Tag Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – Wymondham Town Women v Norwich City Women

Tues 30th August

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip along the A47 this Tuesday evening for the 1st of 2 local derbies this week from FAWNL South East Division One and for the 1st time in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid we have a Norfolk derby with newly promoted Wymondham Town Women hosting Norwich City Women.

History being made this evening with this game the 1st Norfolk derby match taking place in the tier of the women’s football pyramid. Norwich City Women long established at this level joined in FAWNL South East Division One by Wymondham Town Women promoted to the league winning the ERWFL Premier Division title last season.

Under manager Alex Guy’s leadership, Wymondham have grown into one of the leading women’s sides in Norfolk. Rising from the county set-up into the regional leagues cumulating last season with the club winning the treble. Dominated the ERWFL Premier Division from start to finish to clinch the title and promotion, aswell as winning the League Cup and winning the Norfolk Harrod Sport County Cup for the 2nd time at Carrow Road. Doing so with one of the smallest squads in the league too! Alex Guy setting down from his role during the summer as the club begin a new chapter in the FAWNL.

Rob Dyer taking on the role as 1st team manager coming in relatively late with the new season just around the corner. Several changes at the club in terms of players as Wymondham look to compete at a higher level. Key departures to midfield with Rebecca Russell and Katie Knights both leaving the club to join this evenings opponents, Norwich. 8 new faces brought in to join the squad. A player who made a huge impact in her previous spell with Wymondham returning with Amber Cantwell joining having plenty of experience playing in FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC. So too has Brooke Osborne the defender coming in from Norwich. Goalkeeper Yaz Walford too joins after a season with Norwich having been at Royston Town Women previously. Brook Cheal also returning after having been at Larkhall Athletic Ladies an Norwich previously. Defender Maddison Goodenough looked impressive playing for Dussindale & Hellesdon last season also has experience with MK Dons. Young player, Nyah White joins from Waveney another young player joining is Chloe Shipman who impressed on her debut at the weekend with Sian Douglas the latest signing previously with Norwich.

The FDC, Bowthorpe’s Harrod Sport Arena, Wymondham’s new home for the 2022/23 season. Part of Norfolk FA’s impressive grassroots facilities. Started life in South East Division One with a narrow 2-1 loss to London Seaward FC who like Wymondham don’t have the backing of a men’s club like several others do at this level and above. Players missing at the start of the season through unavailability or injury was a small squad that travelled down to Essex to play title favourites Hashtag United Women on Sunday, a tough one to take their host leading 4-0 at the break going on to win 10-0 at the final whistle and with a quick turn around for this evenings match Wymondham once again have a shortage of numbers with injured players on the bench.

Norwich City Women themselves have tasted a 10-0 defeat in recent seasons but we won’t dwell on that! A new buzz and sense of optimism about the club as they start the 2022/23 off the back of a great escape the previous campaign with 4 wins from their final 5 games ensuring the club retained it’s 4th tier status when they looked to be pasting Wymondham in the opposite direction. The day to day running of the club now in house with Norwich City FC, the Championship club appointing ex-WSL player Flo Allen as general manager to oversea the women’s side.

Bringing in several new faces to bolster an already decent sized squad. Midfield duo Russell and Knights as previously mentioned from Wymondham, Defender Ceri Flye from Cambridge City Ladies. Young striker, Liv Cook from Waveney and defenders Naomi Cooper from Wroxham aswell a Alice Parker re-joining after a season with Wroxham. Started their campaign with a trip to the Abbey Stadium to play Cambridge United WFC on the opening day and despite going a goal down came back to level and strong 2nd half saw them winning the game 4-1 with Natasha Snelling scoring a hat-trick. That momentum taken into their 1st home game at The Nest on Sunday, where 400 spectators were in attendance to see Norwich beat Actonians Ladies 1-0 thanks to a strike from Rebecca Russell to keep them top of the table.

Norwich’s Rebecca Russell scoring her 1st goal for the club at the weekend

The FDC, Bowthorpe’s Harrod Sport Arena the venue for this evenings game. Everyone hoping for a record crowd for the derby clash especially on the back of the Lionesses recent Euros success. The clubhouse and bar open leading into the facility with the main pitch having under gone some work the large 3G pitch now featuring standing viewing on three sides with a stand with seating on one side. The Snack Box open serving hot drinks. A good crowd building additional parking needed parked at The Brook Hotel a short walk from the ground. A pleasant evening dry with a cool breeze.

The FDC Harrod Sport Arena

Wymondham Town Women

Wymondham Town Women starting XI – Yaz Walford, Brooke Osborne, Leah Newcombe (C), Sian Douglas, Brooke Cheal, Jen Codman, Chloe Shipman, Hayley Kindred, Natasha Youngs, Francesca Catchpole & Hannah Waters. Subs – Nyah White, Lyla Studd, Jess Hawkins & Lauren Kett.

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Alice Parker, Anna Larkins (C), Chardonnay Johnston, Ceri Flye, Katie Knights, Rebecca Russell, Ellie Smith, Liv Cook, Megan Todd & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Summer Ward, Rosie George, Jess Harper, Leilah Gooding & Ella Gambell.

As mentioned Wymondham coming into the game with players unavailable such as Amber Cantwell an defenders Mary Croft and Chelsea Clarke with others out injured. Yaz Walford making her 3rd start in goal with captain Leah Newcombe the only one of the back 5 tonight a part of last season’s defence. Sian Douglas, Brook Cheal and Brooke Osborne all in the back line. Chloe Shipman starting in midfield. Both Knights and Russell starting against their former club for Norwich as does defender Chardonnay Johnston. Freya Symonds another former Wymondham player picking up a knock in the Cambridge game missing with Liv Cook starting in attack for Norwich.

Wymondham to get the game underway the floodlights beginning to take effect wearing red shirts and shorts with black socks with Norwich opposite once again in their away colours xenon pink and blue shirts with xenon blue shorts and socks. Midfielder, Jen Codman playing the ball out diagonally to the right looking for Natasha Youngs bursting forwards, Alice Parker at left back defending for Norwich. Players nipping in to close down the ball early on a frantic start from Wymondham as they look to harry the ball in midfield making progress through the middle the ball up towards the area Ceri Flye winning it for Norwich.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Ellie Smith tackled, Wymondham’s Hayley Kindred to get hold of the ball for Norwich drives on the ball into Katie Knights who gets up ended a free kick to Norwich inside the Wymondham half, Parker to deliver it in players up into the box sent long towards the far post no one attacking it a Walford can see it bounce wide of her goal. Wymondham come right Youngs on the ball a strong run making ground before attempting to slide it on for striker Hannah Waters running into the box, can’t get onto the end of it before the ball runs out of play.

Smith taking the ball on from midfield driving forwards with purpose for Norwich moving right sends it out to the wing for Megan Todd who in turn plays it back to captain, Anna Larkins getting on from full back to sends a cross in to Snelling central at the top of the area, getting her head on the ball looks t turn it goalwards placing it central Walford well placed to take the catch. Wymondham are quick to get on the attack in reply Newcombe getting on right side forwards for Youngs a good run to the corner before whipping a cross in low towards the near post attacker Francesca Catchpole closing in on the goalkeeper, getting her shot away looking to put it across her into the bottom corner pulls her shot wide of the far post.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Smith picking up the ball and driving on is a feature for Norwich and difficult for teams to contend with riding a couple of challenges is eventually brought down 25 yards out in a dangerous position in front of goal. Perfect range for Russell whose set pieces Wymondham are all too familiar with. Gets her shot up over the wall on target dipping in front of Walford the keeper with a great reflex save getting a glove up to turn the ball over wide for a corner kick. Played in to the top of the box from the right, clipped inside left for Liv Cook to attack, Catchpole defending for Wymondham getting fouled in the process.

Hayley Kindred combining well with Brooke Osborne on the left for Wymondham look to set up Catchpole moving out to the flank, Ceri Flye going with her for Norwich the centre back winning the ball back. Wymondham press the ball high Jen Codman back to Osborne up the line the hosts getting a throw high up the pitch, Osborne with the power in her arms to get it into the box with Youngs jumping go for it can’t capitalise. Wymondham working hard to close Norwich down not letting the visitors find any rhythm Waters and Catchpole up top exchanging passes Catchpole going left turning a cross into the box, defended by Flye.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Flye winning the ball at the back again for Norwich her clearance seeing Snelling peeling of the defence right side looking to break in behind, Sian Douglas recovering well at centre back to get back at her to tackle regain possession for Wymondham. From the throw Smith takes the ball inside picking out Cook on the left wing shoots her effort driven wide of the left post. A pause in play with Todd down needing some attention looks in a little discomfort but after assessment is okay to continue. It is a scrap in midfield with Knights and Smith for Norwich and Codman and 16-year-old Chloe Shipman competitive for Wymondham is effective in disrupting Norwich, Smith looking to drive on whenever she can.

Norwich’s Ellie Smith (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

A derby feel referee Laura Van Lier needing to have a cautionary word with Smith as she dives in a little too rashly. The free-kick for Wymondham in midfield is played long to Catchpole on the left side looking to hold the ball up is shoved over another free-kick to Wymondham. Angled in the the far post players attacking it Kindred gets up highest for Wymondham to meet it getting her head on target Bryony Williams with a great save for Norwich. Wymondham holding their own creating a couple of half chances. Smith surging on with the ball into the right channel is stopped by Osborne.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Flye coming out to the wing to defend on Kindred as she attacks left side, the defenders cleared ball fining Todd out on the right flank flashes it inside to Snelling inside the D good control to hold up the ball shifting it to her left to turn into the shot put back across goal runs wide of the far post. Half an hour gone Norwich getting going finding more momentum going forwards getting after Wymondham to get hold of the ball higher up the pitch. A clever triangle between Russell, Smith and Todd as Norwich come right, the ball played crossfield to the left with Parker bombing on from full back releases her forwards pass early a diagonal ball lifted into the box the target Knights as she makes a fantastic break from midfield can’t quite get on the end of the pass a flowing move.

GOAL! Smith making a nuisance of herself on the edge of the box is brought down the referee awarding a Penalty. Birthday girl, Todd to take it placing the ball on the spot a confident strike turned into the left of the goal to open the scoring 0-1.

Megan Todd stepping up to open the scoring for Norwich (phot credit Scott Grearhardy)

Catchpole with a talking to from the referee after a late tackle on Larkins.

GOAL! Norwich make it 2 goals inside 2 minutes Norwich winning a throw high on the left Todd bringing it down sending it back to Larkins level with the top of the area wide to cross in, a fantastic delivery to the far post Snelling getting up to meet it twisting her header down into the back of the net to score 0-2.

Natasha Snelling heads in Norwich’s 2nd (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

The foul count in the middle totting up as Codman fouls Smith. The visitors come on through the middle before laying it out to Cook on the left an ambitious strike on the angle races wide across the six yard box. Smith is getting clipped at regular intervals as Wymondham try to slow her down. Smith tough giving as good as she gets. The goals have rocked Wymondham need to settle down have been doing okay up to that point. Todd takes the ball inside from the left across the D turning it inside for Snelling, closely marked by Ferris can’t turn to shoot instead feeds it back to Todd who lifts her attempt over.

Norwich advancing on the left the pass from Larkins inside to Todd 25 yards out, spots Cook breaking into the area from the left her cross turned in across the six yard box Cook can’t quite take it in her stride, cleared. Osborne racing up on the left gets the ball on for Catchpole her return pass inside to Osborne the defender lifting it on for Waters inside the area, well marked can’t get it under control to turn and shoot before it is smuggled away. Wymondham press high getting the corner left, fired into the six yard box is scrambled clear by Norwich falling straight to Codman 25 yards out blasts her shot in wide of the right post.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Johnston is fouled by Waters as the Wymondham attacker looks to muscle her way in behind on halfway. Clipped in long to the far post Walford attempting to claim low is fouled. Kindred up on the left with Catchpole crossed in Johnston intercepting for Norwich chesting the ball down volleying clear. A late flurry form Wymondham at the end of the 1st half Youngs getting a corner on the right dipped in low near post, Williams getting hold of it play stopped with a Norwich player down.

Half-time Wymondham Town Women 0-2 Norwich City Women

Norwich leading 2-0 at the break. The break through coming from the penalty spot. Todd converting to make it 1-0 a 2nd goal quickly following as Snelling headed home. Prior to that Wymondham were doing well working hard to disrupt Norwich’s play. Certainly had a derby feeling with the robust tackles being put in in the middle of the park. Creating a couple of good scoring chances of their own. The quickfire double unsettling them as Norwich gained confidence and momentum going forwards looking lively around the box. 2-0 often a tricky score and all too often the next goal will be crucial.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Norwich to get the 2nd half underway a fantastic crow of 435 in attendance and that lends to the atmosphere. Parker advancing on the right for Norwich her low diagonal ball intercepted by Douglas, sliced behind but favourably to be cleared. Smith with a surging run from midfield lays the pass on for Snelling inside the box sends the ball past the advancing keeper but it won’t count the flag already up against her. A bright start from Norwich Snelling seeing the ball into her feet turns to sent a shot over from 25 yards.

A corner for Norwich on the right defended at the near post Norwich getting it back to the taker to send a long cross in to the far post picking out Snelling close in snatches her volleyed effort over. Smith getting on through the middle into Snelling top of the D, attempts to pick out Cook breaking in left side a timely interception from Newcombe tracking back.

Natasha Snelling

GOAL! A strong start to the 2nd half from Norwich out of the blocks early and with 5 minutes gone in the 2nd period the visitors extend their lead. Russell with a brilliant through ball to put Snelling in on goal right of the D beating the offside trap, to set up a one on one with the advancing keeper, the striker slotting the ball low past Walford to score her 5th goal of the season in just 3 matches and make it 0-3.

A blistering start to the 2nd half Norwich have Wymondham well and truly on the back foot, Newcombe winning the interception inside her area as Norwich look to pick out Cook bursting inside from the left. Cook tracking back to regain the ball turning left getting on with pace to send a cross/shot wide across the six yard box. Norwich attack right Snelling up with Todd, Osborne getting the challenge in hurt in the process but is okay after treatment.

GOAL! closing in on an hour played all Norwich so far the visitors on the ball Smith with another drive from the middle coming left playing the ball on for Cook, taking it on a brilliant burst of pace to get her into the box bearing down on goal, closing in on the keeper appears to have run out of room but somehow manages to squeeze a shot past the keeper to score her first competitive goal for Norwich 0-4.

Liv Cook scores her 1st competitive goal for Norwich (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Norwich make a change, Smith having taken a few knocks coming off in midfield, Leilah Gooding coming on. Wymondham unsettled out of sorts Codman getting a talking too from the referee. Catchpole in strongly on the right to win the ball her long ball on too strong for Waters.

GOAL! Norwich add a 5th goal with Cook getting into a high position on the left to receive the ball into her feet turns inside smartly showing a great turn of pace to burst towards the box slipping the pass through to Snelling pulling of the last defender to bear down on goal to sent her shot under the keeper to score her 2nd hat-trick of the season… just 3 game old 0-5.

Midway through the 2nd half Wymondham shell shocked going 5 goals down struggling to find a response as Norwich press the ball everywhere. Todd coming off for Norwich, Ella Gambell the player coming on. The game a little subdued. Snelling giving way for Rosie George up top. A double switch from Wymondham with Catchpole and Kindred coming off to be replaced by Lyla Studd and Nyah White. Norwich making their final 2 changes bringing on Summer Ward and Jess Harper for Parker and Johnston.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Good work from George on the left by-line cutting the ball back into the box, cut out by Ferris.

GOAL! Cook on the ball left side moves inside a pacey run is clipped right on the corner of the area just outside a freekick for Norwich. Russell placing the ball close in but a good angle scoops her hot over the wall dropping for the bottom corner Walford dropping across to cover will be disappointed as the ball manages to squirm in between her and the post to extend the lead to 0-6.

Rebecca Russell congratulated by her teammates after scoring (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

All Norwich all Wymondham can do to try and contain them as they get numbers up and around their box, out to Cook on the left her cross into the six yard box turned back across beyond the far post, Douglas getting her head into deflect it up for Walford to claim. Gambell on the right for Norwich goes forwards with the ball stopped by Osborne. Ferris attempting to bring the ball out from the back has limited option ahead of her tackled by Knights. George getting hold of the ball right outside the box put inside for Gambell who does well to keep in on the by-line the challenge sending the ball for a throw in the corner.

Out on the right Norwich come on Gambell with Harper in support a shot driven in on the angle held by Walford. A rare opportunity for Wymondham in attack as Shipman in midfield plays a brilliant pass into Waters inside the box right of goal , sends the shot in low to the near post Williams alert diving to her left to push the ball wide for a corner.

Knight out left inside for George with Norwich getting into the final 3rd right of the D George plays it back to Gooding to have a crack at goal from distance, on target but can only pick out Walford. A lengthy pause follows with Youngs down for Wymondham after a clash of knees. Sad news as the stretcher come out and Youngs is taken off. The game lost the injured players not risked Wymondham play on with 10. Despite that Wymondham exploit the left Osborne put on by Douglas, her early cross in aimed for White breaking into the area but Williams can safely gather. Russell having a go from distance a long way out looping down to creep under the bar, Walford though back on her line not troubled bringing it down safely.

Douglas back well on Cook to tackle as she looks to get away on the left. Knights forwards latching onto the rebound after Ferris blocks Russell’s 25 yard strike, Knights effort cut out. George has picked up an injury and needs to come off for treatment for Norwich both sides finishing with 10 as the game moves into stoppage time.

GOAL! Time almost up Norwich continue to attack getting players up Knights into the box right of goal close to the by-line holding the ball up after chasing the blocked rebound from Ferris. Looking to hook a cross in across the face of goal is brought down, Penalty! Knights picking herself up t take the penalty puts her foot through it to smash the ball home for her 1st Norwich goal 0-7.

No sooner has the penalty been scored then the final whistle blows seventh heaven for Norwich as they make it 3 wins from 3 to start their season on a high.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Full time Wymondham Town Women 0-7 Norwich City Women

Norwich dominant in the 2nd half taking the game to Wymondham right from kick-off creating numerous chances before scoring their 3rd goal a 4th and 5th quickly following with Wymondham on the back foot having no reply Snelling going on to complete her 2nd half trick of the season. Norwich remain top of South East Division One. A tough opening to the season for Wymondham with a much changed side and shortage of numbers for the last 2 games heavy losses but they were competitive in the 1st half with a couple of chances of their own before Norwich turned it up a gear.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. As usual a few contenders was s strong performance from Norwich. A couple of note from Wymondham too, Chloe Shipman didn’t look out of place despite her youth while Brooke Osborne made some vital tackles at the back getting forwards to support Kindred and Catchpole. For Norwich another hattrick for Natasha Snelling a sensational start to the season up front. Ceri Flye winning alot at the back. In midfield it was a competitive tussle for a while Katie Knights battling for the ball winning her fair share of tackles getting forwards well 2nd half. Edged out just by Ellie Smith her driving runs on the ball a real threat hard to contain and brings so much into play going forwards.

An entertaining evening at The FDC, fantastic to see so many their, huge encouragement for the players and the game at large. Pleasure to meet Flo Allen from Norwich and my thanks to Wymondham for the team details and Scott Grearhardy for letting me use some of his pictures in the report.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

FAWNL South East Division One

Sunday 21st August

Great to be back for another season covering women’s football across the East of England and what a summer it has already been for the game in this country with our Lionesses becoming Champions of Europe! Winning the competition in style with record breaking attendances beating some of the best along the way. Sure everyone has been walking a little taller in training since and can’t wait for the season to begin. Whatever the legacy from this tournament success might be it’s sure to lead to more coverage, more fans and girls inspired to take up the game, hopefully more funding and sponsorship too as people see the potential for the games growth going forwards.

England’s Lionesses, winning this summer’s UEFA Women’s European Championships

Excited for the new season to begin the FAWNL and ERWFL competitions kicking off this Sunday. Beginning my season with a trip to the Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC play Norwich City Women in their opening fixture in FAWNL South East Division One.

The stalwarts of the league being the only two sides to consistently feature in the 4th tier since the FAWNL was created back in the 2014/15 season. With the formation of the Barclays WSL and the Championship the top 4 tiers of the woman’s pyramid are getting stronger and stronger with each passing season and the demands on clubs to remain competitive grow year on year. Clubs forming closer ties with their respective men’s sides has helped in that growth and today’s opponents have both recently seen their relationship with their men’s club strengthen.

Cambridge United WFC having established a new women’s board with League One, Cambridge United FC, chaired by Jenny Horfield. This further strengthens the women’s side to the main club and it’s youth section growing as it becomes one of the FA’s new girls emerging talent centres. Intelligent Membranes coming in to sponsor the women’s team shirts the women’s side will benefit from closer ties and resources as it looks to push on up the pyramid. Staging 4 matches at the Abbey Stadium this season.

Darren Marjoram joining 1st team coach Ben Yeomans last season as manager, Cambridge United WFC made a solid start to the campaign into the top half and looking to press for a top 4 finish, a disappointing final 3rd to the campaign however saw the club take just one point from their last 7 games that ultimately saw them finish 8th just outside the drop zone. That led to some frank discussions within the club and several players moving on. Youth players ready to step up from the development squad with a few new faces joining. The head line signing being, Sarah Wiltshire, previously on loan at Cambridge United has had playing spells with Man City, Yeovil, Watford and Tottenham, bringing experience and goal scoring ability to the club. Also joining in attack Francesca Partridge previously with Northampton Town Women and midfielder Sammy Edgar who joins from last season’s ERWFL runners up, Royston Town Women. Ruth Fox top scorer last season netting 14 goals.

Likewise for Norwich City Women their day to day management is now in house with Championship side Norwich City FC as Norfolk’s leading football club looks to better support it’s women’s side. Bringing in ex-WSL player, Flo Allen as general manager. Thing’s are beginning to move in the right direction for the club after a number of difficult season’s struggling at the bottom of the FAWNL South East Division One table. Moving to The Nest on the northern outskirts of the city to play their home matches taking advantage of a state of the art facility.

Norwich City Women looked dead and buried last season firmly inside the drop zone with 4 sides going down with 5 games to play. A heavy defeat to start the season against the eventual champions Billericay Town Women, Norwich struggled for points all through the campaign then came the turn around digging deep as a squad Norwich produced a sensational finish winning 4 of their final 5 games to haul themselves out of the bottom four to clinch 7th spot in the table. Have strengthened their squad over the summer bringing in 8 new faces, returning players, Rosie George, Alice Parker and goalkeeper Hope Armstrong. Midfielders, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell joining from fellow Norfolk side and last season’s ERWFL Champions, Wymondham Town Ladies. Defender, Ceri Flye is a strong addition at the back joining from Cambridge City Ladies, along with Naomi Cooper from Wroxham Women and forward Liv Cook from Waveney.

