A scheduled County Cup weekend across the country with most competitions into the latter stages plenty of sides competing in the FAWNL for silverware, that saw a limited fixtures list across the Southern Premier & South East Division One this Sunday.
Just the two matches taking place in the Southern Premier Division, 3rd placed Watford Ladies making the trip to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. A good start for the visitors with Adekite Fatuga-Dada stealing in to fire Watford into the lead inside the opening quarter hour. Half an hour played and Plymouth’s Rebecca Dandridge was brought down into the box, a penalty awarded. Captain Katie Middleton levelling the scores from the spot. The hosts going on to get themselves into a 2-1 lead with a couple of minutes left on the clock in the 1st half, Mollie Taylor scoring.
Plymouth extending their lead going 3-1 up with 13 minutes gone in the 2nd period Jessie Jones getting the goal. Watford pushing for a reply it came too late for them to take anything from the game with Leanne Bell making it 3-2 in the 88th minute. A very welcome victory for Plymouth ending a losing streak of 7 games that stretches back to the beginning of November. Watford missing out on the opportunity to try and put pressure on the leading pair.
Oxford United Ladies had new signing Gemma Sims making her debut as they played host to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday. Oxford taking the lead in the 15th minute with Ellie Noble scoring. QPR finding a quick reply levelling the scores less than 10 minutes later with Stephanie Anes scoring her 1st of the season from a 28 yard free-kick. Oxford retaking the lead edging a close first half in the 39th minute with Emily Allen finding the target.
The 2nd half a different story with QPR disappointed losing heavily in the closing 15 minutes. Allen scoring her 2nd of the match in the 67th minute to extend Oxford’s advantage, a 4th goal quickly followed with Evie Gane celebrating the goal. Into the last 15 and Oxford were awarded a penalty, Allen stepping up to complete her hat-trick from the spot making her Oxford’s top scorer with 7 goals for all of 4 minutes with Florence Fyfe getting herself on the scoresheet to make it 6-1 and claim her 7th too of the campaign. Madeleine Robertson completed a 7-1 victory for Oxford scoring in the final minute.
FAWNL South East Division One
Same story in FAWNL South East Division One, several sides involved in crucial county cup games there were just the two games taking place in the league on Sunday. Actonians Ladies taking full advantage win a convincing win away from home to climb up to 3rd place in the table and move to within just 2 points of 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. A trip to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies, Natalie Richardson playing her last game for Ipswich captaining the side.
Actonians taking an early lead in the match with Carla Williams putting the visitors 1-0 inside 10 minutes. few chances followed Actonians taking a 1-0 lead into the 2nd half Ipswich changing formation in an effort to find a reply it was Actonians who got the crucial 2nd goal midway through the 2nd half, Williams doubling the lead with her 9th of the season. Alessandra Barreca rarely not amongst the goals this Sunday no exception as she put her mark on the game in the final 15 minutes scoring a hat-trick the 3rd goal deep into stoppage time, her 18th of the season to see Actonians win 5-0.
The other match played at the weekend in South East Division One involving the sides 11th & 10th. Denham United Ladies 11th in need of the points, Norwich City Ladies 10th 4 points ahead would rejoin the cluster of sides in mid-table jostling for position with a victory themselves. Aimee Durrant scoring from a free-kick to hand Norwich the lead in the first half held the advantage at the break. Rosie George heading in to double the lead in the 2nd half. A crucial goal with Denham pulling a goal back through Lauren Cox, the Norfolk side winning 2-1 and climbing 2 places up into 8th as a result just a point behind East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women who are their next opponents under the lights at Plantation Park on February 13th.
Two matches outstanding in the FAWNL Cup played this Sunday. A place in the last 8 of the competition up for grabs. The top two in the Southern Premier Division drawn together with leaders, Chichester City Ladies hosting title rivals Coventry United Ladies in the 3rd Round. A physical encounter Coventry held the narrow advantage at half-time, Natasha Merritt heading the visitors into the lead in the 39th minute. Coventry doubling their lead early in the 2nd half with Amber Hughes breaking through on goal to score. Chichester creating opportunities had a player advantage for the final 20 minutes of the game with Merritt shown a 2nd yellow sent off. 10 player Coventry held out though to win the game 2-0 to reach the quarter finals where they will face South East Division One leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies.
Crawley were also in FAWNL Cup action this weekend, having beaten Coventry United Ladies just last Sunday in the FA Women’s Cup, were making the trip South West to player higher league opposition once again, their opponents, Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Crawley holding a slender 0-1 lead at the break with a goal from Sian Heather the difference between the sides. Substitute Kemina Webber making an immediate impact doubling the visitors lead in the 2nd period. Plymouth mounting a late comeback to force the game into extra-time, closing in on the last 10 minutes a goal from Kayley Lane saw the hosts pull it back to 2-1 then late into stoppage time a goal from a free-kick by captain Katie Middleton saw them level the tie.
More drama in extra-time with Crawley retaking the lead early on Webber netting her 2nd goal of the game. Plymouth coming back once again to level the scores a few minutes later Leah Burridge making it 3-3. Faye Rabson scoring a great solo effort saw Crawley take the lead once more, no come back for Plymouth this time with the visitors adding a 5th goal to settle the game Webber completing her hat-trick to see Crawley into the quarter finals with a 5-3 victory.
The draw for the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup and Plate competitions made soon after, the games to be played Sunday 10th February are listed below:-
FAWNL Cup Quarter Finals
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Stoke City Ladies
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Blackburn Rovers Ladies
Coventry United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
Loughborough Foxes Women v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
FAWNL Plate Quarter Finals
Barnsley FC Ladies v West Bromich Albion Women
Liverpool Marshalls Feds Women v Middlesborough Women
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies
Stevenage Ladies v Gillingham Ladies
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with the top two involved in the FAWNL Cup it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Watford Ladies to close the gap as they travelled to Wales to take on 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies. Never an easy place to go Cardiff were looking for a 3rd straight league victory themselves, took the lead in the 20th minute Cori Williams scoring from the penalty spot after Grace Horrell was brought down inside the box. Successfully defending their lead Cardiff holding a player advantage for the final 22 minutes with Watford’s Georgie Edwards red carded.
Gillingham Ladies picked up a valuable 3 points on Sunday to pull them further clear of the bottom two in the table the gap nine points now. Were at home taking on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Breon Grant putting Gillingham into the lead in the 20th minute scoring her 7th goal of the campaign. Alice Bussey doubling the hosts lead with 3 minutes left in the 1st half with her 7th of the season. A 2-0 lead going into the 2nd half Gillingham kept a clean sheet to earn the 3 points.
