A limited fixture list within the ERWFL this Sunday with the majority of clubs taking part in the FA Women’s Cup, this weekend seeing First Round Qualifying taking place go to the previous post to see how those clubs fared.
One game was played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, Bedford Ladies hosting Haringey Borough Women. Starting the season with 2 successive draws Bedford recorded their first win of the season to lift them up to 2nd in the fledgling Premier Division table. Maya Sidhu finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the game. Jodie Molloy and Amy Magnus were also on target with a goal each in a 6-1 win. The tough start to the season continues for Haringey as they loose for the 3rd time.
ERWFL Division One
4 matches played in ERWFL Division One on Sunday with league leaders Stevenage Ladies keeping up a 100% winning start to the season away to newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Emily Schofield netting a brace with Hannah Marshall also on target, an own goal securing a 4-0 victory and dare I say it no goals conceded yet either.
2 wins from 2 at home for Hutton Ladies see the Essex side up to 2nd in Division One the latest victory coming on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. New signing Rosi Webb scoring a hat-trick in her first appearance for the club. Victoria Kinsman, Kaitlin Sugg and Hayley Critchell also scoring a goal each in a 6-2 result. Claire Pavett and Katie Williams on the scoresheet for Hertford.
A good win on the road for newly promoted Lawford Ladies, building on last weekends home win picked up a 2nd 3 point haul with victory at King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday. Both captain Daisy Canny and Tyler Christou bagging a brace each in a 4-1 win that lifts the Essex side up to 4th in the table. King’s Lynn Town’s goal coming from Jodie Hopkins captaining the side in her 1st game since returning to the club.
Newmarket Town Ladies left it late to earn a draw at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday and claim their first league point of the season. Natasha Crick scoring to put the visitors into the lead after 11 minutes 1-0 up at the break Newmarket got back level just after the restart. A dramatic finish to the game as Kristina O’Connell restored Hoddesdon’s lead in the 83rd minute the visitors couldn’t hold on however as Newmarket came back once again to level it at 2-2 in the closing minutes, Laura Bailey and Lauren Deller their goal scorers.
The ERWFL games probably had one thing in common this Bank Holiday Sunday, it was wet! Rain sweeping in across the East for the afternoon. A shortened fixture list as a few sides were involved in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup which I shall get on with in a little while but 6 games across both the Premier and Division One to bring you first.
A perfect start to the season for Acle United Women who lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start the season and have now scored 11 without reply too. Were at home for the 2nd successive Sunday this time taking on Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies. Acle getting off to a flyer at the start of the game were 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Grace Birchall setting thing’s rolling with the opening goal on 5 minutes. Birchall adding another goal to her tally 7 minutes later, Naomi Cooper bringing up the 3rd goal on 15 minutes before being forced off with injury. A 3-0 lead for Acle at the break in terrible weather they held their lead adding a further goal in the 2nd half through defender Anna Larkins to win the game 4-0.
Colney Heath Ladies had a tough first season in the ERWFL Premier Division last season finishing bottom albeit with 3 withdrawals No wins to there name then either a much better start this time around as they begin their season having been involved in FA Women’s Cup action the weekend before with a solid home win over relegated Haringey Borough Women. Goals from Sophie Joseph and Nicola Hollick seeing Colney Heath leading 2-0 at half-time. Hollick with her 2nd of the game making it 3-0 at the start of the 2nd half. Lucy Hancock getting in on the goals scoring action to bring up 4-0. Sophie Joseph sending home a free-kick for her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. Charlotte Grogan firing in a 30 yarder to see Colney Heath win the game 6-0 and that following on from a 7-0 win in the cup the weekend before.
Harlow Town Ladies won their first ever game in the ERWFL Premier Division 5-2 at home on the opening day of the season. Were at home too this Bank Holiday Sunday taking on Bedford Ladies who had drawn their opening game of the season. The visitors having the better of the 1st half were leading 2-0 at the break with Catalina Costas scoring both of Bedford’s goals. Harlow though were to mount a comeback 2nd half to take a share of the points Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe both on target with a goal each to see the game finish 2-2.
ERWFL Division One
3 games too played in ERWFL Division One on Bank Holiday Sunday, 2 sides winning their opening two matches to lead the table. Stevenage Ladies Reserves followed an opening day 5-0 away win against Bishops Stortford Ladies with a win at home against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who themselves had also won on the opening day. With just the bare 11 available Stevenage had to work hard for the 3 points, goals from Katherine Calvert and Daniela Martucci the difference as Stevenage ran out 2-0 winners.
Also starting their season with 2 successive victories are Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on the road again followed their 2-1 win against newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies with another 3 points at Bishops Stortford Ladies. Kealy Farley on target with the opening goal to put Bowers & Pitsea ahead in the 12th minute. Bishops Stortford were back on level term 10 minutes later Rebekah Coppen with their goal. Back came Bowers & Pitsea retaking the lead with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Abbie Simmonds finding the back of the net. An own goal coming late in the half to put the visitors 3-1 up. Ebony Moore with a goal midway through the 2nd half to secure a 4-1 victory for Bowers & Pitsea.
Lawford Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL started the season with a heavy defeat to fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day of the season. Bounced back this Sunday to claim their 1st victory. At home the Essex side were taking on Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies. Goals at either end of the 1st half from Jasmine Cox and Daisy Canny seeing Lawford leading 2-0 at half-time. Histon eventually scoring what would prove to be consolation goal through Katie Webb.
The new season of ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) began this weekend with 25 sides competing across two divisions this campaign. 12 sides in the Premier Division with 13 in Division One, plenty of football to come over the next few months with plenty of interesting encounters lined up.
ERWFL Premier Division
Acle United Women are the early leaders in the Premier Division with a crushing home defeat on the opening day taking on Haringey Borough Women, relegated from the FAWPL as it was last season. A difficult season for Haringey Borough loosing alot of players as they entered the higher level a baptism of fire for a young squad then and still recovering from that suffered a heavy defeat on their return to the ERWFL against one of the sides likely to be pushing for the title. Grace Birchall getting Acle into an early lead inside 5 minutes. Captain Megan Todd going on to score a brace to put Acle 3-0 up before Birchall added her 2nd of the game and Rhianne Brister was on target to give the Norfolk side a 5-0 half-time lead. More goals followed 2nd half Todd and Birchall rounding off their hat-tricks, Laura Holden and Brister with her 2nd of the match making it 9-0 in the final 10 minutes.
Is a Norfolk one, two in the ERWFL Premier Division after the opening weekend with newly promoted Wymondham Town Ladies recording a big win away from home. A trip to Bedfordshire to play a team I had been led to believe had folded over the summer, AFC Dunstable Ladies, they haven’t however and pleased to see, far from the start they would have liked against a side more than one person has told me look strong in pre-season. Top scorer last season, Laura Nicholls wasted no time opening her account this time around grabbing a 1st half hat-trick with a goal too for Betty Fretwell and new signing Carolyn Sarafian on her debut making it 5. Dunstable did pull a goal back but only a consolation as Wymondham added further goals 2nd half Nicholls with her 4th of the game, Jorja Patterson and Chelsea Clarke also getting an opening day goal in an 8-1.