The Abbey Stadium pitch

As mentioned the Abbey Stadium hosting 4 games for the women’s side this season as the club looks to promote the side. 3 league clashes with Norwich first up followed by local rivals Cambridge City and Actonians Ladies plus a cup match to be announced. The main stand open for the game with the bar area open beneath plus hot food being served. A good atmosphere building the home crowd getting behind the team with Norwich bringing several supporters. The grass pitch in perfect condition lush and green at the start of the season. The weather too dry and bright, not as hot as in recent weekends favouring playing conditions.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Ella Marden, Lauren Rouse, Grace Waygood, Gisella Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Alysha Stojko-Down, Ruth Fox, Sarah Wiltshire & Francesca Partridge. Subs – Abi Davies, Albany Hodgson, Niamh Day, Libby Fraser & Sunny McGregor.

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Anna Larkins (C), Alice Parker, Ceri Flye, Chardonnay Johnston, Katie Knights, Rebecca Russell, Ellie Smith, Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling & Freya Symonds. Subs – Summer Ward, Kathryn Stanley, Naomi Cooper, Leilah Gooding & Olivia Cook.

Like to be closer to the action but headed up to the press box for this one to get a better view of the pitch. Sarah Wiltshire, Sammy Edgar and Francesca Partridge all making their competitive starts for Cambridge. Ceri Flye, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell in the starting XI for Norwich. Norwich to have the kick-off 1st half wearing their 3rd choice kit which I was wondering how to describe but the club has done it for me listed a xenon pink and blue shirt with xenon blue shorts and socks, xenon being obtained by the distillation of liquid air so I’d be inclined to shift towards pastel, still it looks pretty cool. Cambridge lined up opposite in their traditional amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball sent long out to Freya Symonds moving left Abbi Griffin defending at right back for Cambridge cleared up to Wiltshire in attack.

Abbi Griffin playing out from the back for Cambridge

Norwich quick to close down the early exchanges frantic the ball put on for Megan Todd out on the right off attack, Ellie Smith coming over to support the pair winning Norwich a series of throws as they look to gain ground on the flank. Cambridge regaining possession on the middle the ball lifted on for Wiltshire on the move left wing, helps it on for Partridge in attack, Norwich captain Anna Larkins close in defending the ball out for a throw. Smith likes to get hold of the ball from midfield and drive forwards with it, bursting forwards into the area left of the D holding off a defender closing in on the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb coming to meet her sliding in to claim the ball at her feet

Ellie Smith on the attack for Norwich

Could do with some ball boys over on the far side of the pitch as the match ball disappears into the stand for a throw. From the resulting throw Norwich are awarded a free-kick on the left. Rebecca Russell over it for the visitors a good dead ball specialist during her time at Wymondham whips in an angled ball towards the far post goes through everyone out for a goal kick however play is brought back for a raised offside flag. Webb has to be alert inside her box with Norwich looking to close the ball down quickly inside the Cambridge half Alice Parker on the right sending it on for Freya Symonds stealing in between the centre backs, Webb rushing out seeing the threat sliding in to save at the strikers feet.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds with Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

Norwich certainly looking to pressure Cambridge on the ball force errors, nipping in to regain possession from a throw right side Smith brings the ball under control turns in field squaring it to Russell 25 yards out top of the D, she lays it forwards into the area for Natasha Snelling looking to break in behind the pass a little heavy out for a goal kick. Numbers up to close the ball down Norwich quickly regain possession as Cambridge look to break on through the middle Russell lining up a shot from outside the box left of the D racing low towards the bottom corner, Webb down smartly to save. Smith is proving a nuisance for the Cambridge defence as she looks to power forwards with the ball, Ella Marden at left back getting the tackle in to take the ball away from her as she turns inside.

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

Cambridge taking their time to find their rhythm having made a nervous start, looking for Fox and Wiltshire out on the flanks in attack the ball comes left for Wiltshire pushed on for Partridge who uses her body well to hold up the ball playing it back to her captain Gisella Otten in the middle before spinning in behind, Otten looking to thread the pass into her plays it too straight allowing Bryony Williams to collect unopposed inside the Norwich box. Katie Knights for Norwich and Sammy Edgar for Cambridge are too uncompromising ball winning midfielders a competitive tussle forming in the middle of the park. Edgar putting a strong tackle in on Smith as she attempts to drive on with the ball once more Smith winning the free-kick in front of the centre circle.

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

Chardonnay Johnston to play the ball short to Smith pulling to the right in space sending an angled cross in to be attacked beyond the far post Symonds with a glancing header the ball wide. Cambridge coming back at Norwich better now as they look to push bodies forwards hustle possession in Norwich’s half. Edgar in strong to win the ball taking it forwards towards the edge of the area left of the D plays in inside to Partridge top of the D, can’t quite take it in her stride as she looks to see the ball across her and shoot. Smith’s driving runs with the ball a constant danger have the Cambridge defence back peddling almost succeeds in sending the pass on for Snelling, Webb though alert to the danger again out quickly to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb getting hold of the ball

Fox out on the right takes the ball off Johnston at the back and races on down the flank putting an early looped cross into the six yard box, is just over Wiltshire who has drifted in to the near post area.

GOAL! No sooner have Norwich almost carved out a chance one end then Cambridge get up the other end and open the scoring. Webb quick to realise the ball helped on up to Partridge positioned right of the D some 25 yards out not closed down turns on the ball and catches the strike superbly to smash the ball home for her first Cambridge goal 1-0.

Francesca Partridge celebrating scoring her 1st Cambridge goal!

Closing on on 20 minutes played the deadlock broke a fantastic strike from Francesca Partridge. Norwich get straight on the attack from the restart Cambridge caught napping as Tod steals clear on the right into the box wide of goal closing in on the by-line sends a cross in Webb down to claim. Knights busy in the centre getting her challenges in winning the ball for Norwich her diagonal pass finding Symonds in the right channel, shifts inside shaping to shoot, Otten throwing herself in harms way to block it. Alysha Stojko-Down on with the ball for Cambridge out to Wiltshire on the left squares it into Partridge, Knights tracking back to defend for Norwich.

Norwich midfielder, Katie Knights

Parker is down needing treatment a chance for both sides to take on fluids an even contest now after a bright start from Norwich. Larkins travelling on with the ball in space for Norwich playing a great diagonal pass into the area for Snelling to bring down left of the goal, Webb coming to close looks to chip it on, Webb getting the faintest of touches falls straight to Smith central the flag up against her before she can unleash her shot. Cambridge feed the ball up the line left for Partridge is fouled by Knights winning a free kick 30 yards out. Wiltshire over the ball takes the shot on her effort over the goal.

GOAL! Norwich have possession in the middle a speculative pass played forwards, Waygood goes to cut it out for Cambridge sliding onto the ball is a miscue as the ball deflects off her foot in behind left straight for Symonds racing in taking the ball on into the area Webb coming looks to strike the shot high over her Webb getting her gloves up getting something on the ball but unfortunately straight down into path of Snelling running in central to tap the ball home for six yards for her 1st goal of the season 1-1.

Natasha Snelling equalises for Norwich

Cambridge advance down the left from the restart Wiltshire winning the hosts their first corner of the game. Wiltshire to play it into the area goes long beyond the far post Fox their to meet it inside the six yard box a good header down towards goal, Williams in goal down sharply to make the blocking save the ball turned away to the left retrieved by Wiltshire angles the ball back in towards goal, Williams back on her feet claiming it. Both sides looking to add to the score line Norwich finding Todd wide right shifts inside her cross fizzed in cut out Smith latching onto the rebound outside the box smashing it goalwards, Waygood with the block.

Ruth Fox connects with the header for Cambridge

Smith brought own on the right a free-kick for Norwich 35 yards out, Russell over it the cross into the far post through everyone. Waygood showing a good turn of pace at the back to recover get back on Snelling clear for a throw as she is played in on the right channel for Norwich. Griffin with a diagonal pass long looking for Wiltshire wide left, Ceri Flye winning the header for Norwich at the back. Competitive in the middle a few challenges flying in Norwich finding Symonds left outside the area playing it into Snelling finds room to squeeze a shot away her stabbed effort blocked by Lauren Rouse.

Laruen Rouse holding off Norwich’s Natasha Snelling

Into stoppage time at the end of a lively first half the ball fed into Symonds from the left controls well shifting it twice between her feet inside the area as the Cambridge defence close her down, nevertheless gets a shot away threatening to creep into the bottom corner Webb wrongfooted initially scrambling back to throw herself at the ball palm it away to safety. Norwich finishing the half strong Russell’s free kick bringing a corner Cambridge heading clear as the half draws to a close.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Norwich City Women

Honours even at the end of the first half the sides drawing 1-1. Norwich starting the brighter putting Cambridge under pressure forcing errors the hosts looking nervous taking a little time to settle into the game the visitors with chances to open the scoring before Francesca Partridge scored in the 18th minute with a superb strike to give Cambridge the lead. Norwich kept going a mix up at the back leading to them scoring the equalising goal past the half hour. Cambridge forcing a top class save from Williams unlucky not to be leading at the break. All to play for 2nd half.

Norwich’s Rebecca Russell

An injury for Symonds in the first half she is replaced by Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge unchanged getting the 2nd half underway, Otten sending it long to the left for Wiltshire, Larkins defending, both Otten and Edgar snapping in to win the ball keep the momentum with the hosts as they look to make a fast start to the 2nd half the Norwich defence getting in their blocks standing firm, Intent from Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half Edgar rushing in to win the ball out to Fox on the right turns inside tackled by Johnston.

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins

Cambridge attacking Fox on the ball wins the hosts a corner out on the right played in beyond the far post Edgar getting her head on the ball her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. Norwich riding out the early Cambridge storm the game settling down into a more even contest both sides vying for the ball. The visitors with a throw on the right half way inside the Cambridge half Smith bringing it down turning inside shaping to curl a shot in towards goal, is an unfortunately block from Todd in front of her to deflect the ball away for a goal kick.

Norwich’s Alice Parker with Cambridge’s Ruth Fox

Cambridge inviting a bit of pressure as Norwich are strong out of possession looking to hustle players into rushing passes making errors. Flye across to defend on Wiltshire as Marden looks to lift the ball on up the flank. Fox on the right spins off her marker well getting in behind on the wing lifting a cross into the area Johnston up to head the ball away at the near post conceding a corner. Played in long knocked back in Edgar attacking it deflected behind for another corner. The in swinger snatched down well by Williams.

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

Todd looks to bring the ball down out left as the clearance is lifted up to her Rouse getting a foot in t take the ball away conceding a corner kick played in from the left across the six yard box Snelling stretching beyond the six yard box sends the ball wide.

Norwich’s Megan Todd

GOAL! Past the hour mark Norwich have been getting plenty forwards in attack and over whelm the right side Larkins up with Stanley driving on to the by line into the box cuts the cross back into the top of the six yard box players lining up to meet it comes to Snelling to stab home for her 2nd of the game to put the visitors into the lead 1-2.

Natasha Snelling celebrates after she puts Norwich into the lead

Cambridge suffering a blow trailing at home look to get on down the right Griffin up with Fox, Parker defending the out for a goal kick. Norwich’s Smith gets hold of the ball in the final third 25 yards out central the pass short inti Stanley right of the D, plays in inside the area to Snelling ahead of her closed down the ball back with Stanley sees Larkins racing forwards wide left picking her out the full back striking her shot over on the angle. Norwich looking strong getting players forwards forcing Norwich back making it difficult for them to find their own attacking players.

Marden picking up a knock Cambridge making a change at the back with Albany Hodgson coming on. Norwich winning a corner on the right a good ball into the six yard box dealt with well by Edgar at the near post with a good header for Cambridge. Griffin out from the back on for Partridge in attack, free for a moment a good turn of pace form Flye to get across and clear the ball for a throw. The ball never still for long particularly in the middle pinging back and forth Cambridge have the break Wiltshire central laying it off to Partridge drifting right, shapes to shoot Johnston throwing herself into the block to deny her from 20 yards out.

Chardonnay Johnston defending for Norwich

A free -kick for Cambridge wide right 30 or so yards out Wiltshire takes on the shot a dangerous ball in dropping late has Williams needing to pluck it down to safety back on her goal line.

GOAL! Into the final 15 minutes , Griffin is left in a heap as she is dispossessed half way inside the Cambridge half on the right, Smith racing on with the ball down the channel taking it inside the box closing in on goal blasting a shot at Webb the keeper down spreading herself to make the save the ball not under control deflects up and into Smith to collect on the rebound and turn home at the 2nd attempt 1-3.

Ellie Smith making the block on Fox scoring Norwich’s 3rd goal

Worse for Cambridge, Griffin hurt from the initial challenge that led to the goal can’t continue a 2nd change enforced with Abi Davies on. Edgar with a talking too from the referee after another robust tackle. Norwich from the resulting free-kick 30 yards out Russell putting her effort over the bar. Time ticking down for Cambridge to get themselves back into the match with a free kick top of the circle. Wiltshire decides to have a pop at goal, is close by Williams can see it safely onto the roof of her net.

Norwich making their 2nd change of the game with Smith the player coming off to be replaced by Liv Cook. Stojko-Down heads the ball on for Partridge inside the box, Johnston and Flye closing her down wins her side a corner. Played in from the right to the far post is turned wide. Stojko-Down comes off for Cambridge, on comes Sunny McGregor for the closing stages with time running out for Cambridge to find a goal.

GOAL! One minute of regular time left on the clock and the back of the net is found one last time as Norwich break up a Cambridge attack the ball into full back Larkins on the right looks to send it long is a brilliant ball up into the box with substitute Liv Cook pulling in behind at the near post looking to see it drop over her shoulder and shoot, before she can she is brought down by Hodgson the referee pointing to the spot penalty! Snelling on a hat-trick placing the ball on the spot makes no mistake sending the keeper the wrong way placing the ball centrally lifting it into the back of the net 1-4.

Natasha Snelling scores from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick

Snelling’s last action of the game as she comes off to be replaced by Leilah Gooding. Stoppage time being played. Cambridge find Partridge pulling away left of the D her attempted a lob defending the ball falling to Wiltshire 30 yards out her strike from distance held by the keeper. Another change for Cambridge with Niamh Day on for Fox. Edgar picking up a late yellow card as thing’s get heated in the circle between her, Knights and Russell. Todd wins a corner for Norwich defended Webb sending the ball long for Partridge in attack a shot from the edge of the box is cleanly caught by Williams.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-4 Norwich City Women

Norwich starting their campaign with a win on the opening day. A confidence boosting result with a strong 2nd half to claim victory. A competitive contest the visitors making a good start to the game taking the game to Cambridge before the hosts settled and went on to open the scoring. A mistake leading to the equaliser Cambridge nevertheless with chances to lead at half-time started the 2nd half with intent but after riding that out Norwich looked strong taking the game to their opponents getting players forwards pressing the ball taking the lead on the hour adding a 3rd with less than 15 minutes left. Cambridge pushing on searching for a reply, conceding a late penalty to see Natasha Snelling claim her hat-trick. The final score maybe a little harsh on Cambridge, Norwich playing well for the 3 points, will be alot happier than they were this time last season for sure.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. Sometimes they are easy but most of the time it’s a tough decision. Players to mention from both sides, starting with Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire working hard up front to run the channel make herself available press the defence on the ball. Francesca Partridge making a solid debut, please to say Women’s Football East is sponsoring her for the season. Showed good presence up top and scored a fantastic goal. For Norwich, Ceri Flye made an impressive debut in defence with a number of well timed tackles good positioning throughout. Katie Knights was busy in the middle breaking up play and Ellie Smith always impresses whenever I see her in action a strong runner on the ball her driving runs form the middle had Cambridge on the back foot constantly. Today’s award goes to their hat-trick scorer, Natasha Snelling. Took her goals well with some great runs during the match to get into the box and bring her teammates into play.

Great to start a new season, an enjoyable afternoon at the Abbey Stadium a good crowd of 64 in attendance that showed their appreciation to Cambridge despite the result. Squad lists after the saviour to a match report writer but I appreciate getting the team sheets nonetheless. Looking forwards t the season ahead, actually have the next months games planned already but I’m not jinxing it by telling anyone what they are. It’s good to be back.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Sunday 24th April

FAWNL South East Division One

Derby day this Sunday on Women’s Football East with a trip to St Neots FC to watch Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Ladies lock horns in FAWNL South East Division One.

A game of huge importance now played at the end of the season the penultimate for both, delayed from earlier in the season, Cambridge United WFC in 7th spot are safe, their local rivals however are not with Cambridge City Ladies in real danger of getting relegated as other results last weekend confirmed it is now between them and 11th placed Enfield Town Ladies for the final relegation spot.

Bottom of the FAWNL South East Division One table

Heavy rain seeing the original midweek date for the derby match called off late on, the game rearranged for this weekend, Cambridge United WFC in 7th spot in the FAWNL South East Division One table were looking over their shoulders themselves in recent matches as an inconsistent run of results saw the club lose ground in what had been a strong position for a top 4 finish. Just one point collected in their last 5 matches taking the gloss off a promising season. No goals scored in the last 4 either, that drought finally ending in the 91st minute of the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final were a goal from Laura Mitchell saw the club lift the trophy in its inaugural season. 2 games left to play today and away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies next Sunday could yet see the club secure a top 6 finish.

Cambridge City Ladies haven’t been in the bottom 4 all season yet they are in danger of dropping into it right at the death. With Norwich City Women securing safety with a run of 4 straight wins including home and away against Cambridge City, the final spot is now between the and Enfield Town Ladies, with Kent Football United, Harlow Town Ladies and Stevenage FC Women already down. Is very unfortunate that the league will see 4 sides relegated this season as the FA look to get the leagues all back to 12 for next season following the aftermath of the Covid hit seasons. Cambridge City Ladies results deserting them just like United at the sharp end of the season with 4 straight defeats to push them down to 9th, 2 points in their final 3 games will be enough with 23 points, Enfield Town Ladies in 11th have 21 and 1 game left away to Kent Football United next weekend. A win for Cambridge City today and it’s all over they will be safe and send Enfield down. Like United have lifted silverware this season retaining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

St Neots FC, Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s game, the grass pitch looking immaculate. The clubhouse beside the main seated stand open serving hot and cold drinks. The weather perfect for a game of football, warm and sunny with a little cloud cover.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Abbi Griffin, Grace Waygood, Rachel Kosky, Laura Baker (C), Gisela Otten, Alysha Stojko-Down, Laura Mitchell, Ella Marden & Ruth Fox. Subs – Lauren Rouse, Faith Hewitt, Emma Jenkins, Nicole Emmings & Libby Fraser.

Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Bronwyn Mulheron, Ceri Flye, Frances Steele, Ellie Cullum, Bella Simmons, Karly Tolentino, Erin Davies & Grace Stanley. Subs – Hannah Bodily, Charlotte Gillies, Bella Ely, Jess Evans & Shannon Shaw.

Rumours of a bust up in the City camp prior to today’s crucial game, ex-United player, Bella Simmons along with Frances Steele in the starting line-up having hardly featured for the 1st team so far this season. United have been having to juggle their squad alot of late due to illness and injury welcome back captain, Laura Baker after missing recent games. City to kick-off the first half wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence, United captain, Laura Baker is quick to close the ball down as City look to go left the ball out for a throw in.

GOAL! The perfect start to any derby game with a goal inside the opening couple of minutes, goes the way of the visitors Amy Reed on the ball at right back lifting it on up the wing for Karly Tolentino running in behind the defence, wrapping her foot around the ball sends a looping cross in towards the back post, Erin Davies under it knocking the ball up into the middle, dropping isn’t dealt with by the United centre backs as top scorer Grace Stanley in between sends the ball into the back of the net 0-1.

Grace Stanley congratulated after opening the scoring for Cambridge City

The perfect start to a must win game for City going a long way to settle any pre-match nerves. The visitors with a bright start are quick to win the ball back from the restart move left winning a corner kick. The ball angled in cleared at the near post back with the corner taken crossed in claimed by Unite goalkeeper, Lauren Webb. City captain, goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson with a good long kick out from the back seeing Stanley stealing in behind into the right channel, Webb out to the top of her area to gather.

City hustling the ball moving in quick to close it down all over the pitch Bronwyn Mulheron winning it at the back. Frances Steele in the middle forwards for Stanley right of goal moving into the box shifting inside onto her left foot, strikes a curling shot in across goal, Webb diving to her right making a good save pushing the ball away from goal. City close down preventing United getting out a shot fired in from distance on the left brushing the side netting. A strong start from City, Bella Simmons pressing well against Ella Marden on the left her right on for Stanley, Abbi Griffin getting the tackle in to take the ball away from her.

Cambridge United’s Ella Marden

United not settled at all slow to get out when they have the ball, Baker looking to spread play right with Laura Mitchell on the move her cross into the box only finding the head of Mulheron to clear. City’s closing down forces an error as defender Grace Waygood is caught in possession onside her own box by Tolentino who moves inside to strike her shot up over the crossbar. City taking the game to United Steele cutting out Ella Marden’s pass as she looks for Ruth Fox in attack. Griffin with a great crossfield ball for Anna Re advancing on the right is stopped by City’s Lauren Tomlinson.

Cambridge City Ladies, Lauren Tomlinson

Ellie Cullum links up with Erin Davies in the centre of midfield moving forwards the shot from 20 yards out struck wide of the post. Fox to the right of goal seeing the ball into her feet well putting in inside for Alysha Stojko-Down 20 yards out top of the D, takes on the shot the ball angling away from the left post. United coming away with the ball in the middle up to Fox left channel peels off her marker well taking the ball up the line, Ceri Flye getting back at her well to defend send the ball out for a throw in.

City break well the ball on for Tolentino right angles a diagonal ball into the box far post area, between them Rachel Kosky and Re deal with the threat for United. Certainly City look up for it, United sluggish have yet to find any rhythm. Simmons picking the ball up from deep allowed to travel letting fly from all of 35 yards out, the shot no trouble for Webb. Stojko-Down on the ball left side has Fox in support ahead of her, takes the ball on towards the City box has Mitchell to the right of the D plays the ball into her continuing her run into the area left side, Mitchell laying the ball through to her, Fox from close range blasts the ball goalwards, Hudson down in front of her with a strong save sending the ball away for a corner kick.

Sarah Hudson with the save to stop Cambridge United equalising

A better spell from United as they look to get the ball into the feet of their attacking players. Fox lifting another effort over from inside the box left of goal. City with a free-kick wide left much to Re’s frustration. The ball lifted into the box near side sent on across goal, out behind for a corner a nick of a United player spotted corner given. Put into the top of the area, Re gets hold of it for United the break is on as she moves it on for Fox left, tries the diagonal pass inside with Mitchell looking to bomb on far side, the ball though to close to Hudson allowing the keeper to come and clear.

Anna Re looking to break for Cambridge United

City playing with a high tempo pressing well, often doubling up on players as United are slow in their build up play, lost on the left Simmons on for Stanley wide the cross sent into the area, over Tolentino jumping in the centre, Griffin clearing it beyond.

