Tag Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

The Round-Up – FAWNL 17/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th February

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A County Cup weekend across the country saw a limited number of games played in the FAWNL this Sunday with several teams involved in the latter stages of their various cup competitions a few from the county’s covered by Women’s Football East will get a mention later on this weeks 1st edition of The Round-Up concentrates on the games that did take place in the FAWNL itself this Sunday with a look back to the games that took place under the lights during midweek.

Four games were played in the Southern Premier Division last week, 2nd placed Coventry United Ladies closing the gap to 2 points on leaders Chichester City Ladies who saw their game away to Portsmouth FC Women postponed. Coventry travelling to played Loughborough Foxes Women. Amber Hughes striking in the 9th minute to hand Coventry an early lead her 12th goal of the campaign. Amy Wathan the lead goalscorer just head of Hughes doubling the lead in the 36th minute her 14th of the season. No further goals added in the 2nd half Coventry winning 2-0 are unbeaten in the league with 10 wins from 11 played 3 games in hand on Chichester.

Also on Thursday night it was a high scoring game between Gillingham FC Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies. An eventful match Gillingham opening the scoring inside 2 minutes with Alice Bussey on target. The visitors from Essex responding quickly with Courtney Clarke scoring to equalise for Basildon. Gemma Abela struck the ball home from 25 yards to put Basildon into the lead in the 15th minute. Midway through the 1st half it was Gillingham’s turn to level the scores Ellie Manning scoring against her former club. 2-2 at the break Gillingham restored their lead just past the hour with Grace Seely finding the back of the net. The game closing in on the final 10 minutes Gillingham got themselves a 2 goal cushion with midfielder player Daisy Monaghan scoring. Holly Turner puling it back to 4-3 to set up a nervous end to the game with 7 minutes left on the clock, in the end it was Gillingham who got a further goal to win the game 5-3 with Samantha Booker getting the goal in the 87th minute.

Two games before that on Wednesday evening. A trip to the Stadium MK for Oxford United Women as they took on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in the league. Not much separating the sides first half Florence Fyfe scoring in the final minute of the half to put Oxford into the lead with her 9th goal of the season. Oxford defending thier narrow advantage as the game approached the final 10 minutes, a goal from Emily Allen seeing the visitors go 2-0 up a 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the first for Oxford for new signing Cheryl Williams. Oxford up into 4th place in the Southern Premier Division table.

Queen’s Park Rangers Women were hosting Watford Ladies on Wednesday night the host taking an early lead in the game with Jo Wilson on target in the 2nd minute. Watford levelling the scores midway through the first half with Helen Ward top scorer for Watford getting her 16th goal of the campaign. QPR working hard kept Watford from finding another goal to earn a useful point ending the game with 10 as Hollie Hogan was red carded in the final minute.

Is all very tight in the chasing pack as Cardiff City Ladies playing in the only Southern Premier Division fixture on Sunday away to Gillingham picked up their 8th win of the season to climb up to 3rd in the table and see 3 sides ties on 25 points with Oxford 4th, Watford 5th and Loughborough Foxes Women just 2 points further back in 6th. Travelling to Kent to take on Gillingham the sides fought out a goalless 1st half, the dead lock broken on the hour with Emma Jones firing a shot home to put Cardiff 1 up. Remained tight Cardiff defending late in as Gillingham pushed for a reply deep into stoppage time the visitors breaking Kylie Nolan firing the ball home to seal the win for Cardiff.

FAWNL Cup

Both in action in midweek Loughborough Foxes Women were at home taking on South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side getting their noses in front late in the first half with Charlotte Cooper getting to the ball first at the near post to turn the ball into the back of the net to see the hosts leading 1-0 at half-time. Loughborough doubling the advantage early in the 2nd half with Rebecca McGrother putting the ball in from close range at the far post off a right wing cross. McGrother scoring again in stoppage time as Loughborough hit their opponents on the counter to win 3-0 and book their place in the last 4. An away trip to either Northern Premier Division leaders or 2nd placed Huddersfield Town Ladies awaits in the semi-final with the pair meeting this coming Sunday.