Cambridge City Ladies, were runners-up last season in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. Started this season with a trip to a new local rival as Peterborough Northern Star Ladies join the ERWFL having previously played for the East Midland’s regional section. Cambridge City getting off to a great start with a 5-2 win. Laura Mills, Carla Penny and Shannon Shaw on her debut all scoring along with substitute Grace Stanley who netted a brace.
Harlow Town Ladies are the other new entrants to the Premier Division with a 3rd successive promotion having finished runners-up in ERWFL Division One South last season. Began life at the higher level at home taking on fellow Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies. Georgia Holdaway scoring a brace for the visitors it wasn’t enough for Brentwood as they suffered an opening day loss Harlow Town running out 5-2 winners. Olivia Steele scoring an opening day hat-trick with Lily Bruno and Rubie Smith also on target.
AFC Sudbury Ladies were hosting Bedford Ladies in the final game played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday. An injury time goal for the home side denying Bedford all 3 points after Mayo Sidhu had given them the lead. Ceri Harris sending the ball home for AFC Sudbury in stoppage time to secure a point for the Suffolk side.
Colney Heath Ladies start to the ERWFL Premier Division delayed as they were instead in action in the FA Women’s Cup, Preliminary Round hosting Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. A hat-trick for new signing Rianne Townsend-Brown on her debut, along with a goal for fellow debutant Charlene Moreton plus a brace from last season’s top scorer Nicola Hollicks and one from Kelly Hancock seeing Colney Heath progress easily with a 7-0 win.
ERWFL Division One
One single Division One this season consisting of 13 teams 4 new sides joining, St Ives Town Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies plus Hatfield Peverel Ladies and Lawford Ladies from Essex. Another new name in the ERWFL being Bowers & Pitsea Ladies formerly Little Thurrock Dynamos.
It was a game from ERWFL Division One where Women’s Football East began it’s season taking in a match between two of the newly promoted sides, St Ives Town Ladies hosting Lawford Ladies. St Ives getting off to a fantastic starting breaking away to score inside the opening minute, Tierney Coulson sending in a strike from outside the box. St Ives started well finding room to exploit as Lawford struggled to get to grips with their young energetic forwards, captain Amy Seymour-Shove running clear on the left curling home a shot from the top corner of the box to make it 2-0. Last season’s top scorer Georgia Stancombe also opened her account seeing her initial shot saved by Lawford keeper Jamie Newstead the ball came back to her to lift the ball over her and in or 3-0. A rampant St Ives adding a 4th goal with newly introduced substitutes Caitlin Jarman and Lauren Gibson combining for the latter to score with her first touch on her St Ives debut after joining from Cambridge United WFC in the summer.
An opening day hat-trick for St Ives Town Lades, Tierney Coulson
4-0 at half-time, Lawford needed to reorganise or risk being over run 2nd half came out with a more solid shape 2nd half and pulled a goal back through last season’s top scorer Jasmine Cox as she caused trouble for the St Ives defence form a long ball forwards. St Ives had the energy and goal advantage to push on and Coulson reintroduced to the game 2nd half found herself on the end of two final balls to wrap up an opening day hat-trick. The 6-1 win sending St Ives to the top of the table.
Last season’s ERWFL Division One South winners, Stevenage Ladies Reserves chose not to take promotion to the Premier Division, remaining in Division One they began the new campaign away to Bishops Stortford Ladies who had a difficult debut season at regional level, will be hoping for better results this time around. Stevenage Ladies Reserves got off to a great start against them however with a 5-0 win on Sunday. Daniela Martucci getting herself hat-trick in the match with Emily Schofield and Sherrie Evans both getting a goal a piece. Stevenage Ladies Reserves are 2nd.
Weren’t the only side to score 5 goals in their opening match of the season with 2 more hitting 5 at home to collect all 3 points. Hutton Ladies enjoyed a successful campaign last time out collecting two trophies, including retaining the ERWFL Plate. Started this season’s league campaign at home to Histon Ladies. The visitors from Cambridgeshire taking the early lead against the Essex side Jordanne Sillitoe resigning for Histon scoring after just 2 minutes. Hutton went on to have full control of the match taking a 4-1 lead into the dressing room at half-time. Vicky Kinsman making her debut for Hutton scoring all of the goals went on to add a 5th to her name 2nd half, Hutton winning 5-2, Sillitoe scoring again for Histon.
Also scoring 5 goals on the opening day to clinch victory were last season’s ERWFL Division One North runners-up, King Lynn Town Ladies, were hosting Newmarket Town Ladies, newly promoted to the ERWFL after finishing runners-up in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Natalie Wright, Deva Rawlings and Chloe Witt were making their debuts for King’s Lynn. Newmarket Town have lost a few players in the summer but were blessed with a large pool of talent to call upon previously and although leaner have a solid side. It was King’s Lynn who would take the lead Oksana Imanalijeva making it 1-0. Tiffany Forshaw opened her account to make it 2-0 to the hosts. Brooke Wickens getting a goal back for Newmarket. King’s Lynn with the 2-1 advantage at the break.
Chloe Witt bagged herself a goal on her debut for King’s Lynn to make it 3-1. The score going into a frantic last 10 minutes, Newmarket puling it back to 3-2 through Sarah O’Rourke. Rochelle Woods and Imanalijeva with her 2nd of the game putting King’s Lynn into a 5-2 lead. Molly Agnew scoring a 3rd goal for Newmarket not with two minutes left on the clock not enough as King’s Lynn took the 3 points with a 5-3 result.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies ended the last campaign in magnificent form 5 straight wins in the league and have carried that momentum on into the new season winning away from home on the opening day of the season. Were taking on Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Charley Handley scoring Hoddesdon’s first goal of the season to put the visitors 1-0 up at the break. Kristina O’Connell making the score 2-0 to Hoddesdon 10 minutes into the 2nd half a 3rd soon followed scored by Natasha Crick. Ipswich Wanderers getting a consolation goal deep into injury time new signing Stacey Teager from AFC Sudbury Ladies scoring on her debut.
An away win for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies completes the opening days results in the ERWFL. Were taking on fellow Essex side Hatfield Peverel Ladies newly promoted to the league as Essex Women’s Premier Division Champions. Goals from new signing Sabrina Campbell and Abbie Simmonds giving Bowers & Pitsea a 2-0 lead looked comfortable for the result Hatfield Peverel grabbing a late goal through Lauren Crozier to make the final score 2-1.
It’s all over in the ERWFL Premier Division the final league games (or game) played this Sunday). Billericay Town Ladies are the Premier Division Champions finishing top of the table as rivals Acle United Ladies lost in midweek the Cambridge City Ladies who secure runners up spot in their 1st season in the league. Promotion to the newly named National League for Billericay Town Ladies are a couple of runners up finishes in recent seasons.
The action in midweek determining the course of the title race Billericay Town had lost their final game away to Royston Town Ladies the week before giving hope to Acle United who had a six point gap to close with 2 games left to play. A busy spell their 3rd game in 6 days saw them travelling to Huntingdon Town FC to play 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who knew a win themselves would secure runners-up spot in their 1st season in the Premier Division. A tight first half the dead lock broken late on with Acle United captain Megan Todd putting the visitors into a 1-0 lead.