GOAL! City double their lead midway through the first half with a straight forward pass through the middle from the goal kick not dealt with, Stanley running in clear behind moving right checks inside outside the area to angle a shot in low across the keeper, Webb gets down to her right, gets her fingertips to it but not enough to turn it wide of her far post and the ball nestles in the bottom corner 0-2.

Grace Staley makes it 2-0 to Cambridge City

Mitchell bringing the ball on for United central on for Stojko-Down who looks to thread it on for Fox making a left channel run, Flye in to win the ball for City send it out for a throw. Baker coming back to help Griffin as she demands some urgency from her side, the loose ball nudged into Stanley, Kosky closing down to clear for United.

GOAL! City extend their lead as Simmons carrying the ball on in midfield left side is allowed to go on unchallenged, lining up a strike 25 yards out races into the box low, Webb diving can’t get there as the ball finds the inside of the post 0-3.

Bella Simmons quickly adds a 3rd for Cambridge City

City with their tails up a free-kick wide on the left players up from the back, angled into the top of the area, Gisela Otten heading it down for United, drops straight to Davies 20 yards out her snap shot angling away wide past the left post. Kosky out to charge down Simmons shot this time as she lines up another strike from 25 yards out. Stanley in attack in the right corner holding the ball up, Reed getting forwards to support a corner won. Swung into the centre of the United box, Stanley getting her head on the ball can only direct her effort into Webb’s midriff.

Marden bringing the ball down on the left well shifts inside has Fox ahead of her looks to pick her out, Steele lunging in to intercept for City. Re on the right winning a good challenge for United up to Fox has Stojko-Down inside, Cullum back to help her defence regaining possession for the visitors. United press right Mitchell with Fox the ball crossed into the box cut out put behind for a corner on the right. Played in near side, Kosky moving towards it rising and twisting in the air as she heads the ball in across goal, Reed defending the far post heading it clear back out to Stojko-Down on the right to put another cross in along the six yard box, Otten rising far post turning her header wide.

Cambridge United’s Gisela Otten

Into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Simmons attacking has Stanley up with her left of goal, Re doing well in defence for United. A late counter attack has Mitchell running with the ball on the right on for Fox, Hudson out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-3 Cambridge City Ladies

No doubt the first half belongs to City a 3 goal lead going a long way to securing their status in FAWNL South East Division One. Stared the game well taking the lead inside the opening couple of minutes and continued to play at a good tempo, closing the ball down and preventing United getting any rhythm going. United out of sorts at the start of the game showing the odd glimpse going forwards, Ruth Fox with a great opportunity to level the scores before City found a 2nd and 3rd goal with relative ease. As it stands the 3 points are City’s and not only will it keep them in the league they will also move above United on goal difference, Work for United to do if they are to get back into the game.

Cambridge United’s Alysha Stojko-Down with Cambridge City’s Ellie Cullum

Changes for United at the start of the 2nd half a double substitution with Lauren Rouse replacing Waygood at the back, Nicole Emmings on for Marden joining Fox in attack. No changes for City as United get the 2nd half underway, out to the right Stojko-Down on for Re, but adjudged to have fouled Tomlinson as she looks to get in behind City with the free-kick. City attack winning a corner on the left the ball into the area charged down the follow up blazed over.

Simmons with the ball at her feet left side charges forwards, playing a one two with Davies on her inside as she goes on into the area, Rouse diving in with the tackle taking the ball behind for the corner kick. City starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st. The ball in low from the left cleared up to Emmings, looks to counter, Reed in well to stop her advance. Rouse across to nullify the threat posed by Simmons as she spins in behind on the right sliding in with a strong challenge the ball out for a throw, Simmons needing a moment to recover.

Cambridge City’s Amy Reed

Unite remain slow to get on with the ball, encouraging City to press is inviting pressure. Simmons strong on the left for City taking the ball on well cuts inside into the box flashes a cross along the six yard box, Davies lunging forwards can’t quite reach it. Otten looking to get forwards support the attack for United left side has Emmings with her, battling for the ball, Flye getting the tackle in to win the ball back for City. Simmons bursting into the box from the left the angle against her wide of goal her cross/shot snatched into her body by Webb as she gets down to it smartly.

GOAL! City capitalise on their positive start to the 2nd half by going on to score a 4th goal on the hour. A strong run on the ball right side from Tolentino on for Stanley wide the United defence stretched, Stanley fires the cross into Simmons free beyond the far post to turn the ball wide of Webb into the back of the net 0-4.

Bella Simmons giving Cambridge City a 4 goal lead

Referee, Michael Butcher calling for a drinks break, both sides come over to the benches for instruction. From the restart, City regain possession come right Reed looking to get on help Tolentino, Griffin tackling well for United to halt the attack. A 3rd change for United with Emma Jenkins on for Stojko-Down. City making their first change, Bella Ely on on the left for Simmons. United look to build through the middle Baker on for Otten forwards for Mitchell in attack left channel goes on is forced with by Mulheron who tackles to win the ball.

Cambridge city’s Frances Steele

GOAL! United finding some urgency in the final 3rd getting players up to support the attack come left the ball crossed into Jenkins right side in the area, aims to put it bac central with Mitchell on the move, releasing the ball is tripped brought down the referee pointing to the spot. Penalty! Baker placing the ball down on the spot smashes it low and hard to the left, Hudson going the right way can’t get to to as United pull a goal back 1-4.

Laura Baker converts the penalty for Cambridge United

20 minutes plus stoppages to play. Rouse at the back long for Mitchell drifting left wins a corner kick. A change for United before it’s taken sees a change in formation too as Griffin comes off at the back, Faith Hewitt on into a midfield role. The corner dropping into the mix near post inside the six yard box is eventually scrambled away loose top of the D, Baker in midfield is free to race onto the loose ball her effort charged down before an attempt from distance drifts over.

Cambridge United captain, Laura Baker

Three at the back for United as they commit more going forwards, City with a 3 goal cushion looking to keep it tight at the back. Reed on for Tolentino bursts forwards her cross into the box cut out by Kosky. City making another change with attacker, Shannon Shaw replacing Stanley. United come left Re into Hewitt who plays the pass on for Emmings left side fires it into Mitchell inside the box near side back for Baker left of the D sends it across to Jenkins inside the area right of goal her shot blocked at close range by Tomlinson the loose ball sent back in low saved by Hudson back on her goal line.

United pressing for a 2nd goal with more of the ball now as City look to defend their lead. Jenkins having made an impact since coming on driving on with the ball right her cross flashed into the box Fox on the penalty spot turning it goalwards, frustrated as she sees her effort come back of the near post straight to Mitchell but difficult to control lifts her effort over the bar.

Ruth Fox on the attack for Cambridge United

The game moving into the final 12 minutes City making a double change bringing off Cullum and Tomlinson for Hannah Bodily and Jess Evans. Kosky winning the ball at the back for United up to Emmings left side jinks inside with the ball Fox making a run for her, Reed managing to get a foot in to take the ball away from her. Re steals in to take the ball away from Ely on the right moving inside plays a one two with Fox central before picking out Jenkins right of goal top of the area, her shot screwed wide of the near post.

A further change for City with Tolentino coming off replaced by Charlotte Gillies. United come left as Hewitt lifts the ball on for Jenkins, tackled by Evans the ball out for a throw high up the pitch. The ball worked down the line the cross angled in near post Mitchell seeing it down onto her feet turns to shot putting her effort wide across goal, retrieved by Emmings far side closing on on the angle her driven shot saved superbly by Hudson.

Another change for United with Libby Fraser replacing Fox up front. City counter on the right, Gillies with fresh legs bursting on flashing a strike wide across the face of the United goal. The clock ticking down City despite their lead looking a little nervous the pressure relieved in attack Bodily up to Davies left of the D her shot taking a deflection behind for a corner kick. Into added time 5 minutes to be played. City break right the ball into Gillies her angled shot taken by Webb at her near post.

Cambridge City’s Erin Davies holding off United’s Laura Mitchell

Jenkins off a diagonal ball forwards from Kosky getting United a corner kick as Evans turns her cross behind. Fired into the box high, Hewitt jumping central can’t get it, City counter on the right the ball up to Gillies on for Davies takes on the shot early, Webb down sharply at her near post the ball behind for a corner kick. The clock ticking own City look to keep it in the corner, Rouse wins it launched forwards United look to break, Mulheron pulling the attacker back earning the first yellow card of the game. Put into the area Mulheron is at hand to head the ball away to the right for a throw in. The ball into Jenkins feet right side in the box on the turn curls her shot in wide of the far post.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-4 Cambridge City Ladies

The final whistle blows and City celebrate winning the local derby and securing their league status in the process. 4-1 the final score. The result confirming Enfield Town Ladies long time members of the 4th tier going down. The Cambridge derby alive for another season. After all the pre-match build-up at the top of this report City made it look easy with a strong performance up for the derby when it really mattered an early goal going a long way to securing victory. Were strong throughout a good tempo pressing the ball and doubling up well at times a deserved lead at half-time a 4th goal in the 2nd half putting them in total control. A lacklustre performance from United especially 1st half had a good chance to level the scores before City were allowed to add a further 2 goals. Pulling a goal back from the penalty spot, Fox with another chance coming back off the post wasn’t to be. A county cup win and derby day victory for both, honours even I suspect City will be the happier tonight, as they prepare to move to their new home in Sawston.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. An easy decision in the end which is rarely the case. A few performances of note to mention first. For United, Ruth Fox with some great first touches looking to get in behind, with 2 great chances to score. Emma Jenkins making an impact from the bench taking the game to City winning the penalty. For City a solid defensive display, Sarah Hudson with some crucial saves. Frances Steele strong in the middle winning the ball. Karly Tolentino’s pace and movement in behind a threat out on the right. Grace Stanley up top a constant threat getting into some great positions always on for the pass scoring twice. The award though goes to the scorer of the other 2 City goals, Bella Simmons. Was up for this one getting hold on the ball in the middle, taking it forwards with purpose and bringing others into play,

A great result for City to secure their league status, coming in a derby game all the better. Looking forwards to more encounters next season. My thanks to United for the team details as always greatly appreciated although this s one of those rare occasions where I did know who everyone was.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women

Wednesday 30th March

FAWNL South East Division One

A midweek trip to St Neots Town FC for a game under the lights from FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC taking on Stevenage FC Women.

A big game for both with Stevenage FC Women in the relegation zone giving themselves a fighting chance picking up vital points at the close end of the season away to 7th place Cambridge United WFC who have lost there last 3 in the league to keep them a little too close to the scrap at the bottom for comfort.

Cambridge though know that a win changes everything, sees them comfortable in mid-table clear of what is likely a scrap at the bottom that will go all the way to the wire. Consistency has been a problem for Cambridge all season have assembled a decent squad who are more than capable on their day. Have had a few off days however that is proving a quandary, a run of 3 straight defeats taking the gloss off their season, looking well clear of the danger zone the points tally drying up whilst those below have picked up some vital wins against each other has seen the gap close to just 5 points. Have a number of players out through illness and injury including captain, Laura Baker and full back Carrie Bennett with a further 4 first team players missing. That though a great opportunity for those amongst the squad to put on a performance.

Stevenage FC Women were looking dead and buried adrift 2nd bottom on the FAWNL South East Division One table just over 5 weeks ago 3 wins against their relegation rivals with 9 points collected from 12 has seen them push themselves back up amongst the competition moving onto 18 points taking them to within 3 points of possible safety. 3 games left to play Stevenage’s end of season for could yet pull them to safety. That good form also seeing Stevenage regain the Hertfordshire County Cup 10 days ago.

Both Cambridge and Stevenage suffering 4-0 home losses at the weekend against the Essex sides vying for the title, Billericay Town Women and Hashtag United Women.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for this evenings game. The rain forecast coming later in the day and not as much as predicted meaning the game wasn’t in danger of getting called off as was the case after heavy rain a 3 weeks ago for Cambridge derby. Light rain falling as I arrived at the ground but that would clear. The temperature dropping sharply however with a return to wintery conditions after what has been a relative heat wave at the start of the week. The grass pitch offering plenty off width.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Abbi Griffin, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Faith Hewitt, Gisella Otten (C), Emma Jenkins, Abi Davies, Laura Mitchell & Ruth Fox. Subs – Kira Markwell, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Ella Marden, Charlotte Crisp & Nicole Emmings.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Lucy Webster (C), Hannah Nebbitt, Vicky Neal, Chloe Gunn, Shianne Swarres, Holly Greenwood, Jodie Bellinger, Kate French, Emily Schofield & Amy Makewell. Subs – Shakeela Hussain, Jodie Southby, Dionne Manning, Poppy Bennett & Louise Godden

It’s Stevenage to get this evening encounter underway kicking off the 1st half, wearing white shirts with red sleeves, red shorts and socks with Cambridge opposite line up wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts an socks. The ball played back to the defence sent long out to the right wing, players racing forward, Emma Jenkins getting hold of it for Cambridge, moves forwards, Amy Makewell closing down tackling to win the ball back for Stevenage lays it out wide right for Jodie Bellinger on the flank, turns inside reaching the area before putting her foot through the ball, her attempt blocked by Cambridge’s Abbi Griffin going out for a throw.

Stevenage pushing forwards at the start of the game looking to take the game to Cambridge, keeping the hosts pinned back in their own half. Laura Mitchell taking the ball on for Cambridge powering forwards on the left moves inside getting all the way top the top of the box before Chloe Gunn gets across her well to defend able to shield the ball as goalkeeper, Tea Oldroyd comes to claim dropping to smother the ball. Both full backs for Stevenage looking to get on in support on the wings, captain Lucy Webster on the right, Hannah Nebbitt on the left a throw won high on the left the ball lifted on into the box, Emily Schofield up at the near post with a glancing header aiming to send it on, Rachel Kosky cutting it out at the back for Cambridge, a recent addition to the squad clearing the ball into midfield.

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

A tussle in the middle of the park, saw Shianne Swarres tackling and breaking up play at the Hertfordshire County Cup final, is playing in the same vein this evening and with Cambridge’s Gisella Otten captaining the side this evening in the middle too it will be an interesting contest to watch. The ball fed to Abi Davies right side she plays it inside for attacker Ruth Fox her foot up attempting to bring the ball down as a Stevenage player stoops into the header caught the decision going Stevenage’s way a free-kick on half way. Webster putting the ball in towards the top of the box, won and cleared by Otten.

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

Both sides not settled yet play bitty at times as passes are rushed, the opposition closing each other down the ball toing and froing between defences. Swarres digging the ball out from under her feet on halfway clipping a great ball forwards for Bellinger to attacker running clear. Lauren Webb with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to scoop the ball up into her gloves. Otten in midfield out to Davies right played up into Fox she turns looking to take on the defence, Vicky Neal close at hand to get her foot on the ball take it away from her.

A positive break for Cambridge on the left Jenkins winning it short to Fox with Laura Mitchell to her right taking it on up the wing, riding a Swarres tackle continues her run, Amy Makewell tracking back well for Stevenage catching Mitchell, tackling to halt the attack. Kosky dealing with the threat at the back as Holly Greenwood lifts a ball onto Schofield up top coming through the centre. Nebbitt up with Kate French on the left a free-kick won deep as good as a corner, plenty packed into the area in front of goal the ball floated into the mix the referee spotting an infringement however Cambridge have the free-kick.

A strong run on the ball from Schofield for Stevenage through the middle lifting it on into the box with the outside of her boot, won back by Kosky. Good pressure applied by Stevenage going forwards finding their rhythm quicker than Cambridge. Griffin able to get on with the ball on the left for Cambridge with Jenkins crossed in the clearance won back in the middle, clipped back up to the top of the area Neal heading it away, Cambridge snapping at the ball getting it back on over the top but play halted by a raised flag.

Nebbitt attacking on the left delivering a high cross in towards the near post, watched well by Webb at her near post, taking the catch. Webster up on the right with Bellinger off a throw the a great cross flashed through the six yard box players attacking far post, none getting a telling touch. Stevenage strong on the left getting on well, Anna Re stepping in with the tackle getting hold of the ball for Cambridge on for Davies puts it long looking for Fox, too much though as Oldroyd can come out and claim the ball. Davies finding some space on the right flank a good touch seeing her take the ball on up the line before delivering a great cross in towards the neat post Mitchell sliding into the six posting connecting putting the ball wide of the post.

Midway through the 2nd half and it remains a cagey affair with neither side finding a break through, Greenwood with Swarres on up to Schofield up to looking to bring the ball down and turn at attack, Kosky marking backing off giving herself the opportunity to clear the dropping ball. Swarres tackling in the middle threading it through the middle, Kosky composed seeing it back to her keeper as both Schofield and Makewell give chase. Davies carrying a threat on the right for Cambridge with a driving run on the ball before firing an angled strike wide across goal.

Amy Makewell

Swarres tackling winning possession shifts the ball between her feet letting fly from 20 plus yard out, Lauren Rouse stepping forwards to put in the block for Cambridge. The hosts awarded a free kick 30 yards out to the right of the Stevenage area the delivery long to the far post Jenkins getting her head to the ball. falls straight to the keeper. Cambridge winning the ball high on the left attack the ball squared across the top of the D, Davies, right side a shot driven in along the ground the ball skipping up in front of Oldroyd she gathers cleanly with Fox closing in.

Kosky winning the ball at the back for Cambridge cleared out to the right Davies forwards with support from Fox who takes the ball on fire in ear post Mitchell arriving the ball turned wide of the goal. Greenwood on for Makewell through the centre attempting the through ball for Schofield, Kosky stabbing out a boot to push the ball away from the attacker. Stevenage come on Makewell out for French on the right running down the line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross in looping up swerves over the crossbar. The game livening up towards the end of the 1st half Stevenage getting players up, Fox attacking tries to find Jenkins to her left, Webster in to tackle for Stevenage.

Cambridge in the corner on the left Mitchell back to Jenkins lays the ball in central with Griffin up in an advanced position 20 yards out clips a shot up over the bar. Stevenage come left winning a free-kick 35 yards out. A teasing ball fired into the area sees Webb scrambling across her goal, the ball bouncing wide, a corner awarded much to Cambridge’s consternation. Nebbitt with an inswinging delivery from the right her effort coming back down off the crossbar, Makewell’s snap shot blocked the ball cleared Cambridge break a foul given as play is brought back following no advantage, Stevenage’s turn to be aggravated by a decision. The ball floated up to the top of the area well defended comes out to Schofield on halfway is one on one with only Griffin behind the ball, the full back needing to time her tackle well and does to prevent Schofield getting past to take a run at goal.

Davies taking the ball on well up the right flank whipping a cross into the box Oldroyd up making a spectacular grab to pluck the ball out of the air. Stevenage get on well down the left Nebbitt getting up the pitch to send in a great ball to the near post, Schofield up well twisting her body as she heads the ball, sending her attempt wide across the Cambridge goal.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

The sides head into the changing rooms goalless at the break. An unsettled start from both sides, highly competitive in the middle. Stevenage the quicker to settle having the better of it getting players on down the flanks but haven’t tested Webb as yet Nebbitt’s inswinging corner hitting the bar there closest chance. Cambridge have competed well enough with Davies making some great runs on the right putting in some dangerous ball. Oldroyd like Webb at the other end relatively untroubled however.

Is getting colder by the minute as the sides emerge for the 2nd half a big 45 to come with both wanting the points. No changes as yet Cambridge to get the 2nd period underway the ball lifted long to the left Webster seeing it out for a throw. Kosky at the back on for Mitchell central plays it back to Re on the left forwards down the line for Davies, Nebbitt defending the ball going for a throw. A tentative start to the 2nd half players quick to close the ball down rushing forwards passes.

Cambridge’s Abi Davies

Mitchell central the hosts breaking with players running on Gunn moving out to deal with the threat on the left as Jenkins looks to take the ball on out for a throw. Mitchell getting hold of the ball running on central Fox ahead of her into the left channel, Mitchell running beyond her making for the box as Fox finds Jenkins on the left to lift a ball into the box, Nebbitt defending on the penalty spot to ensure Mitchell can’t get a touch to turn it goalwards. Neal on Fox left side to see the ball out for a throw in the corner. Cambridge showing more intent in the 2nd half.

Stevenage’s Vicky Neal

Stevenage come away with the ball moving right the crossfield pass well placed picking out French on the move on the left side, Re closing in defending at the top of the area for Cambridge. The sides less cagey no the tempo risen wanting the ball played on quicker my well invite a mistake. A crossfield ball played left to right knocked down well by Davies moving wide her cross deflecting behind off a defender for a corner kick. The ball played in to the top of the area put back to Jenkins out wide, Neal moving out to press Jenkins turning for the by-line digs a cross out the ball cut out at the near post.

Stevenage’s Kate French

Kosky getting across Schofield shields the ball back to Webb as it it put on from midfield. Mitchel attacking on the left tackled by Gunn the ball played up to French advancing on the left driving on into the area, Kosky with a great challenge to deny the shot. An hour played Stevenage make a double change with Jodie Southby and Louise Godden on for Nebbitt and Makewell respectfully. Hewitt in the middle playing the pass on for Davies right down the line checking inside heading for the box lays it back to Hewitt 25 yards out sends a high ball up into the area, Oldroyd up to claim holds onto the ball despite being taken out Gunn marking Fox.

Godden getting back pressing the ball into Swarres moving left on the left up for French wins her side a corner. Everyone lined up beyond the far post the delivery sent into the mix is cleared by Cambridge, play stopped due to a head injury for a Cambridge player. Swarres moving out right slowing down Re as she looks to break with Davies on the wing. Mitchell working form midfield seeing more of the ball for Cambridge almost threads a pass through to Jenkin’s up top, Neal in well to get a foot on the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick out wide left dropping top of the D to Otten on the turn does quite catch the whole of the ball seeing it lack the pace needed to beat Oldroyd as it skips through to goal.

Schofield central playing the pass out to French on the left into the corner works a cross into the area the ball cleared out to the right, Bellinger racing onto it 25 yards out Hewitt there to block as she smashes the ball. Cambridge make their first change with Rouse coming off at the back to be replaced by Kayleigh-Anne Burt returning to the 1st team after a lengthy layoff through injury. Stevenage too making another change Schofield coming off for Dionne Manning. Mitchell travelling with the ball out for Davies to her right looking to go on Southby into her to tackle the ball out for a throw.

20 minutes left to play no side on top yet, Cambridge carrying the threat 2nd half. Hewitt 25 yards out seeing a goal bound attempt blocked. Jenkins with a shot from distance on the left rolling wide. A time out both sides coming over to the benches with Godden needing treatment for Stevenage. Okay to continue Cambridge on the right Fox up with Davies the cross into the area cleared by Neal. Stevenage with a free-kick wide right, cleared for a throw in the corner put back up the line an angled ball lifted into the box, Webb down to claim low at French’s feet as she closes in. A 2nd change for Cambridge, Fox coming off for Nicole Emmings now back at Cambridge after 4 season’s with Stevenage. Shakeela Hussain also on for Stevenage in place of Bellinger.