Coventry United Ladies are at home to Crawley Wasps Ladies also this coming Sunday in the FAWNL Cup the winners will be at home to Northern Division One side Bolton Wanderers Ladies in the semi-finals both games scheduled for Sun 3rd March.

In the last 4 of the FAWNL Plate competition, Gillingham FC Ladies will be at home to West Bromich Albion Ladies. Liverpool Feds Women will be away to the winners of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies & Keynsham Town Ladies who meet this coming Sunday. Again both games to be played Sun 3rd March.

FAWNL South East Division One

Again their was just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, but we’ll begin with the action in midweek. 4 games played on Wednesday night. One of those is were Women’s Football East was a trip to Plantation Park to watch the East Anglian Derby between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women. Ipswich starting the bright had a couple of efforts cannon off the woodwork it was Norwich whoever who took the lead a well worked goal through the middle of the park started and finished by Reeanna Cook the young midfielder getting into the box left of goal curling a strike into the top corner. 1-0 the lead at half-time striker Chelsea Garrett was introduced for Norwich making her return after 3 months out injured made a immediate impact running onto a ball forwards in behind and striking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 in the 46th minute. Norwich growing in confidence were the better side in the 2nd period Cook with a driving run on the left firing home late in the game for her 2nd of the game and Norwich’s 3rd to take the 3 points climb above their rivals. Head coach Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role at Ipswich after the game.

South East Division One leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Wednesday. An early goal for Crawley Rachel Palmer sending the ball in as Megan Stow squared it to her from a cleared corner. Wimbledon coming close to an equaliser Crawley taking a 2-0 lead in the game inside the opening quarter hour with Kemina Webber scoring. The visitors awarded a brace of penalties late in the 1st half Naomi Cole converting both in the 36th and 44th minute to see them lead 4-0 at the break. No more goals added in the 2nd period Crawley’s 100% record extended to 11 games in the league.

A brace from Zoe Rushen was the difference between the sides as 2nd placed Billericay Town Lades took on Leyton Orient WFC on Wednesday night. Rushen on target with a goal in each half. Leyton Orient pressing for an equaliser drawing level in the 65th minute with Egle Trezzi making it 1-1. Rushen on the scoresheet again to make it 2-1 and win the game for Billericay.

The points were shared in the other match played in South East Division One on Wednesday night with Cambridge United WFC travelling to Hertford Town FC to play Stevenage Ladies. Goalless at the break between the sides Vicky Neal getting the ball past the keeper to put Cambridge into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Stevenage coming back to rescue a point late on the game with former Cambridge player Ashleigh Deacon scoring to make it 1-1 in the 87th minute.

Stevenage were at home again on Sunday the latest side to try and put an end to Crawley Wasps 100% record in the league. Crawley maintaining strong form throughout the season aren’t keen on giving it up. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with Amy Woollard on target for her first goal for Crawley. Kemina Webber scoring to see Crawley leading 2-0 in the 45th minute. Megan Stow further extending the visitors lead with a goal in the 58th minute to make it 3-0, a quick fire brace from Naomi Cole and Webber in the 62nd & 64th minutes putting Crawley in full control of the game Cole went on to add a 2nd with a spectacular strike from centreback Charlotte Young in the final minute sealing a 7-0 win, 12 wins from 12 now Crawley 7 points clear at the top of the table.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Ipswich Town Women

Wednesday 13th February

FAWNL South East Division One

A spot of midweek football action this Wednesday evening with a trip up the A47 to watch the East Anglian Derby match between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women at Plantation Park the two sides meeting just 4 days after the men’s clubs went head to head at Carrow Road.

Both these sides stalwarts of the FAWNL South East Division One as it’s currently known have seen it’s many guises over recent season’s remains the 4th tier in the women’s football pyramid. Both East Anglian clubs with ambitions to climb out of Division One and into the Southern Premier Division above.

Ipswich lay in 7th spot going into this evenings game with Norwich a place and 2 points behind in what is a tightly contest league once again this season a real tussle for position in the middle of the table any team getting a run of results going likely to find themselves in the top 5 or higher such is the competition, Crawley Wasps Ladies aside who have a 100% after 10 played to lead the way look strong contenders for the title and promotion.