The drama unfolded in the final 10 minutes the game turned on it’s head Bronte Rapley levelling the scores for Cambridge City, a clash in midfield leading to 3 sending’s off for Acle united, Ciara Flatt show a red card for the 2nd time in 2 matches, following her to the dressing room were Amber Rowland with a 2nd yellow and Kate Pasque also shown a straight red. To compound it the 8 players of Acle United conceded late on Ellie Cullum netting the winner for Cambridge City Ladies that sees them finish just a point behind Champions Billericay Town Ladies.
Congratulations to Billericay Town Ladies on becoming ERWFL Premier Division Champion’s and to Cambridge City Ladies on finishing 2nd.
Acle United licking their wounds have to regroup and get ready for one last game this season the ERWFL League Cup Final on Sunday 13th May at The County Ground Letchworth. Up against AFC Dunstable Ladies the two were scheduled to meet in their final league game of the season at Acle United this Sunday, AFC Dunstable unable to field a team the points going to Acle United.
In the last league game played in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, Royston Town Ladies could have clinched a top four finish had they secured a win away to Brentwood Town Ladies. The hosts took the lead in the match, Sammy Tinsley levelling it up at 1-1 for Royston Town before half-time. Brentwood getting the better of the 2nd half scoring 3 more goals, Becky Shephard getting on the scoresheet for Royston Tow they fell to a 4-2 defeat. A good run of results at the end of the season however build on that next season and they will be challenging at the top of the table. A win to end the season for Brentwood Town, Leah Cowan making her return from injury scoring another goal. Georgia Holdaway, Kirstie Jackson and Chloe Wilkinson also on the scoresheet.
ERWFL Division One North
One more game left to play in ERWFL Division One North everything settled, King’s Lynn Town Ladies finishing runners-up in their debut season in the ERWFL away to 3rd placed Histon Ladies. A single goal seeing King’s Lynn Town end the season with a victory. Georgia Reardon the player to find the back of the net at the Glassworld Stadium.
ERWFL Division One South
Almost over in the ERWFL Division One South too one more game between Hertford Town Ladies & Hutton Ladies to come on the 20th May. This weekend saw a pair of double headers played. New League Champion’s Stevenage Ladies Reserves hosting 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. Stevenage winning one game by a single goal Daniela Martucci scoring the winning goal. Martucci netting a double in the 2nd match with Emily Schofield and Mary Lisle also on target in a 4-1 win.
Charlotte Stephens scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies who were playing their last ever game under that name this Sunday. Fear not however as they aren’t going anywhere as from next season they will be known as Bowers & Pitsea Ladies having set up a good relationship with the club and using their ground for their home matches this past season.
In the other double header 4th placed Hutton Ladies were hosting bottom side Bishops Stortford. Hutton Ladies winning both games 4-0 to claim all 6 points.
Hutton Ladies are in Final action too next Sunday in the ERWFL Plate Final defending the trophy they won last season up against Stevenage Ladies Reserves who are looking for a league & cup double. Again at The County Ground Letchworth an 11am kick off for this one.
The title race is back on in the ERWFL Premier Division. It looked all over in the league after Acle United Ladies lost away to Royston Town Ladies last Sunday the defeat meaning that a positive result for leaders Billericay Town Ladies in their final game of the season would secure them the title. The too were away to Royston Town Ladies this Sunday. Gemma Croucher getting onto the ball inside the box and sending it into the back of the net to score the winning goal Royston Town ending the season in good form winning the 3 points. They play their final game of the season away to Brentwood Town Ladies and a win there will see them finish in the top 4.
Acle United Ladies were also in action this Sunday playing less tan 48 hours after narrowly losing out in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final. A long trip to Hertfordshire to play bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. The sides goalless at the break the deadlock broken with 20 minutes left Laura Holden getting the goal to put 3rd placed Acle United into the lead Colney Heath had chances to score, 3 minutes from time Acle United secured the 3 points from the penalty spot Amber Rowland sending the ball into the back of the net. With Billericay Town played out Acle United have 2 games left to play little time to recover as they make the trip to Huntingdon Town FC on Wednesday to take on 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who playing their final game of the season a keen to hold onto their position. Anything but a win for Acle and Billericay Town will be Champions. A tough 1st season in the Premier Division comes to an end for Colney Heath have played well just not picked up the points and with 3 sides withdrawing from the league in the season it’s hard to judge were they might have finished had all those sides remained.
ERWFL Division One North
One game in ERWFL Division One this Sunday, League Champion’s Wymondham Town Ladies were on a high coming into their match away to Histon Ladies on Sunday meeting at the Glassworld Stadium for the 2nd successive Sunday, less than 48 hours earlier Wymondham Town had beat Acle United 3-2 to win the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time! County Cup’s belong in the County Round-Up however so you’ll just have to wait for a few more word to find out how they did it.
For now it was the final game of their season away to Histon a late winner securing the 3 points last time out Wymondham Town were looking to end the season unbeaten. Had a knack of scoring early didn’t happen last time out against Histon. This time Hannah Waters slotted the ball home inside the opening 2 minutes to give the visitors the lead. It didn’t last long however as Histon came back to level just 3 minutes later, Abigail Davies getting the goal. Histon then went on to take the lead Hannah Gordon scoring from a free-kick in the 15th minute. Wymondham coming back to level 10 minutes later Kayleigh Holloway scoring direct from a corner. 2-2 at half-time. Wymondham retook the lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half Waters with her 2nd of the game to see her onto 24 goals for the season. Laura Nicholls is way out in front in the scoring charts for Wymondham Town however and she scored in the 66th minute to put Wymondham Town 4-2 ahead with her 42nd goal of the campaign. Histon pulling it back to 3-4 deep into stoppage time Angelica Farchechi with her first goal for the side. Wymondham completing a league and cup double taking 52 out of a possible 54 points along the way. Have had a remarkable season.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games played in ERWFL Division One South on Sunday. 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies at home for the last time this season taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies. Goals from Sophie Dowman, Courtney Fraser, Eloise Ives, Ebony Moore and Taylor Adcock in a 5-0 result securing a 2nd successive win after a poor run of results for Little Thurrock Dynamos. 6 points back on 2nd placed Harlow Town Ladies who have played out have a 25+ goal difference over Little Thurrock Dynamos who have a double header away to league Champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves to come.
Hoddesdon Town Owls are up to 4th spot in the ERWFL Division South table. Playing their final game of the season, probably don’t want it to end as they recorded a 5th straight win to end on a high. Away to Hertford Town Ladies, Kristina O’Connell scoring a hat-trick with a goal each for captain Natasha Crick and Hannah Kelly in a 5-0 win. Will give Hoddesdon a huge amount of confidence to bring into the new season.
Acle United Ladies travelled to Hertfordshire on Sunday to take on 5th placed Royston Town Ladies. The Norfolk side in the position in the table still in contention for the ERWFL Premier Division title needing a maximum points from their remaining 4 matches to ensure they can catch Billericay Town Ladies at the top of the table. Made a great start to the game captain Megan Todd firing Acle United into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. Royston had been on a good run had suffered defeat to 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies in midweek got themselves back on level terms in the 24th minute. Acle United resumed the lead 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick Amber Rowland putting it past the keeper to make it 2-1.
A narrow lead for Acle United at half-time, Royston turned it completely around in the 2nd half equalising within 2 minutes of the restart, Goals on 60 and 65 minutes putting them into a 4-2 lead, Gemma Croucher on target with a goal with Becky Shephard scoring a hat-trick. Acle United couldn’t find a response losing the game their title challenge taking a blow.