Into the final 10 minutes, the ball cleared from the Stevenage area is loose there to be won, Jenkins sliding in getting the ball but catching the foot of the Stevenage player attempting to clear coming the other way with her trailing leg. The Cambridge bench unhappy as Jenkins goes into the book. Mitchell attacking right with Davies, Gunn closing in to tackle, Emmings getting the ball back for Cambridge from the right sends a cross along the face of goal Jenkins coming in beyond the back stick unable to get a touch, the ball cleared into the middle Hewitt latching onto it 25 yards out sending a shot back in the effort blocked. Players down for Stevenage seeing a pause in play.

Cambridge’s Faith Hewitt

Hewitt on for Otten through the middle for Cambridge onto Jenkins left channel, Swarres back to tackle for the visitors. The ball lifted forwards Godden peeling left attacking is halted by Burt. Jenkins on the ball left checking inside, closed down ends up committing a foul, called over by the referee is in trouble having only been booked minutes before as players scuffle beyond her. That broken up before the 2nd yellow card is issued and Jenkins is sent off Cambridge finishing the game with 10. No advantage for Stevenage however as they themselves are forced down to 10 with Webster needing to come off.

Stevenage send everyone up into the box as they are awarded a free-kick wide left the clock ticking down one last push to fin a winning goal. In the end the high ball in is an easy claim for Webb. Godden getting on with the ball coming inside left, is tackled by Burt before she can reach the area. The hosts looking a little nervous as they drop back in the closing stages not wanting to concede. Burt fouled this time as Stevenage get the ball into Godden. Stevenage breaking in stoppage time the ball right into Godden sending on into the area, Webb rushing out to slide in to claim the ball in the nick of time, the offside flag up in any case.

Southby out left defending against Davies as she brings the ball on for Cambridge. Stevenage want to get forwards an altercation on the left seeing a free-kick awarded, Neal going into the book for voicing her opinion about a decision. A high ball into the Cambridge box defended seen out for a throw. The final whistle blowing the honours even.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

The points shared in the finish and overall a fair result a late winner for either would have been welcome but looked increasingly unlikely. Cambridge with the better of the 2nd period taking the game to Stevenage who had few opportunities. Again neither keeper overly tested, promising forward play the final ball not clinical. Cambridge the happier at the end with the clean sheet ending a run of defeats, with 3 left to play and with other results this evening aren’t likely to fall in the drop zone now. As you were in the bottom 4. Kent Football United’s tenure in the FAWNL coming to an end can’t escape now with 4 left to play. Stevenage 11th on 18 points remain 3 points from safety with 2 games left. Enfield Town Ladies in 9th on 21 points drawing with QPR. Stevenage away to Kent Football United before finishing their season at home to QPR can yet get out of trouble.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Is another tough one a battling display from both sides. Performances of note include Shianne Swarres in the middle for Stevenage with a number of tackles to disrupt Cambridge throughout the match. Vicky Neal composed at the back with Emily Schofield carrying a threat in attack. For Cambridge Abi Davies was a constant threat on the right side making a number of daring runs putting she dangerous crosses into the box. Laura Mitchell with the ball, attacking and getting hold of it in the centre in the 2nd half. The award though goes to defender Rachel Kosky. Cambridge’s new defensive signing with and assured and composed performance in defence, reading the game and winning the ball.

A chilly night in St Neots, my own fault for leaving my hat and gloves behind in Norfolk. Successive 0-0, that is a rare occurrence to say the least but defences were on top this evening chances at a premium in a evenly fought contest. My thanks to both sides for the team details and their help, as always appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 27th February

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip to the Abbey Stadium today to watch a match from FAWNL South East Division One, home of League One side Cambridge United FC and a fantastic opportunity for their women’s side to showcase the game as they host Norwich City Women.

Cambridge United WFC enjoying strong links and support with it’s parent club, this one of two matches taking place at the Abbey Stadium to aid on the promotion of the women’s game within the club the other against title challenging Billericay Town Women on the 27th March in between is Women’s Football weekend, with the varsity matches between Cambridge and Oxford Universities featuring both the mens and women’s sides taking place at the stadium on Sun 13th March.

Cambridge United WFC currently in 7th spot in the FAWNL South East Division One table, looking good to consolidate a top half finish having been as high as 4th earlier in the season. Consistency hasn’t been a good as the team would have liked with just 4 points gained from their last 6 matches will not want to get pulled into what is shaping up to be a tense battle to avoid the drop below, as with London Seaward FC who I saw play 2 weeks ago 3 points today will change that picture dramatically. Darren Marjoram strengthening the squad with 3 new signings, striker Nicole Emmings returning to the club after 4 season’s with Stevenage, defender Rachel Kosky from Enfield Town Ladies and Amber Cantwell re-joining after a spell with Wroxham Women. Ruth Fox leading the goal scoring charts with 13 goals from 17 appearances.

Norwich City Women like Cambridge United WFC announcing closer ties with the men’s side as Premier League side Norwich City FC take on the day-to-day running of the women’s side more information via the following link https://www.canaries.co.uk/content/club-announce-full-integration-of-norwich-city-women great news for women’s football across the county as Norfolk’s leading football club ups it’s commitment to promotion and growth of the women’s set-up. The club run previously by volunteers and extend my thanks to both Mel Swift and Louise Riseborough who have chaired the club in recent years for the help given to Women’s Football East.

A new era about to begin for Norwich their current league status is in peril as they they find themselves in the bottom 4 as they fight to avoid relegation. 4 sides likely to go down this season is becoming a tense battle to avoid the drop with all the sides involved picking up key points in recent weeks, Norwich with back to back wins away to Enfield and at home to bottom side Kent Football United getting themselves back into the mix now 3 points off that all important 9th position frustratingly losing 2-1 to fellow relegation battlers Stevenage FC Women know with the games left that they can still yet dig themselves out of trouble. Have alot of young players in their squad with more coming through bodes well for the future.

The Abbey Stadium home of Cambridge United FC the venue for today’s game. Various women’s games featuring Cambridge United WFC and other played here before with more to come. The large grass pitch surrounded by terraced stands on three sides with the main seated stand along one side, the clubhouse and function rooms beneath. A warm sunny day, although alot cooler in the shade. Bright blue skies for a change the sun over on goal potentially causing a few problems.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett, Gisela Otten, Grace Waygood, Laura Baker (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Laura Mitchell, Emma Jenkins, Amy Howlett & Ruth Fox. Subs – Nicole Emmings, Abi Davies, Ella Marden, Amber Cantwell & Faith Hewitt.

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Anna Larkins, Summer Ward, Ellie Bishop, Chardonnay Johnston, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Leilah Gooding, Megan Todd, Kathryn Stanley & Freya Symonds. Subs – Rosie George, Ella Gambell, Jess Harper, Betty Booker & Summer Copland.

Nicole Emmings and Amber Cantwell named on the bench for Cambridge, who will kick-off the 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks with Norwich lined up opposite in their all orange away kit.

The ball played out to the left Emma Jenkins the target Norwich’s Anna Larkins at right back closing the ball down sending it out for a throw in. Both sides showing signs of nerves at the start a few balls going array, Jenkins fouled on the left the resulting free-kick sent long towards the top of the area headed clear by the Norwich defence. Cambridge captain Laura Baker getting hold of the bouncing ball in midfield taking it out to the right looking to put Laura Mitchell away on the wing a heavy touch giving Norwich’s Summer Ward the opportunity to clear the ball.

Norwich captain, Millie Daviss

Norwich attack on the left, captain Millie Daviss up the channel for Freya Symonds, Gisela Otten moving out of the middle of defence to put in the challenge the ball out of play. Norwich in the corner send a cross into the centre of the area, Megan Todd getting her head on the ball leaning forwards can’t direct it on target. Ruth Fox up top for Cambridge stealing in to take an errand pass powers forwards into the Norwich half moving left, Chardonnay Johnston across to halt her progress. Cambridge not settling on the ball passes not finding their mark frustrating their attacking play.

Mitchell looks to take the ball on down Cambridge’s right tackled the ball out for a throw-in played back to Anna Re wide 30 yards out sends it into Fox right corner outside the area turns on the ball moving inside to narrow the angle unleash a shot, brushed wide by Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams diving across her goal a corner given. Lofted in towards the near post players rising, Leilah Gooding the highest for Norwich clearing the ball.

Norwich midfielder, Leilah Gooding

Mitchell seeing the ball into her feet on the right 35 yards out looks to go inside travel with the ball, goes a long way coming left turning into the area Larkins on her shoulder as she goes to pull the trigger her shot blocked deflected behind for a corner. From the left goes long headed out to the right Norwich don’t clear as Cambridge press well, the final touch behind though off a Cambridge foot giving Norwich a welcome goal kick. Re and Mitchell getting some joy for Cambridge on the right, Re sending Mitchell on with the ball closing in on the corner wraps her foot around the cross sending it in near post, Ellie Bishop intercepting in defence for Norwich.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

Baker is penalised for a robust tackle on Daviss in the middle earning her an early yellow card. The ball played out long to Todd on the right driving down the line scoops a cross out dropping central inside the box, Otten getting under it to head the ball away to safety. Cambridge settling on the ball Stojko-Down on with the ball forwards for Jenkins on the left plays it across to Mitchell inside the box lays it across for Howlett left side the ball defended the clearance back to Baker central 25 yards out sends it back into the area the ball scrambled away from danger.

Cambridge attacker, Ruth Fox with Norwich’s Leilah Gooding

Cambridge press the attack Mitchell moving inside from the right 20 yards out squaring it into Jenkins in front of goal six yards out, her attempt deflected off a defender skipping up to Fox on her right gets her foot up over the ball well in an effort to play it goalwards taking a deflection as it lands wide of the post for a corner. Re forwards on the right supporting Mitchell, down into the corner Ward keeping her from turning inside challenging the ball out for the throw. Norwich regain possession in the corner and hit Cambridge on the break a superb long diagonal ball out to Todd on the right has half a yard on Bennett getting in behind shooting on the angle the ball driven in low towards the near post Lauren Webb has the angle covered down low to gather the ball safely.

Grace Waygood moves out to the right to defend as Freya Symonds takes the ball down the line for Norwich. Mitchell going on down the right wing has Fox inside the box lays the ball into her feet right of goal, Fox shoots, Williams untroubled as it runs wide across her goal. Daviss plays the ball forwards to Symonds drifting into the left channel for Norwich, taking the ball on checks back inside as she arrives at the top of the area unleashing a shot that whistles over the crossbar.

Cambridge defender, Grace Waygood.

Johnston fouls Howlett on the halfway line left side players go forwards as Otten places the ball down goes short to Jenkins free wide left, has Bennett racing past her on the overlap getting down the line whips in a fantastic ball across the face of goal three Cambridge attackers going for it none can get a touch, play brought back however for an offside offence. Jenkins and Howlett attempt to combine passes on the left Larkins in between them the ball cleared back to Bennett she sends in inside for Stojko-Down, moves forwards before letting fly from all of 30 yards out the shot wide.

Alysha Stojko-Down on the attack for Cambridge

GOAL! Closing in on the half hour mark the dead lock is broken Cambridge looking strong going forwards the ball cleared up to the left Fox doing well to get in ahead of Johnston and take control of the ball in the corner driving inside into the box before firing a cross into Mitchell central, not under control the ball is scrambled away straight into the path of Stojko-Down closing into the box right side, doesn’t wait for an invite smashes the ball straight and true into the bac of the net 1-0.

Alysha Stojko-Down being congratulated after putting Cambridge into the lead

Norwich get straight on the attack from the restart the ball forwards for Todd racing away on the right sending a cross along the top of the area picked up by Jodie Drake far side turns well on the corner of the box before lifting a powerful sot over the bar. Kathryn Stanley winning the ball back 35 yards from goal right plays it inside for Drake to take on shooting from the top of the D in low towards goal, Webb behind it all the way.

Norwich’s Jodie Drake

Stojko-Down taking the ball forwards support from Howlett ahead of her drifting right helps it on down the right wing for Mitchell to chase a little too much on it Ward shielding it out of a goalkick. Todd goes into the book for a challenge on Bennett. Baker over the free-kick on halfway the ball played in high into the box Ward with the defensive header taking the ball over for a corner kick. Played in near side Williams comes throw bodies to get something on the ball take it out of the box comes onto Baker 25 yards out shifts the ball inside before blasting a shot over the bar.

Chardonnay Johnston sliding in to deny Carrie Bennett the ball

Johnston comes across to slide in take the ball away from Bennett out for a throw in as she looks to make it in behind on the wing. The throw put inside to Jenkins chesting it down outside the area left side connecting with the falling ball to send a dipping shot goalwards drops safely into Williams arms as she moves across her goal. The game moving into stoppage time in the first period, Daviss getting free in the centre for Norwich sending the ball out to the left for Symonds to take on down the line Re in well to tackle put the ball out for a throw in.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Women

Cambridge with the narrow advantage at the break taking the lead on the half hour through a strike from Alysha Stojko-Down. Cambridge taking a while to settle early game nerves growing into the game moving the ball well getting it out to their wide players creating a number of other opportunities in front of goal in the first half. Norwich have themselves found joy out on the flanks but chances have been limited with Cambridge defending the box well. Still just a single goal in it plenty still to play for.

No changes for either side at the break with the sun lower in the sky now Norwich attacking into it as they get the 2nd half underway. The visitors looking for Stanley on the left, across comes Baker to tackle and take the ball. Otten from the back for Cambridge with a long diagonal ball up to Jenkins outside the D, is brought down Cambridge with the free-kick in a dangerous position. Jenkins recently returning to the Cambridge side after a 3 month injury layoff over the free kick goals for goal the ball rising high Williams needing to keep an eye on the falling ball drops over her crossbar.

Todd’s pace on the ball down the right continues to pose Cambridge a few issues driving for the by-line is forced wide over running the ball for a goal kick. A mistake out on the left presenting Mitchell with a chance wide pushes on seeing her first shot in on the angle blocked the ball back to her moves right to get a 2nd shot away sending the ball racing wide across the face of goal. Mitchell is involved in much of Cambridge’s attacking play right side of the pitch is picked out by Stojko-Down in the middle, looking to drive at the defence is a good tackle to stop her from Norwich’s Bishop.

Norwich defender, Ellie Bishop

Norwich making the first change of the game bringing off midfielder Leilah Gooding for Ella Gambell. Mitchell with a cross field pass picking out Bennett getting forwards on the left wing down the line her cross sent in towards the near post cut out by Johnston. Norwich send the ball long up to Symonds in attack the tall attacker casing problems with the keeper advancing to get the ball nodding it beyond her, Webb’s defence back en masse deal with the danger presented back to Symonds however who scoops a shot in towards goal, Webb back tracking able to catch it cleanly on her six yard line.

Amy Howlett tackling Norwich substitute Ella Gambell

Norwich’s young substitute Gambell hauled down by Re as she looks to run past her with the ball. Re going into the book. Symonds on the free-kick some 30 yards left of the D, an attempt on goal pulled well wide of the near post. The foul count is rising in the middle both sides guilty of giving needless fouls away. One of those fouls goes too far however, Gambell has made an immediate impact coming on into the middle with some determined runs on the ball. Getting hold of it in the middle goes on the charge again moving central evading one challenge slightly over runs the ball as Baker comes sliding in to win it back, Gambell lunges out foot up over the ball catching Baker below the knee, leaving her on the ground wreathing in pain. Referee Lee Markwick calming things down before calling Gambell over and issuing a red card.

Norwich down to 10 midway through the 2nd half. Manager Shaun Howes also shown a yellow card following the aftermath of the incident. Baker gets clattered on a regular basis and is made of pretty tough stuff is back up on her feet okay to continue. Cambridge looking to keep possession for a few minutes regain composure, Howlett out to Mitchell on the right Re going past her taking the ball in moving inside met by Bishop who wins the tackle the ball wide for a throw. Taken quickly Mitchell down to the by-line travelling into the box Johnston’s turn to get the tackle in timed well the threat cleared.

Norwich making a 2nd change bringing of Ward for Rosie George a tactical switch with George going forwards. Norwich winning a free-kick left of the centre circle Bishop to put into the box far post area congested Re doing well to get her head on the ball clear it for a corner kick. The corner from the right a well placed delivery near side met by Todd in the air twisting her header down towards goal, Webb low to her left with a smart save on the goal line.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Stanley plays the ball on for Norwich as she comes on with in central on for George the substitute playing it out to Todd on the right, retuned to George top of the area, Otten in to close her down before she can attempt a shot on goal. Norwich needing a goal pushing players on are hit on the break Stojko-Down through the middle carrying the ball on out to Mitchell right bursting on sees her first cross blocked before playing a 2nd ball into the area fouled in the process play is brought back for the foul with no advantage. On the edge of the area left side Stojko-Down to put the ball in towards the far post Howlett dummies Mitchell with the shot blocked on the line and cleared.

Norwich’s Megan Todd

Closing in on the final 10 minutes is tense out there, Cambridge have the advantage but Norwich aren’t going to lay down driving on seeking the reply to level up the game. Waygood getting across to defend against George right side see the ball back to her keeper as Daviss plays it forwards.

Cambridge’s Amy Howlett

Cambridge come left with Fox moving into the channel whipping a dangerous cross into the area over Howlett on the penalty spot bounces onto Mitchell takes a touch looking to shift inside the unleash a shot, Drake gets in to tackle and take the ball away from her. Fox is sent to the ground by Bishop, Cambridge with a free-kick wide right deep Otten to play in in central Jenkins diving in to head the ball sending it wide across goal.

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

Norwich break the ball played on through the middle played out to Symonds on the left her long legged stride taking her on into the box getting a shot away low lacking the power to trouble Webb down at her near post. Re on the right clipping a looping ball forwards for Fox stealing in behind to attack, Williams with a good starting position out to the edge of her box able to reach it first.

Cambridge’s Anna Re

On 82 minutes Cambridge make their first change bringing off Stojko-Down for Faith Hewitt. Cambridge with another free-kick wide right, Otten attempting repeat of her earlier delivery, Norwich able to get a defensive header to it first to clear. A 2nd change for Cambridge with Howlett coming off to be replaced by Amber Cantwell. A 3rd change soon following with Ella Marden on up top for Jenkins.

Norwich’s Kathryn Stanley

Is tense in the closing minutes the ball charged down repeatedly for a series of throws the clock ticking down. Todd with a long throw on her attempting to send one in towards the top of the area from the left headed out to the right Marden clearing before Stanley can latch onto it. The 90 minutes up Norwich with a late corner on the right played in long missed by Johnston comes on to George her strike charged down by Otten Cambridge break the ball out to the left for Fox drives on with the ball moving inside corner of the area takes on the shot rifled across the face of goal coming back off the far past before being cleared.

Fox up with Marden in the left corner holding up the ball winning a corner. Taken short up to Mitchell an angled shot in striking the side netting.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Women

The final whistle blows and the Abbey Stadium cheers a Cambridge win consolidating their mid-table position. A solitary 1st half strike from Alysha Stojko-Down the difference in the end. Enough for all three points. Norwich making Cambridge work for their victory putting in a spirited 2nd half performance after going down to 10 players. Chances for both sides in the 2nd period Webb with a superb save to deny Todd an equalising goal. Couldn’t find the 2nd goal to make the afternoon more comfortable but will be pleased with the clean sheet. Cambridge in action again in midweek on Wednesday back at their regular home of St Neots FC as they take on Stevenage FC Women.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, was undecided on the way home but as they often do the notes left only one contender. A few performances of note to mention first. For Norwich, Megan Todd was a threat on the right of attack the whole game picking up the ball and driving on to the Cambridge defence. For Cambridge Lauren Webb with a strong performance in goal with a number of saves crucial in keeping Cambridge’s lead intact. Amy Howlett getting about the pitch winning the ball and making a number of key passes. Today’s award though goes to Laura Mitchell, whether out on the right or driving inside she was a threat making dangerous runs throughout the game and getting into some good positions in the final 3rd.

An enjoyable afternoon at the Abbey Stadium a good crowd there to watch an entertaining game will have hopefully whetted their appetite to see more women’s football played at the ground. My thanks as always to both sides for giving me assistance with the team details I may well have known everyone but it pays to check. Much appreciated. A special mention too for the Norwich players for rallying around Ella Gambell after she was red carded, a mistake from a young player no malicious intent just a poor tackle, will learn from it.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v London Seaward FC

Sunday 13th February

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading down the M11 into Essex this Sunday for a math from FAWNL South East Division One to catch up with a couple of sides I haven’t seen play in a while Harlow Town Ladies hosting London Seaward FC.

Of course I haven’t seen London Seaward FC play as they are a new name for an established side in the league, but more on them later. The FAWNL South East Division One reaching a crucial stage for the sides battling at the bottom of the table, while an intriguing contest his emerging amongst the top half sides with AFC Wimbledon Ladies in 3rd looking to produce a late challenge on the Essex pair at the top Billericay Town Ladies and Hashtag United Women.

Harlow Town Ladies are newly promoted to the FAWNL having performed well in the two previous seasons affected by the Covid pandemic in the ERWFL Premier Division. Successful in their application for promotion this season, league swelling in number were dealt a rough hand with the news that the FA was going to increase the number of sides relegated this campaign with up to 4 of the 13 in South East Division One likely to go down. A huge jump for any side from step 5 to step 4, Harlow a 2-3 lost a home to Cambridge City on the opening day found life tough in the league after that collecting just a single point in their next 7 games. That led to the club parting ways with manager Dean Parrett. Ruudy Ridhwaan taking over as 1st team manager.

Harlow’s 1st win on the season coming in mid October as they held off a late comeback from hosts Norwich City to win 4-3. Ending 2021 on a high with back to back victories to move them away from the bottom. Much more competitive in 2022 booking a spot in the last 4 of the Essex Women’s County Cup a 1-0 away win at Kent Football United putting Harlow level with Enfield in 9th and in with a good shout of escaping relegation in their debut season. Narrow defeats away to form sides QPR and Actonians they will be looking to pick up the points at home this afternoon.

Reaching the FSWNL under the Leyton Orient banner today’s visitors were quick to become an established side holding their own in the FAWNL. Sadly after 6 seasons of using the Leyton Orient name the club decided they wanted to take the women’s section in a different direction leaving that established side in limbo. It was the players themselves who took on the task of giving the club a new identity and hope for the future becoming London Seaward FC. A new name and new way of running a club, visionary using the experience of it’s players and volunteers within and out of the game and looking at attracting more funding and sponsorship. No doubt a challenge but on the pitch London Seaward FC have once again held their own in the league in the top half of the table ex-Harlow player Abbey Dell the clubs top scorer with 11 goals so far. A 7 point gap between themselves and Harlow, won the reverse fixture 3-2 back in September.