A change of coaching personnel towards the end of last for Norwich, Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team now. The side languishing at the wrong end of the season for a couple of seasons prior, have improved this campaign a good balance of youth and experience, fitness also worked on results and performances see them looking to push up the table instead off getting dragged into relegation zone. 4 wins to date in the league two of those coming under the lights including their 1st win of the season a 1-0 result away to Ipswich in the reverse fixture.

Carla Dickinson taking over as 1st team manager at Ipswich Town Women at the beginning of the season worked with Grant Palmer at Norwich prior to taking on the head coaches role. Taking charge of a side challenging at the top end of the league recently, has brought in several new faces to the squad, amongst them Toni-Anne Wayne now enjoying playing an outfield role after keeper goal for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies for a number of season prior. Midfielder Ceira Flatt joining from Acle United Women, with two new signings announced on the eve of this evenings derby, Amy Nash and Georgia Box joining from Billericay Town Ladies, a over that sees Kerry Stimson and Laken Duchar Clark head in the opposite direction. Recent form against Ipswich with just the one point collected from their last 4 league games.

A good atmosphere building at Plantation Park before the game the positive result for the Canaries on Sunday seeing the timing of this evenings derby match spot on, the club hoping the feel good factor will see an increased attendance and it looked positive with a crowd in excess of 230. The pitch at Plantation Park seeing plenty pf action, offering plenty of width is a good size the bar overlooking one goal a small seated stand along one side of the pitch. Has been a mild day, dry the evening air cooling but no chance of rain.

Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Tigi Robson, Alice Parker, Sasha Diston (C), Laura Tacker, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Kathryn Stanley & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Eliza McDonald, Keunna Dill, Christina Papadopolou, Rosie George & Chelsea Garrett.

Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Sian Fagg (C), Jac Ball, Gemma Moore, Hannah Petley, Florence Cage, Jordan Arnoup, Cassie Craddock, Natasha Thomas, Zoe Cossey, Amy Nash & Toni-Anne Wayne. Subs – Danni Clarke, Sophie Welton, Paige Wakefield, Ciera Flatt & Georgia Box.

New signing Amy Nash starts for Ipswich with fellow new signing Georgia Box on the bench for Ipswich the visitors kitted out in blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Norwich wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green banded socks the home side to kick off the game under the lights. The hosts playing the ball out to Aimee Durrant getting forwards on the right wing, Jac Ball dealing with the threat for Ipswich heading the ball back to goalkeeper Sian Fagg wearing the captains armband.

Ipswich get straight down the other end the ball played on for Toni_Anne Wayne moving out to the right squares the ball back across the top of the Norwich area for Natasha Thomas back to goal she helps it on into the path of Jac Ball racing on on the left takes on the shot from the angle hits it well rising her powerful strike smashes against the crossbar.

Norwich build from the back the ball played on up the left side Kathryn Stanley giving chase, Gemma Moore getting to the ball just before the attacker clears it for the throw. Norwich look to plough a path through the middle of the park Millie Daviss with support from Reeanna Cook and Natasha Snelling, Florence Cage and Hannah Petley playing in the centre of defence for Ipswich close the door break up the attack.

The ball intercepted at the back Laura Thacker for Norwich playing the ball into Jodie Drake in midfield, sees the ball into her feet well turns cleverly sending an over the top pass on for Durrant breaking right, Fagg reacts quickly getting out to lay claim to it before the winger can pounce. A good tempo to the game both sides looking to move the ball quickly, Ipswich pressing Norwich.

Daviss and Cook look to combine through the centre of midfield as they drive forwards a tackle seeing the ball pop loose into the path of Snelling she sends it on over the defence into the area, Durrant alert to it however Fagg can safely claim it first. Jordan Arnoup picking the ball up in midfield for Ipswich plays a good early ball out to the right for Amy Nash to go after, Alice Parker recovering to get across her the full back can see it out for a goal kick.