One other game from the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, bottom side Colney Heath Ladies travelling to Creasey park to play AFC Dunstable Ladies. A tough season for Colney Heath in their Premier Division debut fighting hard just haven’t picked up the results suffering another narrow defeat at the weekend a single goal winning it for AFC Dunstable, Danielle Carty scoring the goal.
ERWFL Division One North
A handful of games left in the ERWFL Division One North all involving Histon Ladies. The 3rd placed side hosting the newly crowned league champions Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday. The visitors looking to end the season unbeaten have dropped points in just one game in the league all season. Wymondham Town couldn’t get the early goal that has so often been a feature for them this season setting them up for the rest of the game. Histon proving a tough nut to crack. Wymondham Town kept at it however grabbing a winning goal with just a minute left on the clock striker Hannah Waters turning the ball home for her 22nd goal of the season.
That result is good news for 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies as it means they have secured runners-up spot in the league.
Cup Final action for both Wymondham Town Ladies and Acle United Ladies this coming Friday as they meet in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a 7:30pm kick-off at the FDC. Women’s Football East will be there to cover the game.
ERWFL Division One South
Stevenage Ladies Reserves were celebrating in mid-week as they won 3-2 against 2nd placed Harlow Town Ladies to clinch the ERWFL Division One South title. Have led the table from start to finish a long 100% winning run at the start of the season seeing them pull away and for a long while defending a flawless defensive record. A great achievement and a possible double to come with the ERWFL Plate Final to come.
Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies Reserves on their title success.
Back to earth with a bump on Sunday however for Stevenage away to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies as they suffered defeat for just the 2nd time this season. A below par performance Little Thurrock Dynamos taking full advantage to end their poor run that had seen them lose 4 of their last 5 matches. A 2-0 win seeing the run brought to an end 3 matches left at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies and two more with Stevenage Ladies Reserves 9 points back on 2nd placed Harlow Town who have placed out their fixtures.
Harlow Town ended their debut league campaign in the ERWFL Division One South away to Hutton Ladies. Braces for both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe along with a goal for Frances Gamble seeing them end with a 5-1 victory on 37 points 9 clear of Little Thurrock Dynamos could still potentially be caught but have a goal difference of 30 over their fellow Essex side and that might well prove to be an extra point advantage.
4 straight wins for Hoddesdon Town Ladies as they end their season in style, playing their penultimate league game away to Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. A first half goal for Charley Handley. Captain Natasha Crick scoring 5 minutes into the 2nd half Rosy Wodhams bagging herself a brace with Fay Holder also getting on the scoresheet in a 5-1 win. Brogan McHale scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
A game under the lights this Wednesday evening a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, and finally an opportunity to see Royston Town Ladies in action as they take on 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies.
Royston Town Ladies are playing their 2nd season in the ERWFL Premier Division and after a poor start to their campaign losing their 1st 3 league matches have been unbeaten since. Recruited several players from the lower leagues over the summer with plenty of goals between them, Becky Shephard from Hertford Town Ladies and Francesca Smithers playing for Watton Ladies previously amongst their new signings. A high number of postponements have seen Royston Town hovering at the lower end of the Premier Division, but staying in touch with the sides above them and getting the results have climbed up to 5th in the table.
Cambridge City Ladies are newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division winning the Division One title at the 1st attempt last season. A couple of losses early in the season Cambridge City then went of a long winning run that propelled them up the table challenging for top spot. Bella Simmons leading the line the Premier Division’s leading goal scorer with 24 goals so far this season. The ERWFL Premier Division originally starting with 12 sides is now down to just 9 following three withdrawals and adjustments as a result.
With two games left to play Cambridge City can’t catch leaders Billericay Town Ladies but can’t finish any lower than 4th going into the game with both 4th placed Acle United Ladies and Royston Town Ladies with games in hand still potentially able to beat their current points tally if either can win enough points from their remaining games. A win over Royston Town Ladies tonight for Cambridge City ensures a top 3 finish with a game against Acle United Ladies under the lights to end their season.
The two sides met just 3 days ago in the reverse fixture on Sunday a good start from Royston seeing them take a 2-0 lead. Cambridge pulling it back to 2-1 Royston again opening up a 2 goal lead. 3-1 up Cambridge came back to score twice and see the sides share the points in a 3-3 draw.
Have been trying to get to a game at Royston Town Ladies, Garden Walk Ground for a while now this season but the weather has been against everyone the pitch water logged due to the excessive rainfall we’ve suffered this winter. Today at last the weather has taken a turn for the better bright, sunny and hot! 24 degrees this afternoon and still warm as kick-off approached. The entrance to the ground can be a little tricky to spot tucked away behind a residential street and especially if you’re not looking on the right side of the road but got there in the end parking the car beside the pitch. A large clubhouse and bar at the top of the ground leading out onto the pitch a wide playing surface. Good weather at last it’s welcome to stay.
Royston Town Ladies starting XI – Emma D’Costa, Emma Slater, Rebekah Fisk, Erin Davies, Amy Cooper (C), Paige Rolfe, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Angharad Chambers, Sammy Tinsley, Gemma Croucher & Becky Shephard. Subs – Allyson Santini, Andrea Wright, Samantha Edgar, Francesca Smithers, & Megan Evers.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Lucy Hurst, Lauren Tomlinson, Amy Reed, Becca Fay (C), Anna Kanz, Stacey Fullicks, Laura Mills, Charlotte Gillies, Carla Penny & Bella Simmons. Subs – Sarah Mosley & Yasmin Crow.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Cambridge in their all sky blue away kit to kick-off the 1st half with Royston in their home colours white shirts with a black band across the shoulders and sleeves, black shorts and white socks. The ball won by Royston straight away in the middle the ball played out to right to Sammy Tinsley put long down the line for the attackers to chase, Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru can let it run out for a goal kick.
The home side attack up the right wing Angharad Chambers on the ball the cross swept into the area, Cambridge captain rising highest to head the ball clear for the visitors. Anna Kanz picking up the ball in midfield moves it forwards fro Cambridge, has runners left and right with Carla Penny and Charlotte Gillies, goes right looking for Gillies, Rebekah Fisk coming to close her down win the ball putting it out for the throw in. Royston regain possession captain Amy Cooper playing the ball on for Tinsley breaking away on the left side over the halfway line looks to play the ball through the middle for Becky Shephard, Fay cuts it out.
A ball cleared up the pitch left side isn’t going to quite run out of play as Cambridge try to see it out Tinsley after it hustles the defence the ball played back to Mhunduru her attempted clearance at the near post falls straight to Royston midfielder Paris Coldicott-Smith 20 yards out left of the D ties to open her body up curl a shot into the opposite corner the ball flying wide of the post. Gillies with a run on the right takes the ball on down to the byline cutting the cross back into the middle finding a Cambridge head the ball is sent in towards goal from the top of the area, drops onto the roof of the net.
Cambridge turn play around quickly Fay breaking up a Royston attack the ball on through the middle into Stacey Fullicks she sends it forwards her low ball looking to put Bella Simmons through on goal, Emma Slater at right back defending for Royston. Calls for handball off Royston’s Cooper from Cambridge as she intercepts Gillies knock forwards through the centre looking to release Simmons, play waved on. Both sides looking to use the full width of the pitch, Slater with another good defensive tackle to stop Carla Penny putting a cross in from the left. Mhunduru with a good claim inside her box as Tinsley with a central run looks to close her down inside the box.
