One match played in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday with 3rd placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies travelling to play mid-table Oxford United Women. A narrow 5-4 loss to league leaders Watford Ladies last time out Plymouth were looking to get back to winning ways keep up the pressure on the top of the table. Chances for both in the first half, the visitors scoring late in the first half with top scorer Natasha Knapman forcing home her 21st goal of the season. Oxford responding straight away getting back on level terms with Georgia Timms poking the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1. That the scoreline heading into the final 2 minutes Oxford awarded a free-kick right on the edge of the area in a central position, Kayleigh Hines with a superbly struck free-kick lifting the ball over the wall and into the top corner. Oxford winning the game 2-1 late on climb up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table 3 points behind Plymouth who suffer back to back defeats.
FAWNL Cup
Essex side Billericay Town Ladies currently 3rd in FAWNL South East Division One headed to Buckinghamshire on Sunday to play South West Division One side Chesham United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup. Billericay have lost just the once in the league this season Chesham taking the lead in the first half through top scorer Gemma Fraser running onto a through ball to score her 16th goal of the season. A narrow lead at half-time both keeper called into action Billericay pushed for a reply 2nd half, Chesham keeping them at bay to clinch victory and progress to the quarter finals of the competition.
FAWNL Plate
One 2nd Round tie from the FAWNL Plate also played this Sunday postponed from last weekend, Southern Premier Division side, Chichester City Ladies away to South West Division One side, Cheltenham Town Ladies. Switched to a 3G surface to avoid disappointment for the 2nd Sunday running. A quickfire double in the 36th and 37th minute saw Chichester get themselves into a 2-0 lead. A strike from distance finding the bottom corner in first half stoppage time to see the visitors 3-0 up. Progress in the competition assured with a little over 20 minutes left as Chichester added a 4th goal headed in from a corner, bottom of the league Chichester will be hoping for another positive result next Sunday at home to fellow strugglers Hounslow Women.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two matches surviving in FAWNL South East Division One at the weekend. League leaders Ipswich Town Women seeing their game called off it was an opportunity for the only other unbeaten side to close the gap to the top as 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled to play Actonians Ladies. Kick-off later in the day under the lights, Actonians themselves in a good run of form unbeaten in 6 in all competitions coming into the match winning 5 of those matches. Wimbledon with the better of the first half but no goals to show for it as the pair headed into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A bright start to the 2nd half from Wimbledon, it was the hosts however who opened the scoring Jessica Byrne with the goal to make it 1-0. Actonians frustrating Wimbledon as the visitors pushed for a reply couldn’t find it as they suffer their first league defeat of the season. Actonians in 7th move to within a point of 6th placed Basildon, now very tight in the top half of the South East Division One table with just 5 points between 2nd and 7th now.
At the other end of the South East Division One table, Cambridge United WFC were at home to 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. The host side 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board having won just 1 league game so far this season. Leyton Orient with the opposite record with just the one defeat. Cambridge after a lengthy lay off without a game keen to end the year on a high. Their usual pitch at St Neots Town FC waterlogged the game switched to the neighbouring 3G pitch. A fairly even contest Cambridge creating good opportunities, Leyton Orient matching them the game heading into the closing moments of the first half Cambridge broke well Amy Howlett on the right playing the ball central for striker Kelley Blanchflower running to the edge of the box pulling the trigger placing the ball wide of the advancing keeper to give the hosts the advantage.
Two goals for Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower.
Leyton Orient coming out strong at the start of the 2nd half looking to find a reply, Cambridge’s defence standing firm a 2nd goal needed Cambridge found it midway through the 2nd period Blanchflower again the scorer a good run moving into the left channel lifting the ball over the advancing keeper to bounce over the line. The result made more comfortable when Cambridge were awarded an indirect free-kick inside the box after the keeper handled the ball from a back pass, Amber Cantwell setting up Emma Jenkins to smash the ball home. A 3-0 lead Cambridge were determined to keep a clean sheet up the other end and in doing so was their first of the campaign. A massive 3 points takes them up to 9th, 5 sides still in the mix at the bottom of the table a long way to go. The whole report can be found below this post.
Cambridge United WFC celebrating their 3rd goal (photo credit Gary Reed
A trip west to St Neots this Sunday to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC taking on Leyton Orient WFC.
A highly competitive league once again, Ipswich Town Women’s young guns leading the way as we head towards the end of the year, but the Suffolk side has a host of sides hot on their heels well positioned to challenge for the top, amongst those Leyton Orient WFC in 4th just 4 points off the leaders.
Cambridge United WFC find themselves at the wrong end of the table, 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board so far this season winning just one league match. Not the start they wanted as they moved to a new home this season, St Neots Town FC hosting their first team and Development sides games now aswell as their new training base. The loss of several key players during the summer hasn’t helped with a few more departures the squad found itself battling for points. Have yet to keep a clean sheet this season whilst frustratingly the majority of their defeat have been by a single goal margin.
Wanted or not Cambridge United WFC have had an enforced lay off of six weeks without a league game, this though has seen others pulled into the battle at the bottom, A chance to get others back from injury notably midfielder Amber Cantwell. Returning to action last weekend was always going to be a tough ask away to leaders Ipswich who had scored 28 times during Cambridge’s down time come into their final match of 2019 off the back of a 5-0 defeat.
This afternoon’s match is also Leyton Orient WFC’s first in the league for over a month, albeit for different reasons as the London club has been involved in several cup competitions, reaching the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup were knocked out by Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women last weekend. A strong start to the league season now an established side in South East Division One have lost just the one game so far this season up in 4th amongst the sides challenging the leaders themselves. Otesha Charles amongst the goals for Leyton Orient early in the season top scorer with 14, was unavailable for today’s match.
Knew yesterday as the men’s league game had fallen foul to a waterlogged pitch the game was under threat this Sunday, St Neots Town FC though boasts a large 3G pitch beside the main stadium. The game switched to that pitch the stadium itself situated in a new development on the outskirts of St Neots. The 3G pitch fairly new offering plenty of width and space around it. The weather bright but chilly calm, a few clouds around but no chance of rain the low sun behind one end would cause problems during the match for the players.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Jemma Moore, Albany Hodgson, Gisela Otten, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Jessicer Thsibanga & Chloe Armstrong.
A change of ends at the coin toss with Leyton Orient captain Sophie Le Marchand opting to have the sun at her sides backs in the first half. Cambridge then to get the first half underway, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Leyton Orient in an all blue kit, The ball closed down quickly by both sides straight away not getting out of the middle third Leyton Orient with a throw in on the right trying to make in roads behind their opponents defence.
The ball staying that side Cambridge get a throw on halfway, into Amber Cantwell she brings it down well turning to pass to striker Kelley Blanchflower central, she sees Amy Howlett breaking away down the right wing into space puts a great diagonal pass into her run takes it on before whipping a cross into the box the ball won and cleared by Leyton Orient’s Cheryl Anderson. A lively start to the game energy from both sides snapping in to make challenges Cambridge coming out on top in the early 50/50 exchanges.
Hayley Barton gathering the ball into her feet for Leyton Orient left side plays the pass infield into Egle Trezzi she spreads play up the left for Le Marchand to attack driving on towards the box, Abi Davies tackles for Cambridge to regain possession. Leyton Orient quick to get the ball back a cross fired into the area from the left side, Ellie Stenning up to challenge for it central knocks it down for Le Marchand to hit top of the box left side struck well the ball races wide across goal.
Hayley Barton in to winning the ball for Leyton Orient
Cantwell and Blanchflower combining once more the ball passed into the middle as Gisela Otten moves forwards plays a superb weighed pass out to Howlett on the move down the right taking on the full back gets inside to lift in a cross the ball too close to the keeper, Latoya Smith claiming high at her near post. Albany Hodgson does well tackling to prevent Leyton Orient bringing the ball out from the back keeping the pressure on in the final third for Cambridge.
Kelley Blanchflower and Amber Cantwell looking to get the better of the Leyton Orient defence
Francesca Ali strong into the challenge winning the momentum for Leyton Orient sets Le Marchand away on the left, Cambridge’s defence pushed back. Barton latching onto a stray goalkick lets fly from the angle a long way out her shot over. Jemma Moore doing the defensive work for Cambridge seeing the ball out on the right for a goalkick as Anderson looks to play in Stenning. A even start to the game both sides competing well Cambridge have a throw left side into Blanchflower the Cambridge attacker turns well and looks to take the ball on a determined run into the area, stopped as Ria Collins goes into challenge the ball deflected out to the right picked up by Howlett who lashes it goalwards, Smith with a smart save a glove up at her near post to tip the ball on away across goal.
Leyton Orient WFC’s Ria Collins
Stenning is brought down bringing the ball on through the middle for Leyton Orient a free-kick awarded, Barton over it a floated ball into the box Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt up highest getting her head on the ball knocking it down outside the area falls to Lisa Holmback strikes the ball on the volley her attempt over the bar. Cambridge mount an attack Emma Jenkins winning the ball in the middle Cantwell and Blanchflower ahead of her a good one two the ball played out to Howlett right her shot saved by Smith.
