone coming in. The first team backed up by a Reserves side playing in a 13 strong Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season. A last gaps goal seeing them lose 3-2 at home to Luton Town Ladies on the opening day. Bounced back with a 3-0 win away to newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies last time out.
Colney Heath Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two league games scoring 17 goals in the process to top the ERWFL Premier Division one of 3 sides still with a 100% record. A great performance in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup last Sunday saw them win 3-1 away to fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. Now entering their 3rd season playing at this level have consolidated well and will be looking to push on. A terrific start last season however they fell away badly losing their manager. Paul Gleeson coming in thing’s began to pick up towards the end of last season, have recruited over the summer too with the likes of Jordan Goddard, Rachel Spendlow, goalkeeper Amy Butler and Samaira Khan joining.
The Branch Bros Stadium, Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground to the northern end of the city easy to get to. Two large grass area with pitches either side of the main pitch overlooked by the bar and clubhouse on entry. A burger van open to serve hot food and drinks. The pitch with a thick covering of grass two small seated stands available either side of the dugouts. A pleasant day a few dark clouds around but no rain forecast keeping the temperature down, the sun bright when it does poke through.
Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Lucy Hancock, Samantha May, Catalina Costas, Annie Hickey, Kelly Glynn, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver (C), Samiara Khan, Adi Milton, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Mel Godino & Rachel Sherlow.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Four of the 12 sides in the ERWFL Premier Division play in a black and white strip, Royston, St Ives Town and today’s opponents. Peterborough with home advantage wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and black and white hooped socks lining up as Colney Heath wearing an all blue away kit prepare to kick-off the match. Pressure from the hosts straight away forcing Colney Heath back towards their own box Katie Steward in to pinch the ball central sees it run on in behind Emma Pollard giving chase moving away from goal the angle against her as she gets her foot around the ball her attempt wide of the near post.
Emma Pollard looking to head the ball on for Peterborough
Peterborough starting brightly Steward in possession on the right controls well before turning inside to fire a cross in along the six yard box no one attacking it central, goalkeeper Lucy Hancock able to gather at the far post. Christina Freestone on the ball central plays it out wide left for Samaira Khan, 5 goals for the winger since joining the club looks to take the ball on tackled by Peterborough’s Evie Driscoll-King the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly inside the Peterborough half attacker Charlene Moreton coming towards the ball heading it on over the top for Rianne Townsend-Brown she sends it wide to her right with Adi Milton looking to get inside her fullback, strong running into the box, goalkeeper and captain Sarah Hudson out well to close her down makes the blocking save at her feet.
Driscoll-King putting in a good tackle to deny Khan again on the wing sends a great all up the right for Steward to chase, gathering the ball takes it on before wrapping her foot around the ball to launch a cross into the area, Hancock up well to claim it. Both sides looking to turn the play around quickly Milton almost succeeds in playing Townsend-Brown through central with a well flighted diagonal pass, the striker halted however by a raised flag.
Kayla Dortch
Khan stays onside from a free-kick won on the left played forwards the winger squaring a pacey ball along the top of the area finds its way through to Milton far side meets it first time with the outside of her boot the shot in angling away from goal. Peterborough mount a quick attack of their own from front to back the ball through the middle almost has Steward in top of the area but Hancock out well just about does enough to thwart her as her defence recovers to clear the ball.
Catalina Costas holding of Peterborough’s Katie Steward
Chanade Henderson getting hold of the ball in the middle for Peterborough plays a great ball forwards for Steward to attack in behind shoulder to shoulder with full back Catalina Costas the Colney Heath defender doing well to get a toe to the ball before Steward to send it wide of goal, then a controversial decision by the referee in the visitors opinion as goalkeeper Hancock goes out towards the ball is warned not to pick it up but does, Colney Heath complaining it wasn’t a back pass an indirect free-kick awarded against them wide of goal near the edge of the six yard box. A crowded penalty area the intention to smash it across the face of goal the Colney Heath defence charge it down and clear successfully.
Peterborough Northern Star’s Chanade Henderson
An entertaining opening to the match both sides lively, Colney Heath with the slower start coming into it more as captain Sheree Oliver plays the ball forwards to Milton on the right possession retained, a cross lifted into the box, Khan central rising a tall player, can only get a glancing header the ball over at the far post. A delay in play then as a dogs mess is discovered on the pitch, happens at this level now an again. The task of clearing it up usually the home side managers (although I doubt Emma Hayes had this dilemma at Stamford Bridge this afternoon) Dean Steward managing Peterborough armed with a plastic bag clearing up the offending item and play can resume.
The free-kick scheduled to take place nearby as Driscoll-King plays a fantastic ball into the box, Hancock in amongst bodies on the penalty spot with a good punch getting it away. Hancock reacting sharply again moments later as a defensive error puts Leah Cudone in behind on the left of attack into the box the goalkeeper rushing out to gather top of the area. Peterborough upping the tempo attacking with more urgency in the last five minutes get control of the ball inside their opponents half Gabrielle Smith showing fantastic close ball control threading a pass forwards for Cudone playing in in to attack the box central Hancock coming to close her down Cudone looks to place her shot wide of the advancing keeper, not enough however as Hancock throws out and arm to stop the ball.