Portsmouth FC Women started 2019 with a win in the Southern Premier Division ending a run of 3 straight league defeats, bringing in new players, they welcomed back an old face this weekend with Shannon Albuery returning in loan from Yeovil Town Ladies. Were at home this Sunday taking on Essex side, C&K Basildon Ladies bottom of the table. Eilidh Currie putting Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half. 1-0 at half-time Jade Bradley struck just past the hour to double Portsmouth’s lead and see the game won 2-1 Portsmouth climbing back to 7th in the table.
FAWNL South East Division One
Crawley Wasps Ladies have a strong lead at the top of FAWNL South East Division One their squad with a 100% winning record since promotion to the league. Fellow promoted side Billericay Town Ladies likewise have been strong building a squad that has seen them push Crawley and take a firm grip on 2nd spot. Below it is very tight little separating the sides 3rd to 7th, with anyone capable of going on a run and moving up the table.
AFC Wimbledon doing just that held 3rd spot on goal difference going into the weekend travelling to a side in need of the points themselves, Cambridge United WFC. A lack of league games towards the end of 2018 the cup dominating had seen Cambridge slip to 3rd bottom, games in hand however a positive run would place them right amongst the battle for places above. Wimbledon coming off the back of a great win in the FA Women’s Cup started the game the stronger had Cambridge penned in their own half for the majority of the game creating opportunities a dogged defensive display from the hosts had very few attackers themselves against the run of play however it was Cambridge who took the lead in the 35th minute with a well worked goal. A throw high on the left into the box held up well by Mollie Coupar moving to the top of the area cut the ball back to captain Kelley Blanchflower peeling into space right of goal she squaring the ball across the face of goal Jade Bell bursting clear to smash the ball into goalkeeper Kelly Edie the ball popping up favourably for Bell to follow up an put it over the line Cambridge leading 1-0 at half-time.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower with Wimbledon’s, Rebecca Sargent
A completely different game 2nd half with Cambridge making a positive start attacking Wimbledon got themselves a 2nd goal early on, Coupar with involved again a good run into the box from the left fizzing a cross into the six yard box Blanchflower timing her run to perfection meeting the ball smashing it into the back of the net. An open game from then on Wimbledon remaining positive searching for a reply, Cambridge clearing the ball up to Coupar running in behind good strength shown as she was pushed wide of goal struck a shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner to make it 3-0. Savannah Smith saving to keep the visitors from scoring up the other end the 3 points easing any worries of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom Cambridge joining the tail end of the tussle in the middle of the table.
Billericay Town Ladies are 4 points clear of the sides in pursuit of them in 2nd. Maintained that gap with a strong home performance against 2nd bottom side Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Jay Blackie netting twice moves onto 10 for the season since joining the Essex side in the summer. There was a brace too for Esme Lancaster, with Sophie Vale on target for her 1st goal for Billericay’s 1st team this season. Danica Dougal scoring too from a long range free-kick, Billericay running out 6-0 winners.
Leyton Orient WFC climb above Wimbledon into 3rd in the South East Division One table. At home this Sunday taking on bottom side Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking the lead from an own goal midway through the 1st half Sophie Le Marchand’s shot striking the post rolling along the goal face unfortunately finding the back of the net. Leyton Orient pressing well doubled the lead in 1st half stoppage time Chloe McNee with an ambitious shot from distance scoring. A 3rd goal needed with Luton pushing for a reply was added in the 70th minute with Camila Pescatore scoring her 1st goal for the club.
Also moving above Wimbledon into 5th place in the FAWNL South East Division One table are Actonians Ladies. Were at home playing Stevenage Ladies. Actonians taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Alessandra Barreca heading the ball home from a corner. Stevenage found a quick reply equalising 5 minutes later with Shona Chitate making it 1-1. Actonians creating opportunities, retook the lead late in the 1st half awarded a penalty Barreca stepped up to score her 2nd of the game. A 2-1 lead at half-time Actonians kept Stevenage from getting any control as they calved out further chances extending the lead in the 57th minute Mariko Eagles on target with the goal. Substitute, Melissa Jung with a long range effort striking to make it 4-1 to Actonians. Barreca scoring her 3rd to complete a hat-trick in the final 5 minutes to see the game won 5-1.
Norwich City Ladies were at home this Sunday in league action against Enfield Town Ladies. Aimee Durrant putting Norwich into an early lead firing home in the 11th minute. Almost half an hour gone and Enfield levelled the scores with Danielle Smith getting the goal. The scores level at the break it was Norwich who struck early in the 2nd half to retake the lead Jodie Drake making it 2-1. That the score late into the game Enfield pressing finding a late goal to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match to earn a point Lily Bruno the scorer her 1st for the club making just her 2nd appearance.
The football action this Sunday on Women’s Football East from the FA Women’s National League, Cambridge United WFC v AFC Wimbledon Ladies in South East Division One.
The two promoted sides Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies getting off to a blistering start, to lead the way Billericay with 5 straight wins to start life at the higher level, Crawley Wasps have yet to drop a point 9 wins from 9 whilst continuing on in the cup competitions. A 5 point lead at the top for Crawley over 2nd placed Billericay, a further 4 point gap to the chasing pack where it is very tight just 3 points separating 3rd to 7th.
Cambridge United WFC would dearly love to be amongst that mid-table cluster but instead find themselves looking nervously over their shoulders 3rd from bottom, they are in need of the league points. Have played less matches than everyone else in the league, largely due to involvement in various cup competitions that have actually seen them play just 3 league matches since the end of September, that coupled with postponements and the sides around them getting games in and picking up points pushing them down the table now into 2019 league points are the priority. Win those games and they are back amongst the mid-table battle.
AFC Wimbledon are the side leading the chasing pack in South East Division One currently in 3rd spot. Finished runners-up in the league last season, leading for the majority before Milton Keynes Dons Ladies winning their games in hand eventually overhauled them to win the title. A slower start this time around, it has been the nature of the league this season that any team getting a run together can propel themselves up the table. Wimbledon doing just that at to climb up to 3rd.