The Harlow Arena the venue for today’s game. A nice stadium set-up the large artificial playing surface overlooked by a large seated stand housing the changing rooms below, directors boxes above. beside that the clubhouse with bar and a covered area leading into it with a kitchen hatch offering hot food, had a very good cheeseburger before heading across to the other side wear a smaller terraced stand is situated offering protection from the rain that was forecast to arrive shortly before kick-off then hang about. Gloomy and overcast a strong wind blowing across the pitch from one goal to the other that would present an issue for both sides throughout the game.

Harlow Town Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Zara Wickett, Harriet Douglas, Mayzee Seymour, Livvy Bilson, Billie Brooks (C), Millie Stacey, Rebecca Stephenson, Amy Nash, Andie Dickens, Chloe Bassett & Lilly Bruno. Subs – Lilly Bueggein, Nicole Farmer, Toni Green, Charis Howell & Therese Addison.

London Seaward FC

London Seaward FC starting XI – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Alex Gatt, Jo Butler-Williams, Giorgia Bracelli, Kate Bradley (C), Hayley Kerr, Skye McNally, Ash Marchant, Hayley Barton, Rea Thomas-Arayo & Abbey Dell. Subs – Cheryl Anderson, Naomi Nash, Ellie Pace & Phoebe Eshen.

London Seaward to have the kick-off 1st half with the wind at their backs, wearing an all navy kit with white trim. Harlow lined up opposite wearing an all red kit with white trim. The ball played back to the defence shifted to Jo Butler-Williams at left back looks to play the ball up the line, Harlow full back Harriet Douglas can see the ball out for a throw-in. London Seaward stay left make progress forwards before a foul is given away. Hayley Barton to play the ball into the box attacked at the near post but safely claimed by Harlow goalkeeper, Zara Wickett.

Harlow come through the middle Rebecca Stephenson helping the ball out to the right for Amy Nash to take on, Butler-Williams challenging the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly knocked inside to Stephenson turns and lines up a strike from 20 yards out the ball caught cleanly by London Seaward keeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford at her near post.

Rebecca Stephenson lining up a shot for Harlow Town Ladies

A bright start from the visitors, pressing the ball high Abbey Dell moving out to the right getting a throw level with the box the ball helped on inside, Harlow awarded a free-kick, Rea Thomas-Arayo with a high foot. Harlow look to get forwards on the left Giorgia Bracelli intercepting at the back for London Seaward to full back Alex Gatt the ball sent long over the top for Dell in the middle, bouncing behind the Harlow defence, Livvy Bilson moves to shield the ball looking for the back pass, with Dell hustling looking to get around her, ends up bringing the striker down just before the pair reach the box. A foul signalled play stopped looked to be the last player could be in trouble but surprisingly no action is taken against the player London Seaward with a free-kick in a dangerous position right of the D, Barton over the ball hit hard and low taking a wicked deflection off the jumping wall taking it away from goal and out for a corner.

London Seaward’s Hayley Barton

A good delivery from the corner inswinging threatening to drift under the bar from Barton, tipped over well by Wickett for another corner, from the right this time lands on the roof of the net. London Seaward keep players up winning the ball back left side into captain Kate Bradley helped on to Bracelli right of her 20 yards out opens up her body taking on the shot the ball rising screws away from goal.

GOAL! Harlow pick up the ball in a central position Stephenson sending a great diagonal ball out to the right Andie Dickens up with Nash the ball send into the area with Chloe Bassett making a central run, the ball doesn’t reach her, a hand ball spotted the referee pointing to the spot Penalty! Bassett placing the ball on the spot steps up and sends the keeper the wrong way slotting the ball to her left low into the bottom corner 1-0. 8 minutes played.

Chloe Bassett puts Harlow into the lead from the penalty spot.

London Seaward go straight on the offensive from the restart the ball out to Barton running into space on the right down the line squaring a cross into the near post, Bilson up well to win the header knocking it down for captain Billie Brooks to hook away to the left Kerr latching onto it for London Seaward lines up a strike charged down inside the box hits the arm of the defender going to block Penalty! no sooner have Harlow scored from the penalty spot at one end they concede one. Bradley up to take the spot kick aims to place it high to the keepers left Wickett going the right way throwing herself up to make a fantastic save take the ball away from goal players rushing in on the follow up left of goal the ball blasted in on the angle deflected over for a corner kick.

Zara Wickett saving, Kate Bradley’s spot kick

GOAL! London Seaward hit back to level from the resulting corner another dangerous inswinging delivery from Barton across the face of goal a hot of players at the far post Dell amongst them getting her head on the falling ball to take it over the line 1-1.

Abbey Dell making it 1-1 for London Seaward

London Seaward’s, Abbey Dell

An action packed open 11 minutes to the game, play paused now as Harlow have a player down in the goal Brooks taking a knock in the build up to the goal. Brooks is okay to continue play resumes. The wind at their backs Thomas-Arayo running with the ball from half-way lets fly from all of 35 yards out the ball racing past Wickett right post. Is a little scrappy at times both sides guilty of giving fouls away Dickens bringing down Ash Marchant in the middle top of the circle players go forwards into the area as Bradley sets the ball down, played on to the right side of goal, Thomas-Arayo drifting free of her marker with a free header rising plants the ball wide across goal, the flag however raised against her.

Amy Nash looking to get in behind for Harlow Town Ladies

Thomas-Arayo moving right taking the ball on pace down the flank fizzes a cross into the area cross the top of the six yard box finding Dell at the far post not easy to get under control, Bilson nicking it from her feet before she can get a shot away. Is an intense watch, London seaward applying pressure all over the pitch forcing errors from Harlow frustrating the hosts using the pace of the ball with the wind to their advantage. The visitors moving the ball across the pitch Kerr with Butler-Williams racing ahead of her on the left goes on Douglas forcing her to play it back London Seaward moving the ball out to the right

GOAL! clipped into Barton she had Dell ahead of her the pair combining well down the right wing into the corner Dell firing in a cross near side Bilson up well to head clear at the near post the ball spinning out to the left Bradley forwards latching onto it laying it forwards into Butler-Williams inside the six yard box free beyond the far post squares it inside for Thomas-Arayo who sends the ball high into the back of the net, London Seaward opening Harlow up to take the lead 1-2.

Rea Thomas-Arayo puts London Seaward into the lead

Harlow frustrated give away a free-kick top of the circle, inside their opponents half, a long way out Bradley nevertheless having wind assistance goes for goal, isn’t far over brushing the roof of the net. The visitors strong with half an hour played getting bodies forwards not letting Harlow find any momentum in the final 3rd. Amy Nash coming over to the left looking to make thing’s happen for the hosts turns on the ball is brought down on halfway. Brooks with a good ball into the box from the set-piece aimed far post London Seawards defence up well to head clear.

Bassett wins the ball well in the middle for Harlow the hosts looking to move the ball quicker the pass to Millie Stacey back to full back Mayzee Seymour sent up the wing for Nash her diagonal ball looking for Lilly Bruno chasing through the middle, London Seaward stretched Bradley has the legs to catch Bruno take the ball before she can bring it under control.

Bradley has a long throw on her and taking advantage of a convenient gate in the pitch side fence on the left sends it high into the box for Dell left of goal to see down across her body and shoot, Wickett well placed to snatch the ball down to safety. Marchant spreads play out to the right with Barton on the move in behind to cross into the area, Brooks intercepting to clear the danger for Harlow.

Harlow captain, Billie Brooks

Pressure from London Seaward Butler-Williams travelling with the ball on the left inside for Kerr helped on into Dell left of the 20 out turns her shot goalwards in low but lacking the pace to trouble the keeper. Harlow look more of a threat when they move the ball quicker between them using the pitch to their advantage he ball clipped out to the right Dickens advancing with it flashing a cross into the box, Bassett central, Bamford down ahead of her the ball skips up lost by the keeper behind her Bassett loses it momentarily giving the London Seaward defence the split second needed to get back and hook away to the left comes straight to Stephenson 25 yards out one touch and lines up curling shot aimed near side, Bamford ack on her feet across to cover the angle and catch the dropping ball.

Bilson is booked as she slides in on Dell out wide right for London seaward a free-kick for the visitors Barton playing it in near side helped on across goal, dropping central Nash clearing for Harlow, appeals for handball, waved away. Harlow make a change bringing off Douglas with Nicole Farmer joining the defence. Tempers flaring up on the bench with a foul right in front of them, the linesman taking exception to something said, the referee comes over to have a word and issue a caution.

Thomas-Arayo with a turn and hit from all of 25 yards out bounces wide of Wickett’s right post. Barton right drives on Thomas-Arayo ahead of her the pass forwards the ball fired into the area, intercepted and cleared by Farmer for Harlow. Harlow break well Stephenson moving right on for Bruno up the line plays a diagonal ball into the box Bassett after it, Butler-Williams back to put in the tackle regain possession for London Seaward.

GOAL! Right on the stroke of 45 minutes Harlow come back to level the scores attacking on the right with pace players rushing forwards it is a superb cross field ball into the area to pick out Bassett arriving left of the D inside the area her first touch taking the ball in behind her marker to send the ball low across the keeper into the bottom corner 2-2.

Chloe Bassett putting Harlow back on level terms late in the first half

Bruno with a strong challenge on Gatt earning her a yellow card as play resumes into stoppage time in the first half, Harlow having been on the back foot since going 2-1 down coming back to level things up with the half time whistle approaching. The free-kick out wide for London Seaward played into the area near side Dell caught under it tries to keep it alive turning it central a scramble ensues, Harlow needing to keep their composure not give anything away late on do well to scramble it clear.

Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 2-2 London Seaward FC

That was certainly an intense 1st half, flown by, an energetic start that saw two penalties one scored and one saved and an equalising goal scored from the resulting corner in the opening 11 minutes. London Seaward starting well taking the game to Harlow using the wind to their advantage. Still somewhat against the run of play it was Harlow who took the lead from the penalty spot. No sooner had they scored however they went and conceded a corner up the opposite end Zara Wicket saved Kate Bradley’s spot kick only for the hosts o concede from the resulting corner kick. London Seaward pressing the ball well stretching Harlow to take the lead were dominant for a spell after that creating chances, Harlow holding out despite their frustration to score an equaliser right on the stroke of half time to see the sides go in level at the break.

All to play for 2nd half Harlow with the wind at their backs in the 2nd half no changes for the hosts. London Seaward with a change Cheryl Anderson on for Barton, with Harlow getting the 2nd half underway. The rain continuing to fall steadily the wind blowing across the pitch. Dell in to close the ball down straight away getting it back to her defence, Butler-Williams takes the ball upfield on the left, Farmer into tackle the ball deflected off her in behind Wickett out to the top of her box to claim with Thomas-Arayo closing in.

London Seaward’s Alex Gatt

Thomas-Arayo with Kerr on the left the ball lofted into the box cleared London Seaward appealing for a penalty but nothing doing, Bradley from distance 30 yards out striking the ball goalwards, comfortable for Wickett. Harlow come through the middle lifted over the top bouncing off the artificial surface causing the London Seaward defence problems as Bruno looks to battle her way through onto it. Bamford coming out to take hold of the ball. As Bradley tried in the first half so does Brooks in the 2nd as Harlow are awarded a free-kick inside their own half Harlow’s captain going for goal the ball carried wide of the post.

Harlow coming on better at the start of the 2nd half right side Stephenson on for Bruno into space, McNally stays on her well tracking her all the way to the by-line winning a goal kick off the striker. Bassett wide left seeing the ball into the feet drives for the by-line into the box before flashing a cross over the bar. Both sides moving in on each other quickly space is opening up players looking to get on down the flanks Harlow pressing the London Seaward back line preventing balls getting into their attackers.

Bassett on the left onto a ball down the line checking inside before sending a shot over the crossbar for Harlow. Bradley at the back for London Seaward comes on allowed to pick a pass sends it long out to the right with both Thomas-Arayo and Anderson providing runs on the flank, is a vital interception from Seymour in between as she tracks the pair heading the ball clear. Farmer likewise on the opposite side defending a Gatt sends a long ball up the line for Dell.

Harlow Town Ladies, Mayzee Seymour

London Seaward make a 2n change bringing on Ellie pace for Marchant goes up top along side Dell and Thomas-Arayo. Unpleasant conditions both sides closing the ball down forcing errors, Harlow more competitive in the final 3rd Bruno forcing a throw on the right. Possession with the hosts comes back to Seymour some 30 yards out time and space to line up a shot dipping in drops favourably for Bamford to claim. Harlow make a change bringing of Dickens, on comes Therese Addison. The change sees Bassett move from the left to the right. Butler-Williams and Anderson swapping flanks for London Seaward.

Bassett on the right taking the ball to the by-line before crossing in the ball defended at the near post turned behind for a corner. An inswinging delivery Bamford getting a fist on it knocking it out to the left fired back in deflected behind for another corner. The 2nd corner just as dangerous in along the face of goal not claimed by the keeper knocked down into the six yard box bodies everywhere eventually cleared out to the let of the D Addison on it sending a strike wide of the left post.

Bruno fouls Bradley wide left London Seaward lining up along the top of the area as Bradley sends the ball into the box near side Thomas-Arayo drifting in in front of everyone looking to flick it on past the keeper, doesn’t get the connection she was looking for as Wickett safely gathers. Bassett winning a free-kick high on the right for Harlow, Addison looking to play the ball in across the face of goal, Kerr doing her job as the wall keeping the cross out. The game much more open in the 2nd half Harlow pressing forwards creating openings risk the counter but so far remain firm at the back.

Bradley with another opportunity to play a free-kick into the box from deep the ball cleared by Bilson out for a throw in the corner. Bradley winning it left side at the back the ball played on played diagonal out to Dell breaking in behind into the box right of the D slotting home into the bottom corner, the Harlow defence though stepping up well to catch her offside the flag up against her no goal. Charis Howell entering the game for Harlow replacing Stacey. The game entering the final 15 minutes.

Harlow with a strong 2nd half performance coming back at London Seaward attacking on the right a cross flashed along eh top of the area comes to subsisitute Howell, left of the D 25 out takes on the shot driven in low taking a deflection spins behind for a corner kick. Goes long over everyone retrieved right crossed back in punched wide by Bamford who gets a foul against her.

Bruno brought down looking to keep control of the ball no advantage for Harlow play brought back for the set-piece Hash over it centrally players up into the box launches it towards the far post skips on through out of play no one getting a telling touch. Harlow taking the game to London Seaward looking the most likely to find a winning goal right now Nash on for Howells right the cross fired into the box, Bamford punching the ball away to safety. Bradley defending another cross played in from deep.

London seaward captain, Kate Bradley

Bradley then getting a booking as she pulls down Stephenson as she looks to race in behind her a free-kick just over halfway. Right side Brooks to send it into the box Bruno attacking gets something on it Bamford batting it away. The game edging into the final 5 minutes.

GOAL! London Seaward play the ball into Dell inside the centre circle battling to retain possession she is bundled to the ground presenting the visitors with a free-kick late on an a chance to put players forwards. Bradley over the ball as her teammates take position top of the box right of the D ready to move she plays a looping delivery into the near side bouncing in the box Wickett starting to come for it Bracelli arrives first to get a touch and take it past the keeper to score as everyone rushes in to congratulate her 2-3.

Giorgia Bracelli firing London Seaward into the lead late in the game

A hammer blow for Harlow late in the game they look to get on the attack from the restart Bassett out right charging forwards sending a cross in deflected behind by Anderson for the corner kick. Whipped in rom the right, is cleared by Kerr on the penalty spot with a little over 4 minutes left to play. Harlow winning a free-kick wide left the ball sent up into the box, headed clear by London Seaward. The visitors making a change in stoppage time bringing off Dell for Naomi Nash. Addison on the left winning Harlow a corner everyone inside the final 3rd the delivery long over everyone.

Harlow committing so many forwards are hit on the break the ball out left for Pace to chase taking possession in the corner looks to get into the box on the by-line is brought down by Bilson who recieves her 2nd yellow and as a result is sent off n the closing moments. London Seaward with 2nd left need only keep the ball the free-kick short as the final whistle blows and the visiting side take all three points.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 2-3 London Seaward FC

A much improved 2nd half performance from Harlow as they really took the game to London Seaward limiting their opportunities in attack while creating good opportunities up the other end. As the clock ticked down thought it more likely Harlow would find the winning goal. London Seaward although on the back foot knew they could create a few opportunities of their own and took it 5 minutes from time to score the winning goal. A draw may well have been the deserved result overall but it’s all about taking your chances London Seaward did to move up to 6th in the Division One table while Harlow remain in the bottom 4 but far from out of it will feel hard done by today but must pick themselves up again ready to go again on Tuesday night away to Stevenage FC Women knowing a win will get them up to 9th.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, it’s another tough one but wouldn’t want it any other way. A few performances of note first. For Harlow, Rebecca Stephenson was good on the ball throughout picking out passes and bringing others into play getting into some good positions in attack. Chloe Bassett was strong throughout in attack driving forwards scoring both goals and taking the game to the opposition. London Seaward with a strong all-round team performance. Kate Bradley strong at the back winning the ball and dangerous from set-pieces. Hayley Barton on the right attacking taking the game to Harlow in the 1st half. Abbey Dell up top battling for the ball, causing problems and drawing defenders out of position. Today’s award though goes to Rea Thomas-Arayo her movement especially 1st half posing Harlow problems drifting right and left, driving at the defence and at the heart of most attacking moves.

First time I’ve ventured into Essex since the pandemic began and it was well worth it, that was some opening to a game had everything a great advert for the FAWNL entertainment, the players coping well with rubbish conditions. The sides much changed but great to catch up with both. My thanks to both clubs for their help today enjoyed my trip to The Harlow Arena.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Queens Park Rangers WFC

Sunday 23rd January

FAWNL South East Division One

A quiet start to 2022, needed a break after what was a tested end to 2021, the mental health not great a pause most definitely needed, ready to go again and plenty of exciting football to look forwards to in what hopefully will be a relatively normal 2022. A trip to St Neots today to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One between two sides looking to push for a top 4 finish in the league as Cambridge United WFC take on Queens Park Rangers Women.

Darren Marjoram coming in from St Ives Town Ladies to manage along side head coach Ben Yeomans has seen Cambridge United WFC make an excellent start to the season holding their on in the top 4 for much of the first half of the season although 1 collected from there last 3 league matches in 2022 plus no league action since December 12th has seen them slip down to 7th. In the only competitve match played so far in 2022 Cambridge were convincing winners against Eaton Socon Ladies as they secured their place in the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup final where they will play St Ives Town Ladies. Have been busy in the transfer market looking to add to an already competitive squad with defender Rachel Kosky joining from Enfield Town Ladies, striker Nicole Emmings returning to Cambridge after 4 seasons with Stevenage FC Women along with Amber Cantwell re-joining after a spell with Wroxham Women.

Saw QPR Women in my last game of 2021 away to Norwich City Women. Back hen the club was midtable closer to the sides in the bottom 4 but with games in hand didn’t look likely to get dragged into a battle at the bottom. Were comfortable for the large part in a 2-1 win, ending the year with defeat to the leaders Hashtag United Women. Have made an excellent start to 2022 as they embarked on a run of 3 games in 8 days winning 0-1 away to London Seaward last Sunday then making it back to back wins with a good result at home to 3rd placed Actonians 2-1 the winning score with goals from Katie Akerman and top scorer Melanie Hall who has 12 for the season. That result putting them firmly in the mix for a top 4 finish as they move ahead of Cambridge on goal difference.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus stadium the venue for todays fixture the area leading up to the stadium seeing an ever growing housing development on that side of the town offering a good catchment area for growing fanbases of the mens and women’s side, Cambridge United WFC that side getting good support from St Neots and Cambridge United FC themselves, were due to play QPR at the Abbey Stadium earlier in the season had the FA Cup not gotten in the way. Hopefully a game at the Abbey Stadium is soon on the horizon. The pitch in good condition, sawdust applied to a few patches. Is wide play can be spread with both sides liking to spread play out to their flanks. A dry day if very overcast.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Kira Markwell, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett. Grace Waygood, Gisela Otten, Laura Baker (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Amy Howlett, Laura Mitchell, Nicole Emmings & Ruth Fox. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Lauren Rouse, Amy Houghton & Faith Hewitt.

Queens Park Rangers Women

Queens Park Rangers WFC starting XI – Katie McLean, Georgie Lewin, Danielle Maloney, Lauren Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Joanna Blodgett, Laura Hennessey, Katie Akerman, Ellie Searle, Melanie Hall & Demi Edwards. Subs – Lucie White, Brogan Moore, Sue Kumaning, Ailish Carolan & Emilia Parsons.

Nicole Emmings the only one of the three new arrivals available to today starting up top alongside top scorer Ruth Fox who has 12 for the season. It’s the visitors to get the game underway wearing blue and white hooped shirts, blue shorts and socks. Red numbers on the back will be hard to read again but having seen them quite recently the players are fresh in my mind. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence Cambridge move in quickly to close the ball down Fox on captain Vicky Grieve forced into a hasty clearance, scrappy in the middle before Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down goes in hard with a strong tackle to put the ball out. It’s had enough and is replaced.

Alysha Stojko-Down in to win the ball for Cambridge

QPR shift the ball across the middle Katie Akerman into Joanna Blodgett put long to Melanie Hall looking to peel in behind in the left channel, Gisela Otten reading the pass for Cambridge the centre back intercepts. The visitors regain possession spreading play to the right the cross in half cut out by Carrie Bennett runs into the D scrambled out, a midfielder running onto the ball the shot in low, Cambridge goalkeeper, Kira Markwell crouching to gather is behind the ball.

QPR’s Laura Hennessey winning the ball in the middle clips a pass on for Hall moving left, Otten across with her sliding in to make the tackle, on her feet quickly looks for options picks out Emmings with a fine diagonal pass out to the left. Emmings taking the ball up the wing moves inside before delivering a cross in near post, goalkeeper Katie McLean down low to claim it. An even start to the game with both sides closing down the ball. QPR are awarded a free-kick left side the ball put out to George Lewin moving into space on the right down the line squares a ball into the top of the box looking for Demi Edwards, Amy Howlett back defending for Cambridge gets there first.

A throw on the left sees the ball put on for Ellie Searle looks to take it in behind, Anna Re with her the fullback slides in to tackle the ball off Searle runs out for a goalkick. Cambridge are matching QPR in the middle, the final ball into their attackers more often than not intercepted by QPR’s centrebacks, Grieve and Lauran Jordinson. Akerman plays it forwards into Edwards feet controls and spins the pass into Hal right of the D a fluid move Hall on the turn plays it out to Searle running into the box from the left, the shot struck wide, Searle frustrated having not got the connection right.

QPR over commit going forwards the strikers getting little joy central for Cambridge drifting out into the channels Fox is put clear on the left running with the ball is allowed to go all the way into the box looks to cut a cross along the six yard box, McLean diving forwards scooping the ball into her gloves. Lewin on the right getting into Cambridge’s half firing a fierce ball into Edwards right of the D, Grace Waygood on her quickly defending for Cambridge the ball cleared up to Fox in space on the left takes on the strike early outside the box across the goalkeeper, McLean down gets a touch to deflect the ball wide of her far post for a corner. The ball in defended at the near post before Cambridge are flagged offside trying to keep the attack alive.