Hancock quick to set up the counter attack the ball up to Milton a threat on the right plays the ball on for Townsend-Brown in behind, the defence caught static, Hudson comes out towards her top of the area right of the D, Townsend-Brown sending the ball past her as the pair collide, Kayla Dortch back by then on hand can clear the ball if needed by can see it safely behind only just mind. Neither side on top, both looking like they will find the opening goal Peterborough regain possession central Smith finding her pass again to see fullback Samantha May outnumbered left side of the area as Cudone and Pollard burst forwards the shot fired in across goal into the bottom corner, the goal though doesn’t stand the flag raised against the pair.
Rianne Townsend-Brown looking to get in behind the Peterborough defence
Costas has picked up an injury for Colney Heath the full back struggling can’t continue bringing the first change of the match with Rachel Spendlow joining at right back. Peterborough have a corner on the right the delivery short as Cudone spots makes a run towards the ball turning to shoot from 20 yards out her strike over the bar. A mix-up at the back inside the six yard box from the Colney Heath defence sees Cudone latch onto the ball attempting to turn right side to get a shot away the blocking tackle sees the ball cleared falling to Peterborough’s Faith Horner she shoots 25 yards out the ball safely handled straight into Hancock’s midriff.
Colney Heath attack right Milton winning her side a corner kick the delivery in central headed clear Cudone bringing it away left play a quality pass on for Steward breaking forwards right channel, Sherlow back with her lunging in to make the tackle top of the area to take the ball away from the attacker.
GOAL! Half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Peterborough on the attack right side, Driscoll-King having made some good runs forwards previously allowed to go on bringing the ball inside from the top of the area hits it hard sending the ball angling in across the face of goal, finds its way past everyone to nestle into the back of the net 1-0.
Evie Driscoll-King with the opening goal of the game
A few robust tackles have been a feature of the first half, Freestone upended by Smith in the middle sees the Peterborough player warned. Peterborough enjoying the lions share of the attacking play now, Dortch’s defence clearance turning into a great ball forwards Steward after it looks to lay it off inside for Pollard to shoot, Annie Hickey reading it for Colney Heath the defender in to nick the ball and attempt to set up a counter attack, on to Freestone to Milton away on the right squares a cross in ear side Townsend-Brown going for it so too Dortch the defender sliding in to win the challenge inside the box.
Flowing football from Peterborough Henderson with Horner out to Steward right side a brilliant pass long in behind on the diagonal to pick out Cudone nipping into the box left, her first touch taking the ball out from her feet giving Hancock a chance to dive for it, grabbing it into her body Cudone hurdling over her.
GOAL! Out of nothing Colney Heath are back on level terms late in the first half. Milton who has carried a threat all through the first half doing well to win a corner on the right players forwards as Charlene Moreton goes across to take it, a fantastic inswinging delivery high, Hudson up for it near post misses the ball past her finds the underside of the ball to nestle into the back of the net 1-1.
Charlene Moreton scores direct from a corner to level the scores for Colney Heath
The full back have swapped sides for Colney Heath, May over at left back now called into action to make a vital tackle inside the box as the ball is played on through the middle to send Steward away in attack the full back on her shoulder pushing her wide of goal lunging to make the tackle before Steward can unleash a shot.
Katie Steward attacking for Peterborough Samantha May across to defend for Colney Heath
GOAL! The game turned completely on its head then as moments after levelling the scores they break to score and take the lead. The ball left side lifted forwards a miscued defensive clearance seeing the ball fall in behind with Milton quickest on the right side latching onto it taking on the shot early from 25 yards out well struck Hudson with little chance as it flies over her into the back of the net 1-2.
Finding themselves trailing with just a minute of the first half left Peterborough get on the attack good combination play between Driscoll-King and Steward on the right the cross played into the box Pollard right of the D, her effort blocked by Hickey. Peterborough closing the ball down with intensity with the half-time whistle imminent.
GOAL! Winning the ball inside the Colney Heath half their defence pushed up Dortch to Mulheron who plays a great ball forwards for Cudone to gather on the left the striker head down with one intent to get inside and take on the shot lets fly from the top of the area the ball angling in over the keeper into the top corner 2-2. The half-time whistle blows.
Leah Cudone scoring a superb equaliser to make it 2-2 on the stroke of half-time
Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies
An entertaining first half of football, plenty of action, played at a good pace, chances created, a splash of controversy into the mix. Peterborough started well and created opportunities. Colney Heath coming back into the game Both sides making use of their wide players, Peterborough taking a deserved lead, Colney Heath with a fortunate levelling goal but no doubt about their 2nd a quality strike from Milton, Peterborough responding well to level the scores before the break Cudone with a superb strike to make it 2-2. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.
The sun starting to poke through more towards the end of the first half now bright and facing the goal Peterborough are defending 2nd half as they get the game restarted. Both sides making a change at half-time Kimberly Fairweather on in place of Smith for Peterborough, Melissa Godino replaced Khan in the wing for Colney Heath. Cudone out on the right attacking sends a driven shot in towards the near post the ball held by Hancock closing the angle.
Oliver bringing the ball forwards for Colney Heath up the right into Milton she cuts infield before firing a cross in towards the top of the area met by Moreton her 1st time effort rising towards goal sails over the crossbar. Mulheron picking up the first yellow card of the game for an ungainly tackle on Milton looking to get on 20 yards out on the right. Freestone over the set-piece floated into the area, claimed well by Hudson. A lively start to the 2nd half both sides closing down the ball.
Christina Freestone winning the ball in midfield for Colney Heath
Townsend-Brown caught just offside as Colney Heath play the ball on through the middle. Peterborough a little sloppy with their passes in the middle, Oliver getting hold of it up for Moreton, Mulheron in to win the ball back. Hancock is having an assured performance in goal for Colney Heath takes a confident catch high above her head as Cudone lifts a cross in from the right.