Cambridge winning a corner the ball initially defended by Leyton Orient, it’s Hodgson again who prevents the visitors breaking in attack the ball staying in the final third Jenkins is fouled 35 yards out left side, she is up to take it herself goes for goal a curling ball falls wide of the right post. Trezzi battling for possession gets the ball forwards for Le Marchand left side her early cross defended by Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett. Barton does well for Leyton Orient attacking right to win a corner. The ball played in towards the top of the area Trezzi inside the D meets it first time her strike angling wide races past the far post.
Ria Collins and Emma Jenkins challenge for the ball
Le Marchand left side in attack the ball fired up to her controls well on her chest to turn and strike the ball on the angle, read by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin down to claim at her near post. Ali with good work in the middle for Leyton Orient looks to pick put Holmback making a run ahead of her, Moore stepping in the tackle and win the ball for Cambridge. Free-kicks being given away Hodgson brings down Holmback central, Trezzi puts her attempt over. Up the other end play is brought back after Cantwell is pulled down with no advantage. Hodgson to play the ball forwards, Leyton Orient defend, somewhat unfairly as far as Blanchflower is concerned protesting she was held down, her appeals waved away.
One too many for Hodgson as she is eventually booked after a long lecture from the referee. Left side Barton to float the ball into the box, Collins with the run the ball knocked on into the mix scrambled behind for a corner. Taken from the right a good delivery met by Collins 10 yards out a looping header goalwards straight at Pamplin catches it high. Leyton Orient started to get on top getting the ball into the final third well Ali on for Stenning 20 yards out across to Barton right side into the box, Cambridge closing down the hosts looking to attack quickly through the middle Ali in to break it up.
Cambridge United WFC’s Albany Hodgson
Leyton Orient’s Holmback getting her side a corner on the right played long to the far post the ball headed clear outside the area picked up by Leyton Orient’s Leyre Bastyr strikes in a low shot Pamplin diving makes the save. Stenning’s turn for a lecture from the referee as she goes into the book. Jenkins fouled for Cambridge on the left Hodgson on the delivery long to the far post runners attacking it Smith with the instinctive save at close range a scramble inside the box the ball coming out to Jenkins her shot blocked.
Jenkins on the left turning on the ball good work to get in behind swings in a cross along the face of the Leyton Orient area, Otten racing forward striking it 1st time the Dutch players effort racing narrowly wide. Plenty of energy being put in by both sides Barton bringing the ball on in attack left side looks to come infield taking it across the top of the area looking for room to shoot lets fly the ball taking a deflection off a Cambridge leg the sting taken off the shot Pamplin can safely claim. Leyton Orient pressing late on win a corner on the left put long across the six yard box, Ali beyond the far post heading it back across goal a vital clearance by the defender covering the post for Cambridge.
Francesca Ali’s header put back across goal
Cambridge’s Gisela Otten preparing to tackle Leyton Orient’s Lisa Holmback
GOAL! Cambridge break late into the first half Howlett away into space on the right Blanchflower with her getting the edge on the defence in the middle the ball from Howlett rolled on into her path right of the D into the box Blanchflower pulls the trigger early to fire her shot low past Smith before she can properly set herself 1-0.
Time in the first half for Cambridge to mount one last attack Jenkins fouled somewhat painfully a free-kick awarded 40 yards out central, Hodgson on it tries her luck from distance on target Smith moving across her goal needed to keep her eye on it but drops before it an cause her trouble brings it down safely.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Leyton Orient WFC
A narrow lead for Cambridge at half-time, Blanchflower slotting the ball past the keeper late in the first half. A fairly even contest, lively players competitive across the pitch. Several robust challenges nothing malicious however the game played in good spirits. Cambridge gaining confidence Leyton Orient building well creating opportunities nothing clear cut yet though.
Sophie Le Marchand bringing the ball down for Leyton Orient
No changes for either side at half-time. The sun very low now light starting to fade, Leyton Orient to get the 2nd period underway Cambridge defending a 1-0 lead. Davies at right back for Cambridge dealing with a high ball forwards. Leyton Orient pressing from the off in the 2nd half Trezzi supporting Le Marchand left side the pair getting a throw in deep, put into Le Marchand edge of the box she heads it on into the centre, Burt getting it clear for Cambridge. Up the other end Collins putting in the tackle defending against Jenkins as she looks to break for Cambridge.
Le Marchand gathering the ball wide left turns infield 30 yards out is lining up a strike, blocked by Otten as she throws herself into the block in front of her. Leyton Orient press the attack left side a cross whipped into the area nodded out by Moore central falling straight to Stenning right of the D her shrike back blocked by Burt deflected out to the left Trezzi latching onto it firing a shot in on the angle Pamplin down at her near post to save.
Cambridge quick to get up the other end win a corner on the right, the ball into a crowded six yard box, Smith rising well amongst the melee to punch down the ball still in play inside the box, Auguste blocking Cambridge force a 2nd corner. The ball cleared Cambridge win it back inside the Leyton Orient half Blanchflower and Jenkins combine the latter seeing her shot from 20 yards out blocked. Blanchflower picking out Howlett getting away on the right her low cross cut back across the six yard box snatched into her body by Smith.
A lively contest still very even, Cambridge can’t afford to sit on a 1 nil lead. Le Marchand providing a good outlet in attack for Leyton Orient on the left Trezzi picking her out with the pass, Davies sticking out a foot just taking the ball away from her as she looks to turn in behind. Leyton Orient’s Holmback right puts the ball into the box for Le Marchand who checks back before shooting a curling effort headed over by Burt for a corner. The corner defended the ball dropping for Holmback right of the D, her shot sliced falls wide of goal.
Barton bringing the ball on through the middle looks to put Le Marchand through on goal as she breaks central, right side Burt stays on her making a fine tackle inside the box to take the ball away from her. Auguste has a go from distance 30 yards out well struck but not troubling Pamplin in the Cambridge goal. Leyton Orient continue to press breaking quickly right in attack the ball launched into the area Stenning and Le Marchand the runners, Stenning near post looking to shoot on the volley does quite get enough on the ball helping it on towards goal Pamplin is down on it bravely as Le Marchand goes over her.
Jasmine Auguste looking to get in behind for Leyton Orient
The visitors continue to knock on the door Barton with great work on the ball getting inside the box to shoot from the right her attempt headed away in front of goal by Davies. Trezzi putting the ball forwards for Stenning in the box heads it down for Auguste bombing on from the left her run blocked keeps possession to win a corner. Cambridge look to break Cantwell stooped by Bastyr a good challenge to deny her. Blanchflower patient leading the line for Cambridge ready to go should the ball be presented to her.
GOAL! That patience rewarded as Cambridge get the ball out from the back long into her making a run left channel getting free to attack the keeper rushing out to met her corner of the area Blanchflower lifting the ball over Smith, wheeling away in celebration even before the ball has bounced into the empty net beyond 2-0.
Striker Kelley Blanchflower puts Cambridge into a 2 goal lead
25 minutes left to play Cambridge with a 2nd goal, Leyton Orient look for an immediate response Anderson with a strike from distance wide across the area. Howlett tracking back in defence to support Davies as Le Marchand looks to get the ball down and drive into the area. Alot of effort put in by Cambridge, Leyton Orient creating chances just aren’t getting the rub of the green in the final third. Play paused as Hodgson requires treatment but okay to continue the floodlights switched on getting very dull with the sun fallen below the ground.
Leyton Orient captain, Sophie Le Marchand
Cambridge winning a free-kick wide on the right level with the penalty spot Cantwell to take a well struck ball flying in towards goal smashes against the bar an out of play. Le Marchand strong on the ball puts it on for Stenning looking to get into the area, Moore diving in to make the tackle puts it out for a throw in for Cambridge. Blanchflower picking the ball up on halfway turns and looks to drive on with it towards the Leyton Orient area closed down 20 yards out the ball is played back towards Smith picking it up the referee blowing up for a foul handling from a back pass.
GOAL! Cambridge with an indirect free kick inside the Leyton Orient box left of goal 8 yards or so out Cantwell and Jenkins close by Cantwell with the touch back to Jenkins to smash towards goal, through everybody finding its way into the back of the net putting Cambridge 3-0 up late in the game.
The visitors straight on the attack Le Marchand left side winning a corner the ball put into a congested six yard box the flag up against Collins as she rises to head the ball. Leyton Orient make the first change of the game Holmback coming off to be replaced by Connie Montiel-McCann she goes to right back Anderson switching to the left.