Cambridge striker, Ruth Fox

Edwards has been busy up top working to get the better of Cambridge’s centrebacks a good contest so far between her and Otten. Bennett lifting the ball on for Emmings this time in the clear on the left the attacker driving forwards squares a cross into the top of the area, Grieve intercepting for QPR. A flare up between Edwards and Otten sees the referee having a word with both. Is competitive even in the middle the centre backs for both sides proving a solid unit to break down. A throw high on the right for QPR the cross fired in near side, Edwards there to turn the ball goalwards, Waygood blocking at close range.

Emmings off a throw on the left shifts infield surges towards the box the cross in to the near post Laura Mitchell after it but commits a foul trying to claim the ball. An audacious attempt on goal from Hall for QPR forcing Markwell to save tipping the ball over the top for a corner kick. The move starting on the right with Edwards and Akerman combining playing a 1 2 to get the ball down the wing the cross swung into the box long to the far post looks to be over Hall but she rises a foot behind her to connect with the ball, loops up towards goal dropping Markwell making a superb save needed tips the ball over the bar.

QPR’s Katie Akerman

GOAL! For all the clever play leading up to the corner it is a simple move that brings about the opening goal of the game, the ball put in at a good height near side players up from the back, Grieve drifts in unopposed to rise and head the ball looping it up and over the keeper to make it 0-1.

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve with the header to put the visitors into the lead.

The deadlock broken in the 20th minute. Cambridge look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball out to Mitchell right, look to go on, Danielle Maloney lunging in to tackle the ball out for a throw. QPR are quick to turn play around as Cambridge push players on Searle has pace to burn on the left is a good outlet taking the ball on turns inside flashing a cross through the six yard box. Maloney in to intercept as Cambridge captain Laura Baker takes the ball on through the middle the pass into Howlett looking to put Michell in behind, Maloney has to get there and does.

Cambridge with a free-kick wide right players up Baker over it, plays a ball into the neat post, headed clear falling to Howlett position 20 yards out right of the D, drills a low shot in through bodies is cleared off the line comes back to Baker on the right. Sent back in is bouncing in front of McLean leaning back at full stretch the goalkeeper does well to tip the ball over the bar for a corner. The set piece coming to nothing QPR hit Cambridge on the counter.

GOAL! Searle’s pace on the left causing problems once again attacking the ball past the defence taken to the by line Cambridge stretched at the back, the cross sent in past the keeper across the face of goal, Edwards there on the goal line ahead of Bennett to take the ball over the line. Cambridge appeal for offside, the goal however stands 0-2. The visitors doubling there advantage as the game approaches the half hour.

Demi Edwards putting QPR into a 2 goal lead

Cambridge feel aggrieved that a few decisions having gone against the leading up to the 2nd goal have an uphill task now to get themselves back into the game. The frustration grows as Howlett plays in Mitchell right side of the D then she feeds it through to Fox in behind inside the box, the flag raised against her. The hosts push looking for a quick reply Mitchell moving to the left picking up the ball top of the D goes to the by line, prevented from turning back to cross sends it up the line for Bennett to deliver the ball lofted in near post Grieve gets her head to it to clear only as far a Fox who drives back into the area doing well to force a corner.

Ruth Fox looking to get into a shooting position for Cambridge

The hosts pressing the attack QPR hold well at the back breaking with intent the ball played through the middle lifted up to Edwards, both centrebacks close on her a mistake could cost them dear. Otten though makes no mistake composed as Edwards lunges in front of her. Mitchell starting to drift in from the right giving Cambridge an extra body around the box. Edwards left has Hennessey looking to go past her Re sliding in tackles, the shot struck in on the angle blazed over the bar. Searle with that shot has the ball at her feet powers down the wing whipping a low cross in near side Hall attempting another clever backheel looking to flick it on to Edwards behind her, Otten in to stab it away from danger.

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down

Decisions are not going Cambridge’s way, play is disrupted because of it. Stojko-Down winning a good number of tackles in the middle plays Emmings in on the left up the wing a good cross in but no one gambling at the near post as has been the case on a few occasions allowing Jordinson to head it away untroubled. The game moving into stoppage time at the start of the 1st half, Blodgett nudging the ball into Hall 30 yards out spinning off her marker to strike a shot, the ball brushing the roof of the net on its way over.

QPR’s Laura Hennessey

Hennessey with a good if painful tackle to deny Emmings getting away again on the left, play spread across the pitch out to Searle surging on down the wing the shot fired in Markwell down low behind it all the way.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Queens Park Rangers WFC

A 2 goal lead for QPR at the break. Taking the lead in the 20th minutes and going on to double the advantage 10 minutes later. Have looked solid at the back with Cambridge finding more joy out wide without delivering the final ball. Has overall been a fairly even contest between the sides closing down the ball. Both sets of centre backs proving impossible to get through so far. QPR taking the lead from a set-piece, chances created whilst Cambridge have bee getting the ball up to their attacks they have for the most part been forced away from goal to look to cause damage. Decisions certainly frustrating Cambridge who have to hit the ground running at the start of the 2nd half if they are going to find a way back into the game. QPR though are a difficult side to break down.

A change for QPR previously unoticed, Brogan Moore on for Joanna Blodgett as Cambridge get the 2nd half underway, looking to get Fox on the move on the right, Searle is back to help Maloney the pair running Fox off the ball. Cambridge getting on the front foot right from the off at the start of the 2nd half pressing the ball in QPR’s half, Baker the Stojko-Down winning it back, Mitchell just missing out on an opportunity to get in behind on the right. Cambridge preparing to make a change early on, a break in play with a QPR player down, sees play paused Cambridge looking to keep moving stay warm. It’s Lewin down has picked up a knock and QPR are forced into an early change 2nd half bringing on Emilia Parsons in her place. Cambridge make their change too bringing with Waygood struggling, on comes Amy Houghton to join Otten at the back.

Howlett with a first time effort from 20 yards out right side of the D as the ball rebounds to her from inside the box curled wide of the post. QPR break quickly the ball fed through the middle out to Edwards moving right into the box getting a shot away under challenge isn’t far wide. The game opening up with Cambridge taking more risks up to Baker clipping a pass to Mitchell on the right takes the ball on sending a rising ball into the box headed clear by Grieve. Baker with a good challenge winning the ball high on the left Bennett taking it on in behind to cut back from the by line Mitchell top of the box inside left leaning back into her shot sending it over the bar.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

Cambridge are pushing hard for a goal a corner on the right the ball in central McLean in amongst bodies to punch clear. Fox taking the ball on right winning a corner. The delivery in central met by Otten her header driven down wide of the near post. Cambridge make a 2nd change, Emmings coming off. Abi Davies on takes up an attacking position on the right with Mitchell moving left. Stojko-Down turning in the middle moving left forwards for Fox in the left channel gets a move on with the ball letting fly on the angle the ball sent in low towards the near post McLean down low to save.

Cambridge full back Anna Re

Searle continues to be a menace on the right has certainly kept Re busy, shifting inside goes early with her cross angled to towards the top of the D, Houghton getting up well to clear it. The game played at a good pace, Mitchell drifting into the box recieves the ball right of goal as Davies travels with it on the right, turning looks to have space to shoot, turns inside though before checking back to take a swing, a QPR leg up to deflect it wide for a corner. Played in near post defended the ball back with the taker lifted back in Otten stooping into the header, turned goalwards, the ball cleared off the line, Cambridge appeal for a handball nothing given.

Gisela Otten defending for Cambridge

QPR make a change Akerman coming off for Sue Kumaning. Cambridge pressing hard for a reply, QPR defending well like they did against Norwich and remain dangerous on the counter their attackers always ready. Davies attacking on the right for Cambridge sees two crossing attempts blocked by both Maloney and Searle. A throw on the right the cross dropped into the box bouncing, again Cambridge appeal strongly for a penalty a handball seen but again no is the call. Markwell needing to stay alert the other end too as QPR break Maloney has Searle travelling forwards on the left wraps her foot around the ball flighted in near side Markwell snatching it down well with Edwards closing her down.

Fox into the left channel keeps the ball close to her feet QPR can’t risk lunging in the shot fired in low in the angle a combination of keeper post keeping it out. Stojko-Down left corner of the area forwards to take the shot on rising over the bar. Cambridge continuing to knock on the door with 24 minutes of the 2nd half played.

GOAL! For all their attacking play however Cambridge find themselves falling further behind as Edwards with a great finish extends the lead. The visitors bombing up the right the cross squared into Edwards back to goal right of the D, control it well before turn to lift a rising shot past the keeper into the top corner 0-3.

Before the restart QPR make a keeper change, McLean coming off for Lucie White.

GOAL! A further hammer blow for Cambridge as no sooner have they conceded a 3rd goal it become 4. QPR on the attack have Cambridge stretched with Searle raiding down the left in behind her marker to the by line to cut a ball back across the six yard box a shot struck first time bodies flying into to block, deflects out to the right. Cambridge with bodies still on the ground as Hall on the angle fires a vicious ball back in taking a wicked deflecting that takes back towards the near post away from Markwell and over the line 0-4.

Cambridge with two successive hammer blows receive a 3rd as Baker unhappy as a decision goes against her complains and is shown a yellow card and sin binned for dissent. Cambridge without their captain down to 10 for 10 minutes. Fox looks to battle her way forwards on the right is fouled for her trouble Cambridge seeing a decision go their way. Stojko-Down on it sent into the area White coming into the crowd to punch. Edwards game is run as she comes off for Ailish Carolan. Davies looking to get in behind Maloney on the right lays a cross in to the six yard box cut out by Grieve going behind for a corner.

Cambridge have to push players up wanting a goal. The delivery into the middle, appeals straight away and a the 3rd attempt Cambridge win a penalty! An opportunity to pull a goal back with the clock running down. Now I have to confess to not noticing who was taking it, but that spares them as the ball is hit low to the right, White going the right way diving left to make the save keep it out keep QPR clean sheet intact.

Lucie White saving from the penalty

With a player advantage QPR are keeping the ball giving themselves a respite as much as allowing Cambridge in initiative. Faith Hewitt coming on for the hosts Cambridge bringing off Stojko-Down. Baker rearing to get back on Cambridge back up to 11 with a few minutes plus stoppage time left. QPR happy to force Cambridge’s attacks wide with the ball knowing options in the box remain limited. Davies playing the ball into Howlett 25 yards out lines up a strike her attempt over. 4 minutes of stoppage time left.

Hall on the right taking on the shot from all of 30 yards out for QPR driven over the bar. Cambridge with one last attack Davies and Hewitt combining outside the D, Howlett skipping between them to get into the box Hewitt putting the pass into her right of goal, Jordinson across to lung in and take the ball away from her feet.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-4 Queens Park Rangers WFC

QPR make it 3 wins from 3 in 8 days to move move 3 points clear of Cambridge in 5th spot in the South East Division One table. The game starting off fairly even between the sides before QPR took the lead midway though the 1st half with their captain Vicky Grieve heading home unmarked from a corner. Cambridge frustrated with decisions seemingly going against them through out with an up hill task 2nd half. Gave it a good go applying plenty of pressure. QPR absorbed it well however always looking dangerous on the counter. Cambridge momentum building Edwards with her 2nd of the game taking it away from the hosts with Hall’s strike moments later making it 4. Further frustration with their captain sin binned. A glimmer of hope from the penalty spot was saved. All in all an afternoon of frustration for Cambridge build up play excellent just lacking that final ball. QPR looked good for their win scoring at crucial times. Move the ball about the pitch well always looking to stretch the opposition.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match not an easy decision but that reflects a good team performance more than anything else. A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge, Anna Re was kept busy at the back by Searle but nevertheless put in a good number of challenges. Gisela Otten had a good contest with Edwards especially first half winning some crucial tackles. Ruth Fox up top isn’t easy to get off the ball when she has it at her feet, QPR forcing her wider than she would have liked but created some good opportunities for herself. For QPR, Vicky Grieve and Lauren Jordinson were both solid in defence. Ellie Searle a constant threat with her pace down the right setting up several chances. Is close between and today’s award winner, Demi Edwards really took the game to the Cambridge centre back moving about the back line to receive the ball, scoring twice the 2nd a fine goal.

Good to be back, needed the break recharged, mentally which was what was needed. An entertaining game my takes to Cambridge and Gary Reed for providing me with the team details today, much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Queens Park Rangers Women

Sunday 12th December

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip up to The Nest CSF this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One with Norwich City Women taking on newly promoted Queens Park Rangers Women.

The league taking shape as the end of the year approaches with a cluster of sides from 7th down to 10th all on 10 points and involved in the battle to stay in the league with up to 4 sides facing relegation this season. Today’s opponents amongst those.

Norwich City Women recent FA Cup matches seeing them slip a place in the South East Division One table with Essex side Harlow Town Ladies moving past them into 10th with back to back wins. Having lost their opening 3 league games Norwich looked to have turned a corner with a purple patch in September seeing them collect 7 points from 3 games, since then however have lost 4 in a row in the league. The squad featuring a good mixture of experience and youth will be looking to end the year on a high with a positive result to carry them into the New Year.

Has been a long while since I watched Queens park Rangers Women, and this is a different side all together. The club effectively rebuilding following the controversial decision that saw the established Southern Premier Division join with Hounslow to become Hounslow Women, that club retaining their league status. Many of the players from that side not going to Hounslow at he start of the 2019/20. The club rebuilding with their development side playing in the London & South East Regional League. Queens Park Rangers retaining a loyal fan base successful in the COVID hit season’s that followed were promoted back to FAWNL South East Division One at the start of this campaign. The clubs league form hard to predict with the club having played just one league match since 17th November whilst they were playing in 3 cup competitions. Starting positively with back to back wins followed by back to back defeats have drawn lost and won one since to have 10 points from 7 games played. 7th in the table have up to 3 games in had on their rivals below. Melanie Hall top scorer with 10 goals from 14 appearances so far.

The Nest CSF the venue for today’s game, the new home of Norwich City Women. The newly build state of the art sporting facility boasting a modern artificial pitch along side the clubhouse and changing facilities. A large function room supported by cafe area to one side several grass pitches beyond situated to the north of the city. After a chilly, wet week Sunday bringing milder weather, if still overcast and dull. The floodlights on early as the teams walked out onto he pitch.

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Jess Harper, Anna Larkins, Chardonnay Johnston, Ellie Bishop, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Freya Symonds, Kathryn Stanley, Megan Todd & Freya Fuller. Subs – Natasha Snelling, Rosie George, Leilah Gooding, Abi Tate & Summer Ward.

Queens Park Rangers Women

Queens Park Rangers Women starting XI – Mya Francis-Pownall, Georgie Lewin, Laura Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Ellen Wardlaw, Ellie Searle, Erin Pope, Laura Hennessey, Brogan Moore, Melanie Hall & Emilia Parsons. Subs – Joanna Blodgett, Ailish Carolan, Esme Davies & Alice Curr.

It’s the visitors, QPR kicking off the 1st half wearing blue and white hooped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green colours. The ball played back to the centre backs Norwich press the ball forcing QPR to go back to goalkeeper Mya Francis-Pownall who kicks it long out to the left looking for Ellie Searle on the move attempts to bring it down under control as Jess Harper comes across to get into her to clear the ball for a throw in.

Freya Fuller attacking for Norwich

The ball regained in the middle Laura Hennessey into Melanie Hall in attack back to goal spins the ball forwards to the left with Searle bombing on, swings her cross into the area near side cut out and cleared by Jodie Drake tracking back for Norwich. The hosts look to mount a counter attack through Freya Symonds in the middle moving right playing it on for Freya Fuller into the right channel, QPR captain, Vicky Grieve getting across to lunge in with the tackle stop the threat.

Norwich keep the pressure on in QPR’s final 3rd a throw deep on the right, the ball won played up to Fuller top corner of the box a shot struck on the angle, pace races wide across the six yard box. Ellen Wardlaw takes the ball up the left firing a diagonal all inside to striker Emilia Parsons outside the D, Ellie Bishop getting her foot to the ball first for Norwich goes away to the left wide put back inside into Brogan Moore positioned outside the box left of the D to have a shot struck with the outside of her boot racing low towards goal, Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams moving across her line is down to claim smoothly.

Fuller on the move with the ball in attack for Norwich right side heading for the box, Grieve getting across to defend blocking once then twice as Fuller attempts to shoot a 2nd time this time the ball deflected back towards Francis-Pownall to collect safely. A bright start from Norwich.

GOAL! That is undone in the 5th minute as QPR push forward in numbers to open the lead. Wardlaw out on the right firing a diagonal ball inside for Parsons, Bishop once again intercepting well taking the ball away to her right, Moore in to close her down regaining possession left of the D 20 plus yards out strikes the ball hard angling a low strike across the keeper to nestle in the bottom corner 0-1.

Brogan Moore opens the scoring for QPR

Momentum switches suddenly in QPR’s favour the visitors moving the ball quickly across the pitch opening Norwich up in the middle, Hall after a cleared ball on the right racing to the by-line before turning in a cross into the six yard box, Chardonnay Johnston clearing for Norwich. QPR pressing the ball in the middle Laura Hennessey strong up to Moore releases Searle on the left, Harper preventing her putting a cross. Norwich’s Symonds plays the ball central onto captain Millie Daviss, looks to set up Fuller in attack sending the ball on into her path, her touch not quite there the ball running away from her inside the box as QPR defenders get back on her en masse to clear.

Wardlaw perplexed as she is adjudged to have given a foul away on the left side some 30 yards out, Larkins with Drake over the ball, Drake moving away central free as Larkins plays the ball into her, running in to strike the moving ball it flies high and wide of the top corner. Larkins with the ball on the left looks for options central attempts to flight a ball into the attackers to the right of the box, a QPR head with a glancing header on the ball taking it out for a corner. The delivery goes long across he six yard box Todd drifting in free can’t quite get there.

Laura Hennessey bringing the ball under control for QPR

QPR get straight up the other end Hall into the box right side her cross headed behind for a corner. This delivery also long to the far post Pope up to head the ball put straight into the keepers gloves. Symonds drifting forwards to the right supporting Fuller, with good control turning 25 yards out to strike the ball on the angle, on target but straight into Francis-Pownall’s gloves with her near post covered.

QPR are looking sharp in attack moving the ball quickly in possession from back to front pulling Norwich’s midfield out of shape in the process allowing players space to exploit on both flanks with Searle and Wardlaw looking to get forwards whenever they can. Hennessey winning the ball putting in a number of good tackles. Wardlaw though is called into action in defence as the back line hesitates looking to caught Kathryn Stanley offside, the flag stays down however, Stanley in behind, Wardlaw covering the distance quickly to intercept Stanley at the top of the area to nullify the threat.

Freya Fuller holding off, QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw

Hall picking the ball up 35 yards out left channel driving forwards, Drake getting back to lunge in with the tackle before the ball is cleared away for a corner kick. Another far post delivery its Wardlaw up this time free to plant her header wide beyond the post. Williams out quickly to the top of the area to claim the ball for Norwich as Parsons looks to roll it on for Searle on the left. Bishop in to put in the block inside the box for Norwich as Searle powers into the area from the left.

QPR’s Melanie Hall

GOAL! Midway through the half and QPR go on to double there lead. The visitors winning a corner on the right players lining up outside the area far post to run in to attack the ball, the delivery though goes through everyone. Is retrieved wide on the left players still up the cross fired into the six yard box Erin Pope at the near post seeing it down and turning into the shot put across the keeper, Williams getting down almost has it the ball squirming through under her body to cross the line 0-2.

QPR’s Erin Pope scorer of the visitors 2nd goal

Norwich look to get players forwards as Larkins brings it on from the left her diagonal ball towards the top of the area headed down and clear by Grieve, Daviss quickest to react onto the loose ball hits it first time 25 yards out her effort swerving wide of the right post. QPR get the ball on quickly central with Hennessey out to Hall into the area right of goal, getting it down to hit in a low shot under Williams as she dives across in front of her the ball coming back off the base of the post into the six yard box left of goal, Bishop does enough to put Parsons off as she goes to hit the ball towards goal, taking all the pace off it as it trickles trough for William, rapidly back on her feet to claim.

Norwich’s Anna Larkins

QPR looking strong pulling Norwich apart in the middle using there wide players well Searle across to Wardlaw on the right a corner won. Players come forwards lining up at the far post, the delivery finding it’s mark Parsons with the shot racing in low, evading Williams, Harper behind her covering the post clearing the ball off the line. The ball out to the right gathered by Hennessey lifts the ball in towards goal crashes onto the top of the crossbar and out of play.

The visitors enjoying a good spell of play, communicating well, shifting ball quickly and crisply into feet pulling Norwich out of position causing the hosts some consternation. QPR’s centre back’s covering each other well whenever Norwich threaten an attack Symonds looking to lift the ball into Fuller right channel, Grieve across on the cover to defend with Lewin holding the attacker up. Fuller battling on with the ball to the right lifting a cross long into the area for Todd far side, collecting the ball checks back inside, thinks about shooting but he option is quickly closed down before her cross into the middle is cleared by Lewin.

5 minutes left to play in the first half. QPR finishing it strong. Hennessey with the ball pushes forwards into Parsons, Johnston close in defending for Norwich. Hennessey bossing the middle of the park taking it on once again out to Searle on the left drives forwards her cross into Parsons, with Hennessey beyond her, Drake getting between the pair to make a vital interception for Norwich. Wardlaw out on the right up he pitch for QPR top of the area las it inside for the advancing Moore, her clipped shot turned in on the angle going wide.

Norwich defender, Ellie Bishop

Norwich’s attackers looking to combine up top as Fuller brings the ball under control out on the left lifting it central for Stanley 25 yards out, flicks it forwards for Todd who is quickly crowded off the ball inside the D by QPR’s defence. Larkins and Wardlow enjoying a good contest on the right as the QPR player looks to get around Larkins to put in a cross into the box Larkins sliding in to block turning the ball behind for a corner. A long delivery to the far post a feature of the first half, QPR well drilled the ball met with a firm header powered wide.

QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw looking to take on Norwich full back Anna Larkins

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

Despite a bright start from Norwich it was QPR who took the early lead and from that grew into the game with some good passing and movement throughout to pull their opponents out of shape. Doubling their lead midway through the 2nd half have also hit the woodwork and seen the ball cleared off the line. Norwich with a few chances inside the box, nothing clear cut, not giving themselves time on the ball QPR tight at the back giving little away. Frustration building need to change something in the 2nd half if they are to get back into the game.