Sheree Oliver playing the ball forwards
A 2nd change for Peterborough with Georgia Coulson coming on for Davies. Peterborough get a corner on the right the delivery in towards the near side punched back to the taker by Hancock, crossed back in dropping in the six yard box, players attacking it none can get a clean strike on the ball, Hickey wining it with a no nonsense clearance. Steward out on the right bursts in behind Hancock coming to meet her one on one Steward jinks left the right attempting to deceive the keeper before trying to shoot across her, Hancock saving once more.
Peterborough enjoying more of the attack more Colney Heath happy to sit ready to hit on the counter. Oliver bringing it out on for Townsend-Brown, Milton the outlet ready to go on the right, Coulson intercepting the pass for Peterborough. Hancock continues to thwart the Peterborough attack again Cudone clever is through into the box looking to take the ball around the keeper, Hancock down to pinch the ball. Pollard lines up a strike from 20 yards her attempt drilled wide. Fairweather comes off for Peterborough on comes Alexa Hunter. Milton off for Colney Heath, Khan returning with Godino moving to the right.
Bronwyn Mulheron
Henderson allowed to travel with the ball 20 yards out goes to pull the trigger Hickey running out to close her down making the block. Into the final 20 minutes the game remains there for the taking. Pollard carries the attack on the right for Peterborough, May holding her up, Cudone joining in support the pair win a corner. The ball in cleared by Hickey, her header falling to Steward 25 yards out does connect with the shot lacks the pace to trouble Hancock.
Kelly Glynn holding off Leah Cudone
Colney Heath’s defence the busier a determination amongst them not to concede, Glynn clearing as Hunter almost feds Pollard into the box making a run left channel. Pollard’s last actin of the game as she comes off now to be replaced by Eleanor Spendelow. Cudone looking the most likely to score as she makes another purposeful run on the right her shot fired in low Hancock down to save the ball loose however in front of her Peterborough slow to follow-up as Colney Heath scramble it away. Cudone taking the ball on to the byline right side lifting a cross in central evading Hancock this time, Spendlow jumping in the middle can’t keep her header down.
Samaira Khan tracking Frances Horner as she brings the ball on for Peterborough
Mulheron sending a fine pass forwards for Steward breaking right of the D takes aim the ball on target can only pick out Hancock back on her line, The game entering the final five minutes, Colney Heath working hard in defence keen to remain unbeaten allow Peterborough to come on. Coulson playing the ball on for Hunter to release Henderson central, Hickey stepping out of the back line to defend for Colney Heath. Another change for Colney Heath, Coulson departing… Frances Peeling on.
Peterborough winning a couple of free-kicks on the right late on Cudone on the first, Hancock claiming. The 2nd taken by Steward with Horner coming for it, Hickey dealing with the threat for the visitors. Moments left Peterborough attacking late on Henderson off a throw left crossing along the top of the area Hunter touching it into the path of the advancing Driscoll-King smashes a ball in towards goal deflected central Spendlow central wrong footed adjusts well to get her head on it turn it back towards goal Hancock across at her left post to save.
Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies
The points shared in an entertaining game, all action from start to finish. No more goals added 2nd half but not for want of trying from Peterborough pushed hard in the 2nd half Colney Heath putting in a solid defensive display thwarting them. Little in attack from the visitors in the 2nd 45 did invite pressure but maintain their unbeaten start to the season with a few players out.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award not an easy one once again a few contenders certainly. Adi Milton carrying a threat on the right for Colney Heath especially first half scoring a fantastic goal. Lucy Hancock with a confident display in goal reading the game well. For Peterborough, Evie Driscoll-King with good defensive work at full back getting forwards well to linking with Katie Steward. Edging it though Leah Cudone attacking for Peterborough brings a wealth of experience to the side making forceful and clever runs on and off the ball creating chances and always looking to score. Took her goal beautifully.
An enjoyable trip to Peterborough, the ERWFL Premier Division producing yet another entertaining game full of excitement. Competitive from the 1st minute. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated. 5 games into the season already can’t believe it.
The 2nd round of league fixtures to begin the ERWFL Premier Division this hot Bank Holiday Sunday, and for the 2nd weekend running we saw an eye watering scoreline. A 15-1 win for Colney Heath Ladies last time around against AFC Dunstable Women, Harlow Town Ladies went one better at home this Sunday with a comprehensive 16-1 result over fellow Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Newly promoted to the Premier Division, Bowers & Pitsea had started the season with a 3-2 win over fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies. Started well at Harlow opening the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes Sophie Dowman capitalising on a defensive error to put the visitors 1-0 up. Harlow came back to level 10 minutes later, 2 quick goals seeing them extend their lead Harlow added another 4 before half-time as Bowers & Pitsea struggled with the hot conditions.
Harlow were to go on and rattle in another 9 goals in the 2nd half but despite the heavy scoreline were full of praise for Bowers & Pitsea’s spirit and endeavour. Harlow have made some strong additions over the summer and two of those opened there accounts with a hat-trick each, Georgia Box and Becky Shephard, Amy Nash also newly joined also getting her first goal for Harlow. Olivia Steele was also amongst the goals with a hat-trick. Tayla Handscombe and captain Kaydee King both netting a brace, their was also a goal each for Frances Gamble and last weekends scorer Bethany Chambers. Harlow up to fourth in the Premier Division table behind 3 sides still with 100% records.