Abi Davies bringing the ball out from the back for Cambridge
Cambridge tiring but a call to arms to keep a clean sheet now the game into the closing 10 minutes Leyton Orient comes forwards Barton shooting from outside the box Pamplin down to her left making the save the ball out for a throw left Le Marchand inside the box turning to shoot wide across goal. Leyton Orient bring on Pinja Piira for Barton. Cambridge make their first change, Cantwell coming off to be replaced by Chloe Armstrong. A strike from distance from Cambridge Otten I think 30 plus yards Smith moving across her goal catching comfortably.
Armstrong back to defend well for Cambridge initially then commits a foul outside the box left side bringing down Ali. Trezzi on it goes for goal deflected off the wall spins wide across goal for the corner kick. Leyton Orient push on late in the game looking for a goal Cambridge battling at the back, Le Marchand played in by Piira on the left comes inside to shoot Pamplin unsighted as the ball finds it way through her defence with a great save getting down low to her right to push the ball away.
The visitors attacking right the cross put in across the top of the area, falls to Le Marchand left of the D strikes it on the half volley fired wide of goal. Into the final 5 minutes, Auguste and Le Marchand combine left side a throw in brings a foul and free-kick in the corner players forwards the ball sent in Moore injured as she goes up to defend for Cambridge play stopped a head injury. After treatment can’t continue brought off on in her place Jessicer Thsibanga. It just won’t happen for Leyton Orient in front of goal as they mount one last attack Auguste left on for Le Marchand puts in inside for Stenning to shoot outside the box her effort wide across the six yard box.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Leyton Orient WFC
A massive 3 points won by Cambridge United WFC just their 2nd league win of the season enough to lift them 2 places up to 9th in the South East Division One table. Leyton Orient suffering just their 2nd league defeat of the season. A even game for the majority Cambridge capitalising on individual errors from Leyton Orient to score leading 1 nil at half-time needed a 2nd goal to take the pressure off Blanchflower taking her chances well a 3rd goal coming late on and from a defensive perspective a first clean sheet of the season. Plenty of chances created for Leyton Orient it just wasn’t to be their day in front of goal.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders once again. Picking out a few performances, Francesca Ali and Egle Trezzi in the middle for Leyton Orient, and Sophie Le Marchand really did deserve to be on the scoresheet having carved out several opportunities. For Cambridge the defence with an huge effort, Kelley Blanchflower with two well taken goals had her hand in the third too. Amy Howlett with some great runs on the right in midfield Gisela Otten with solid game but edging it for me is Albany Hodgson put in some good tackles and prevented Leyton Orient getting forwards on a number of ocassions.
Another entertaining game from the FAWNL, an even contest Cambridge finding the goals to win the game. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today.
Watford Ladies top of the Southern Premier Division made the long trip down to the South West to play their final match of 2019 away to 3rd placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies looking to go 3 points clear at the top of the table. A tough test with Plymouth not dropping point since the opening day of the season. The game played at Plymouth’s, Home Park the new Mayflower Grandstand being used for the first time. Plymouth starting the match strongly Zoe Cunningham with an early chance. Helen Bleazard putting Plymouth into the lead in the 21st minute sending a free-kick into the roof of the net. Bow Jackson quickly making it 2-0 her long range drive finding the bottom corner. Watford reducing the deficit quickly the ball won in the corner played into Helen Ward to set up Ocean Rolandsen to score. 3 minutes later the scores were level captain Helen Ward volleying in from a corner. An eventful first half Plymouth retaking the lead in the 39th minute Cunningham striking from outside the area. Watford again coming back to level the scores with 2 minutes left on the clock winning another corner Emma Beckett rising highest to head home .
3-3 at half-time the 2nd half no less dramatic. Watford awarded a free-kick out wide Emma Beckett taking on the shot despite the angle finding the top corner to put the visitors ahead for the first time in the game in the 51st minute. Plymouth’s turn to come back 10 minutes later Rebecca Dandridge finding time and space to let loose a shot from outside the area to make it 4-4. Watford then temporarily reduced to 10 players with Ryah Vyse sin binned. The visitors digging in and going on to score with 15 minutes left Andrea Carid with a fantastic diving header at the back post to put away Adekite Fatuga-Dada’s cross. Watford winning a thriller 5-4 to go 3 points clear at the top. August the last time Plymouth tasted defeat.
No less a thriller in the other game played in the Southern Premier Division this weekend with 7 goals shared between Oxford United Women and Yeovil Town Ladies. Oxford hosting taking the lead midway through the first half Gemma Sims scoring direct from a corner the ball hitting the post and rebounding in. The game end to end at times Yeovil getting back on level terms in the 37th minute Laura Williams with a left foot shot from distance to fly in over the keeper. The visitors grabbing the lead in the final minute of the first half Kelly Aldridge on target with her 5th of the season to see Yeovil leading 2-1 at the break. The visitors side strengthening their lead with nearly an hour played Williams with more good work on the ball cutting inside to shoot and score. Williams seeing her hat-trick denied by the post. 3-1 down Oxford fought back well Emily Allen heading home to reduce the deficit with her 9th of the season the game entering the final 15 minutes. Oxford piling on the pressure Georgia Timms put through to score and bring it back to 3-3. 2 minutes later Kayleigh Hines heading home from a corner to put the hosts 4-3 ahead and see them win the match.
FAWNL South East Division One
Ipswich Town Women’s fine form continues as they open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table were back in league action this weekend after a run of 3 cup matches taking in 2nd bottom Cambridge United WFC who in contrast were playing for the first time competitively since the end of October. Ipswich announcing the signing of goalkeeper Lucy Williamson from Brighton & Hove Albion before the game straight into the starting line-up. Ipswich on the front foot from the off creating chances have scored 28 in their last 3 matches. Taking the lead on 15 minutes through top scorer Natasha Thomas a bullet header from Sophie Peskett’s cross. The post struck soon after. Anna Grey set-up by Thomas to score from 12 yards to double the lead in the 38th minute. Cambridge awarded a penalty late in the first period Williamson guessing the right way making the save to preserve the hosts clean sheet at half-time. Ipswich pressing the advantage at the start of the 2nd half captain Amanda Crump turning home Peskett’s cross as she gets free to cross on the right. 3 minutes later Thomas fires home her 2nd of the match Peskett again the provider. Peskett having had an assist in three goals getting one herself on the hour Thomas playing her in to make it 5-0. Cambridge striking the crossbar as close as they would get Ipswich keeping a clean sheet to win the game 5-0.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies are up to 2nd in the South East Division One table as their unbeaten run start to the season in the league continued away to bottom side Kent Football United on Sunday. Difficult playing conditions rain falling Wimbledon opening the scoring on 16 minutes captain Katie Stanley turning in the rebound after Liz O’Callaghan’s shot was batted away by the keeper. Wimbledon creating chances Kent’s defence battling, the single goal the difference heading into the break Stanley making it 2-0 from a corner in the final moment shooting through the melee her 8th goal of the season. Kent continuing to battle Wimbledon looking for a 3rd goal not finding it until the final couple of minutes second half substitute Georgia Heasman making the run and scoring to see the game won 3-0.
Plenty of goals elsewhere in South East Division One on Sunday, a fast start for Enfield Town Ladies saw them take control of the game early at home to Norwich City Women. Rachel Kosky on target to give the hosts the lead inside 3 minutes. Just 3 minutes later Enfield were 2-0 up striker Katherine Long getting the goal a 3rd coming just 2 minutes later with defender Claire Ford making it 3-0. Norwich on the back foot Enfield pressing the advantage Tyra Mills finding the back of the net to see Enfield 4-0 up midway through the first half Danielle Smith scoring 2 minutes later to see the hosts 5 up with just 25 minutes played. Long with her 2nd of the game seeing Enfield into a commanding 6-0 lead at half-time. A quieter 2nd period. Reeanna Cook pulling a goal back for Norwich, Hope Armstrong in goal for the visitors saving a penalty. Long went on to complete her hat-trick in injury time to get her 10th goal of the season the game won 7-1.
10 goals shared between AFC Basildon Women at Stevenage FC Women on Sunday in South East Division One. Alex Bailess credited with the goal as the her first of the season in the opening minute as she comes in on the follow-up after a blocked shot. Chances falling for both sides Basildon taking a 2-0 lead just past the half hour with striker Holly Turner scoring. Stevenage skipper Amy Makewell pulling it back to 2-1 with 5 minutes left in the first half floating the ball over the keeper. Kelly Weathall restoring Basildon’s 2 goal lead in the closing moments of the 1st half. 3-1 up at half-time Stevenage getting a goal back straight away at the start of the 2nd half. Erin Pope firing in a rocket to make it 3-2. Weathall tapping in on the rebound after getting one on one with the keeper to make it 4-2 in the 52nd minute tapped home a 3rd 3 minutes later to complete her hat-trick and see Basildon leading 5-2. The game into the final 10 minutes Makewell getting it back to 5-3 for Stevenage. Jodie Osborne in the final minute on target to put Basildon 6-3 ahead. Ashleigh Deacon striking into the bottom corner for Stevenage’s 4th in stoppage time. A 6-4 victory for Basildon their run of league wins extending to 3.