15 minutes payed neither side has settled into the game a passes not quite finding there mark. Paige Rolfe gets hod of the ball in the middle plays the pass into Chambers to her right her ball back inside for Shephard she is fouled five yards in from of the centre circle. A free-kick to Royston an ambitious effort from Shephard as she takes on the shot plenty of pace on the ball is a couple of yards wide of the post. Coldicott-Stevens almost gets Tinsley through in behind to attack the ball top of the area with a low diagonal pass, Mhunduru reading the threat comes rushing to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at the attackers feet.
Cambridge get numbers forwards possession around the Royston box, the ball rolled into Simmons central 20 yards out isn’t closed down her scooped shot is straight at Royston goalkeeper, Emma D’Costa she parries it down safely and claims. Rolfe breaking with the ball through the centre looks to release Gemma Croucher ahead of her on the right channel just a little too much on the pass. Erin Davies with good defending in the centre to stop Simmons running clear into the area. Fullicks comes across well then to the right to tackle Tinsley on half way and prevent the home side hitting them on the counter.
Croucher receiving the ball into her feet as she moves to the left 30 yards out looks to drive at the Cambridge defence running inside beats two before being stopped at the top of the area by Lauren Tomlinson. Penny attacking down the left wing plays the cross into Simmons inside the box left of goal controls with her chest looking to bring the ball down and turn and shoot Cooper is on her the central defender blocking the ball deflecting off her for the corner.
GOAL! As the opening half hour passes the dead lock is broken Cambridge opening the scoring. From a throw in on the left the ball carried back into the middle then hooks back over the top with Simmons running clear left side into the box, D’Costa coming to close her down Simmons stays on her feet well keeping her composure to evade the challenge and rounding the keeper sends her shot into the goal beyond 0-1.
Lucy Hurst gets in between the Royston attackers as Shephard and Croucher look to combine on the left side the full back nipping in between them to win the ball. Fullicks with a challenge in the centre plays the ball out wide to Gillies right side knocking the ball on Fisk has the legs to get onto it first and clear for the throw. Chambers plays the ball from the right inside to Croucher her pass picking out Shephard breaking clear through the centre is stopped by the offside flag. Tinsley over on the right tries to force her way into the box Fay getting across her can shield the ball for Mhunduru to gather.
Rolfe tracking back into the area is well positioned to head the ball away as Simmons holding it up well in the left corner flights a cross into the area. A free-kick to Cambridge wide on the left Fay to play the ball in near post D’Costa is unchallenged as she calls and claims the ball. Royston with some promising combination play as they attack Coldicott-Stevens on for Tinsley, the Cambridge defence intercepting the final ball yet again as Shephard makes the central run Tomlinson in to deny her with the challenge.
Kanz stops Royston breaking clear after the ball is won in the area from a Cambridge corner kick on the left. A triple change for Royston late in the first half, Rolfe, Tinsley and Chambers coming off to be replaced by, Samantha Edgar, Francesca Smithers and Megan Evers. The home side press on the left Shephard up the line for Croucher, Hurst winning the ball back for Cambridge. Smithers with the ball from a right attacking position into Edgar central, Amy Reed tackling for Cambridge.
Into stoppage time in the 1st half Royston on the attack a defensive mix-up central sees Croucher pounce on the ball in space on the left her early cross fired into the area Smithers running in Mhunduru saving from close range as Smithers strikes the ball, parried out to the right Evers onto it for Royston drives a 25 yard shot back in towards goal Mhunduru back pedalling to her near post can palm the ball down safely. Cambridge with one last attack first half Gillies down the right her cross in out behind at the near post the corner conceding played high in towards the top of the area Simmons with the shot puts the ball wide of the top corner.
Half-time Royston Town Ladies 0-1 Cambridge City Ladies
A narrow lead for Cambridge at the break Simmons with her 25th goal of the season putting the visitors in front. Neither side has properly settled into the game the chances fairly even Cambridge doing well cutting out Royston’s final ball. Fullicks disrupting their build up play in the middle.
A change for both sides at half-time with Sarah Mosley on at right back for Hurst for Cambridge. Andrea Wright on for Croucher for Royston as they get the 2nd half underway. Evers with a nice forwards pass through the centre looking for Shephard, Kanz tracking back makes the tackle winning the ball. Royston press the ball high up the pitch at the start of the 2nd period winning it back left side passed inside to Shephard her shot from the corner of the area flashes wide of the far post across the Cambridge goal.
Play continues to be turned around quickly Mhunduru gathering at one end has a good kick on her the ball up field Simmons racing clear D’Costa sliding in saves at her feet. A good start to the 2nd half by Royston upping the tempo aiming to press the ball higher up the pitch. Edgar on for Smithers right, Fay cutting out her diagonal ball into the area. A short corner from Cambridge on the left the ball drilled low into the area, cut out and cleared by Davies.
Royston make more changes a double substitution Shephard and Copper the players rested, On come Allyson Santini with Tinsley returning to the pitch. Tinsley with a volley from outside the box her effort straight at Mhunduru the keeper holding onto the dipping ball. A purposeful break through the centre for Cambridge Fullicks using her strength to win possession and drive forwards plays the pass on for Simmons ahead of her the Royston defence stretched for a moment, Slater does well getting close to challenge and get the ball top of the area, Simmons down afterwards having gone down with cramp.
Painful for Simmons she hobbles off the pitch, as Cambridge decide to make a change, Yasmin Crow coming on to join Penny in attack. Royston bring the ball on Wright out to Tinsley on the left, Fullicks coming across to challenge breaks up another attack. Tinsley on the ball comes away from the challenge this time and lays the ball into Smithers her back to goal 25 yards out, shielding it with her body shifts to her left creating room for a strike slicing the ball it angles away from goal as it flies wide of the post. The same players combine again as Royston attack the roles reversed this time Smithers central with a clever turn before sending the through ball into the area left side for Tinsley to close down, Mhunduru coming out quickly slides in to save at the attacker feet gets clattered as she takes out Mosley in the process. Play stopped as she receives treatment but is alright to continue.
Tinsley latches onto a loose kick out from Mhunduru and taking the ball left then right creating room for a shot strikes the ball in towards goal. Arrowing in on target, Mhunduru back on her line by then is right behind the rising ball can palm it down and gather. Into the final 15 minutes. Royston are frustrated as decisions don’t seem to be going their way. Cambridge defending well Fullicks covering alt of ground across the middle breaking up attacks.
Evers with a long pass forwards Fay winning the header for Cambridge the home side regain possession Coldicott-Stevens fouled by Kanz as she bursts forwards through the middle. More changes for Royston with Chambers and Croucher coming back on. Reed tracks back to tackle Tinsley as she makes a run through the centre looking to get on the end of a cross fired in from the left. A free-kick wide right inside the Royston half for Cambridge Fay to play the ball in Penny attacking it near post the ball off a defender for the corner. Wright heading the ball out of the area for Royston falling to Fay outside the area her low shot driven in blocked. Davies and Shephard return to the pitch for Royston.
GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes of the game and Cambridge double their advantage. Attacking down the right players breaking forwards through the middle Royston drawn across as Gillies fires the ball in towards the top of the area Crow knocks it on for Penny in the clear behind her, time to pick her spot connects with the ball well lashing it past D’Costa into the goal to make it 0-2.
A blow for Royston the home side press forwards Smithers moving right with the ball flashes a cross along the top of the area, Tinsley the target, Reed sticking a leg out to intercept. A free-kick for Royston 35 yards out central, Shephard on it not afraid to have a shot goes for goal again frustration showing as she fires the ball up over the crossbar. The game moves into added time. Kanz riding a challenge goes on through the middle laying the ball out to Gillies wide right, Slater defending against her. A late late free-kick to Royston left of the area the ball fired in towards the near post Edgar rising Mhunduru comes to punch the ball away from her cleared only as far as Tinsley she strikes the ball back in is straight at the keeper once again Mhunduru saving as the final whistle blows.
Full time Royston Town Ladies 0-2 Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridge win their penultimate league game of the season a top 3 finish assured, have to wait a while before their last league match against Acle United on the 2nd of May. Depending on how results for Acle United go between now and then will determine where Cambridge can finish. Have a County Cup Final to play before then up against rivals Cambridge United WFC on Thursday 10th May.
The game passed really quickly a good tempo to it throughout neither side really getting into their full stride, the rhythm broken up with the ball pressed quickly little time allowed on it especially through the middle. Chance wise it was fairly even, Cambridge with the clearer opportunities in front of goal capitalising with 2 goals. Royston frustrated with their performance especially after the game on Sunday. Still have 4 games left to play next up at home to Acle United, Cambridge wouldn’t mind them getting a positive result there.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cambridge City Ladies midfielder Stacey Fullicks. A commanding presence in the centre of the park covering alot of ground closing the ball down, strength on the ball and some useful forward runs to create openings for attacking options.
Good to get a game in under the lights and to get to see Royston in action at last. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance tonight as always it’s appreciated.
Billericay Town Ladies lead the ERWFL Premier Division by 7 points following a 4-1 win over AFC Dunstable Ladies in their penultimate league game of the season this Sunday. Courtney Clare opening the scoring for the host side Hayley Piggott from the penalty spot doubling the lead further goals from Hope Strauss and Paris Smith seeing Billericay Town go on to win the match 4-1. Danielle Carty with the goal for AFC Dunstable.
2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Royston Town Ladies who had climbed up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division following a 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Ladies in midweek. Becky Shephard scoring to put Royston into a 1-0 half-time lead. Shepard netted again in the 2nd half to double the advantage. Cambridge City came back into it with a goal from Stacey Fullicks to make it 2-1. Sammy Tinsley restoring Royston’s 2 goal lead. Goals from Bella Simmons and Charlotte Gillies seeing the points shared as Cambridge City came back again to draw the game 3-3.
Bedford Ladies were awarded a home win in their final league game of the season leaving them in 3rd spot level on points with Cambridge City Ladies. The fixture against AFC Sudbury Ladies whose league campaign also drew to a close on Sunday.
In 4th position Acle United Ladies again find themselves in the position of having games in hand on the leaders and the potential points available to chase them down a maximum haul seeing them finish level with Billericay assuming neither drop any. A double header this Sunday for Acle United at The Flegg FDC taking on Brentwood Town Ladies.
In the 1st match the 1st half was a fairly even affair the dead lock broken late on a goal from Laura Holden seeing Acle United lead 1-0. A totally different story in the 2nd half Acle United starting well Megan Todd doubling the lead 3 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick goals from Lauren Bullard and Holden with her 2nd of the match putting Acle United 4-0. Brentwood responded with 2 quickfire goals from Nicole Manning and Emma Mackie to get it back to 4-2 A goal for new signing Rosie Filby on her debut put Acle United into a 5-2 lead with late goals from Rhianne Brister and another from Todd making the final score 7-2.
A dominant 2nd game from Acle United saw them take maximum points away from both games. Megan Todd to target with another goal putting Acle United into a 1-0 half-time lead. Goals from Laura Holden then Kirstie kindred making the score 3-0 then Todd struck late on for her 2nd of the game to see Acle United win 4-0.
ERWFL League Plate
Fresh from their Essex Women’s Trophy success Hutton Ladies were looking to reach a 2nd final of the season this Sunday. The current holders of the ERWFL League Plate hosting Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side starting well getting into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Kirsty Smith with the strike to make it 1-0 a free-kick sent in by Hannah Gordon 2 minutes later making it 2-0. Hutton pulled it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. Histon scoring late on with Gordon on target for her 2nd goal of the game to lead 3-1 at half-time.
Hutton came back into the match in the 2nd half scoring twice to get it back all square at 3-3. The semi-final heading into extra-time. The home side taking the lead for the 1st time in the game midway through the 1st period of extra play followed it up with another quick goal to lead 5-3 and held on to win the game and reach their 2nd successive League Plate Final. Hutton’s goals scored by Hayley Critchell, Patrizia Leo, Laura Allen, Katie Lowen and Lucy Critchell. Hutton will be the underdogs against ERWFL Division One South leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves… but then they were also the underdogs last season and beat the odds.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North, Wymondham Town Ladies had secured the league title last weekend away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies with 3 games left to play. Unbeaten dropping points in just the one game to date the Norfolk side travelled to Cambridge United WFC Reserves this Sunday who were playing their last match of the season. The visitors found themselves trailing at the break as Cambridge United scored from a free-kick late in the 1st half, Liz Pamplin sending the ball in from the edge of the area. Wymondham Town started the 2nd half strongly and within 8 minutes of kick-off were back on level terms, striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later Wymondham Town were leading Waters striking again to make it 2-1. Alice Ladbrooke on hand to put the ball home in the 63rd minute after Waters sees her shot saved. 3-1 the winning score two matches left for Wymondham both away to Histon Ladies.
In the other match played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies playing their last match of the season were hosting 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points for the visitors Olivia Baker the scorer for King’s Lynn, have one match to play against 3rd placed Histon Ladies have an 8 point lead over the Cambridgeshire side that game scheduled for the 6th May, King’s Lynn could well secure the runners-up spot before then if Histon can’t end Wymondham Town unbeaten record. A promising start to the season for Ipswich Wanderers Ladies picking up some good results dropping away toward the end of the season will be looking to recruit new faces over the close season.
ERWFL Division One South
Harlow Town Ladies looking odds on now to at the least clinch runner’s up spot in ERWFL Division One South as they moved 9 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies with a home victory against them on Sunday. A single goal scored by Lily Bruno enough to seal the victory. Moves Harlow to within 2 points of leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves who they host on Wednesday. Have played 3 games more however. Results have been against Little Thurrock in the run in as they lose for the 4th time in 5 league matches 4 left to play 3 against Stevenage Ladies Reserves.