Are enjoying success in both the FAWNL Cup and FA Women’s Cup. Beating higher league sides to progress in the FA Women’s Cup, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women in the 2nd Round and just last Sunday a 3-0 away win against Hull City Ladies of the Northern Premier to reach the 4th Round of the competition for the 1st time in their history where they have been drawn at home to FAWSL side Bristol City Women.
Wimbledon are also into the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup beating today’s opponents Cambridge United WFC at home 2-1 to advance. The two sides sharing a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season.
Mildenhall Town FC, Cambridge United WFC’s home ground. A sloping pitch from one goalmouth to the other as I’ve mentioned before. A wide pitch plenty of space to exploit. Another gloomy day cloudy, a light drizzle in the air prior to kick-off. The bar open, hot drinks and food available.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abigail Davies, Holly Northfield, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Amy Howlett, Vicky Neal, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett & Charlotte Crisp.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting XI – Edie Kelly, Rosie Russell, Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins, Sarah Wentworth, Hannah Billingham, Kelly Highman, Becky Mclaren-Johnson, Rebecca Sargent, Georgia Heasman, Katie Stanley & Caroline Bisson (C) Subs – Linsey Clarke, Sian Wylie, Megan Kowalski, Jenny Nagle & Hannah Baptiste.
It’s Cambridge to get the 1st half underway attacking up the slope wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks Wimbledon lined up opposite all in blue. The visitors quick to press the ball from the start won in midfield played back to Sarah Wentworth the central defender sending it long, striker and captain Caroline Bisson spinning in behind, goalkeeper Savannah Smith out to the ball early kicking it clear for Cambridge.
Wimbledon busy in the opening minutes of the game pressing looking to move the ball quickly and spread play, Rebecca Sargent putting herself about in midfield, sets up the first opportunity winning the ball in the middle spreading play out to the left wing Katie Stanley coming inside bringing the ball down shapes to shoot 30 yards out the attempt looping up into the air drops wide of the Cambridge goal.
Cambridge struggling to get anything going in the final 3rd in the early stages win a throw high on the right, captain Kelley Blanchflower with a driving run with the ball into the box, Hannah Billingham clearing the ball for the visitors. Wimbledon have Cambridge penned in their own half Sargent with some powerful runs supported by Becky Mclaren-Johnson and Kelly Highman, the ball fed into the left channel, Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming across to defend put the ball out for a throw.
Wimbledon come again building from the ball the defence on the halfway line the pass into Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins left side she attempts a through ball to unleash Bisson, well intercepted by Jemma Moore in the centre of the Cambridge defence. Wimbledon win a corner on the right side the delivery in towards the near post headed on across the area by Billingham looping down at the far post Wentworth stretching for it can’t direct her effort on target behind for a goalkick.
Is developing into a scrappy battle in midfield both sides press the ball pinging back and forth it suddenly squeezes through in behind Bisson latching onto it slides into a shot before Burt can close her down 20 yards out the ball is knocked up and whistles past the top right corner. All Wimbledon have Cambridge pushed back a free-kick won wide right Billingham over the ball a great effort fired in bounces through the six yard box no one able to provide a telling touch.
Billingham is hurt moment later looking to seeing the ball out for a throw Mollie Coupar pressing her for Cambridge sliding in the resulting tangle of legs seeing the Wimbledon defender clatter into the metal railings surrounding the pitch, a blow to the head that sees play stopped for a lengthy period as Billingham receives treatment that ultimately leaves her sporting a unfashionable blue head bandage, thankfully able to return to the action. Cambridge pressure the throw in the ball coming into the area, Edie Kelly taking it cleanly as Coupar closes her down.
Blanchflower has her hands full with Sargent restricting her attacking runs, picking up possession in a favourable position drives forwards sends the ball put to Jade Bell up on the left wing her cross long to Coupar at the far post getting up looks to header it down for Blanchflower the Wimbledon defence crowding her out.
Sargent strong in the challenge wins the ball nips in to get hold of the ball 25 yards out turning well central spaces opens up in front of her she goes for the shot catching the ball well fired over the crossbar. Frustration creeping in from both sides, Amy Howlett fouling Sargent. The free-kick 40 yards out ambitious from Billingham but she sends the ball in towards goal drops kindly for Smith to claim in her mid-riff.
Cambridge are conceding free-kicks the next alot closer to goal, Billingham on it once again 25 out right of the area, the shot narrowly over the crossbar. Another free-kick soon after central Bisson over this one Billingham the target far post the ball flighted in Cambridge manage to deal with the threat. Stanley with a good bit of control as the ball is played into her moving down the left her touch taking it in field 30 yard out turns well and shoots the ball wide of the right post.
GOAL! The visitors have dominated possession but against that it’s the hosts that take the lead. It is a well worked goal nevertheless, Blanchflower getting forwards a throw won high on the left the ball played up into the box dropping into Coupar, shielded by Billingham holds it up well pushed out to the top of the area turns well sending the pass into Blanchflower peeling clear into space inside the box wide right her squared ball across the face of goal, Bell rushing in Kelly blocking her initial effort, the ball skips up wide of the grounded keeper, Bell alert sending it on into the goal 1-0.
Wimbledon have had all the possession are straight back on the attack, Howlett isn’t making any friends with another foul on Sargent. The free-kick wide left, Bisson to delivery a great ball up to the far post Billingham forwards not put off heading the ball whatsoever a stooping header back across the top of the six yard box Sargent there central leaning back catches the ball agonisingly up over the crossbar.
Wimbledon press forwards right side Sargent with a good ball Bisson ready to spring in behind, closing in on the area, Moore sliding in makes a great tackle to take the ball away. Howlett is booked for persistent fouling. Wimbledon remain the sharper to the ball have Cambridge with their backs to the wall at time but despite that the young defence are standing firm. Coupar working hard up front pressing the ball presenting an opportunity on the right for Bell to put a cross in from the byline cut out at the near post.
Abigail Davies wins the ball for Cambridge right side on for Shephard a slight hestitation before putting the cross on allows Billingham the chance to put a foot in win the ball. Sargent plays the pass on for Heasman sending the ball on she releases Bisson in behind, closing in on the box, Moore shows great pace to get back on her make the challenge.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Wimbledon have dominated the play in the first half, seeing the majority of the ball pushing Cambridge back, creating opportunities, could be leading themselves however at half-time they find themselves trailing 1-0. Cambridge have worked hard had their backs to the wall, their defence under pressure has coped well, getting up the other end a well worked move seeing them take the lead. An interesting 2nd half looms.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower with Wimbledon’s Rebecca Sargent
No changes for either side at the break the light starting to fade the floodlights are on Cambridge attacking down the slope 2nd half as Wimbledon get the game back underway. Cambridge with more intent inside the Wimbledon half right from the off, Neal adjudged to have fouled Highman on halfway. The home side launch an attack the ball flicked on by Neal to Blanchflower breaking forwards her ball down the right channel for Coupar to chase, Billingham across to stretch and cut it out for Wimbledon.