Becky Shephard one of Harlow Town Ladies one of 3 players celebrating a hat-trick on Sunday (picture credit Gary Reed)
Colney Heath Ladies remain top thanks to their big win last Sunday were on the road this Sunday taking on Haringey Borough Women. A 9-0 opening day loss for the hosts on the opening day looked like they might hold Colney Heath to a goalless first half, Adrienne Milton played in to score late on to give the visitors the lead. Colney Heath with a threadbare squad doubled their lead early in the 2nd half with Samaira Khan newly joined from Dunstable on the end of a cross supplied by Milton to make it 2-0 adding another goal to the hat-trick secured on the opening day. Colney Heath keeping a clean sheet up the other end making it 2 wins from 2 to start the season.
Dionne Manning scoring a late winner away to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies on the opening day saw Luton Town Ladies with 3-2. This Sunday played their first home game of the season taking on Royston Town Women who had started the season with a 9-0 win at home to Haringey Borough Women. Looked to be heading for a goalless first period too Luton having created chances taking the lead in the 45th minute, Rebecca Wilson-Kane sending the ball into the bottom corner. The lead doubled with 12 minutes of the 2nd half gone a corner won Erica Byron sending the ball into the box Rachel Carter up highest to meet it and send a bullet header into the back of the net. 2-0 it remained heading into the final minute of the game Luton winning a penalty, Manning stepping up to score a confident finish adding a goal to her opening day hat-trick. Luton into 2nd courtesy of a 3-0 win.
A 3-0 home win too for Wroxham Women as they climb into 3rd with a 100% start beating Norfolk rivals Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday at Trafford Park. Grace Birchall top scoring for Wroxham (Acle as they were last season) with 33 goals, opened her account this season to put the hosts into the lead at half-time. On 65 minutes Wroxham got themselves into a 2-0 lead Birchall scoring her 2nd of the game heading in from a grace Parker free-kick, two minutes later from a corner Kate Pasque got her head to the ball to add a 3rd for the hosts and help secure a 3-0 victory.
Losing out to a last gasp winner at home on the opening day Peterborough Northern Star Ladies were away this Sunday travelling to Westwood Road to play newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies. Leah Cudone adding quality to an already capable attack getting her account for the season open to put Peterborough into an early lead cutting in from the left to send a shot home. Katie Steward double the advantage in the 17th minute as she scored direct from a corner. St Ives came close to pulling a goal back midway through the first half Sarah Hudson making a fantastic diving save to keep the ball out. Leading 2-0 at half-time St Ives continued to battle looking for a reply didn’t come as Peterborough made the points secure with 10 minutes left, Emma Pollards looping ball from outside the area adding to the 2 she scored on the opening day.
A heavy defeat to start their ERWFL Premier Division campaign last Sunday, AFC Dunstable Women were on the road once again this Sunday albeit not far as they faced local rivals Bedford Ladies who themselves suffered a narrow 2-1 loss at home to Wroxham on the opening day. Priya Bhatti with the Bedford goal then, she added another to her tally against Dunstable with 4 more opening their accounts for the hosts with Setor Acolatse, Jasmine Ajayi, Charlotte Demmon and Mathilda Fidler all on the scoresheet in a 5-1 win. Sydney Webb finding the back of the net for Dunstable.
One more edition of The Round-Up to bring you this week as this Sunday also saw the start of the new ERWFL season, the Premier Division sides beginning their campaigns. Once again featuring 12 sides, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies promoted along with last season’s Division One champions St Ives Town Ladies. AFC Sudbury Ladies are relegated to the new Division One North whilst Luton Town Ladies drop into the league having finished bottom of FAWNL South East Division One last season. Like the FAWNL above the ERWFL has seen a far bit of player movement over the close season.
All 12 sides in action on the opening day and for a couple their were mouth watering scorelines. Colney Heath Ladies starting the new campaign with a bang. Entering their 3rd season playing in the Premier Division were at home taking on AFC Dunstable Women who having struggled last season were looking forwards to the new season with renewed optimism. New players brought in it proved to be a tough first fixture one to be forgotten as they were soundly beaten by a double figure margin. An ex-player inflicting the most damage as Samaira Khan newly signed by Colney Heath scored 4 goals on her competitive debut. Rianne Townsend-Brown top scorer for Colney Heath last season with 15 goals getting her account opened as she netted a hat-trick. Three more scoring a brace on the opening day with Megan Kelly, Lucy Hancock and Charlene Moreton all getting 2 each Adrienne Milton also celebrating a goal in a 15-1. Bianca Vassell starring for the Development side last season with the consolation goal for Dunstable.
A huge goal difference already for Colney Heath, also too for Royston Town Women as they started with a big result at home to Haringey Borough Women on the opening day. A 3rd placed finish for Royston last season, Joanne Rutherford led the goal scoring charts with 19 goals. Hit a hat-trick on the opening day with Ellie Wilkerson, Samantha Edgar and Emma Slater all scoring a brace in a comfortable 9-0 win.
A hat-trick for Royston Town Women’s, Joanne Rutherford on the opening day
Closer results elsewhere, the two newly promoted sides meeting on the opening day, St Ives Town Ladies travelling to Essex to play Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. The hosts making a great start as Sophie Dowman fired them into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. That remained the score at the break. A sloppy start to the 2nd half allowing St Ives the opportunity to get back on level terms scoring form a free-kick in the 47th minute then taking the lead themselves 5 minutes later with Sasha Smith and Ruth Fox opening their accounts. Bowers & Pitsea rallying late on the game into the final 10 minutes a free-kick won on the edge of the box fired home by Megan Harley 2-2. The 3 points won with 5 minutes left on the clock the Essex side winning a corner the ball delivered far post a bullet header from new signing and captain Donna Fletcher finding the back of the net to win it 3-2.