One of those losses in midweek away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Stephanie Iaonnou scoring the late winner. A busy week for Hoddesdon Town with 3 games in 6 days. Women’s Football East at their game on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. Danny Barley their new manager in charge for the 1st time. A brilliant start for Hoddesdon Town as Sian Owens struck the ball inside the D inside the opening 30 seconds to find the back of the net and make it 1-0. Hertford Town came back into the game well competing for the ball and defending well against Hoddesdon Town causing some frustration amongst the home side.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell
1-0 the lead at the break Hertford Town felt confident they could get it back all square, Hoddesdon Town making changes during the interval. A close 2nd half the game end to end at times with the quality in the final 3rd Hertford pushing for a leveller conceded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out with 12 minutes left, Kristina O’Connell within shooting range struck the ball well sending it over the keeper and in to double the lead. Hertford Town responded straight away getting up the other end Olivia Worsfold pressuring the defence pouncing on the loose ball and turning it in from the angle for her 1st goal of the season. Not enough ultimately as Hoddesdon Town held on for the 2-1 win. The match report featuring in the previous post.
Back in action just 24 hours later last evening Hoddesdon were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies and ended the night celebrating 3 straight wins. A successful spell ending with a 3-0 victory. Rosy Wodhams with a goal along with a brace for Charley Handley.
Semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Cup. Two tasty looking ties in the last four of the competition too. Premier Division leaders Billericay Town Ladies were away to Acle United Ladies the Norfolk side could yet challenge them for the title. Focus on the League Cup this Sunday a feisty encounter by all accounts. Plenty of action in the first half, Acle United going in front in the 7th minute Lauren Bullard getting the goal 4 minutes later the lead was doubled the hosts scoring from a corner captain, Megan Todd rising to head the ball home to make it 2-0.
Billericay were far from out of the tie and on 22 minutes pulled the score back to 2-1 like Acle United added a 2nd goal a few minutes later to bring it all level at 2-2. Acle United getting their noses back in front with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Grace Birchall scoring from a free-kick. The 2nd half saw chances fall to both sides Billericay having a penalty shout rejected aswell as striking the bar twice. Couldn’t find the goal however to get it back to 3-3 as Acle United held on for a 3-2 to book their place in the League Cup Final.
In the other semi-final it was another hard game to call with Brentwood Town Ladies hosting AFC Dunstable Ladies on Sunday. Paida Dedza netted a brace for Brentwood Town her goals cancelled with Beth Stanton and Bianca Vassell both scoring for AFC Dunstable to see the sides finish the 90 drawing at 2-2 and heading into extra-time. 5 minutes into the extra period and AFC Dunstable struck to take a 3-2 lead, Samaira Khan scoring what would prove to be the winning goal as Brentwood Town couldn’t find a reply. AFC Dunstable will play Acle United Ladies for this season’s ERWFL League Cup scheduled for Sunday 13th May at The County Ground, Letchworth.
ERWFL Premier Division
Two matches in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday a trip to Suffolk for 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. A tight first half between the sides a goal from Laura Mills the difference to give the visitors the lead. Cambridge City making the 3 points secure in the 2nd half with Bella Simmons making it 2-0 with her 23rd goal of the season.
Bedford Ladies are in 3rd place in the ERWFL Premier Division playing their penultimate league match at home this Sunday against bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. Another battling performance from Colney Heath they just haven’t been converted into points this season. A single goal for Bedford Ladies scored in the 2nd half enough to see them claim all 3 points.
ERWFL League Plate
Also semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Plate, just the one taking place however with Hutton Ladies involved in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this Sunday will take on Histon Ladies next Sunday in their Plate semi-final. This Sunday Stevenage Ladies Reserves leading the Division One South table were hosting fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in the last 4. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute, Naomi Sleator with the goal. 1-0 the half-time lead the final berth wasn’t secured until late in the game Emily Schofield scoring from a free-kick making it 2-0. Hannah Marshall also scoring as Stevenage ran out 3-0 winners to reach the final will know their opponents after the weekend.
ERWFL Division One North
Wymondham Town Ladies are the Champions clinching the ERWFL Division One North title this Sunday away to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Favourites at the start of the season to win the title and promotion to the Premier Division following on from a strong debut season in the ERWFL. Are Champions with 3 games to spare unbeaten too with just the one draw in their 15 league games played so far. A 2nd successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final to look forwards to as well at the end of the month.
This Sunday away to King’s Lynn Town, top scorer Laura Nicholls put Wymondham into the lead inside the opening 15 minutes. A purple patch followed as the 1st half approached the half hour, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway and striker Hannah Waters scoring 3 goals in 4 minutes. Waters adding a 2nd goal 5 minutes later. Nicholls getting her 2nd of the match too with 3 minutes left of the 1st half to see Wymondham in full control with a 6-0 lead. Brooke Cheal scoring in the 2nd half Wymondham Town celebrating the title with a 7-0 victory.
Congratulation’s to Wymondham Town Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies, ERWFL Division One North Champions (picture credit Wymondham Town Ladies)
In the other game played in ERWFL Division One North it was a depleted Ipswich Wanderers ladies side that played host to Histon Ladies this Sunday. Just the 7 available they put on a spirited performance but Histon made their numbers count. Abigail Davies putting the visitors into the lead in the 17th minute. Histon captain Sophie Lanham scoring to make it 2-0 midway through the 1st half. Alison Wright netted a goal for 3-0 before Lanham scored her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to see Histon leading 4-0. Sophie Hopkin and Brie Baker both scoring midway through the 2nd half saw Histon consolidate 3rd spot in the table and might yet threaten King’s Lynn Town in 2nd spot with the gap 5 points Histon having a game in hand and have to play King’s Lynn Town one more time this season. Two games against Wymondham Town however and I don’t think they’ll want to let their unbeaten record slip.
In midweek Ipswich Town Ladies Development wrapped up their 1st season in the ERWFL with a home win against Ipswich Wanderers, finishing with a win Ipswich Town ran out 4-0 winners.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday, Harlow Town Ladies opening up a 6 point lead in 2nd position with an away win against Hertford Town Ladies. Both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe scoring two goals each in a 4-1 victory for Harlow Town. Lisa Kline scoring the Hertford Town Ladies goal.
A good point earned by bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies at home to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Heather Martin and Samantha McComish her 1st of the season seeing the hosts draw the game 2-2. Ebony Moore and Sophie Dowman scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos who pick up a point after two successive defeats, still have games 3 games in hand on 2nd placed Harlow Town.
Once again it’s another shortened edition of The Round-Up with just the 12 games to report upon this weekend. Easter weekend was a much reduced fixture schedule anyway but with sides still needing to get a fair amount of games in another bout of wet weather wasn’t welcome as April begins. Half the fixtures suffering the next few weeks are going to be busy indeed.
Some bad news to bring you all at the start of this week’s Round-Up with the sad news that another 2 sides have withdrawn from their respective leagues, an unprecedented number this season already. Another side withdrawing from the ERWFL, Premier Division side Writtle Ladies. The news has been out there for a bit but only recently confirmed, the Essex side reaching the County Cup Final 3 season’s ago had enjoyed a rapid rise through the leagues in their short history, many of their players representing the county too. No doubt a very talented squad of players but had struggled to field a side in recent weeks. The news a bit of a shock because the side you felt had further to go but it has come to an end, will no doubt see their players feature for various sides come the new season and all will be an asset where ever they go wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.
Also withdrawing from their league are Essex Division One side, Waltham Forest Ladies. Again another side that has struggled for numbers all season getting behind with there fixtures and made every effort to try and find new faces for their squad. Hopefully they will feature again in the Essex county leagues soon and again wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.