The two sides out with no changes made at the start of the 2nd half. Norwich to get the half underway. Fuller deeper in a midfield position with Symonds up supporting Stanley and Todd in attack. Drake on the ball playing it out to Stanley on the move left side takes the ball on towards the area before running into traffic and being crowded off the ball. Norwich looking to be positive from the off pressing the ball high looking to get at QPR’s defence. Are caught out as Searle escapes with the ball at her feet on the left powering her way forwards, Johnston moves out to meet her sliding into the tackle strong to take the ball, Harper clearing it forwards.

Norwich centre back, Chardonnay Johnston

QPR’s wide players combine well as Wardlaw gets free on the right sending a crossfield pass into Moore central 20 yards out who helps it out to the left for Searle, lays the ball forwards early into the box near post with Parsons making the run, diving in in front of Williams as she comes across to cover the angle doesn’t get a touch nor put the keeper of as Williams crouching down sees it up into her gloves.

QPR defender, Lauren Jordinson

Todd is adjudged to have blocked Searle’s run as the QPR wide player drives inside form the left, a card for Todd as she protests, the visitors with a set-piece in a dangerous position left of the D. Hall over it curls a low strike in on target past the wall Williams central in goal behind it right behind the strike. Norwich getting forwards on the right win a throw, Symonds controlling in spinning to put it on for Stanley running into the area Grieve back on her to tackle in low the ball deflected away for a corner. An inswinging delivery to the far post Francis-Pownall getting a firm glove on it to punch it away to the left.

QPR’s Ellie Searle

Fuller giving Norwich a little more steel in the middle the ball won, Drake enjoying a little space to exploit moving right clipping a diagonal ball on for Todd coming into the box from the left, her first touch a little heavy seeing the ball run away from her nevertheless goes after it sliding in on the keeper as Francis-Pownall gets down to save bravely, block the ball. Drake able to get forwards more too support the attack is well placed top of the area as a Larkins cross comes in from the left chests it down well looking to set up Todd, no shot on the ball comes back to Daviss who strikes a tame effort wide.

Jodie Drake battling for possession for Norwich

Drake gets all the way to the by-line before flashing a ball across the face of goal, no one running in to attack it. A bright start to the half from Norwich, QPR respond with a double change bringing off Parsons and Hennessey replaced by Alice Curr in attack and Joanna Blodgett. Not long after Norwich make a change of there own bringing of Fuller for Leilah Gooding. Symonds controlling the ball on the right off a throw on for Todd into the box Francis-Pownall across to close her down the ball blocked away for a throw.

Larkins away with the ball left for Norwich puts a cross in for Drake near side, Jordinson in to win the header clearing for QPR. The visitors come through the middle Pope into Hall back to goal 20 yards out holds and sends out to Searle advancing on the left her cross in cut out by Johnston the ball out on the right a cross/shot blocked comes out to Moore 20 yards out smashes a shot back into the box her effort blocked before being cleared.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds

Symonds on the right running onto a long ball forwards, getting a shot away on the angle the ball swerving in straight into the keepers gloves at the near post. Harper able to come on with the ball left side for Norwich plays it up the line for Symonds, Lewin getting across to put in the challenge for QPR. Much more even in the 2nd half, Norwich pressing the ball quicker the midfield hotly contested. Norwich winning a free-kick up high outside the box on the right. Before it is taken however the hosts make a change with 16 minutes left to play, Stanley coming off for Natasha Snelling.

GOAL! Harper over the ball goes for goal a looping effort that has Francis-Pownall back pedalling struggling to reach it, possibly getting her fingertips to the ball as the ball comes back down off the cross bar into the box left of goal a shot lashed in, Norwich appeal immediately for handball! The referee pointing to the spot, a penalty awarded! Snelling with the ball in her hand hasn’t touched the ball yet, 4 goals so far this season will this be her 5th? Makes no mistake with a well placed penalty struck to the right of the diving keeper to score 1-2.

Natasha Snelling with her 1st touch scoring the penalty for Norwich

Game on with 15 minutes left to play Norwich looking better 2nd half pulling a goal back. Continue to press the ball high Symonds and Todd getting help from Snelling. QPR defending strongly though, Searle and Wardlaw remain their outlets on the flanks ready to break as the floodlight begin to take full effect. Lewin out to Searle left on for Curr into the box from the angle, Bishop into her making the blocking tackle. Pope on through the middle passes on for Hall lifts it on for Curr into the left channel but the flag is up against her.

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve

Harper right side on for Todd up top turns off her marker into the area, Grieve getting back on her Todd going down, appeals but nothing given. The clock ticking down, Norwich pressing QPR getting bodies back determined to hold on. The visitors always ready to spring the counter as Norwich commit players forwards Searle the outlet on the left driving on with the ball carrying in infield sends it on into Curr she does superbly with a clever backheel flick that sends it on for Searle to touch on into the area one on one with the keeper, Williams sets herself Searle closing on looking to play it wide of her, too close though as Williams reacts sharply getting down to her left to lay claim to the ball.

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

Changes for both sides with Rosie George on in attack for Todd. Pope comes off for QPR replaced by Esme Davies who moves up top with Curr, Hall dropping back into the middle. Norwich with bodies forwards as a freekick is put in from the left, Drake getting it down hesitates before releasing her shot seeing the attempt charged down. Pressing the ball outside the box Snelling gets it out to George moving clear inside the area wide right her cross flashed back in towards goal, caught well by Francis-Pownall with Symonds closing in. Wardlaw coming off in the latter stages for QPR to be replaced by Ailish Carolan.

Snelling able to travel with the ball through the middle getting a shot away from 25 yards out on the right drilled wide of the target. Snelling seeing the ball into her feet outside the box sends in out to George to the right, inside the box, Grieve getting back into her to tackle cleanly for QPR. Harper on the right with a ball into the area near side George going after it as the keeper comes to claim the pair colliding go down, George coming off the worst play paused as she recieves treatment but is okay to continue.

Into the final minutes, Davies in space out wide left for QPR brings down a long diagonal pass shifting it between her feet before sending a looping ball into the box, Hall closing in getting her boot up to bring the ball down looking to direct it wide of the keeper from 10 yards out, Williams down sharply to her left laying claim to the ball. An advantage played as Bishop winning the ball at the back is fouled as she attempts to bring the ball forwards running onto Drake 30 yards out connects with her shot well swerving through the air isn’t far wide.

Sadly that is the last action of the game as she comes off injured moments later, appearing to twist her ankle as it rolls over the ball. On in her place Abi Tate. The clock running down QPR defending strongly not committing too many forwards Moore on the right with a early ball on for Davies the flag raised against her. Hall doing he sensible thing as she brings the ball down on the left off Searle the pair running the ball into the corner. Moments later the final whistle blows the points going to the visitors.

Full time Norwich City Women 1-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

QPR with the win the damage done in the 1st half an early strike from Brogan Moore followed up with a goal from Erin Pope midway through the half with further chances created. A strong defensive performance throughout the game proving hard to break down. Prepared to sit in the 2nd half invite Norwich onto them ready to attack on the counter. Norwich despite a bright start quickly on the back foot in the first half pulled out of shape in the middle by QPR needed to make changes 2nd half. A good response with a much improved 2nd half performance, Freya Fuller dropping into midfield as Norwich pressed the ball higher, creating more opportunities, substitute Natasha Snelling with a clinical penalty to set up a tense final quarter hour, just couldn’t find that 2nd goal, ending the year with defeat. QPR pulling away from the sides below remain 7th have one more game left at home to leaders Hashtag United Women next Sunday.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As is often the case not an easy decision to make. A few performances of note to mention first. Freya Fuller played well both in attack in the first half and dropping into midfield in the 2nd half, that in turn allowed Jodie Drake more opportunities to get on influence the game linked up with the attackers well. QPR were solid through the team keeping a disciplined formation, Vicky Grieve with a number of vital challenges at the back. Laura Hennessey bossing the midfield in the 1st half. The award today though goes to Ellie Searle was a strong performance out on the left getting forwards always an outlet strong with her running getting in crosses and linking well with the attackers.

Been a hectic few days glad to have ended the weekend with a much needed football game. An entertaining encounter, a good contest my thanks to Norwich for providing me with those all important team details.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 29th September

FAWNL South East Division One

A spot of midweek football action on Women’s Football East to take in a local derby match from FAWNL South East Division One an all Cambridge affair as Cambridge City Ladies host rivals Cambridge United WFC.

The pair coming into the match having both made a positive start to the FAWNL South East Division One season. Once one club with what is now United becoming Cambridge Women FC who went on to become an established sides within the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid. Now joined with Cambridge United FC, whilst a new Cambridge City Ladies was re-established and made a rapid rise through the pyramid themselves to reach the FAWNL South East Division One themselves 2 seasons ago.

Cambridge City with a strong policy on bringing youth through much of their squad has been with the club playing for various youth sides with the club having 3 adult teams with a Reserves and Development side also competing in the FAWNL Reserve league and ERWFL Division One North respectfully. Ollie Drake taking over as 1st team coach this season joined by Paul France with Tim Rapley formerly 1st team coach assisting too. A 1-3 home loss to Hashtag United Women on the opening day City bounced back well recording back to back wins away to Harlow and Stevenage to move up into the top half of the table there they have remained adding a further 4 points to lay 6th with 10 going into tonight’s derby match. Have a largely settled squad bringing in a couple of experienced players defender Jess Evans and former Ipswich Town captain, Amanda Crump who made 216 appearances for the club scoring 72 goals. Derby day often bringing out the best in City they have proved a difficult opponent for United since joining them in South East Division One.

A change in the management team for Cambridge United WFC too with former St Ives Town Ladies manager, Darren Marjoram coming in to join 1st team coach Ben Yeomans. The pair joined by Liz Pamplin who made 500 appearances for Cambridge United. Attacking player Ruth Fox, midfielder Abbi Griffin and goalkeeper Kira Markwell all following marjoram from St Ives to Cambridge United with midfielder Laura Baker returning along with defender Anna Re. Defeat on the opening day too for United before the club went on to win 4 on the bounce 3 in the league and one cup game. Up to 4th in the South East Division One table at one point were brought back down to earth with a bump last weekend with a heavy 6-0 defeat at home to Hashtag United Women. Have several out with injury including Fox who damaged her elbow at the weekend having led the line well so far scoring 5 goals one behind Emma Jenkins who has netted 6 so far. A versatile squad with several players comfortable in several different positions.

The Demcom Stadium the venue for tonight’s derby match home to Ely City FC, situated behind a new Cinema and restaurant complex on the outskirts of Ely. Once the home of United too, now hosting City’s home games whilst they wait for Cambridge City FC’s new home in Sawston to be built. The pitch looking superb these days the ground seeing improvements ongoing. The grass surface offers plenty of width a mild evening, dry the floodlights taking full effect as the teams walk on onto the pitch.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Ceri Flye, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Jess Evans, Ellie Cullum, Hannah Bodily, Charlotte Gillies, Karly Tolentino, Amanda Crump & Grace Stanley. Subs – Erin Davies, Lauren Tomlinson, Lauren Saunders, Zynia Delglyn & Georgia Clarke.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Kira Markwell, Anna Re, Abi Davies, Grace Waygood, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Gisela Otten, Laura Baker (C), Emma Jenkins, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt & Laura Mitchell. Subs – Carrie Bennett, Libby Fraser, Amy Houghton, Charlotte Crisp & Niamh Day.

Done a few of these before so it’s City vs United from this point, with City kicking off the first half wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United wearing Amber shirts with Black shorts and socks. City play it back into midfield, United immediately in to close down, put out to the right back the ball fired long looking for the run of Charlotte Gillies out wide, bounces on through into the box giving United goalkeeper, Kira Markwell and early feel of the ball.

The tempo quick from the off neither side wanting the other to settle on the ball, Karly Tolentino moving out wide left for City getting hold of the ball Unite full back Anna Re sliding in to defend the ball out for a throw in. City take it quickly the ball dropped into the feet of striker Grace Stanley controls and sends it in central for Tolentino, leaning back into her shot from the top of the D sends the ball over the bar.

United get the ball left into Emma Jenkins, fouled full back Abi Davies races forwards in support taking the ball on past her sending it into the box for Laura Mitchell leading the line for United tonight, left of goal can’t turn as she is closed down by City defender, Ceri Flye the ball behind for the 1st corner of the game. Challenges flying in Gisela Otten has hold of the ball for United in the middle spreads it wide for Jenkins moving forwards left side, Flye getting across her to shield the ball playing it back to her captain and goalkeeper, D=Sarah Hudson to clear upfield.

Certainly has a derby match feel about it both sides not holding back, clearly up for it challenges committed, referee Laura Van-Leir is in for a busy game. Gillies breaking with the ball right side whipping on a low cross towards the near post cut out by Kayleigh-Anne Burt for United a corner conceded, the delivery dealt with comfortably at the near post. Is a little scrappy no one allowed any time to dwell on the ball, both sides looking to get the ball out wide. Re right side on for Howlett then Hewitt beyond her Jess Evans getting amongst them defending for City.

City unhappy as a seeming advantage is halted for a free kick to the hosts on halfway, the ball clipped out to the left Tolentino flicking it beyond Re running towards the area coming inside from the left sees her attempt on goal blocked by United centre back Grace Waygood. Tolentino out left causing a few problems for United early on taking the ball to the by-line her cross into the six yard box cut out by Burt, coming back to Tolentino her 2nd attempt is cleared by Waygood. City counter attack with purpose Cullum with the ball on up to Stanley in attack central 25 out clips it out to Gillies bursting forwards on the wing right side in space hits the ball on the run smashing her shot wide of the near post.

United pushed up as they attack risk getting hit on the counter, Evans playing the ball out from the back, is a vital interception by Waygood to prevent Stanley breaking in clear behind. Markwell with a confident claim chest high at her near post as Tolentino whips the ball in as she reaches the by-line. The action is end to end no let up as one side defends immediately looks to get the ball into their attackers. United captain Laura Baker sending the pass out to Jenkins left side gathers the ball, taking on the defence twisting left and right before firing a diagonal ball into the d looking for Mitchell, Evans getting in ahead of her to clear for City.

Hudson from a free-kick at the back plays in a dangerous bouncing ball left side that United fail to deal with bouncing up for Stanley to attack, hooks an attempt towards goal from 20 yards out sends the ball over the bar. Re defending at the back for United sends a straight pass forwards into Mitchell turns on the ball firing it out to Jenkins advancing left side cutting inside, Flye steps out to meet her with a good tackle to win the ball back for City. Both United full backs looking to get on join the attack, Davies left supporting Jenkins with Re on the right playing the ball on for Mitchell, flicks it on for Faith Hewitt in behind takes the ball down to the by-line inside the box firing in a cross, Mitchell attacking it, Evans going with her lunging in to beat her to the ball.

Davies is fouled getting forwards for United wide left, Jenkins takes on the shot from the angle, the ball brushing the roof of the net on its way over. Crump drifting into space on the left takes the ball on plays a squared pass into Stanley left of the D, before she can dig it out to shoot, Re gets back to lunge in challenge and clear up the pitch. The foul count is totting up both sides as guilty as each other, the benches as fired up as the players. Decisions going against both. United’s Otten in the middle on for Mitchell central, is closed down by Evans as Hannah Bodily comes away with the ball looking for Tolentino left side, Re closing her down quickly to get United back on the front foot.

Cambridge City Ladies, Amanda Crump

Otten sends the ball out to Howlett on the left puts it into the box for Mitchell right of goal, is quickly closed down by the City defence, the ball cleared out to their right is latched onto by Davies who strikes it from all of 40 yards her effort racing wide at the near post. United getting the ball forwards well Baker sending a shot over the bar from outside the area as she runs onto Mitchell’s knock down from a cross on the left. City break Cullum finding Tolentino left side, Waygood there to block for United as she attempts to play the cross into the box, then Burt throws out a leg inside the six yard box to concede a corner. The delivery looping high towards the far post falls to the floor players scrambling for it pops loose for Baker, calmness in the eye of the storm as she shows great composure to dribble the ball out of the area rather that launch it upfield.

For all the toing and froing between the sides neither keeper has been tested yet. Baker passing the ball out to Howlett right side looks to go down the line, Amy Reed staying on her for City sliding in to make the tackle. Re pushed up winning it straight back for United the visitors getting the ball in towards the top of the area, Evans and Flye closing the door on Mitchell. Reed does well again against Hewitt as United’s No10 looks to get in around behind her on the right. City sitting deeper than United are inviting pressure ready to counter attack their defence proving hard to get around. Waygood and Burt making sure nothing gets past them at the other end.

Gillies on the right for City letting loose with a strike from all of 25 yards, Markwell well position back on her line taking a comfortable catch for United. City getting a free-kick wide right the ball put into the area Markwell comes and punches away, United don’t get far as City press regain possession turn play around Tolentino knocking the ball to her left into the path of the advancing Cullum on the run strikes a low shot in on the angle, Markwell back on her line down smartly at her near post to save pushing the ball behind for a corner kick.

The 1st half drawing to a close has been played at a high tempo both sides pushing the attack looking lively although defenders have had the upper hand. Crump can certainly unlock the door with a pass an almost does so as she thread it through for Stanley, Burt is on hand to throw out a leg make an important stop for United. United upset as Howlett is the first player to receive a yellow card in the game the resulting free-kick seeing City advance on the left for a moment Stanley looks to have gotten in behind Burt, however both Re and Baker are round on the cover to defend halt Stanley’s progress with Tolentino ready to provide the run into the box.

The free-kicks continue to add up both benches letting their frustrations known. Mitchell pushed in the back 30 odd yards out to the right presenting United with an opportunity to bring players forwards Baker over the ball looking to place it at the far post attacked the ball is knocked to the ground coming for Burt her eyes light up the ball barely leaving her foot however the City defence have charged it down.

City advance down the right Gillies bombing forwards squares her cross along the top of the area, controlled by Tolentino left of the D plays it to Stanley on the right side quick to get her strike away the shot rising is much to her frustration straight at Markwell in the United goal.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

Plenty of action in the 1st half both sides wanting to press the attack as quickly as possible has been scrappy at times but a committed battle with both sides no wiling to let the other settle on the ball. Fouls given away City have invited United on somewhat allowing them to keep it tight at the back willing to counter attack, neither side though carving out a clear cut chance inside the box.

No changes for either side at the break as United get the 2nd 45 underway, the ball out to Jenkins on the left a deft cross lifted into the area cleared by Flye, United press hard in midfield Otten then Baker the ball played into Jenkins top of the D, turns and shoots, rising Hudson throwing her gloves up making a good save knocking the ball wide and behind for a corner. The delivery into a congested near post well defended. United with a 2nd corner press the advantage at the start of the 2nd half, City struggling to get the ball into their opponents half.

United with a free-kick on the right City defending the initial ball, Re regains possession laying it on down the wing for Baker, on the angle drills a cross into the near post, Jenkins closing in on the keeper as Hudson back on her line looks to see the ball into her gloves, under pressure from the United attacker the ball is spilt, Jenkins gets her foot on it looks certain the score (think several amongst the United bunch thought she had) the ball though comes back off the post and City manage to scramble it away to safety.

United starting the brighter 2nd half a free-kick won inside the City half on the left, Baker sending the delivery into the area met centrally by Jenkins sends her header over the crossbar. Mitchell running at the City defence wins a corner. Defended by Reed at the near post a 2nd corner awarded, goes long this time over over one in the six yard box Burt retrieves far side attempts to lift back in deflected behind for a 3rd corner. Right side long United appeal for handball as City bring the ball away but nothing doing. Bodily putting a diagonal ball out to the left for Reed to attack, Re halts her progress for United.

Cambridge United WFC’s Laura Mitchell

City get hold of the ball centrally Bodily passing to Stanley the striker clipping the ball out to the right for Gillies, taking the ball into her stride checks inside her marker driving for the box before firing in a low strike to the near post, Markwell across her goal down low to make a comfortable save. United suddenly dropping off their intensity City press the ball in the final 3rd Crump putting a looping ball in, Burt getting in ahead of Tolentino.

The visitors regain possession centrally Otten on for Jenkins central has support to her right from Mitchell who in turn finds Howlett wide right taking the ball in behind lifts a cross towards the penalty spot, Mitchell rises to meet it a glancing header the ball falling wide of the far post Jenkins after it, Mulheron in ahead of her defending for City. The game opening up now City have Gillies on the ball right as Stanley knocks it down into her path, an early cross into the box has Crump breaking in behind, Markwell focused as she drops onto the ball claiming it as Crump arrives on her.

Cambridge United WFC and WF East sponsored Amy Howlett

City winning a free-kick in the middle lifted in towards Stanley top of the D, flicks the ball on well with Crump running in on the follow-up, Markwell seeing it late getting behind it taking the ball on the bounce.

GOAL! The dead lock is broken and it’s a superbly hit shot too. United winning the ball out on the right central the pass taken early driven in with pace towards Jenkins free outside the box right of the D. Turns and shoots the ball struck well arrowing straight on the rise before Hudson before she can react into the back of the net 0-1.

Emma Jenkins fires Cambridge United WFC into the lead

An hour played and it’s United who have the lead, City getting straight down the other end from the restart Gillies winning a corner. The delivery in central drops dangerously inside the six yard box, United scrambling it away to safety. A change for City, Erin Davies retuning to the club on for Crump in attack. Baker coming back to slide in and tackle Stanley as she looks to battle her way in behind Burt 25 yards out. United working hard doubling up at times to thwart City as they build in attack the hosts frustrated.

United attack with Davies getting on to support Howlett drifting right a corner won City defend the cleared from the top of their area City break Tolentino on the ball left side sends a ball into the box Markwell though can see it out for a goal kick.

It’s rare to see especially at this level in the women’s game however it’s the first sin bin I’ve witnessed this season after Stanley is sent off for 10 minutes for City after a long talking too from the referee over a disputed corner/goal kick. United making their 1st change of the match bringing on Niamh Day for Hewitt in attack. The substitute involved straight away as a loose City ball from the ball falls to her centrally. Drives forwards moving into the right channel before laying it on for Mitchell ahead of her into the box Hudson comes to reach it first her kick striking Mitchell rebounds behind for a goal kick.

City making a change Lauren Tomlinson coming on for Reed. United press the attack Baker on for Mitchell right of the D lays her attempt wide of the target. Otten getting the ball back for United forwards into Mitchell central back to goal upended, advantage played as it comes straight to Howlett beside her blasts her shot in low driven wide of the near post. United pushing on with their player advantage.

Stanley is allowed back on City back up to full strength. A focal point in attack is picked out straight away left of the D controls into her feet turns laying a diagonal ball into the box from the left Tomlinson racing forwards, Markwell sees her coming races off her line to close the angle throwing herself into the save Tomlinson getting her strike over her the ball clearing the crossbar too.

GOAL! No sooner have City created a chance at one end United go down the other end and double their lead. Day winning a corner on the right. Players come forwards crowding the six yard box, angled in near post is a bullet header by Otten as she stoops to meet the ball powering it into the back of the net from close range, is engulfed by her teammates as they rush forwards in celebration 0-2.