Luton Town Ladies began life in the ERWFL with an away trip to the Branch Bros Stadium to play Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. Both sides making several new additions to their squads over the summer with both expecting to be challenging for top spot. Dionne Manning opening the scoring to put Luton into the lead 1st half. Peterborough coming back to level and then score another to lead 2-1 before the break with Emma Pollard scoring both goals. Luton getting back on level terms themselves in the 2nd period with Manning on the scoresheet for her 2nd of the game. A dramatic finish to the match with Manning grabbing a late winner and completing a hat-trick to win the game for Luton 3-2.
Bedford Ladies were playing hosts on the opening day to a familiar opponent but with a new name this season as Acle United Women become Wroxham Women. Will be aiming for the title regardless once again in their new colours a new beginning they found themselves trailing at the break to a first half penalty with Priya Bhatti scoring for Bedford. Emily Leach joining late last season adds presence and a goal threat in Wroxham’s final third and she was on target to get the visitors back on level terms at 1-1 before Kayleigh Holloway newly signed from local rivals and Premier Division counterparts Wymondham Town scored a rocket on her debut to see the game won 2-1.
Wymondham Town Ladies themselves were hosting Essex side Harlow Town Ladies on the opening day. Both promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division last season were impressive in their debut season at this level will be looking to kick on further, both making several changes and additions to their squads over the close season. Harlow taking the lead in the 22nd minute hitting Wymondham on the break Bethany Chambers putting the ball home. Wymondham coming back to level just past the half hour new signing Mia Etheridge arriving from Sudbury scoring from a crossed ball on her debut. 1-1 at the break Wymondham pressed hard for another goal 2nd half Harlow keeping them out the sides sharing the points.
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.
Harlow Town Ladies were at home this Sunday playing their final match in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division, their confidence buoyed by a midweek 3-2 win away to 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies. The visitors to the Harlow Arena 3rd placed Acle United Women, travelling for Norfolk with an injury hit squad the bare 11 with manager Rebecca Burton named as substitute. Despite that it was the visitors from Norfolk who drew first blood taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Harlow coming back into it quickly to equalise. Acle retaking the lead in the 34th minute with Grace Birchall running in to make it 2-1. Birchall extending Acle lead with a couple of minutes left in the first half. Time for Harlow to pull a goal back scoring a volleyed goal from a free-kick.
Acle United Women’s Grace Birchall
Acle leading 3-2 at half-time Harlow with a fast start scoring a 3rd goal in the 52nd minute to see it all square at 3-3. A competitive tussle there was late drama, two minutes of normal time left and Harlow were reduced to 10 goalkeeper Charlie Orwell sent off adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area. Birchall going on to complete her hat-trick to put Acle back in front in the 93rd minute. Harlow pressing on attacking the crossbar struck in the 96th minute the rebound was headed back over the line to see the sides share the points in a dramatic 4-4 draw. The point sees Acle level on points with Royston in 2nd both with a game to play. Harlow’s goalscorers, Chloe Bassett, Bethany Chambers and a brace for Poppy Binding. Currently in 5th spot are assured a top half finish.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup winners, Wymondham Town Ladies travelled down to Essex for their final game of the season in the ERWFL Premier Division. Promoted along with Harlow Town Ladies have enjoyed a successful campaign securing a 4th placed finish in the league. Brentwood Town Ladies their opponents slipping down the table after making an encouraging start to the season. A close game the point looked like they were going to be shared the winning goal scored in the 88th minute, Freya Symonds making her debut for Wymondham striking the ball into the top corner to see the game won.
Bedford Ladies and Peterborough Northern Star Ladies were meeting each other for the 3rd time in a month on Sunday, the previous games in Peterborough, Bedford knocking the hosts out of the league cup with Peterborough winning their league encounter a week later 1-0. Another close game between the pair this Sunday at Bedford. The hosts coming away with all 3 points winning the game 2-1.
ERWFL Division One
ERWFL Division One Champions, St Ives Town Ladies travelled down to Essex this Sunday to play thier penultimate game of the season still unbeaten in the league. Georgia Stancombe with a tap in scoring her 15th goal of the season for St Ives to put them in front. Hutton coming back to level the scores to see the game finish 1-1. Bad news for St Ives however as they lose goalkeeper Kira Markwell to injury a vital part of a back-line that has conceded just 10 league goals all season. Women’s Football East extends their best wishes to Kira Markwell for a full and speedy recovery.
Clinching runners-up spot Bowers & Pitsea Ladies travelled up to Cambridgeshire for their final game of the season. Taking on Histon Ladies. Histon playing in the League Plate Final this Sunday against Newmarket Town Ladies taking the lead in the 34th minute Sophie Lanham’s goal the difference between the sides at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea scoring early in the 2nd half to level the scores and see the game finish 1-1. Georgia Fraser with the goal finishing top scorer on 18 goals. A great first season under the Bowers & Pitsea name ERWFL Division One runners-up aswell as silverware lifting the Essex Women’s Trophy.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves won their final game of the season to end the campaign in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Division One table. Were at home to Hatfield Peverel Ladies, 2nd bottom in the table also completing their fixtures. A hat-trick form top scorer Emily Schofield giving her 23 for the season and a goal for Katherine Taylor seeing the hosts win 4-2. Currently 3rd can be caught by 4th placed Newmarket and King’s Lynn Town Ladies in 5th. Jasmine Cox and Michelle Hodgson on the score sheet for Hatfield Peverel a tough first season playing in the ERWFL, although thing’s have gotten better late in the season to build encouragement for the new season have suffered from a lack of goals just 16 scored in the league.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies finishing the season strong climbing up to 5th in the table have 3 games left to play too on 32 points could yet challenge for a top 3 spot. An away trip this Sunday to take on Lawford Ladies. Goals from Tiffany Forshaw, Becky Russell, Olivia Baker and Emma Corbyn seeing the Norfolk side travel back home with all 3 points in the bag winning the game 4-0.