GOAL! Cambridge’s bright start to the 2nd half sees them extend their lead have the ball on the left side building down the wing the ball played into Coupar head down she carries it on into the area before firing in a cross along the six yard box, Blanchflower timing her run perfectly ahead of the Wimbledon defence to smash the ball into the back of the net 2-0.
Sargent continues her work ethic in the middle for Wimbledon getting hold of the ball fires a pass up the right channel for Heasman getting forwards she cuts her low cross back towards the D, Stanley closing in on it can’t keep her shot down as she sends her 1st time effort over. Is a bruising encounter between two sides that give as good as they get, largely in good spirit…sort of…
Wimbledon’s Katie Stanley
A busy afternoon for the officials too Wimbledon with a free’kick wide right Bisson over it lifted into the area Billingham escapes her runner near side from close range wide of goal can only find the side netting. Cambridge frustrating their opponents now enjoying more of the ball, Coupar scrapping away up front bundled to the ground.
Mclaren-Johnson pressurising for Wimbledon central with the ball at her feet has support going forwards from Heasman, her cross squared to Stanley cutting inside from the left shoots 20 yards out, Smith diving to her left pushing the ball away from goal. 20 minutes gone in the 2nd period and Wimbledon make a change, Hannah Baptiste coming on for Highman. Cambridge with a throw left inside the Wimbledon half into Coupar 25 yards out a touch taking it inside before curling a shot over the bar.
An open game now a complete contrast to the first half Cambridge coming on more now competitve remains a scrappy affair Holly Northfield preventing a crossing opportunity on the right for Wimbledon. Russell up the other end across as Bell tries to put Coupar away. Wimbledon attack Billingham with a great forwards ball into the area controlled well by Bisson, Cambridge win in the ball sent long…
GOAL! With the game more open and Wimbledon committing more players forwards Cambridge capitalise to score a 3rd goal Coupar getting on the scoresheet after being involved in the hosts opening 2 goals. The ball played long up to her peeling away into the right channel ahead of Billingham, Wentworth comes across pushes Coupar wide right of goal as she enters the box the young striker strong on the ball gets a shot away from the angle firing the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner 3-0.
Neal with a firm tackle to deny Wimbledon building an attack through the middle. Moore with good defensive work at the back as the visitors attack through the right. Coupar tries to burst on with the ball Sargent back to defend against her for Wimbledon. Wimbledon make a 2nd change Jenny Nagle on for Heasman on the right side. A free-kick wide right for the visitors Bisson with the ball up into the area eventually cleared by Burt. Nagle attacking right Northfield sliding in to prevent the cross the ball out for a throw.
Mollie Coupar holding the ball up for Cambridge United WFC
Both sides make a change, Emma Jenkins coming on for Blanchflower for Cambridge. Sian Wylie replacing Hoesli-Atkins for Wimbledon with a little over 15 minutes left on the clock. Wimbledon continue to attack looking to pull a goal back that pressure bringing a corner, Stanley to take it from the right a long delivery to the far post Cambridge winning the header a determination set in to keep a clean sheet.
Smith with a point blank save going to ground in front of Bisson as the striker gets onto the end of a diagonal ball inside the six yard box fired in from the right. Wimbledon pressure late on in the game pushing players on into the last 8 minutes. Cambridge make a 2nd change Carrie Bennett coming on replacing Coupar late on.
Bell doing some vital work in defence late on for the hosts doubling up with Northfield as Wimbledon look to double up on the full backs. Winning the ball tries to release Shephard up front, Wentworth regaining possession for Wimbledon. Moore tackles Stanley a throw deep in the right, the ball kept up top a swerving cross in under the crossbar taken high by Smith.
Little time left now, Wimbledon’s frustrations mount a decision going against them protests voiced results in Stanley and Mclaren-Johnson yellow carded for dissent. A late late corner for Wimbledon right side an inswinging delivery pushed down and away by the jumping Smith falling to Wylie the defended stretching for it sends it across to the far post, cleared Wimbledon appeal for a penalty, nothing doing the final whistle blown soon after.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies
A terrific result for Cambridge and 3 valuable points won. Most definitely a game of two halves. Wimbledon dominating the 1st half playing the ball quickly, spreading play and pushing their opponents back, chances created but not scoring paid the price as Cambridge took the lead against the run of play. A different story 2nd half Cambridge battling to defend 1st half buoyed by their goal came out on the front foot 2nd half scoring early. Took their chances well, a competitive tussle, expected nothing less, just adds to the excitement in what is undoubtedly a competitve league, with alot of talented players. Any side can beat the other on their day. That’s why I love it so much.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A few performances worthy of note. Firstly for Wimbledon, Rebecca Sargent was a driving force in the midfield, putting herself about getting forwards too with some timely runs and good passing especially first half. For Cambridge, Jemma Moore the newest face to line-up in defence played well making some great and well timed tackles the back-line on the whole learning alot from today’s game. Jade Bell too using her experience to great advantage opening the scoring for Cambridge and vital in defence late on. Overall though today’s award goes to attacker Mollie Coupar put in a great shift up top for the hosts prepared to get stuck in a willing learner, good hold-up play involved in both the opening goals and great individual skill and strength to score the 3rd.
Another good advert for women’s football in the FAWNL, scrappy yes but played by two committed sides, a good watch. My thanks to everyone for their help today always appreciated.
With it being an FA Cup weekend there was a limited programme of fixtures across the rest of the FAWNL to start the year 5 games across both the Southern Premier and South East Division One.
Chichester City Ladies clinch a narrow home win at the weekend to see them return to the summit of the Southern Premier Division. Began 2019 at home taking on Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The hosts starting the game well it was Plymouth however who were to take the early lead Rebecca Dandridge finding the back of the net against the run of play. Chichester getting the scores back level with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Helen Ogle scoring to see the sides level at half-time. The 2nd half a close contest two sides battling, Ogle striking the crossbar with a 30 yard strike on 65 minutes, 5 minutes later she had her 2nd of the game and what would prove to be the winning goal firing home from a free-kick 30 yards out.