Kelly Wealthall with a 9 minute hat-trick for AFC Basildon Women on Sunday (photo credit Little James Photography)
Last of the match action to bring you from the FAWNL this week sees Actonians Ladies extend their unbeaten run to 6 matches in all competitions, winning 5 and drawing 1. At home in the league this weekend taking in Cambridge City Ladies. The visitors with a good chance early on, a fairly even 1st half ending goalless. Cambridge City having an appeal for a penalty denied early in the 2nd period, Actonians going on to take the lead with Justine Buckmire on target to make it 1-0. Buckmire adding a 2nd goal soon after to extend Actonians lead the hosts comfortable in defence to win the 3 points.
One game played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this weekend, saw Portsmouth FC Women making the trip up into Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies. Jasmine Turner putting the hosts into the lead on the half hour, Portsmouth goalkeeper Hannah Haughton with the initial save, Turner in on the follow up to make it 1-0. Portsmouth with a good response getting straight back on level terms, their attacking players pressing the Cardiff defence, Charmaine True winning the ball back 25 yards out Tasmin De Bunsen taking over bringing it forwards to strike a low shot in from the top of the area the ball racing past the inside of the post evading the diving keeper. The sides all square at the break, chances for both to win the match 2nd half Portsmouth seeing a goal ruled out before finding the winner with 15 minutes left possession out on the right the ball played back across defender Eilidh Currie coming forward into acres of space teeing up a shot from 25 yards out her strike looping up over the keeper into the top corner. Portsmouth winning 2-1 their good away form continuing 3 wins out of 4 in the league on their travels.
FAWNL Cup
Two ties played this Sunday in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL featuring sides in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East, both going the distance and beyond. Southern Premier Division side Yeovil Town Women hosting Southampton FC Women from South West Division One at Dorchester Town FC. Yeovil making a good start, Charlotte Buxton’s shot smashing down off the crossbar in the 8th minute, top scorer Sarah Wiltshire on hand to put the ball over the line for her 14th goal of the season. Southampton leading the South West Division One table unbeaten in all competitions so far this season coming close to levelling the scores hitting the post, Yeovil with further chances to extend their lead with the 1 goal advantage at the break. The visitors with a good start to the 2nd period Ella Pursey heading in her 10th goal of the season to make it 1-1. Few chances created 2nd half Southampton seeing the ball come back off the woodwork once again the game heading into extra-time. The visitors finding the winning goal to advance into the quarter finals a deflected ball sent into the path of attacker Sophie Pharoah who slots the ball home.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies with a good result in the previous round of the FAWNL Cup away from home beating fellow Southern Premier Division side Cardiff City Ladies on penalties to advance. Penalties needed once again in the 2nd Round as the club travelled to Essex to take on South East Division One side AFC Basildon Women in the 2nd Round. One goal in it at half-time Jessica Driscoll putting Milton Keynes 1-0 up. Basildon making a good start to the 2nd half back on level term within 5 minutes of the restart Holly Turner firing home. The hosts quickly going on to lead Grace Gillard scoring from a free-kick to make it 2-1. Milton Keynes turn to come back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half Driscoll with her 2nd of the match. Rhianne Rush firing the visiting side into the lead 3-2 to Milton Keynes with 15 minutes left her first goal of the season. Basildon with an injury time equaliser to send the tie into extra-time Kelly Wealthall credited with the goal. The extra period of play yielding no further goals the game to be settled from the penalty spot, Milton Keynes goalkeeper Emma Kirby with 2 saves as Basildon failed to convert their 1st 3 kicks, Milton Keynes composed to put theirs away to win it 3-0 to book their place in the quarter finals of the competition.
FAWNL Plate
Two games also played this Sunday in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate featured sides from the Southern Premier & South East Division One. AFC Wimbledon Ladies unbeaten so far this season in South East Division One making the long trip to the South West to play high flying Plymouth Argyle Ladies 3rd in the Southern Premier Division. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Helen Bleazard’s free-kick parried down by Wimbledon’s keeper, top scorer Natasha Knapman fastest to react sending the ball over the lien for her 18th goal of the season. Knapman on target for Plymouth’s 2nd goal in the 18th minute striking home from 30 yards. Soon after Plymouth went 3-0 in front awarded a penalty, Zoe Cunningham taking as regular taker and captain Katie Middleton was deputising in goal. No mistake from Cunningham putting away her 5th goal of the season. Plymouth 3-0 comfortable at half-time. Wimbledon came out fighting 2nd half looking to find a route back into the game, awarded a penalty in the 65th minute Georgia Heasman got it back to 3-1, that though as close as Wimbledon would get Plymouth securing their spot in the quarter finals.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies, Natasha Knapman (photo credit Tim Badger Photos)
Also advancing into the FAWNL Plate quarter finals are Watford Ladies although the Southern Premier Division leaders left it late to secure victory against fellow league side Oxford United Women. Watford hosting finding themselves trailing 1-0 at the break with Oxford getting their noses in front late in the first half with Catherine Beaver scoring the goal. That the score heading into the final 5 minutes of the match Adekite Fatuga-Dada with the run playing in Andrea Carid to put in the cross, Emily Hill meeting it on the volley to level the scores. A minute later Watford were in front Helen Ward played in by Fatuga-Dada to turn and strike home her 9th goal of the season to see Watford take the game 2-1.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two league games played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend and at last Kent Football United are celebrating a win and their 1st league points at the 10th time of asking. A tough start to life playing at this level for the 1st time close on a couple of ocassions before now. Were at home playing fellow promoted side Cambridge City Ladies. Beatrice Fitzsimons hitting the crossbar from a volley. Kent Football United taking the lead scoring from a free-kick. Cambridge City responding well however Kent were to go on and double their lead before half-time. The woodwork rattled again by Cambridge, Sofia Castiglione with the strike. Pushing for a goal, denied by the woodwork for a third time Kent coming forwards winning another free-kick outside the area scoring to make it 3-0. Once more the woodwork coming to Kent’s defence as they battle hard to keep their lead, Fitzsimons with a cracking strike pulling a goal back for Cambridge with 5 minutes left but it wasn’t to be their day that belonged to Kent Football United a win at last. Chloe Francis with a brace her first goals of the season and one for Amy Russ gaining them their 1st 3 points.
Elsewhere in South East Division One the points were shared with Actonians Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Norwich City Women. The visitors opening the scoring in the 1st half, Chelsea Garrett with her 11th goal of the season getting Norwich back on level terms. Actonians coming back to retake the lead before half-time went on to open up a 3-1 lead in the 2nd period, top scorer Alessandra Barreca with a brace to take her onto 11 for the season, with Justine Buckmire celebrating her first Actonians goal. Eliza McDonald with her first goal of the season bringing it back to 3-2 for Norwich, McDonald was on target with a 2nd of the game to see Norwich secure a point with it finishing 3-3.
Match action from Norwich v Actonians on Sunday (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier League this Sunday. Moving 3 points clear of Watford Ladies who weren’t in action. 4 matches played in the league this weekend Crawley Wasps were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs back in after serving a suspension, Emma Plewa back in the squad after a spell out with injury. Portsmouth back in action after 3 weeks following a couple of postponed fixtures.
Crawley Wasps taking the lead soon after the opening quarter hour, Natasha Stephens running in on goal heading in close on goal as a left wing cross drops to her. Portsmouth coming back to equalise 10 minutes later a long range shot tipped onto the bar by Gibbs, Jade Widdows quickest to react latching onto the ball to make it 1-1. Crawley Wasps coming straight back to retake the lead, Plewa running into the left channel taking the ball into the box and finishing clinically for her first goal of the season. The visitors reduced to 10 on the half hour, Katie Jones shown a straight red. A player down Portsmouth battled on 2nd half Crawley Wasps eventually extending their lead in the final 15 minutes Plewa racing through onto a long ball forwards travelling into the box and slotting the ball under the keeper to see the match won 3-1.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue to apply pressure to the top two in the Southern Premier Division extending their winning run to 9 matches now in all competitions. A 7th straight league win coming this Sunday on their travels against bottom side Chichester City Ladies. An even start to the game Plymouth growing stronger as the 1st half progressed the dead lock broken late in the half Amber Pollock 40 yards out hitting a rocket on the half volley to make it 1-0. Plymouth with a 1 goal lead going into the 2nd half have been scoring plenty of goals this season. Mollie Taylor making her 150th appearance for the club this Sunday making it 2-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half, heading in from a corner kick. Chances for both sides before Plymouth made it 3-0 from another corner in the 71st minute, captain Katie Middleton heading in at the near post. Into the final 10 minutes and a quickfire double from top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing Plymouth wrap up a 5-0 win.