The top three not in action in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday, the league action begins with Acle United Women the 4th placed side hosting 5th placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. The Norfolk side to become Wroxham Women from the start of next season holding a 2-0 lead at half-time, substitute Grace Birchall on for the injured Kate Pasque with both the goals. Emily Leach joining from Bungay Town Ladies scoring her 1st goal fr Acle 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Alexa Hunter pulling a goal back for Peterborough Norther Star her first goal of the season. Acle going 4-1 ahead midway through the 2nd half with Birchall completing a hat-trick defender Chloe Shields scoring her first goal of the season with 3 minutes left on the clock to put Acle 5-1 ahead Hunter getting a 2nd goal late in stoppage time for the visitors. A 3rd straight league win seeing Acle move above Wymondham into 3rd position.
Harlow Town Ladies got back to winning ways on Sunday as they look to secure a top half finish in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division were away to fellow Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies at the weekend. Tayla Handscombe on target netting twice along with a goal a piece for Chloe Bassett, Poppy Binding and captain Kaydee King seeing Harlow run out 5-0 winners.
5 straight league wins now for Colney Heath Ladies as they regain the form they showed at the start of the season to climb up the Premier Division table, up to 7th spot now above their weekend opponents Bedford Ladies. Away from home. Christina Freestone firing Colney Heath into the lead. Bedford coming back with a shot from distance flying in to make it 1-1. The game all square at half-time Colney Heath winning the game in the 2nd half thanks to a 25 yard screamer from Sheree Oliver.
Has been a difficult two seasons for Haringey Borough Women regrouping after a year in the FAWNL, dropping back to the ERWFL this campaign bottom for a long period glimpses of better times around the corner wins coming late in the season they got themselves off the foot of the table a coming out on top away to fellow strugglers AFC Sudbury Ladies in an 8 goal thriller have secured their league status. Mia Etheridge, Sophie Jeffery and Olivia Gunn scoring for Sudbury the final game of the season for both sides Haringey found the back of the net for 5 goals up the other end to win in their last game finish 3rd from bottom. Sudbury finish bottom have struggled for numbers all season a tough season as they drop down to Division One.
ERWFL Division One
St Ives Town Ladies are the Champions! Winning the ERWFL Division One title in their debut season playing at regional level top of the league making a winning start haven’t looked back since unbeaten winning 16 of the 20 league games played so far. A rapid rise clinching 3 promotions in 4 seasons still very much a young and developing side too.
Just a point needed as they took on familiar rivals Newmarket Town Ladies at home. The 3rd placed side the last side to claim a league win over St Ives back in 2017. Often a close game between the sides and this Sunday no exception, St Ives not conceding too many goals by far the best defensive record in Division One with just 9 in the against column. kept Newmarket out whilst a single goal was enough to clinch victory and the title, scored by Emily Smith in the 2nd half.
St Ives Town Ladies ERWFL Division One Champions (picture credit Gary Reed)
A fantastic achievement from St Ives Town Ladies congratulations of winning the title.
2nd spot assured for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies the Essex side enjoying a strong first season under the Bowers & Pitsea banner. Silverware collected too in the form of the Essex Women’s Trophy were taking on their fellow finalists again this Sunday in the league Lawford Ladies. Sophie Dowman heading Bowers & Pitsea Ladies int the lead on 15 minutes. Lawford soon getting back on level terms with captain Daisy Canny making it 1-1 6 minutes later. As good as it got for Lawford however as 3 minutes later Bowers & Pitsea were back in front form a cracking strike from Megan Harley. Harley scoring again on 30 minutes to put Bowers & Pitsea 3-1 ahead. Dowman with her 2nd of the game seeing the hosts 4-1 up at the break. Alesi Harris bringing up a 5th goal for Bowers & Pitsea in the 54th minute. Holly Moore sealing a 6-1 win with goal in the last 10 minutes of the game.
Hutton Ladies are up to fifth in the ERWFL Division One table now 6 points behind 3rd and 4th placed Newmarket Town Ladies & Stevenage Ladies with 2 games in hand on both. A comfortable scoreline at home this Sunday as they took on Stevenage. Top scorer Vicky Kinsman on target for another hat-trick edges closer to the 50 goals mark with 47 on the board so far this season. Goals too for Hayley Piggott, Sally Appleton and Hayley Critchell seeing Hutton run out 6-0 winners.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies were playing their final game of the season an away trip to Cambridgeshire to face Histon Ladies. A goal from Kristina O’Connell in the 33rd minute seeing Hoddesdon leading 1-0 at the break. Histon back into it early on in the 2nd half a free-kick played long to the far post difficult to handle coming back to Rebekah Fisk to head over the line. Tied at 1-1 going into the final 10 minutes of the game Hoddesdon got their noses back in front with Charley Handley on the scoresheet. The win eluding them however with Histon on the attack in the final minute, Sophie Lanham shooting wide left to put the ball across goal into the bottom corner to equalise for a 2nd time a 2-2 draw the points shared, Hoddesdon in 7th for now Histon 2 points back in 8th have 3 games left to play, Lawford 9th with 2 left to play.