A positive result too for Portsmouth FC Women at the start of 2019 with a home win against Queens Park Ranger Women on Sunday a debut for new signing Hannah Haughton and Becki Bath. The sides goalless at half-time once again it was a narrow loss for QPR struggling at the bottom of the table, Rachel Panting scoring from the penalty spot to put Portsmouth into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half, a welcome win putting them back into contention with the sides clustered in mid-table.
FAWNL South East Division One
With the top 3 sides in South East Division One all involved in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was a chance for 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC to take over 3rd position in the table as they welcomed Stevenage Ladies in the league. A five game unbeaten run for Leyton Orient they took the lead early in the match Chanel Richards with the goal on 8 minutes. Stevenage responded well drawing level just 4 minutes later Nicole Emmings scoring for the Hertfordshire side. Both sides creating good opportunities it remained level at the break. Leyton Orient getting themselves back into the lead 2nd half with Hayley Barton scoring. Chances continued for both the game into the final 10 minutes and Stevenage drew level once more Ashleigh Deacon making it 2-2. The winning goal coming in the final minute going the way of the visitors Emmings finding space to shot and squeeze the ball home.
Stevenage Ladies, Nicole Emmings
Actonians Ladies were 5th in the South East Division One table going into the new year showing form at the end of 2018 to move them up the table 3rd position a possibility for themselves as they played host to Cambridge United Women who had dropped down the table a run of successive cup matches to end 2018 seeing them fall down the league, in need of points as they look to pull away from the danger zone. Actonians coming close in the first half from a corner Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith tipping an effort onto her bar. Goalless at half-time it was the visitors without a few first team regulars who broke the deadlock Mollie Coupar beating the keeper to make it 1-0. Actonians levelling the scores with 15 minutes left though Carla Williams firing the ball home. Smith with another crucial save late on to ensure the sides shared the points.
It was a share of the points too between Denham United Ladies and Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday, always competitive when the two meet a usual point for Denham 2nd bottom as they held Enfield in 6th to a goalless draw.
The last edition of The Round-Up in 2018. Several sides already finished until the New Year, for much of the rest this their final game of the year. Storm Deirdre blowing in across the country on Saturday bringing wind and rain saw a large chunk of those fixtures wiped out to, so sadly it’s a reduced Round-Up across most of the region to bring you.
The FAWNL suffering with over half the scheduled fixtures gone. Just the one fixtures surviving in the Southern Premier Division. In Wales, Cardiff City Ladies welcoming Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies this Sunday. A big win for the hosts seeing them end the year up two places into 5th in the table still with games in hand on all the sides above them.
Grace Horrell opening the scoring for Cardiff firing them into the lead in the 15th minute. Kylie Nolan on the scoresheet too quickly doubling Cardiff’s advantage scoring 3 minutes later. Moving into the last 15 minutes of the 1st half 3 goals inside 6 minutes put Cardiff in full control of the game, Ffion Morgan making it 3-0, Chelsea Jumratie on target too along with Jordan Guard both finding the back of the net for the 1st time this season. Cori Williams adding a 6th goal for Cardiff early in the 2nd half. Jasmine Simpson made the final score 7-0 with 15 minutes left. A big win for Cardiff, a heavy loss to end the year for Basildon who switch places with QPR Women at the bottom of the table as a result.
FAWNL South East Division One
The fixture list heavily affected in FAWNL South East Division one too with 3 of the 5 scheduled games falling foul to the weather. That left two games and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies in County Cup action it was an opportunity for second placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap as the Essex side side welcomed Norwich City Ladies to the AGP Arena on Sunday.
It was a close contest with a single goal settling the game the result going in favour of Billericay. Paris Smith’s goals were a huge part of Billericay’s title winning season last time out in the ERWFL. 24 goals from just 13 appearances. Games few and far between this season, just her 3rd appearance of the season, Smith was on target scoring her first goal of the season to score what would be the winning goal for the hosts who finish 2018 4 points clear of the chasing pack.
One side in that pack looking to chase down the leading pair are 3rd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies. They were at home on Sunday welcoming Actonians Ladies. The visitors in good form themselves recently pushing for a spot in the top half of the table themselves. A close opening 30 minutes it was the hosts who opened the scoring in the 32nd minute Caroline Bisson put through to round the keeper and score for Wimbledon. Into added time in the 1st half and Actonians grabbed an equalising goal through Naomi Graham to see the sides level at the break.
The visiting side getting into the lead straight after the restart with Jessica Byrne scoring to make it 2-1. Past the hour Byrne found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game giving Actonians a two goal cushion. Byrne’s first goals of the campaign. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca getting in on the goal scoring hitting a brace in the 70th & 75th minute to put Actonians 5-1 up. 13 goals for the season now for the striker. Bernice Tully on with 15 minutes left to play getting late goal for Wimbledon as they suffer a 5-2 defeat. The 3 points lifting Actonians up into 5th position in the table 2 points back on 3rd placed Wimbledon and Leyton Orient WFC in 4th.
With the sides from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division entering the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday there was a severely reduced fixture list elsewhere with just the two matches taking place, one league game aswell a a single tie from the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Plate.
A place in the quarter finals up for the taking, Ipswich Town Women were hosting Stevenage Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday. The first in the league Ipswich edging a very close game winning by a single goal scored by captain Kerry Stimson. Meeting this Sunday in the FAWNL Plate the 2 sides enjoyed another close encounter drawing 0-0 at half-time, it was Ipswich who were to take the lead going 1-0 up on the hour with Natasha Thomas firing the ball home. It looked as if a single goal was going to be enough again as Stevenage pressed for the equaliser the game heading into stoppage time up popped Ashleigh Deacon to score a last gasp leveller to force the tie into extra-time. The visitors taking the lead early in the extra period of play, Ellie Searle getting the goal to make it 2-1, would prove to be the winning goal as Stevenage booked their place in the last 8 of the Plate competition.
FAWNL South East Division One
One league game this Sunday in FAWNL South East Division One, mid-table Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd bottom, Denham United Ladies. Alessandra Barreca scoring her 10th goal of the season on the half hour for Actonians a flurry of goals was to follow at the end of the first half half to see the hosts take an iron grip of the game, Barreca netting her 2nd in the 38th minute, goal from Sara Lopez Ezzahiri and Enya Collins on the 44th & 45th minute seeing Actonians get 4 on the board. Sharon Odofin making her first start of the season scored her 1st goal too 8 minutes into the 2nd half, Actonians going on to win the game 5-1. Holly Nicholls with the goal for Denham. The win for Actonians, seeing them pull away from the sides at the bottom of the table and close the gap to the sides above in contention now for an assault on the top half.