Yeovil Town Women climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after a a 3rd straight league win. Playing at home this weekend taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women who themselves have now suffered 6 straight defeats in the league. Jamie Sherwood returning to Yeovil as manager in his first game in charge. An even start Yeovil taking the lead with Annie Heatherson moving out wide delivering the cross for Kelly Aldridge to score. The hosts reduced to 10 with half an hour played attacker Sarah Wiltshire receiving a straight red card. Yeovil with a narrow lead at the break. Despite being a player short creating chances, Aldridge coming close early on rattling the crossbar. A crucial 2nd goal coming as Meesha Dudley-Jones drives on to the corner of the 18 yard box and unleashes a shot into the top corner. Goalkeeper Beth Howard keeping Milton Keynes out at the other end with a double goal line save from a corner. The visitors pulling it back to 2-1 from another corner late in the game 10 player Yeovil holding on to win the 3 points.
Keynsham Town Ladies getting a good result on the road on Sunday in the Southern Premier Division away to Oxford United Women to see their good run of results continue 7 points from their last 3 matches now after losing all of their opening 6 games following promotion to the league join Milton Keynes Dons Women on 7 points. Justine Lorton’s 16th minute goal proving the difference between the sides. Oxford creating numerous chances with a host of corners unable to get a reply, Keynsham goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes making a number of fine saves to ensure the 3 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
One match played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend with Stevenage FC Women travelling up to Cambridgeshire to face Cambridge City Ladies. The hosts opening the scoring in the 20th minute Sofia Castiglione netting from a free-kick. Stevenage coming straight back to level the scores Ashleigh Deacon heading in at the back post. Cambridge City retaking the lead before half-time Charlotte Gillies racing through on the right her shot across the keeper parried into the path of Laura Mills to turn into the back of the net. 2-1 up at the break, Stevenage pressing for a 2nd goal in the on the counter attack Erin Pope’s crossed ball in looping over the keeper into the net beyond to make it 2-2. Cambridge City with a penalty shout late on not given the sides sharing the points both moving up a place in the table.
Sofia Castiglione with the opening goal of the match for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Two matches played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday featuring the bottom 3 sides. Chichester City Ladies young side at home to high flying Watford Ladies the visitors looking to return to the top of the table. Chichester with just the one point on board so far a difficult start to the season. Katie O’Leary getting Watford off to the perfect start opening the scoring with barely 3 minutes played. Chichester straight back on level terms Megan Fox scoring a screamer to make it 1-1. Isobelle Foster making a couple of important saves to keep Watford from retaking the lead the hosts scoring with half and hour played Gemma Simmonds chipping the keeper to make it 2-1. Captain Helen Ward bringing Watford back level for the 2nd time in the game 5 minutes before half-time pouncing on a poor back pass to slot the ball past the keeper for her 7th goal of the season. Watford pressing for a 3rd goal in the 2nd period chances coming eventually finding it as the game moved into the final 20 minutes O’Leary with her 5th strike of the season putting the ball into the top corner to see the game won and put Watford back on top of the table.
The other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this weekend saw Hounslow Town bottom with just a point on the board at home to Keynsham Town Ladies who after starting the season with 6 straight defeats following promotion got their first league win of the season at home to fellow strugglers Chichester last time out. Now away to Hounslow the first half saw few clear chances Hounslow getting their noses in front in the 15th minute Sue Kumaning with great footwork top of the area turning and looping a shot up beyond the keeper. Keynsham improving 2nd half an early opportunity to level the visitors equalised just past the hour Barbara Maros De Carvalho arriving unmarked in six yard box to meet a left wing cross to score her 1st of the season. 1-1 Keynsham pressed for a winner Caoimhe O’Reilly with a double save ensuring Hounslow didn’t concede again and see both sides take a point enough to lift Hounslow above Chichester at the bottom.
FAWNL South East Division One
Ipswich Town Women move 3 points clear at the top of FAWNL South East Division One although they left it late scoring an injury time goal to beat Enfield Town Ladies away from home on Sunday. One of two matches played in the league this weekend, Ipswich travelling down to 5th placed Enfield Town Ladies looking to make it 7 straight wins on the league following an opening day draw. Ipswich striking the post in the 18th minute captain Amanda Crump striking from outside the box. Enfield taking the lead in the 36th minute awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position outside the Ipswich box the low struck shot taking a deflection off the wall taking it into the path of Tia Bailey moving in on the follow up reacted quickly to fire the ball home. Late chances in the half for Ipswich to level a goal disallowed Enfield with the slender lead. Ipswich getting the equaliser on the hour Natasha Thomas heading the ball across goal Maddie Biggs in position to poke the ball home 1-1. Ipswich knocking on the door late in the game chances coming Thomas getting the winning goal in the 94th minute a mix up at the back allowing her to steal in an tap the ball in score her 7th goal of the season and win the 3 points for Ipswich.
Natasha Thomas celebrating with her Ipswich teammates (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Actonians Ladies heading over to Kent this weekend to face bottom side Kent Football United, the newly promoted side without a point yet this season. Actonians beating Kent Football United 3-1 in the Women’s FA Cup earlier in the season. Kent Football United opening the scoring this Sunday Shannon Burden putting them 1-0 in the first half. Actonians coming back to level the scores on the stroke of half-time Alessandra Barreca with her 7th goal of the campaign. The visitors with 2 goals in the 2nd half to secure victory Barreca credited with one more in the 80th minute. Actonians with their 3rd league win of the season climbing a couple of places in the South East Division One table up to 7th.
FAWNL Plate
Two 1st Round games to complete this Sunday from the FAWNL Plate, a tough test for Norwich City Women’s young squad as the South East Division One side travelled to play Southern Premier Division side Oxford United Women. The hosts getting off to a flyer taking the lead on the 7th minute Sophie Barker lining up a shot from distance squeezing underneath the goalkeeper and in. 5 minutes later Oxford were 2-0 up striker Cheryl Williams finishing at the back post. Norwich getting it back to 2-1 on 20 minutes, captain Millie Daviss firing home with a 30 yard strike. Oxford creating opportunities awarded a penalty on the half hour Carly Jones tripped inside the box, Williams stepping up to make it 3-1. Jones getting on the scoresheet herself late in the first half to see Oxford leading 4-1 at the break.
Oxford continuing where they left off at the start of the 2nd half coming close with a couple of chances before Williams scooped the ball over the keeper to complete her hat-trick. Brogan Moore putting Oxford 6-1 up with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Georgia Timms only entering the game moments before getting a goal with her first touch of the ball making it 7-1 to Oxford. Immy Lancaster with her first Oxford goal wrapping up a comfortable 8-1 win in the final minute.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies unbeaten in FAWNL South East Division One were on the road in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate taking on South West Division One side, Brislington Ladies. Few chances in the 1st half Wimbledon edging it with a goal in the 40th minute to lead at half-time, Georgia Heasman with the tap in following a good through ball from Sian Wylie. Wimbledon with a couple of opportunities to extend their lead at the start of the 2nd period, before Brislington came back to level in the 57th minute with Shannon Burden making it 1-1. Wimbledon introducing Katie Stanley and Sophie Manzi go the game on the hour. Stanley scoring what would prove to be the winning goal in the 78th minute a mazy run forwards passing to Heasman getting back the return ball and shooting to see Wimbledon lead 2-1.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate listed below ties scheduled to be played Sunday 24th November:-
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Newcastle United Women
Nottingham Forest Women v Leeds United Ladies
West Bromich Albion Women v Leicester United WFC or Leafield Athletic Ladies
Stockport County Ladies v Middlesborough Women
Plymouth Argyle Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Maidenhead United Women v Stevenage FC Women
Watford Ladies v Oxford United Women
Cheltenham Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies
FAWNL Cup
The draw made to for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup 8 ties scheduled for Sunday 24th November outstanding 1st Round games will see some ties played later:-
Brighouse Town Ladies v Darby County Ladies
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Long Eaton United or Liverpool Feds Women
Chorley Women or Durham Cestria v AFC Sunderland Ladies
Stoke City Ladies v Wolverhampton Wanderers Women
Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women
Crawley Wasps Ladies v Portsmouth FC Women
AFC Basildon Women v Milton Keynes Dons Women
Chesham United Ladies or Exeter City Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division scoring 2 goals late on their match on Sunday away to Milton Keynes Dons Women to win the 3 points. Late goals the theme of the week for Crawley both fore and against. A point collected in midweek as they took on Gillingham Ladies at home on Wednesday evening. Natasha Stephens seeing Crawley take the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half lat drama saw 2 more goals come in the final moments of the game. Ellie Jeffkins getting Gillingham back on level terms in the 88th minute. Back came Crawley to retake the lead a minute later with captain Naomi Cole on target. Grace Harrison lobbing the keeper in stoppage time to see Gillingham take a point home with them.