Less than 10 minutes left to play City trailing 2 nil win a free-kick on half way played up towards Tomlinson inside the D turns well into a shot, United’s defence prepared the ball charged down. City have to push forwards time is against them now, United are tiring a corner won on the right, Stanley up well knocking the ball down two United players go to block both stay down as the ball is cleared. City make a change bringing off Bodily late on, on in her place Zynia Delglyn. Less than 4 minutes plus stoppage time left to play.

City pressing the ball high Davies right on for Gillies attacks a cross flashing in low through the six yard box, Markwell down on it late stops it but hasn’t claimed it, Waygood getting there 1st to clear for the visitors. A nervy end to the game United sitting back inviting City to come on Davies with a shot from 20 yards out, put straight at Markwell.

GOAL! Into stoppage time and City pull a goal back to set up a nervy finish to the game, Getting bodies forwards on the left in attack the ball is angled in centrally, picking out Stanley left of the D 20 out sees it across her body and hits it well to rifle a strike in high across the keeper into the corner of the net 1-2.

Grace Stanley getting a goal back in stoppage time for Cambridge City Ladies

Maybe too little too late with the clock rapidly running down Cullum frustrated as she gives away a foul on Jenkins United with a free-kick. Baker wanting to get it into the corner, United end up giving a foul away themselves with Jenkins booked. Baker in with a strong challenge to win the ball after two City defenders end up tackling each other. One last throw of the dice as City have a free-kick in their own half Hudson on it everyone else in the United box, played in is a firm defensive header to put it clear as the final whistle goes and United celebrate winning the 1st Cambridge derby of the season.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Cambridge United WFC

A highly entertaining game, very much a derby match, strong tackling but played in relatively good spirits throughout (at least I thought so) Committed wasn’t time for anyone to settle on the ball. United with a good start to the 2nd half getting the break through taking the lead on the hour. Adding a 2nd late in the game. City never out of it came back to score a goal in stoppage time but couldn’t find another as United take the 3 points and climb above them into 4th spot in the table.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a battle out there at times and a few performances to mention. Firstly for City, Ceri Flye made several important tackles in defence as did Jess Evans. Going forwards Charlotte Gillies looked a threat out on the right all game with some good runs. Whilst Tolentino moved well in attack left side. For United, Gisela Otten and Laura Baker were strong in the middle, Baker also tracking back well. Anna Re was busy at right back both defending and getting forwards to set attacks going. The award though goes to Emma Jenkins her work rate was superb making herself available throughout the game good positional play and a well struck goal to open the scoring.

Love a midweek derby match even if it 2am when I’m typing this. An entertaining game non stop action two sides that were committed from the 1st minute to the last. My thanks to both clubs for their help this evening.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 22nd August

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip to St Neots Town FC this Sunday for another slice of action from FAWNL South East Division One, a meeting between to familiar foes once the A10 derby as Cambridge United WFC host Enfield Town Ladies.

The pair both founding members of the FAWNL (or FAWPL as it was originally known) share a good rivalry that has seen some closely fought matches over the years, Enfield more often than not taking the points in recent seasons. Both looking to emerge from the COVID pandemic that saw the past two season’s drastically affected with renewed optimism in a league that is only getting stronger year on year.

Cambridge United WFC now settled at their new home at St Neots Town FC, the clubs facilities allowing the 1st and Development team to train and play together. The site featuring the main stadium with a grass pitch alongside a 3G pitch to play and train on. A change in management for the 1st team this season with the club appointing Darren Marjoram as 1st team manager to work along side Ben Yeomans as 1st team coach. Marjoram was previously at St Ives Town Ladies building the women’s side seeing numerous promotion over 6 years taking them all the way to the ERWFL Premier Division. Liz Pamplin also joining the coaching team retiring from played after making 500 appearances for the club.

Three players follow Marjoram from St Ives to join Cambridge, highly rated goalkeeper, Kira Markwell, midfielder Abbi Griffin and Ruth Fox, the attacking midfielder returning to the club having improved during her time at St Ives. Also returning to the club, midfielder Laura Baker having had spells with Watford and today’s opponents Enfield, vastly experienced, tough tackling and a great passer of the ball. Defender Anna Re also another new edition to the squad. Baker, Re and Fox all starting in Cambridge’s season opener away to Actonians last Sunday with Griffin on the bench. A tight game goalless at the break a single goal was to settle it in the 2nd half headed home by Rochelle Shakes to see the 3 points go to Actonians.

Enfield are a club in the heart of the community, the women’s section now boasting 4 senior teams the 1st team showing signs it could push on began challenging for a top 3 spot in the FAWNL South East Division One pre-COVID. The club bringing in a host of new faces over the close season with manger, Billy Highton adding Jade Dempster to the coaching team as first team head coach. Goalkeeper Grace Taylor joining having most recently been with fellow South East Division One side, Kent Football United. Brionne Fowle and Jessie Carpanini from the youth set-ups at Arsenal and Chelsea respectfully. Kelsey Mugford from Spurs, winger Leah Littlechild from MK Dons. Crystal Palace duo, Che Thomas and Diana Tobe. Forward Alana Munro former captain of Watford Development and Katie O’Leary who has vast experience playing at a higher level with Spurs, London Bees and most recently Watford Ladies.

10 new faces in all with 7 of those making their Enfield debut on the opening day of the season last Sunday at home to London Seaward (previously known at Leyton Orient WFC) despite creating a host of chances seeing a number of saves made Enfield trailed at the break to an early goal from London Seaward’s new signing Abbey Dell. Alana Munro with her first goal for the club scoring early in the 2nd period to see Enfield draw in their opening fixture.

St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the venue to todays game the grass pitch looking fantastic, a great playing surface. A seated covered stand one side housing the changing rooms and clubhouse. Covered terracing behind both goals. The weather remains nothing to shout about in August, relatively cool with cloud cover threatening rain throughout, one shower coming prior to kick-off, wetting the pitch. The sun doing it’s best to provide some warmth when it pokes through the clouds.

A great playing surface at St Neots Town FC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett, Amy Haughton, Grace Waygood, Abbi Griffin, Laura Baker (C), Laura Mitchell, Emma Jenkins, Ruth Fox & Sam Khan. Subs – Charlotte Crisp, Faith Hewitt, Gisela Otten, Natasha Collins & Amy Howlett.

Enfield Tow Ladies starting XI – Grace Taylor, Danielle Smith, Jessie Carpanini, Sheryce Slater, Rachel Kosky, Brionne Fowle, Mollie Kmita (C), Leah Littlechild, Klesha Darroux, Katie O’Leary & Alana Munro. Subs- Rebecca McShane, Rebecca Evans, Olivia Syson, Jade Dempster & Hollie Holt.

Thankfully the showers clear moments before the players walk out onto the pitch, Laura Baker captaining Cambridge today with Mollie Kmita wearing the armband for Enfield. It’s the hosts to kick-off the first half Cambridge wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Enfield opposite wearing white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Baker looks to play the ball long to Emma Jenkins bursting forwards on the left the pass cut out by Enfield full back Jessie Carpanini the ball dropping back into the middle of the park, Brionne Fowle snapping in to close down the ball firing a through ball on for Alana Munro to chase, Cambridge goalkeeper. Lauren Webb needing to come rushing out of her box early on the clear the danger.

For a moment Enfield are celebrating thinking they have taken an early lead winning the ball centrally played rapidly out to Katie O’Leary peeling away into space on the right fires an early ball into the area met well by Alana Munro central sticking out a leg to divert it wide of the keeper high into the back of the net, the celebrations cut short however by the assistants raised flag.

A good start to the game from Enfield taking the game to Cambridge looking to use the width of the pitch spreading the play. Grace Waygood at the back intercepting a through ball meant for Munro. Ruth Fox bringing the ball on for Cambridge left side attempts to send a ball in behind for Jenkins to attack, Carpanini reading it well for Enfield in defence. Players on both sides closing down the ball already shaping up to be a good contest Laura Mitchell right for Cambridge takes on her marker looks to send it up the line for Sam Khan to run onto, Rachel Kosky in on the Cambridge striker quickly to regain the ball.

Enfield defender, Rachel Kosky

Enfield are quick to get counter attacks going constantly looking to spread the play catch Cambridge on the back foot, out to O’Leary on the right has support from Klesha Darroux the pair linking up well as O’Leary flights a cross in towards the far post, Leah Littlechild coming in from the left free in the area attempting to strike the falling ball on the volley sees her effort sliced wide of the post. Littlechild is posing a real threat attacking down the left wing for Enfield driving forwards with the ball whips a dangerous cross into the six yard box, O’Leary and Darroux in to attack it, Webb keeps her eye on the ball taking it high in her gloves.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Charlotte Webb

Khan battling her way forwards on the ball wide right does well to win her side a corner. The delivery long going beyond the far post is retrieved and driven in towards goal on the angle, Grace Taylor dropping on it low at her near post to claim. Taylor sends the ball long from her kick looking to set up a counter attack, Carrie Bennett winning a vital header to ensure Enfield don’t get in behind to mount an attack on the hosts goal. Littlechild has pace running with the ball at her feet another dangerous delivery into the area is intercepted by Grace Waygood, fellow centre back Amy Haughton launching it clear.

Brionne Fowle bring the ball on for Enfield

Cambridge getting to grips with the tempo Enfield imposed on the game early on Baker winning it central, Abbi Griffin sending a pass out to Jenkins on the left, puts a ball into the area too close to the keeper Taylor gathering at her near post. Littlechild doing well making ground on the left attempts to lay it back to Kmita, Baker sliding in on her to win the tackle. Littlechild keeps coming on the left squaring a ball in towards the top of the area Darroux having made a run left side back to goal attempts to lay it off for the advancing Kmita to strike from 20 yards out, her effort pulled wide across the goal.

Attacking right making ground win a corner after a succession of throws, players up from the back. The ball whipped into the six yard box goes through everyone centrally dropping to Haughton at the far post, getting her foot under the ball scoops the ball up in towards goal, Taylor flinging an arm up the ball landing in the roof of the net a 2nd corner awarded this time from the left. Goes long again coming out to Haughton once again further out this time strikes the ball on the volley sends her shot wide. A spell of pressure from Cambridge inside the Enfield box.

Fox bringing the ball on through the middle moving left pushed on into Jenkins returned to Fox as she goes past her looks to put it into Laura Mitchell feet as she makes a central run towards goal, closed down under challenge nevertheless gets a shot away 25 yards out blazed over the bar. Some strong tackles being made, Fowle on Baker this time seeing Cambridge with a freekick inside their opponents half Haughton on it putting it up towards the top of a congested 18 yard line, Kosky rising well to head the ball out of danger.

Jessie Carpanini carrying the ball out of defence for Enfield

Both sides attacking the game flowing Griffin with the through ball looking for Jenkins getting around the back from the left, a little too much on it allowing Taylor to gather.

GOAL! 20 minutes played and the deadlock is broken. The ball with Cambridge won in the middle played out Fox making a run left side has support from Jenkins the ball returned to her as she looks to dribble it on into the area, a determined run into the box closing down on goal composes herself and lifts a shot wide past Taylor and into the back of the net to score her 1st goal at this level 1-0.

Ruth Fox firing Cambridge into the lead

Enfield look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Kmita into Munro she spreads play to the advancing Littlechild on the left taking the ball on down the line attempts to get inside Anna Re to cross the ball, Re stays on her well keeping the winger wide before diving into tackle managing to win a goalkick off Littlechild. Carpanini getting forwards on the right making good progress on the ball, Jenkins needing to get back to help Bennett, deflects Carpanini’s cross falls straight to O’Leary top right corner of the area strikes her shot over the bar.

Enfield’s Katie O’Leary

Cambridge are deep at ties as they defend, working well as a unit however the outlet up top isn’t easy to find and all to often Enfield regain possession to mount another assault, clinical ball’s through the middle at a premium though. Clouds starting to build again threatening more rain as Enfield win their first corner of the game to be put in from the right. A congested six yard box is ignored with the short option taken Danielle Smith her cross though is quickly charged down, Enfield keep the pressure on play spread to the left Littlechild surging to the by-line coming inside lifting a ball into the six yard box, Webb claiming it well for Cambridge.

Danielle Smith coming forwards for Enfield

Enfield pushing on Darroux with support from O’Leary on the right, Bennett tackling a throw conceded, pressure relieved as Jenkins wins a free-kick. Littlechild on the left has Cambridge racing back to defend their box as the ball is fired into the penalty spot, straight to Griffin who whips it clear. A blow for Enfield as they are forced into a change, Kmita struggling having taken a knock needs to come off on in her place, Rebecca Evans.

Enfield’s Klesha Darroux

The ball won centrally by Cambridge hooked up to Khan up top 25 yards out left of the D a good knock down to lay it into the path of Mitchell to the right, is quickly closed down by Kosky getting a low shot away lacks the pace to trouble Taylor as she dives to get her gloves around the ball. Cambridge with another corner on the left a high ball whipped into the six yard box Khan jumps well comes close but can’t get anything on it however a touch far side sees another corner awarded. Another dangerous ball in dropping loose inside the six yard box chaos ensures, Mitchell getting a foot on the ball close in the effort blocked Enfield manage to scramble it away.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

Carpanini on the ball left attacking for Enfield lifts a pass on for Munro making a right channel run in behind is looking to take the shot on the volley as the ball drops down before her, difficult but a good attempt as the shot is drilled wide. Enfield coming hard late in the 1st half O’Leary right on for Darroux wide her cross cut out by the backtracking Baker, Carpanini going after it in the corner, Bennett sliding in on her to defend for the hosts.

Strong appeals from Enfield for a penalty late in the half as they win a free-kick some 35 yards out central. Kosky having a strike on goal her shot hitting the wall, the ball deflected to the left Carpanini racing onto it taking it wide into the box Jenkins out to close her down, Carpanini’s cross blocked by Jenkins going behind, Enfield arms up claiming it struck her hand, the impact hand or not at such close range a penalty unlikely to be given. That the last action of an action packed first half.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Enfield Town Ladies

Cambridge with the narrow advantage at the break going in 1-0 to the good thanks to Fox’s goal midway through the first half. Enfield starting the brighter working the ball across the pitch well spreading play took Cambridge awhile to get to grips with their opponents, eventually settling into the game it became a good contest, players from both sides working hard to close the other down some strong tackling but each side giving as good as they got. Fox making a great individual run into the box to put Cambridge ahead. Enfield have had opportunities although both keepers haven’t been called into action too often. Enfield finishing the half strong, Cambridge defending well.

Still all to play for however with just a single goal in it as Enfield get the 2nd period under way.

GOAL! A perfect start to the 2nd half for the visitors as they pull the scores level straight from the restart. The ball played back to O’Leary in the middle she clips her pass long out to Littlechild breaking forwards on the right, insolating Re, her challenge on the full back seeing her burst in behind clear to strike in a shot on the angle powering the ball high across the keeper to make it 1-1.

Leah Littlechild celebrating after levelling the scores for Enfield early in the 2nd half

What ever plan Cambridge had discussed at half-time is in the bin. Enfield having equalised are straight on the front foot, tails up win a corner on the left put in towards the near post low, players from both sides attacking it can only describe it as a scramble Cambridge managing to clear the danger. A frantic start to the 2nd half Cambridge have little time to settle Enfield looking to get the ball into their wide attackers, Bennett lunging in to tackle on the left. Haughton stopping Littlechild as she comes on from a central position.

Amy Houghton tackling Leah Littlechild

Khan is doing well with the ball at her feet holding it up forcing Enfield into the tackle more often than not bringing throw deep or a corner. A throw on this occasion dropped into Jenkins feet on the left attempts to skip on into the area before Slater charges her cross down. Re clipping a diagonal ball into Mitchell on the right, Fowle in to head it back upfield. Jenkins is left on the ground dazed as the ball struck at pace hits her hard, a head injury play is paused treatment needed. Is okay to continue but is definitely going to feel that one in the morning.

Enfield have look dangerous on the break throughout the match O’Leary with the armband now up to Littlechild away in behind into the box on the left slides in on the shot, Webb down well before her to stop the ball, play stopped though by a raised flag. Khan fouled by Fowle 30 yards out in a central position. Jenkins over the free-kick takes on the strike over the bar doesn’t trouble Taylor. Fox gets clear on the right in behind checks back to put in a cross with her left foot just behind Khan central, still attempts to spins on the ball send it onto Jenkins in beyond her the move not quite coming off.

Emma Jenkins for Cambridge holding off, Enfield’s Jessie Carpanini

Slater comes across well at the back to slide in on Khan as she threatened to break in behind to cross on the left a corner conceded. The corner count mounting for Cambridge, this one defended near side a 2nd corner awarded put long this time Haughton retrieving it managing to win a further corner on the left as the ball is charged down. An inswinging back whipped across the face of goal Fox coming in at the back post appeared to slip otherwise she might well have made contact with the ball.

Littlechild left side fires a cross in near side looking for O’Leary, Haughton defends well shielding the ball allowing Webb to gather. Enfield make their 2nd change of the match Darroux the player off replaced by Olivia Syson. Khan pulling out wide close to the touchline has momentum against her as she wraps her foot around the ball attempting to put in a cross, turns into a dangerous ball threatening to swerve in under the bar, Taylor though is back on her goal line and reaches up calmly to pull the ball down to safety.

Laura Baker for Cambridge taking the ball on from Anna Re

Cambridge make their first change of the game bringing on Amy Howlett for Mitchell. Fowle lines a shot up from all of 30 yards out right of the D swerving through the air Webb has plenty of time to set herself for the save dropping low to her left to smother the shot.

Enfield come close to taking the lead in the game Littlechild a constant threat coming on from the left making a run into the box as Smith gets forwards the cross fired into the near post Webb down at Littlechild’s feet as the winger looks to sent it past her from close range, Webb getting her fingertips on the ball is stranded on the ground as the ball is deflected towards goal, I’m standing in the other half and it looks to be heading in when Bennett racing in appears out of no where the left back sliding in to make a dramatic goal line clearance to keep the scores level.

Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett with a superb goal line clearance (picture taken at an earlier game)

Baker’s bruise count is rising as she takes another painful one on the ankle, giving as good as she gets Cambridge as a collective are working hard to regain possession, Enfield continue to look to move the ball O’Leary and Littlechild carrying the biggest threats the game stretched at time has taken alot out of the players Re is struggling with a knock is replaced at right back by Charlotte Crisp for Cambridge. Baker scooping a pass up over the top for Howlett sprinting clear on the right into the box, Taylor though is out to it first.

Another change for Cambridge, Faith Hewitt coming on for Griffin in the middle. No let up in the action two committed sides who feel they can win it. Khan seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out left of the D looks to turn and strike the ball, Slater in to close her down charging down the ball. Khan’s last action of the game as she is replaced by Gisela Otten the move seeing Howlett join Fox up top.

Cambridge captain, Laura Baker sliding into win the ball

Baker gathering the ball into her feet in the centre of the park goes on a surging run towards the box looking to charge her way through the Enfield defence, Kosky lunging in to deny her a shot edge of the area the ball deflected right into the path of Howlett she strikes the ball goalwards riding it lands on the roof of the net.

Enfield with another change Littlechild the player taken off replaced by Jade Dempster. The clouds have been darkening the rain starts to return as the game moves into the final 10 minutes, the contest is on a knife edge could go either way, both sides feeling they can score. O’Leary right holding up the ball as Smith looks to get on in support, Howlett doing the defending for Cambridge. Block. Block. Block! The Cambridge defence throwing themselves at the ball inside the box as Enfield push on Fowle advanced with two of the strikes from close range. A final change from Cambridge the rain falling heavily now, Natasha Collins on for Haughton at the back.

The rain falling heavily as Natasha Collins is introduced to the action for Cambridge

GOAL! The substitute plays a vital role in the next passage of play as Cambridge go on to regain the lead in the closing minutes of the game both side undoubtedly tiring Fox snapping into a challenge right side battling to win possession of the ball, Collins going past her on the overlap Fox digs the ball out of her feet lifting it into Collins path wide wraps her foot around the ball sending in into the six yard box chest height both Howlett and Jenkins bursting forwards through the middle Taylor diving towards the ball under challenge she and Jenkins collide a 50/50 challenge deflects onto Howlett to turn the ball into the goal beyond 2-1!

Cambridge go wild in celebration the goal given, alot going on inside the box however as both Taylor and Jenkins are down injured, trainers from both sides on. Enfield players surrounding the referee protesting their keeper was fouled. Takes a while to sort out does the goal stand… it does. Jenkins has taken another heavy blow to her jaw uncertain if she can continue and Cambridge have used all their subs. Taylor still down certainly can’t continue and a replacement goalkeeper is needed the gloves brought on for Dempster to wear. Taylor is up on her feet at least good to see. Jenkins will battle on. Play resumes, Dempster not ready however. Hollie Holt coming on in place of Taylor.

The game restarts with 5 minutes of injury time. Enfield certainly feel aggrieved have been unhappy with a few decisions made throughout the game now find themselves 2-1 down with minutes left. Get on the attack Cambridge setting their stall out to defend Otten tackling Fowle as she comes on through the middle. A free-kick in the closing moments deep on the left Enfield push everyone up the ball to b launched into the box put in far post attacked knocked down towards goal Webb though can fall forwards onto it at her near post to nullify the threat. The final whistle blowing and it’s Cambridge who celebrate winning their 1st 3 points of the season.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-1 Enfield Town Ladies

Was a really good contest between two committed sides in truth it could have gone either way. Cambridge defending well throughout battling at times taking the lead in the 1st half. Enfield starting well passed the ball well spreading play with necessarily having a cutting edge through the middle. A strong end to the 1st half was an even better start to the 2nd getting straight back on level terms. Chances for both sides some strong tackling, not played with any malice however, Bennett’s goal line clearance proving crucial as it was the hosts who went on to find the winning goal late in the game. Will do wonders for player confidence, Enfield head back to home knowing it could have so easily been 2-1 the other way, have little recovery time however as this is the 1st of 3 games in 8 days are at home to FAWNL newcomers Harlow Town Ladies on Wednesday evening before travelling to Norwich next Sunday. Cambridge are away to Harlow themselves next Sunday.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this weekends Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Boy this is a tough one a strong all round team performance from Cambridge. Let’s start with Enfield, great movement throughout from Katie O’Leary giving those behind her a ready outlet to pass the ball. So too Leah Littlechild on the left a constant threat throughout the match making several dynamic runs on the ball taking her goal well. Rachel Kosky strong at the back winning the ball. All round Cambridge put in a solid team performance wasn’t pretty at times but battle hard as a unit back to front winning the ball, Carrie Bennett’s goal line clearance as good as any goal. Amy Haughton making a number of strong tackles at the back. Emma Jenkins on the left of attack. Ruth Fox is improving all the time took her goal well. Edging them out I think though today’s award goes to Laura Baker was strong in the middle of the park putting herself about and often the catalyst for Cambridge’s attacking play.

Was a good contest the action never stopped between two committed sides a great advert for the league no doubt. My thanks to both sides for helping me out with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Tag Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

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