Coventry United Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with a convincing win at home extending their unbeaten run to 13 games. Coventry were hosting Plymouth Argyle Ladies on the final Sunday of November. Got off to the perfect start racing into a 3-0 lead inside the opening 15 minutes. Shannon O’Brien giving Coventry the lead in the 5th minute, quickly followed by a goal from Natalie Haigh lobbing the keeper to make it 2-0. Amber Hughes also finding the back of the net in the 11th minute. Another goal added late in the first half with defender Rosie McDonnell heading in. McDonnell adding her 2nd just before the whistle to see Coventry leading 5-0 at the break.
Plymouth came out fighting 2nd half pulling a goal back through Helen Bleazard but that was as good as it got for the visitors as Coventry continued to push forwards, Amy Wathan heading in a Lois Jefferies cross on the hour to make it 6-1. McDonnell going on to complete a hat-trick as the game entered the last quarter hour. Jefferies getting in on the goal action to make it 8-1 in the 80th minute. A penalty awarded in stoppage time scored by Chemise Austin to wrap up a 9-1 victory.
Loughborough Foxes Women in 4th position on the Southern Premier Division were looking to make it 5 straight wins in the league as they travelled down to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies, a goal from Chloe Young just past the half hour seeing the visitors holding a narrow lead at half-time. Sammy Brooker getting Gillingham back on level terms 7 minutes after the restart. Loughborough responding straight away to get the ball forwards and retake the lead a minute later, Charlotte Broad from close range making it 2-1. Closing in on the final 10 minutes of the match and Gillingham equalised for the 2nd time in the match Breon Grant with a terrific strike from outside the box to make it 2-2, that the final score the points shared.
Portsmouth FC Women were on their travels this Sunday into Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies in the league. Few chances in the opening 20 minutes it was Cardiff who were to take the lead just past the half hour, Nia Rees letting fly from distance finding the top corner. 1-0 at half-time, Portsmouth started well 2nd half, Cardiff doubling their lead against the run of play Jasmine Simpson shooting from the edge of the area to make it 2-0. Into the final 10 minutes and Portsmouth pulled it back to 2-1 Danielle Rowe scoring her first league goal for the club it wasn’t enough however as Cardiff held on to the 2-1 lead to claim the 3 points.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies recorded a 4th win in the Southern Premier Division to consolidate their 8th position in the league following promotion. Were in Essex at the weekend taking on C&K Basildon Ladies. Charley Clarke putting the visitors into the lead in the 32nd minute. C&K Basildon levelling the scores just before half-time Holly Turner with a wonder strike making it 1-1. Milton Keynes Dons getting back into the lead in the 2nd half Clarke with her 2nd of the game proving to be the difference as the visitors ran out 2-1 winners.
FAWNL South East Division One
A ninth straight win following promotion to the FAWNL South East Division One sees Crawley Wasps Ladies open up an 8 point lead at the top of the table. At home on Sunday their opponents were Denham United Ladies. Crawley getting off to a good start Kemina Webber making it 1-0 in the 6th minute. Sian Heather doubling the lead in the 20th minute. A brace from Emma Plewa shortly after seeing the hosts take a healthy lead. 4-0 up at half-time a further flurry of goals with 20 minutes left saw them extend their lead, 3 goals in 3 minutes, Rachel Palmer making it 5-0, Webber then netting her 2nd of the game a goal from Megan Stow making it 7-0. Heather adding her 2nd of the game with 7 minutes left Jenny Dury scoring her first goal of the season in the final 5 minutes to wrap up a 9-0 win.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies move up into 3rd in South East Division One winning away to previous 3rd placed side Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday. Hannah Baptiste with her first goal of the season putting Wimbledon into the lead in the 20th minute. A narrow lead at the break, Katie Stanley introduced to the action 2nd half scoring in the 56th minute to put Wimbledon 2-0 up, Jenny Nagle making things more comfortable adding a 3rd goal on the hour securing a 3-0 win for Wimbledon that sees them move to within a point of 2nd place Billericay Town Ladies.
Also joining AFC Wimbledon on 18 points after the weekends results are Leyton Orient WFC. A trip up to Norfolk for the London club on Sunday taking on Norwich City Ladies. Goalless at the half-time interval that was how the game remained with the final 15 minutes approaching, Sophie Le Marchand finding the back of the net for the 5th time this season winning the game 1-0 for the visitors.
Leyton Orient WFC’s, Sophie Le Marchand
A single goal late in the 2nd half also the difference in the final match to bring you from South East Division One this Sunday with Ipswich Town Women travelling to Hertfordshire to play Stevenage Ladies. A close game a physical contest could have gone either way, Kerry Stimson captaining Ipswich fed in down the line cutting inside and shooting scoring for first goal for the club and the winning goal keeping them firmly in touch with the sides above in 6th spot.
Chichester City Ladies continue to lead the FAWNL Southern Premier Division winning at home on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side holding the advantage at the half-time interval with Holly Turner’s goal on 13 minutes the difference. Chichester coming back well with a strong 2nd half performance to keep their winning run going. Cherelle Khassel coming on at the start of the 2nd half making her 50th appearance for the club and celebrated by scoring a 16 minute hat-trick, levelling the scores in the 47th minute put Chichester into the lead 6 minutes later an own goal extending the lead on the hour before the 4th and Khassel’s 3rd was put into the back of the net in the 62nd minute. Courtney Clarke scoring for C&K Basildon late in the game, Chichester with 6 wins in a row now in league and cup.
2nd placed Coventry Unite Ladies were back in action this Sunday after two weekends without a fixture in that time have seen their lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division taken by Chichester. Were away this Sunday up against Queens Park Rangers Women. The London side taking the lead in the 13th minute Jo Wilson scoring for the 4th successive match. The lead didn’t last long Coventry back on level terms just 2 minutes later Marie Gauntlett with the goal. 4 minutes later Coventry had the lead Shannon O’Brien scoring to make it 2-1. A narrow lead for Coventry at half time the visitors stepping it up 2nd half Jade Brook made it 3-1 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick fire goals from Lois Jefferies and Amber Hughes midway through the 2nd half extending Coventry’s lead to 5-1. Substitute, Amy Wathan hitting a double in the last 15 minutes to seal a 7-1 win.