This Sunday Crawley Wasps headed to the Stadium MK. Milton Keynes having made a promising start to the season, falling down the table in a rut of poor results just one point won from their last 6 league matches. Have yet to win at home this season either. A first half that saw few chances the sides goalless at the break. Both coming on 2nd half coming close with shots Crawley hitting the crossbar from a corner with 87 minutes on the clock the visitors breaking the deadlock in the 89th minute. A superb strike from Hope Nash her first goal of the season firing Crawley into the lead. A free-kick won outside the box in stoppage time dispatched clinically by Rachel Palmer to secure the win for Crawley and see them back leading the table having set the early pace.
Cardiff City Ladies climb a place up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table, getting back to winning ways at home to Hounslow Women. Cardiff with a strong first half winning the game 6-1 to close the gap on the leaders. Grace Horrell scoring a brace, so too Nadia Lawrence scoring her first goals of the season. A first goal of the season too for Morgan Rogers. Kelly Issac also getting on the scoresheet with a goal for Cardiff. Hounslow improving 2nd half getting a goal through Sue Kumaning her first for the club. Other results going against them Hounslow slip to the foot of the table.
That result being the clash between fellow strugglers Keynsham Town Ladies at home to Chichester City Ladies on Sunday. Keynsham bottom of the table without a point on the board after 6 played a tough start to the season following promotion as South West Division One champions last season. Chichester now faring much better having lost several players have just one point so far from 7 played. Sharna Capel Watson scoring her first goal for Chichester seeing them drawing with Keynsham 1-1 at the break. Ellie Curson getting on the scoresheet for Keynsham midway through the first half. The winning goal coming in the 70th minute, Curson striking with her 2nd of the match to see Keynsham win for the first time this season 2-1 the 3 points taking the off the bottom above both Hounslow and Chichester.
One more game played in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday although full time has it listed as postponed Oxford United Women were at home taking on Gillingham Ladies. Both with good results in midweek, 27 goals in 3 games now for Oxford including 5 without reply away to Milton Keynes on Wednesday. Gillingham with two late goals away to Crawley taking home a point. This Sunday Oxford dominating the chances in the first half were held to a 0-0 scoreline by Gillingham. The visitors taking the lead themselves 4 minutes into the 2nd half scoring from a 30 yard free-kick which looped over the keeper. Oxford pressing looking for a reply fell further behind just past the hour, Gillingham’s forward brought down inside the box, going 2-0 up from the resulting spot kick. Oxford creating more opportunities couldn’t find a goal, the woodwork struck won a penalty themselves at the death reducing the arrears Gillingham held on to win 2-1 to make it 4 points from the past 7 days.
FAWNL South East Division One
One league game played this Sunday in FAWNL South East Division One, an opportunity for Stevenage FC Women to pull away from the bottom sides as they played host to bottom side Kent Football United. Stevenage looking to build on last weekends great 3-2 cup win away to league leaders Ipswich Town Women. The hosts scoring 3 goals in the first half as Kent wasted opportunities in front of goal. 3-1 the half-time score with captain Amy Makewell on target and first goals for Lucy Webster and Chloe Gunn returning after a long injury lay off. Erin Pope scoring from a free-kick against Ipswich to win the match last time out, her first goal of the season scored for the 2nd successive game another set-piece strike to make it 2-1. Amy Makewell on the scoresheet again for her 10th goal of the season to see Stevenage in full control leading 5-1 with all the goals coming from outside the box. Kent Football United pulling a goal back to make it 5-2 are still bottom and without a point on the board after 6 played. Stevenage with their 3rd league win of the season up to 7th in the table.
10 goals for the season for Stevenage FC Women captain, Amy Makewell (photo credit Gary Reed)
FAWNL Plate
One cup tie played this Sunday from the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate, and all Division One clash with South East side, Cambridge United WFC hosting South West counterparts, Maidenhead United Women. The visitors with an early goal to open the scoring Simone O’Brien scoring from a free-kick in the 6th minute. That the score heading into half-time. Maidenhead battling hard defensively to prevent Cambridge finding a reply keeping a clean sheet to win the game and advance to the next round of the competition.
There is a new side leading the way in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division as Watford Ladies take over the top position winning a 3rd successive league game unbeaten in 6 to move a point clear of previous leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies who were playing in the FAWNL Cup this weekend. Watford making the trip to Kent this Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies. The hosts striking the crossbar early on in the match, Watford too hitting the bar late in the first half from an Emma Beckett free-kick. The sides goalless at the break the deadlock broken on the hour, Watford captain Helen Ward heading home her 6th goal of the season. The visitors quickly doubling their advantage Andrea Carid heading in the cross to score her 5th of the season. Gillingham creating chances Watford hitting the woodwork again the game into the final 15 minutes. Carid striking again to extend Watford’s lead. Emily Hill adding a 4th goal inside the final 5 minutes rising highest from a corner to score.
Crawley Wasps not only lose the lead in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division but are pushed down to 3rd as Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue their impressive start to the season winning six in a row now their only defeat in the league coming on opening day of the season. Weren’t at their best this weekend but showed character to come back from trailing 1-0 at the break away to Cardiff City Ladies to score a last gasp winner. Had goalkeeper Becky Kyle to thank for keeping the score low in the 1st half pulling of two superb saves. Cardiff eventually scoring close to the end of the 1st period, Cori Williams rising from a corner to head in. Cardiff 1-0 up at the break, Plymouth working hard to find a reply in the 2nd half finally got the breakthrough with 15 minutes left on the clock a handball inside the box seeing the visitors awarded a penalty, captain Katie Middleton stepping up to score. 1-1 leading into the final minute Plymouth with a corner kick the ball played into the box, striker Natasha Knapman getting her head on the ball to score her 14th goal of the season and see the match won 2-1. Plymouth holding 2nd spot but going above Crawley Wasps on goal difference off the back of the result.
FAWNL Cup
Three ties from the 1st Round of the FAWNL Cup played this weekend two postponed from last weekend. One of those Crawley Wasps Ladies match at home to South East Division One side Actonians Ladies. Not much between the sides the score 0-0 at half-time. The Southern Premier Division side breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half, the ball falling to Rachel Palmer takes on the shot and scores. Crawley Wasps coming close to adding a 2nd goal but in the end the single goal enough to see them through to the next round of the competition.
Also postponed last Sunday Portsmouth FC Women’s trip to the capital to play South East Division One side Leyton Orient WFC in the 1st Round of the League Cup. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Otesha Charles rounding the keeper to score her 9th goal of the season to put Leyton Orient 1-0 up. The Southern Premier Division side coming back to level the scores just 4 minutes later, Eilidh Currie through to slot the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-1. Chances for both sides Portsmouth taking the lead past the half hour Charmaine True firing in a shot from a tight angle. True getting a quickfire double onto a spilled cross put in by Currie to put Portsmouth 3-1 up at half-time. Portsmouth extending their lead 7 minutes into the 2nd half, Rebecca bath’s shot deflected up over the keeper to make it 4-1. Jade Widdows introduced to the game in the hour twisting and turning inside the box before firing home to make it 5-1 to the visitors in the 66th minute. Jade Bradley with a shot from 12 yards out seeing Portsmouth win the match 6-1 with 10 minutes left.
Billericay Town Ladies joint leaders in FAWNL South East Division One the home side taking on fellow league side Cambridge City Ladies in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round on Sunday. the game played at Bowers & Pitsea’s Len Salmon Stadium. Billericay leading the match one nil at half-time with a goal from captain Lindsey Morgan. The ball played into her path as she breaks from midfield into the box left of goal to shot past the advancing keeper. Billericay going 2-0 up thanks to a fantastic strike from Jay Blackie, the Billericay midfielder latching onto a stray Cambridge City pass to take the ball on towards their box coming central hitting a superb shot in from over 25 yards out. Paris Smith making her first appearance of the season for Billericay, always a goal threat didn’t take her long to score her first goal of the season the ball put forwards high bouncing Smith getting her head on it top of the area to beat the keeper and make it 3-0. Billericay scoring two wonder goals in the match Hannah Smith striking the ball from all of 30 yards out to find the back of the net a secure a 4-0 win.
FAWNL Plate
One tie played in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate competition in the East this Sunday and all South East Division One affair with joint leaders Ipswich Town Women at home to Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. The visitors taking the lead in the 20th minute Louise Godden sending her shot over the keeper to make it 1-0. Ipswich coming back to equalise in the 35th minute. Zoe Cossey with the ball at her feet skipping through the defence to slot the ball under the keeper. The hosts quickly scoring again to take the lead, Natasha Thomas getting her head on the ball from a corner to score. Ipswich leading 2-1 at half-time. Stevenage pressing for a goal in the 2nd half to get back on level terms doing so in the 66th minute Tamsyn Sibanda making her first appearance of the season smashing the ball home from a corner. Captain Amy Makewell seeing the ball come back off the woodwork with 15 minutes left the visitors going on to score a last gasp winner. Erin Pope with her first goal of the season, brought down by the keeper just outside the box to take the set-piece sending it into the bottom corner to win the game an send Stevenage into the next round.