Hertford Town Ladies also complete their season this Sunday their final ERWFL Division One game as Hertford Town as from next season they become Wodson Park Ladies. A positive end to a difficult campaign picking up some great results as their squad has strengthened. End with a victory at home were taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Christie Seakens and Lauren Barnard scoring their first goals of the season, with Dempsey Favell and Riley Bennett on target too for a goal a piece securing a 4-1 win, 16 of their 19 points won in 2019, a positive outlook for the new season ahead.
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.
Semi-final weekend for the ERWFL League Cup down t the last 4 sides vying for a place in the final on Sunday 12th May. Cambridge City Ladies looking to make it a league and cup double the Premier Division Champions were at home to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies. Goals from top scorer Erin Davies, Bronte Rapley plus and own goal sealing a 3-1 victory for Cambridge City to see them into their 2nd ERWFL League Cup final in 3 seasons. Harlow not happy with some referring decisions scoring through Hannah Smith her debut goal for the 1st team after impressing and scoring plenty of goals for their Development side this season.
Injuries and player unavailability affecting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies towards the end of the season, despite that have done well to reach the last 4 of the League Cup, drawn at home to play Bedford Ladies. The game officiated by Norwegian referees guests of Cambridgeshire FA this week. A close game in the finish with the game with goals from Amy Magnus and Jasmine Ajayi seeing Bedford through the the final courtesy of a 2-1 victory.
ERWFL League Plate
Also a semi-final played too this Sunday in the ERWFL’s League Plate competition. Stevenage Ladies Reserves at home taking on Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side taking an 18th minute lead a corner returned into the area met by Katie Seagrave her header beating the keeper from close range to make it 1-0. Stevenage quick to reply level just 4 minutes later breaking with Histon appealing for a foul up the other end, Sherrie Evans getting the goal to make it 1-1. All square the game remained heading into extra-time. Histon winning the game in the 1st period of extra play, Kaya Haq scoring a superb goal from a 25 yard free kick sending a curled ball high to drop into the back of the net to send Histon into the League Plate final. Their opponents with be either Newmarket Town Ladies or Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who met in the league this Sunday setting their semi-final up nicely.
ERWFL Premier Division
Royston Town Ladies returned to winning ways this Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division as they look to secure the runners-up spot in the league. The 2nd placed side at home to Haringey Borough Women. Royston taking the lead from the penalty spot Jo Rutherford making it 1-0, added a 2nd to double the lead with Eva Ramsey scoring from out wide to make it 3-0 Haringey puling a goal back before the break their keeper making some important saves to limit Royston to 3 goals. Francesca Smithers returning to action for Royston on target to bring up their 4th goal, Rutherford lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick to bring up her 19th goal of the season and see Royston win the game 5-1.
Royston Town Ladies, Jo Rutherford
A home win too for Colney Heath Ladies against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday, goals from Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 victory the 3 points lifting Colney Heath over the Essex side into 8th position in the Premier Division.
ERWFL Division One
With ERWFL Division One leaders St Ives Town Ladies not in action this weekend it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to close the gap down to just 3 points in preparation for the two sides meeting this coming Sunday. A tough local derby this weekend away to fellow Essex side Hutton Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea in good form however unlucky in 13 games in the league a single goal winning a tough battle between the sides Sophie Dowman’s 14th goal of the season extending the run to 14. A trip to St Ives now where they will be looking to end the league leaders unbeaten record.
2-2 when the sides last met in the league Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in Division One were away 5th placed Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Goals from Rosy Wodhams and Becky Scola seeing Hoddesdon into a 2-1 lead with 25 minutes left Newmarket then reduced 10 with goalkeeper Dominika Szary sent off being adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area. Yasmin Woodfield donning the keepers gloves Newmarket having scored through Annabel Cuthbert kept battling getting themselves back on level terms Cuthbert with her 10th goal of the season, the visitors dramatically winning the game with seconds left on the clock Cuthbert lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick. The two sides meeting at Newmarket this coming Sunday in the League Plate semi-finals haven’t yet seen both this season and this is where I shall be.
A big win for King’s Lynn Town Ladies at home this Sunday as they continue to build momentum going into the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final in just a fortnights time. This Sunday they were playing at The Walks home of King’s Lynn Town FC, taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. A strong first half performance seeing King’s Lynn leading 7-0 with hat-tricks for both Oksana Imanalijeva and Tiffany Forshaw along with a goal for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. A further two goals added in the 2nd half with Becky Russell scoring and Imanalijeva getting a 4th to her name. The win taking King’s Lynn into 7th and in a great position to challenge for a top half finish.
Lawford Ladies were at home this Sunday in ERWFL Division One taking on bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts winning the game 3-1 thanks to goals from Stacey Teager, Jodie Sharp and a 1st of the season for Claire Gauntlett. Again like King’s Lynn well placed to push on up the table in their final 4 matches. Poppy Kelly scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
Cambridge City Ladies have won the ERWFL Premier Division with 3 games to spare, a 4-0 home win over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last Sunday. This Sunday they travelled to Hertfordshire to play Royston Town Ladies looking to end the season unbeaten, just the two points dropped so far. Those coming in the reverse league fixture with Royston who are enjoying a god season themselves in the league 2nd with a 4 point gap over 3rd placed Acle United Women going into the game. A rainy afternoon Royston started well but it was Cambridge who took the early lead Shannon Shaw heading the ball in from six yards after the delivery from a corner wasn’t cleared. Further chances for Cambridge to extend the lead 1st half as they worked hard to limit opportunities up the other end. A 1-0 lead at half time.