3rd placed Watford Ladies were playing host on Sunday to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The visitors getting the lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Leah Littlechild scoring from a corner kick. 17-year-old Ellie Gough making her 1st start for Milton Keynes Dons celebrated the occasion with a goal as she rounded the keeper inside the box to put Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 on the half hour. A 2-0 advantage at half-time, Milton Keynes Dons kept Watford at bay 2nd half as the home side sought to avoid a 3rd straight defeat in league and cup, Leah Cudone getting forwards in the 84th minute securing the 3 points with a strike from outside the box to make it 3-0. The win moving Milton Keynes Dons up to 8th and into double figures in their debut season playing in the Southern Premier Division.
3 straight league wins sees another promoted side Loughborough Foxes Women rise up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table. Were at home this Sunday up against Portsmouth FC Women. Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner to put Loughborough into the lead midway through the 1st half. The hosts lead short-lived however as Portsmouth responded straight away getting forwards Rachel Panting getting onto the end of a cross to make it 1-1. A close contest the winning goal coming in the final 15 minutes a goalmouth scramble resulting in the ball ending up in the back of the net an own goal from Portsmouth seeing Loughborough claim the 3 points winning 2-1.
2-1 was also the winning score between Oxford United Women and Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Oxford starting the day in 6th place in the Southern Premier Division at home to 4th placed Plymouth the hosts taking the lead in the 11th minute. Held onto the 1-0 advantage going into the half-time break. Plymouth hitting back early on in the 2nd half to level the scores, captain Katie Middleton making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. That remained the score up until the 86th minute, Oxford awarded a penalty, Georgia Timms cool from the spot getting the ball past the keeper (just) to secure the win Oxford up to 4th, Plymouth down to 6th after the weekends results.
FAWNL South East Division One
Just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday with 3rd placed Enfield Town Ladies travelling to 6th placed Leyton Orient WFC. An own goal favouring the hosts as Leyton Orient went ahead in the 12th minute. Two strike late in the first half from Tara O’Halloran and Hayley Barton making the half-time lead comfortable at 3-0. Chanel Richards scoring within 2 minutes of the restart consolidating the home sides advance a 5th goal added on the hour, Richards with her 2nd of the game, securing a 5-0 win for Leyton Orient to extend their unbeaten league run to 5 games takes them up a place into 5th the top half of the table very tight.
New leaders of the FAWNL Southern Division as Chichester City Ladies move to the top of the pile with a home victory taking advantage of Coventry United Ladies not being involved in league action for the 2nd successive weekend. Chichester City capitalising closed the gap to the leaders last Sunday with a 1-0 home win over Cardiff City Ladies go above them with their 2nd successive 3 point haul on home soil this Sunday. Were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies, Cherelle Khassel scoring the only goal of the 1st half just past the half hour to see Chichester City with the narrow lead at half-time. Molly Clark with her 8th strike of the season firing the hosts into a 2-0 2 minutes after the restart. The 2-0 win taking Chichester City to the top 2 points ahead of Coventry.
A great 2nd half for Loughborough Foxes Women saw them win for the successive game in league and cup 6 points from their last 2 matches in the Southern Premier Division seeing them climb up to fifth in the table 2 points behind 4th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies who were their opponents this Sunday. Plymouth at home this weekend haven’t lost a game since the end of August taking them up into 4th spot, chances in the 1st half to open the scoring denied by the post and a disallowed goal the sides drawing a blank at half-time. Rebecca McGrother breaking the deadlock 7 minutes into the 2nd half. Chloe Young then doubling Loughborough’s lead 4 minutes later heading in from a corner. McGrother hitting a screamer to find the back of the net made it 3-0 with 67 minutes gone. Her 3rd goal another quality strike to complete her hat-trick in the final 10 minutes securing a 4-0 win for Loughborough.
Kylie Nolan scored in the opening minute for Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday as they took on Oxford United Women at home. Defending the goal for much of the game Oxford getting back on level terms late on the game entering the final 15 minutes. Georgia Timms with the strike to make it 1-1 and see the sides take a share of the points, enough to keep Oxford in the top half of the Southern Premier Division table.
FAWNL South East Division One
The top 2 met in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies hosting leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies. Both promoted to the league this season have had fantastic starts a 2 point lead for Crawley who have a 100% win rate after 7 games played. A close 1st half saw the sides drawing 0-0. The stale mate broken 15 minutes into the 2nd half. Emma Plewa played through on goal to score her 7th goal of the season. Naomi Cole doubling Crawley’s lead with the game entering the final 10 minutes scoring for the 8th time this season. The 2-0 victory seeing Crawley open up a 5 point lead on their nearest rivals and keep their 100% record going.
A great week for Enfield Town Ladies, very tight in the middle of the South East Division One, Enfield were in action on Tuesday night, the visitors taking on Luton Town Ladies as the Bedfordshire side got to play again at Kenilworth Road. 1st half goals from, Sasha Kelly and Nuala McKevitt sealing a 2-0 win for Enfield lifting them up into 3rd position. Built on that result away from home this Sunday too capping off a good 6 days with 6 points. Away to Actonians Ladies. It was goalless between the sides at the half-time interval. Katherine Long giving Enfield the lead on 58 minutes her 1st goal of the season. Sasha Kelly extending Enfield’s lead with 20 minutes left, her 4th goal of the season to secure the 3 points.
Enfield Town Ladies, Katherine Long
A 3rd successive league win for AFC Wimbledon Ladies sees them consolidate 4th spot in South East Division One. Their latest 3 point haul coming at home on Sunday up against Norwich City Ladies, who faced delays on their journey down to Carshalton Athletic FC. The hosts starting brightly getting themselves into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes, Jenny Nagle scoring in the 5th minute, Caroline Bisson getting Wimbledon’s 2nd just 4 minutes later. Kathryn Stanley pulling a goal back for Norwich just before the half hour mark, Wimbledon responding straight away to restore their 2 goal lead Nagle with her 2nd of the game adding Wimbledon’s 3rd .3-1 the lead at half-time Katie Stanley striking from a free-kick early in the 2nd half put Wimbledon into a strong position, 4-1 up Norwich got a goal back with 20 minutes left Reeanna Cook scoring. The early goals the difference as Wimbledon went on to win 4-2.