FAWNL South East Division One
Three matches played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday. With the top three all in Cup action this weekend it was a chance for the chasing sides make up ground. AFC Wimbledon remain unbeaten in the league move up to 3rd position above Leyton Orient WFC who they beat 1-0 at home in midweek. At home again this Sunday were taking on Norwich City Women. Liz O’Callaghan putting Wimbledon into the lead on the half hour. Norwich coming back to level the scores with 5 minutes left to play in the first half, Kathryn Stanley shooting from the left to score. Wimbledon coming back to retake the lead 3 minutes later O’Callaghan with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper. Wimbledon 2-1 up at half-time. Hannah Billingham putting Wimbledon 3-1 ahead on the hour heading home a Katie Stanley cross, that the final score Wimbledon going 3rd a point behind the leading pair.
Kelley Blanchflower on target for her 6th goal of the season the difference between the sides as Cambridge United WFC held at 1-0 at half-time in Essex away to AFC Basildon Women. Basildon frustrated having dominated the ball 1st half to fin themselves behind pressed hard in the 2nd period looking for a reply the equaliser finally coming midway through the half, Cerys Adams bundling the ball in from a corner kick. A scrappy equaliser a complete contrast to Adams next goal putting Basildon quickly into the lead scoring from range with a superb strike to make it 2-1 with 20 minutes left. Basildon going on to win the 3 points and consolidate their position in the top half of the table.
Cerys Adams shooting to score the winner for AFC Basildon Women (photo credit Little James Photography)
Kent Football United were at home to Enfield Town Ladies at the weekend in FAWNL South East Division one, the newly promoted side bottom without a point on the board. Are beginning to get to grips with playing at a higher level Enfield a tough opponent in 5th spot having started the season well. Kent Football United doing well to hold them to a goalless draw at half-time. Enfield breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half taking the lead in the 48th minute, Hannah Baptiste scoring her 1st goal of the campaign to make it 1-0. The lead doubled 6 minutes later with Tia Bailey firing the ball home to see the 3 points won. All very tight still at the top of the table with Enfeild in 5th spot just 4 points behind the leading pair.
Heavy rainfall across the country overnight on Saturday seeing half the fixtures called off in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division their were 3 matches left but those featuring the top 3 sides leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies 3 points ahead of Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Cardiff City Ladies going into their match at home to Oxford United Women who held the only 100% left in the league going into the game albeit with just 2 matches played to date. Not much between the sides as they contested a goalless 1st half. Oxford beginning well 2nd half taking the lead from a corner in the 51st minute Gemma Sims with the strike. Crawley responding coming back to level 7 minutes later Faye Rabson brought down in the area, captain Naomi Cole sending the penalty home to make it 1-1. Rabson firing the hosts into the lead 5 minutes later, the lead extended to 3-1 midway through the 2nd half a corner from the left floated in to the box Darcey James up well to head the ball down towards goal to score. Crawley holding onto their lead despite having goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs red carded with 10 minutes left to play.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies were looking to continue their great run of form to 5 straight league wins as they travelled to the Stadium MK on Sunday to face Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The hosts aiming to get back to winning ways themselves having collected just 1 point from their last 3 after a promising start to the season. The visitors taking the lead on the 20th minute wit Rebecca Dandridge on target to make it 1-0. Plymouth quickly 2-0 up as Natasha Knapman hit her 11th of the season. Milton Keynes getting it back to 2-1 before half-time, Kim Farrow credited with the goal. Plymouth made a lively start to the 2nd half extending their lead within 2 minutes of the restart with Helen Bleazard getting the goal. Jessie Jones with a superb 25 yard strike making it 4-1 to Plymouth on the hour. A great piece of individual play from Kayleigh Lane seeing Plymouth seal a 5-1 victory in the 89th minute to keep the pressure on leaders Crawley.
Cardiff City Ladies too 3 points behind the leaders going into their match on Sunday away to Yeovil Town Women. The hosts looking to build on last weekends draw away to Watford Ladies after losing the previous two. Chances for both, it was Cardiff who edged it at the break taking the lead midway through the first half. Grace Horrell setting up Gwennan Davies to send the ball past the keeper. Yeovil fighting back in the 2nd period to earn a point equalising from a corner the ball in not clear brought under control by Katie Jones making herself room inside the box to smash a shot in.
FAWNL South East Division One
A big game in FAWNL South East Division One at the start of the season with the top two meeting at the Goldstar Ground on Sunday, 2nd placed Ipswich Town Women 3 points behind leaders Billericay Town Ladies. Both sides unbeaten going into the match dropping just 2 points each. Ipswich attacking looking strong at the start of the game taking the lead on 28 minutes a free-kick awarded outside the area, a fantastic strike smashing down off the crossbar. The ball still in play possession regained wide left a dangerous cross fired in towards the near post, Natasha Thomas with great agility getting down to put her head on the goal and place it across goal wide of the keeper into the back of the net. 1-0. The hosts doubling their lead with a more direct approach with 5 minutes left to play in the first period, Paige Peake scoring direct from a corner angling her looping ball in over the keeper to drop under the bar. Billericay never out of the game working hard to get back into the match 2nd half pulled it back to 2-1, Therese Addison making a huge impact to the side since joining the club a strong individual run down the left carrying the ball on into the box blasting in her 3rd goal in 3 games. Ipswich keeping their Essex opponents at bay to hold onto their lead having opportunities to extend their lead won the 3 points to move level with Billericay on 16 points identical records Billericay top on alphabetical order.
Natasha Thomas (right) celebrating with the opening goal for Ipswich Town Women (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Billericay and Ipswich are not alone at the top of the table with 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC also matching their 16 point haul, just 2 goals the difference in their record. Were looking to make it 4 straight league wins as they played host to AFC Basildon Women on Sunday. A good start to the game for the visitors Basildon’s young side pressing their opponents, Leyton Orient coming back to end the first half well the sides drawing 0-0. An early opportunity for Basildon to break the dead lock in the 2nd half awarded a 48th minute penalty, goalkeeper Naomi Ogunde moving to her right making the save. The hosts finding the opening goal with 20 minutes left to play attacking down the right the ball put on for captain Sophie Le Marchand to take aim from outside the box and beat the advancing keeper. Leyton Orient strong toward the end of the game a goalkick intercepted played forwards for 2nd half substitute Paige Anderson-Jones making first appearance to score her first goal. 5 minutes left and Leyton Orient wrapped up a 3-0 victory with Otesha Charles on target for her 6th goal.
4th versus 5th in the South East Division One table too at the weekend with AFC Wimbledon in 5th hosting Enfield Town Ladies both sides looking to continue their unbeaten start to the season. All the goals coming in the first half Helen Ogle joining Wimbledon in the summer firing the hosts into an early lead making it 1-0 inside 5 minutes. Enfield coming back to level past the quarter hour through Beth Lumsden. Captain Katie Stanley with two cracking strikes midway through the 2nd half putting Wimbledon 3-1 ahead and seeing the 3 points won taking them above Enfield in the table.
Match action from AFC Wimbledon v Enfield Town (photo credit @MikeyTheTowner)
Points needed elsewhere in the South East Division One table with two games featuring 4 of the bottom 5 sides at the weekend. Norwich City Ladies, looking to build on last Sunday’s home win over newly promoted Kent Football Unite were hosting the other newly promoted side this weekend Cambridge City Ladies who picked up a good point away to AFC Wimbledon last time out. Chelsea Garrett firing Norwich into the lead with her 5th goal of the season. Cambridge City striking to making it 1-1 for Cambridge City the visitors going on to take the lead Megan Tonks setting up Karly Tolentino to make it 2-1 a third goal scored late in the 1st half with Hannah Bodily scoring from a corner her 1st of the season. Norwich coming back well at the start of the 2nd half Natasha Snelling introduced from the bench scoring twice to get the hosts back on level terms. Cambridge City quick to retake the lead Shannon Shaw coming on scoring with her 1st touch to make it 4-3 and see Cambridge City win their first game in FAWNL South East Division One.
Stevenage FC Women having lost 4 matches in a row with just one win this were at home to Cambridge United Women at the weekend the visitors themselves having just 4 points on the board from their opening 6 matches. The hosts getting off the a good start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Ashleigh Deacon with the run to set up captain Amy Makewell. Cambridge battling to keep a positive Stevenage from going further ahead 1-0 at the break. Stevenage beginning the 2nd period strongly adding a 2nd goal straight away through Gemma Biggadike her first of the season. Makewell getting her 2nd of the game to put Stevenage 3-0 two minutes later. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis with two great saves to deny Cambridge getting a goal back Biggadike with a lob from outside the box securing a 4-0 win for Stevenage in the 65th minute.