Royston’s Sammy Tinsley battles with Cambridge’s Sarah Mosley for possession of the ball
More urgency from Royston 2nd half as they looked to get back on level terms, hitting them on the break Shaw was put through in the left channel to shoot from the top of the area her shot squeezing in inside the post on the hour, a well taken goal from the edge of the area from 16-year-old Freya Standing seeing Cambridge extend their lead. A frustrating afternoon for Royston their advantage in 2nd cut to a point but remain in a strong position with 3 matches left to play.
Acle United Women have been amongst the title challenges for the past 3 season’s, pushing all the way in earlier campaigns haven’t managed to exert pressure on the leaders this season, not that anyone else has. Nevertheless in the top 4 all season are looking for a strong finish into 3rd clinched the 3 points at home on Sunday to close the gap to a point on 2nd placed Royston. Harlow Town Ladies making the long trip up to Norfolk this weekend. The visitors playing 2 thirds of the game with 10 players after Rubie Smith got her marching orders in the 32nd minutes for a rash challenge that saw Acle captain Anna Larkins forced off through injury. Both sides creating openings early on. The game goalless at half-time. Harlow battling hard in the 2nd period to keep Acle at bay as they pushed forwards looking a goal, the winner coming with 6 minutes left of normal play Mary-Anne Hoy stretching out a toe to get on the end of a cross and sent it into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club.
A 4-1 win at home to Wymondham Town Ladies over Bedford Ladies a month ago, the Norfolk side travelled to Bedfordshire this Sunday to play the reverse fixture. 4th in the Premier Division table, Wymondham opened the scoring on 22 minutes after making a good start Laura Nicholls on hand to score the ball flicked on by Chardonnay Johnston. Jorja Patterson doubling the lead just 6 minutes later to see the visitors 2-0 up at half-time. Bedford starting the 2nd half well forcing a save from Wymondham keeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan in the 50th minute, Bedford get it back to 2-1 moments later scoring from a corner. The equaliser coming midway through the 2nd half. The points shared, Eden Kibron and Michelle Byrne Bedford’s goalscorers.
3 wins in a row now for Colney Heath Ladies finding a bit of form towards the end of the season, an away win over Haringey Borough Women this Sunday. The Hertfordshire sides taking the lead in the 1st half a cross put in from the byline parried by the keeper falling to Melissa Godino to smash the ball into the back of the net to score her 1st goal for the club the goal proving to be enough to win the game.
ERWFL Division One
St Ives Town Ladies remain 6 points clear and unbeaten still at the top of ERWFL Division One well on course for back to back promotions were up against the side where their excellent season began with a trip to fellow promoted side Lawford Ladies. A close contest Lawford finding their feet in the league well after a heavy loss to St Ives on the opening day. Chances for both side it was St Ives who open the scoring Georgia Stancombe heading in at the far post from an Emily Stephenson cross. Lawford coming back to level inside 10 minutes Daisy Canny captaining Lawford with a good run and pass to tee up Michelle McRae to score her 1st goal for the club. Level at half-time St Ives starting the 2nd half well Lawford battling to keep them out, the scores level heading deep into injury time the visitors pressing Tierney Coulson finding Emily Smith inside the box she took her chance to score and win the game for St Ives.
2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies can only win their games now and home St Ives slip up keep the gap to 6 points with the two sides due to play at St Ives in a fortnight. This Sunday they were taking on 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies at home. 3 draws in a row seeing Newmarket slip away from the title picture themselves, a good season so far playing at this level for the 1st time. Bowers & Pitsea losing just the two matches in the league this season strong themselves buoyed by recent success in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final. Sophie Dowman on target for her 13th goal of the season opening the scoring for Bowers & Pitsea in the 12th minute. That the only goal of the first half. The hosts scoring early in the 2nd half Dowman with the assist putting Georgia Fraser in to slide a shot under the keeper to make it 2-0 her 17th of the season. Jennifer Lyttle with a 25 yard strike in the 86th minute seeing Bowers & Pitsea to a 3-0 win.
A trip to Hertfordshire for King’s Lynn Town Ladies this Sunday as they took on 4th placed Stevenage Ladies Reserves. King’s Lynn looking t get some form under their belts in the lead up to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final being played at Carrow Road. Came home with all 3 points putting in a good team performance, winning the game 2-1, Olivia Baker scoring both the goals enough to win the game with Emily Schofield scoring for Stevenage.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies are up to 5th place in the ERWFL Division One table continuing their recent run of good results that has seen them win 4 on the bounce now. Were away to bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies this Sunday. Rosy Wodhams scoring a hat-trick moving her ahead in the goal scoring charts with 15 now for the season. Both Grace Leslie and Rebecca Scola also getting a goal each too in the 2nd half for the visitors Hoddesdon winning the game 5-2, and they are also credited with scoring both goals for the hosts.
Histon Ladies bounced back from last weeks home defeat to Stevenage Ladies Reserves to pick up the points on the road this Sunday against Hertford Town Ladies. A single goal enough to win the 3 points coming late on with just 3 minutes left on the clock. Kirsty Geal making her first appearance for Histon scoring the decisive goal. The win putting Histon to within a point of the top half of the table.