A last gasp equaliser saw Leyton Orient WFC grab a point at home on Sunday, in South East Division One were hosting Ipswich Town Women who were looking to extend their winning run to 5 games. A fantastic strike from Zoe Cossey firing Ipswich into an early lead scoring on 10 minutes the difference between the sides at half-time. Paige Wakefield finding the back of the net from a corner doubling the visitors lead, 3 minutes into the 2nd half. 2-0 up with 10 minutes left Leyton Orient were to mount a late comeback Egle Trezzi pulling the score back to 2-1 in the 3rd minute, Hayley Barton levelling the scores in the dying seconds to rescue a point. 5th and 6th both sides on 12 points.
Stevenage Ladies move onto 10 points level with 7th placed Actonians Ladies to move further away from the bottom sides winning away from home on Sunday at Denham United Ladies. Ashleigh Deacon opening the scoring for Stevenage midway through the 1st half, her goal quickly followed by another with Amy Makewell on target with her 5th goal of the season. 2-0 up at half-time, Denham pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half, Kayleigh Currivan on the scoresheet but the hosts were unable to breach the Stevenage defence for a 2nd time, the visitors winning 2-1.
A tough week for Luton Town Ladies at the foot of South East Division One a heavy defeat away to leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies last Sunday were back in action again on Tuesday evening laying at Kenilworth Road suffered a 2-0 defeat to Enfield Town Ladies. Wee on the road again this Sunday taking on Cambridge United Women who with only 5 points on the board themselves were looking to pull away from the bottom. A single goal enough to secure the win for Cambridge coming from the penalty spot, new signing Becky Shepherd scoring her 3rd goal of the season.
Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with only one of the top 4 sides in action it was a chance for Chichester City Ladies up to the dizzy heights of 2nd to claim another 3 point haul and close the gap on leaders Coventry United Ladies to a single point. Back at home after six weeks Chichester were taking on Cardiff City Ladies who were unbeaten in the league since losing on the opening day, with games in hand on all the sides above them too. It was likely to be a close game Cardiff scoring on average 4 goals a game so far this season, Chichester with a good defensive record to match their good start to the season, Molly Clark scoring for the hosts late in the 1st half to give Chichester the lead. Solid in the 2nd half they became the 1st team of the season to prevent Cardiff scoring to win the game and close the gap on the leaders.
Cardiff dropping down to 7th in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that defeat the sides below them getting positive results on. Oxford United Women up to 5th on the table with an away win on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. Florence Fyfe with her 3rd goal of the season scoring to see Oxford lead the Essex side 1-0 in the 28th minute. The game far from settled Oxford defending their goal advantage made the result safe 2 minutes into stoppage time Fyfe netting her 2nd goal of the game to see Oxford return home with the win.
A fantastic start to the season from newly promoted Loughborough Foxes Women 7 points from their opening 3 league games was followed by 4 straight defeats that run ending last Sunday with an away win over QPR Women in the FAWNL Cup. Looking to build on that result returned to league action at home to Milton Keynes Dons this Sunday. Captain Shauna Chambers firing Loughborough into the lead just past the half-hour. Charlotte Cooper putting the hosts 2-0 up late in the first half. Loughborough extending their lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half Eva Rogers getting on the scoresheet. 3 quickly became 4 Ria Acton scoring just a minute later. Acton brought down in the box, Laura Steele converting the penalty to see Loughborough 5-0 up with an hour played. Millie Chandarana adding a 6th goal in the final 15 minutes to see Loughborough win and climb back up into the top half of the table.
FAWNL Cup
Two 2nd Round ties to be settled in the FAWNL Cup this weekend, both fixtures affected by the weather a fortnight ago. Cambridge United Women were drawn at home to fellow South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC. The visitors with chances in the 1st half to get themselves into the lead the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time however it was a hat-trick from Cambridge full-back, Emma Jenkins that sent the host side through. In the right place inside the box from a corner to head the ball home to put Cambridge into the lead. The lead doubled from another corner kick, Jenkins celebrating the hat-trick by getting onto the end of a free-kick to seal the win for Cambridge, who will now face AFC Wimbledon Ladies away from home in the 3rd Round.
A hat-trick for Cambridge United Women’s, Emma Jenkins
In the other 2nd Round tie Southern Premier Division high-flyers Plymouth Argyle Ladies were on the road taking on Southampton Women currently leading South West Division One with a 100% winning start. A goal from Helen Bleazard the difference between the sides, Plymouth with the lead in the 36th minute. Southampton getting themselves back on level terms on the hour with Natalie Bavister firing the ball home to make it 1-1. The score level going into the final 10 minutes Jessie Jones with a late double to send Plymouth through to the 3rd Round finding the back of the net in the 84th minute to restore the visitors lead adding another in stoppage time to secure the win. A home tie against the unbeaten leaders of South East Division One awaits as Plymouth will take on Crawley Wasps Ladies.
The full draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Cup listed below, ties scheduled to be played Sun 9th December.
FAWNL Cup 3rd Round
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Hull City Ladies
Blackburn Rovers Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies
Stoke City Ladies v Leeds United Ladies
AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Cambridge United Women
Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women
Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies
Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games played in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps Ladies returning to the top of the table as they continued their 100% winning start to the season with a comfortable result at home to bottom side Luton Town Ladies. Sian Heather opening the scoring 1st half capitalising as Luton failed to clear the ball. The lead doubled from the penalty spot Naomi Cole composed sending the keeper the wrong way. 2-0 up at half-time Crawley added to the score 2nd half Ariana Fleischman turning inside the area slotting the ball in to make it 3. Darcy James scoring from a corner. Megan Stow putting Crawley 5-0 up, Faye Rabson netting fro close range sealed a 6-0 win to return Crawley to the top of the league.
Behind the leading pair in FAWNL South East Division One it as extremely tight a win for any side down as far as 7th could see them make huge gains in term of league position and that is exactly what AFC Wimbledon Ladies did on Sunday winning the 3 points to leap all the way up to 3rd position. At home Wimbledon were taking on Denham United Ladies. Rebecca Sargeant putting the hosts into the lead midway through the 1st half, Jenny Nagle adding a 2nd goal for Wimbledon deep into 1st half stoppage time. The lead made more comfortable 10 minutes into the 2nd period with Caroline Bisson scoring her 5th goal of the season. The final score 4-0 Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins scoring with 20 minutes left her 1st goal of the season.