There is some good news on the horizon I am aware of at least 3 new sides that are looking to start up next season and hopefully more new sides will be appearing too.
FAWPL Southern Division
On to the football, there was one match played in the FAWPL Southern Division on Sunday with Portsmouth FC Ladies hosting Swindon Town Ladies at Bognor Regis Town FC. The fifth placed side beating the side bottom of the Southern Division 5-0 to move to within a point of 4th placed Lewes FC Women. Shannon Albuery putting Portsmouth into the lead 22 minutes into the 1st half added a 2nd goal 5 minutes later with Samantha Quayle also on target with a goal 6 minutes before the break to see Portsmouth into a comfortable 3-0 half-time lead. Swindon Town remain without a point in the league with 3 matches left to play battled hard in the 2nd half to keep the scoreline down Portsmouth getting 2 more goal in the closing minutes Albuery completing her hat-trick. Katie James making it 5-0 in stoppage time.
FAWPL South East Division One
One match also in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies the away side having several 1st team players unavailable with the match being arranged at short notice travelled with a good portion of their Reserve side. Ipswich Town taking the lead in the 19th minute, Sophie Welton quickest to the rebound after Natasha Thomas’ shot was saved to turn the ball into the back of the net. Their lead didn’t last long however and Enfield Town got themselves back on level terms a few minutes later Katherine Long with the goal. Long was on target again with 6 minutes of the 1st half left to put Enfield Town into a 2-1 lead. Ipswich’s turn to hit back with a quick reply were awarded a penalty up the other end, captain Amanda Crump tucking the ball away for 2-2.
Ipswich Town Ladies captain, Amanda Crump
All square at half-time Ipswich Town were back in front 5 minutes into the 2nd half defender Lindsey Cooper heading the ball home from a Crump corner. This time there was no quick reply Ipswich Town having the opportunity to go further ahead with 20 minutes left awarded a 2nd spot kick. Crump again delivering to make it 4-2. Gemma Moore scoring in the final minute for Ipswich Town to see them win the match 5-2 the 3 points lifting them back up to 2nd place in the South East Division One table.
ERWFL Premier Division
One match in the ERWFL Premier Division this weekend the table adjusted once more following Writtle’s withdrawal. League leaders Billericay Town Ladies travelling to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. The home side haven’t had the best of luck with injuries this season and were missing a few again but put on a valiant display nevertheless, Nicola Hollicks scoring the only goal of the 1st half to see Colney Heath leading 1-0. Summer Muir doubling the home sides lead early in the 2nd half. Billericay Town pulling it back to 2-1, managed to salvage a point with just 2 minutes left on the clock scoring to make it 2-2. Hayley Piggott and captain Lindsey Morgan with their goals. The point see’s Billericay Town leading the way by 8 points from 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies with 2 matches to play. Cambridge City have 4 left maximum points will leave them on 35 points. 4th placed Acle United Ladies have 6 left to play however and should they and Billericay Town both claim maximum points in the run in they will both finish on 37 points going all the way once again.
ERWFL Division One North
In the ERWFL Division One North their was the one game played at the weekend, Histon Ladies at home to Silver End United Ladies the away side playing their last league fixture of the season a tough campaign a bottom place finish settled a while back. Lack of numbers earlier on in the season and injuries contributing. A goal in the opening fifteen minutes by Abigail Davies putting Histon into a 1-0 half-time lead. A strong finish in the 2nd half seeing Histon go on to secure all 3 points, Sophie Lanham scoring from the penalty spot with fifteen minutes left. A goal each for Hannah Gordon and Katie Webb in the final 10 minutes seeing Histon Ladies win the game 4-0 and move up into 3rd position in the table with a game in hand on 4th placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Silver End United Ladies season isn’t done quite yet have a Cup Final to play this coming Sunday are taking on Hutton Ladies for the Essex Women’s Trophy at Saffron Walden FC a 3pm kick-off.
ERWFL Division One South
One match in ERWFL Division One South too this Sunday with runners-up spot clinching promotion for whoever can claim it. Far from settled yet though Harlow Town Ladies are in possession at the moment 3 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies who saw their match away to leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves called off due to the weather. Harlow Town Ladies were at home taking on Hutton Ladies in 4th spot. The point’s were shared with the sides finishing at 2-2. Chloe Bassett and Lily Bruno scoring for Harlow Town. Kaitlin Sugg and Amy Crumpler on target for Hutton.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Two matches in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Unbeaten Thorpe United Ladies move into 2nd spot in the table after claiming all 3 points away from home against Stalham Town Ladies this Sunday. Shanice Sutton moving past 30 goals for the season as she rattled home another hat-trick for Thorpe United. Lisa Ferdani also scoring in their 5-2 win.
5-2 was also the winning score for Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves at home to Fakenham Town Ladies on Sunday. The sides were level at the break drawing 2-2, before Wymondham Town ran out 5-2 winners in the 2nd half, Gemma Hamilton-Rout with a penalty amongst Wymondham Town’s goalscorers. Rochelle Woods and Natalie Wright with the 1st half goals for Fakenham Town.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
10 win out of 10 for FC Sprowston Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two as they recorded another comfortable win on the road away to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the only game in the league on Sunday. Katie Fray scoring a hat-trick in the match. There were goal too for Melissa Belsey, Charlie Head and Rebecca Kirby in a 6-0 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
A six point haul in a double header in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership saw new leaders in the table as St Ives Town Ladies moved above Netherton United Ladies on goal difference. This Sunday they were away to fellow title hopefuls, 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies in the only game in the Cambridgeshire leagues. Always a competitive tussle between the sides the pair were drawing goalless at the break. The win secured in the 2nd half Hannah Seymour-Shove and Katie Stancombe scoring for St Ives Town to see the away side win 2-0 and move into a 3 point lead at the top of the table. A 7 point gap between them and Newmarket Town now both have 3 to play.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
The weather played havoc with the fixture list in Essex once again with just 3 games surviving all featuring Chelmsford City Ladies, and it was bed news in all 3 as the point went the way of their opponents. In the Essex Women’s Premier Division, Chelmsford City Ladies 1st team were at home to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Goals from captain Gaby Freedman and Georgia James for Chelmsford in the 1st half they found themselves trailing 2-3 thanks to a Jo Smeaton hat-trick for Beacon Hill Rovers. Smeaton adding a 4th goal in the 2nd half to secure the 3 points now has 21 goals for 12 appearances for Beacon Hill Rovers this season.
Essex Women’s Division One
A double header in Essex Division One, featuring Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves taking on high flyers Leigh Ramblers Ladies 4th in the table going into the match 3 points behind leaders Southend United Ladies. All very tight at the top. Leigh Ramblers are scoring plenty of goals only 2nd to Hullbridge Sports Ladies in the goal scoring charts before Sunday, their young squad up against the side bottom of the league this weekend scored another 15 goals in the 2 matches to claim all 6 points and take a 3 point lead at the top of the Division One table. A brace each for Abbi Brown and Amber Denton in the 1st match along with a goal each for Chloe Gilligan, Sasha Vail and Paige White seeing Leigh Ramblers win the match 7-0. Denton getting 5 more goals to her name in the 2nd game Leigh Ramblers winning 8-0. Their other goals scored by Rebecca Dalgarno, Molly Giles and Jordan Castle.