Crawley Wasps Ladies 100%winning start to the season was ended at home to Watford Ladies last weekend. Still leading the way by 3 points after 5 matches since being promoted to the Southern Premier Division they were on their travels this Sunday to take on fellow promoted side, Keynsham Town Ladies who were still looking for their first league points after coming up as South West Division One Champions last term. Crawley having created chances in the first half frustrated to be held 0-0 at the break. The visitors getting the break through early in the 2nd half taking the lead in the 54th minute with Maria Ledezma-Viso scoring from out wide to make it 1-0. Proved to be the winner too as Crawley sought to find a 2nd kept Keynsham at bay the other end to bring home the 3 points and return to winning ways.
A strong challenge being mounted behind to keep Crawley on their toes. Plymouth Argyle Ladies excellent run of league form continuing with a successful trip to the capital on Sunday to make it 4 wins from 4. The visitors taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Natasha Knapman on target from a corner kick. Five minutes later and Plymouth had doubled their tally, another for Knapman too as she put in a ball headed across goal from Amber Pollock. Knapman going on to wrap up a hat-trick 10 minutes later tapping home to make it 3-0. A 4th goal coming late in the first half to see Plymouth in a strong position at half-time with Mollie Taylor scoring. Plymouth hammering home their advantage in the 2nd half Knapman not content with a hat-trick, in form in front of goal adding 2 more. 10 minutes left and Rebecca Dandridge volleyed a shot into the corner of the net to make it 7. An 8th goal coming through and own goal to see Plymouth win 8-0. 2nd in the table 3 points behind Crawley with a game in hand.
A similar story for 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies the Welsh side like Plymouth 3 points behind the leaders with a game in hand. Matching Plymouth to with 4 wins from 4 in the Southern Premier Division after losing on the opening day. Were made to work hand for this Sunday’s 3 points however at home taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women. An early goal for the hosts as Jasmine Turner fired Cardiff into a 5th minute lead. Found themselves up against it in the 2nd half especially a Milton Keynes came out strong pressing for an equalising goal, Cardiff defending well to keep a clean sheet to claim the 3 points.
Watford Ladies up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division, building on last Sunday’s win away to Cardiff recording a 6-0 away win against Hounslow Women on Wednesday evening, Helen Ward returning to the side putting Watford into the lead late in the first half, Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Andrea Carid, Katie-O’Leary, Leanne Bell and Annie Meiwald with the goals 2nd half. At home to Yeovil Town Women this Sunday the visitors starting the season well losing their last two keen to get back to winning ways themselves. The visitors taking the lead in the 15th minute breaking fro a Watford corner to see Meesha Dudley-Jones score. Sarah Wiltshire with a fine strike putting Yeovil 2-0 up on the half hour. That the advantage at half-time Watford started the 2nd period well getting it back to 2-1 in the 52nd minute Ward getting on the end of a delivery from Emma Beckett to score. Ward then getting her 2nd to see Watford level the score five minutes later, heading it at the near post following good work from Ryah Vyse down the left. Both sides coming close to finding a winning goal late in the match Megan Chandler finding the top of the Yeovil crossbar in the 87th minute. Wiltshire striking a shot against the crossbar at the opposite end in stoppage time, the points shared.
Meesha Dudley-Jones with the early goal for Yeovil
Under the radar there remains one side in the Southern Premier Division with a 100% winning record. An eye needs to be kept of Oxford United Women who were playing just their 2nd league game of the season this Sunday away to Portsmouth FC Women who themselves were playing just their 3rd league match. A great start for the visitors attacking in the 7th minute Evie Gane close in to score a tap in to put Oxford into the lead. Both sides attacking Oxford get themselves into a 2-0 lead 10 minutes before half-time Kayleigh Hines with a fine 25 yard strike. Portsmouth on the attack 2nd half looking for a goal, Oxford looking to add to their lead both goalkeepers pulling off vital saves to keep it at 2-0. Late in the game Emily Allen took aim from 30 yards out her strike taking a deflection to find it’s way into the back of the net to give the visitors a 30 advantage. Time for more goals a minute of normal time left Mia Adaway firing in a goal for Portsmouth from inside the box. Oxford winning the game 4-1, with Cheryl Williams lobbing the keeper with the last kick of the game.
Gillingham Ladies getting the opportunity to play at the Priestfield Stadium this Sunday as they welcomed Chichester City Ladies young side still in search of their first point of the new season. Nothing separating the sides at half-time it was the visitors who would go on to open the scoring with captain Megan Fox sending the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-0. Chichester coming so close to recording their 1st win of the season the hosts getting it back to 1-1 late in the match to salvage a point. A welcome point nonetheless for Chichester lifting them off the foot of the Southern Premier Division table up to 10th above Keynsham and Hounslow.
FAWNL South East Division One
A full fixture list too in FAWNL South East Division One on Sunday. Billericay Town Ladies leading the way were looking to keep 3 points ahead of the chasing pack as they travelled to St Neots to face Cambridge United WFC. A much changed line-up for the hosts Cambridge gave away a penalty early in the match the spot kick clinically dispatched by Danica Dougal placing the ball wide of the keeper. The visitors going on to hold a 2-0 lead at the break attacking on the right the ball crossed in central to Therese Addison outside the area central good ball control giving her half a yard she reversed the angle to send in a low strike into the bottom corner. Cambridge battling hard in defence preventing their opponents from adding to their tally 2nd half.
Ipswich Town Women are 2nd in the table 3 points behind leaders Billericay with a game in hand away to Stevenage FC Women this Sunday were looking to continue their unbeaten run an opening day draw followed by 3 wins on the bounce. Bringing several of their talented U21s squad into the senior side this season teenager Sophie Peskett was lively from the start running at the Stevenage defence was upended inside the box to see the visitors awarded a penalty inside the opening 5 minutes. Captain Amanda Crump sending a powerful hit home. Crump doubling the lead from another spot kick 15 minutes later following another driving attack from Peskett running into the box from the left riding a challenge to shoot inside the six yard box the keeper saving only to bring Peskett down as she went after the loose ball.
2-0 the advantage at half-time Ipswich creating plenty of chances in the first period began the 2nd period in similar fashion a 3rd goal coming in the 57th minute Crump’s corner headed goalwards going in off a Stevenage defender for an own goal. Peskett getting on the scoresheet to make it 4-0 with 20 minutes left Abbie Lafayette playing her in to turn and fire the ball into the bottom corner. A strong performance from Peskett running clear central five minutes later to strike in her 2nd of the match. Peskett the provider then crossing into the area for Lafayette to head the ball in with 10 minutes left. Peskett going on to complete her hat-trick running clear to put the ball into an empty net. Ipswich winning 7-0.
Matching Ipswich’s record are Leyton Orient WFC, 3rd in the South East Division One table with 3 wins and a draw 3 points behind the leaders with a game in hand. An early goal scored by Sophie Le Marchand sending them on their way to victory on Sunday away to Actonians Ladies. Le Marchand’s 5th goal in 5 matches. Otesha Charles also has 5 from 5 played on target to make it 2-0 to Leyton Orient midway through the 1st half. Further chances created Actonians keeping them out couldn’t find a reply the 2nd half goalless.
A tough start to life in the FAWNL following promotion for both Kent Football United and Cambridge City Ladies. 1 point between the pair so far that to Cambridge City who were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies this Sunday. Not much between the sides at half-time few clear cut chances created the game goalless. Wimbledon getting their noses in front 5 minutes into the 2nd half Sophie Mann on target for her 1st goal of the season. A double switch for Cambridge in the 55th minute, one of those striker Megan Tonks joining the senior side following a successful season in front of goal with the Development side last term. Got Cambridge back on level terms with 20 minutes left scoring her 4th of the season to earn the visitors their 2nd point of the season. Wimbledon remain unbeaten.
Kent Football United without a point on the board travelled up to Norfolk this Sunday to play Norwich City Women who themselves hadn’t won since the opening day. Norwich taking an early lead in the match with Aimee Durrant on target to make it one nil to the hosts. Kent Football United coming back to level the scores with Charley Macneil scoring her first of the season. Norwich going on to dominate the first half Chelsea Garrett restoring the lead. Both she and Durrant through to score another goal each. Megan Todd getting on the scoresheet too to see Norwich comfortable at 5-1 at half-time. Macneil scoring her 2nd of the game for Kent Football United to bring it back to 5-2. Norwich having the final say with Natasha Snelling hitting home to see the game won 6-2 and lift Norwich up into 8th spot.
Norwich’s Chelsea Garrett shooting (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Both keepers called into action in the first half between Enfield Town Ladies at home to AFC Basildon Women on Sunday, Enfield’s Grace Brooks saving a penalty. The sides battling drawing 0-0 at the break. It would be Basildon who would take the lead in the 2nd period Holly Turner with the goal. Enfield fighting back to draw level with less than 10 minutes left Tia Bailey scoring her first of the season to ensure a share of the points and keep 4th placed Enfield unbeaten at the start of the season.