Zoe Cossey moving right keeps the ball well beating three players as she looks to come inside the Ipswich attackers shot saved by Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong at her near post the ball behind for a corner. The high ball in cleared back to the taker on the right side, Norwich winning in back look to counter, Cossey with a superb tackle regaining possession driving on from 30 yards out cuts inside closing in on the area unleashes a shot the dipping ball cannoning off the crossbar once gain.

A couple of over exuberant challenges coming in both sides getting on with it however. Ipswich continuing their bright start attack down the left side a driving run and shot from Ball, Armstrong coming across her goal claiming it. Norwich starting to gain a little momentum the ball won in the middle, Jodie Drake on for Cook she plays the pass on for Durrant breaking forwards on the right wing her cross/shot into the area held safely by Fagg at her near post.

GOAL! 15 minutes on the board and Norwich take the lead strong build-up play in the middle the move beginning with Cook a powerful run forwards on the ball support from Daviss to her right the two drive on the ball played into Snelling back to goal 20 yards out central, holds it up Cook continuing forward moves left the ball coming into her she controls to take the ball away from her body and setting herself curls a fine strike past the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.

Cook with good work to win the ball once again in the middle looks to release Stanley on the left side, Florence Cage getting out to her to tackle and regain the ball for Ipswich. Nash doing well on the right an experienced player able to get the ball in behind her full back the tempo remains high Norwich pacy in their build up play. Snelling peeling away to the left sees her cross into the area taken by Fagg. Cossey looking to take something happen in the final 3rd lays the ball inside for Cassie Craddock the midfielder closed down by Norwich captain Sasha Diston outside the area.

Daviss wins the ball in the midfield is quick to play the pass on for Snelling breaking forwards moving right, Ball defends for Ipswich. Snelling back to goal outside the area sees the ball into her feet holding off her marker lays in back for the onrushing Drake her shot charged down by Hannah Petley. Craddock with the pass to pick out Nash getting clear on the right she squared a cross along to top of the Norwich area the ball cleared by Laura Thacker before Wayne can reach it.

The ball is pinging about in midfield as players from both sides close each other down, Ipswich managing to get it clear on for Nash running away on the right closing in on the byline lays the ball back inside Wayne taking on the first time strike can’t keep her shot down. Cage with some great defensive work closing down Snelling as Stanley breaking on the right plays the ball inside to the attacker. Cook lifts the ball on central for Snelling looking to bring it down under control as she closes down Cage the Ipswich defender doing well under pressure to deny a shooting opportunity.

A free-kick for Ipswich wide right level with the top of the Norwich area the ball fired into Nash position top right hand corner she drives a shot in through the crowd, Armstrong seeing it late down well to parry it away the ball loose latched onto by Thomas hits it hard close range Armstrong making another great stop to stop Ipswich levelling the scores with less than 10 minutes of the 1st half left to play.

Norwich get up the other end a throw won on the right dropped into Daviss she surges forwards knocking the ball on trying to get into the area Snelling with her the door shut the ball cleared is latched onto by either Cook or Drake 25 yards out a low shot driven in coming through bodies Fagg is well positioned to drop and claim the ball. Norwich finishing the half well pushing forwards Stanley into Snelling more good hold up play before sending the pass out to Drake making a run right of her takes on the shot lacks the power trouble Fagg. A good tackle from Tigi Robson stops a late Ipswich attack as the visitors look to break in behind on the wing.

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-0 Ipswich Town Women

Norwich holding the slender lead at the break. The game played at a good tempo the half racing by. Ipswich starting well striking the woodwork twice and denied too with a terrific double save from Armstrong. Norwich grew into the game good build-up play purposeful and with pace Cook taking her goal very well to see the hosts leading. All set up for another intriguing 45 minutes play.

Norwich making a change at half-time Stanley the player subbed on comes Chelsea Garrett, making her return after a 3 month long injury lay off. It’s Ipswich to get things underway in the 2nd half.

GOAL! The ball played out to the right wing, Robson over that side now winning the ball for Norwich put up field centrally Garrett running onto the ball breaks in behind and races for the box let’s fly from the top of the area the ball racing past Fagg and into the back of the net, a perfect start to the 2nd half for Norwich and a scoring return for Garrett moments after coming on 2-0.

A blow for Ipswich right at the start of the 2nd half, no time to get into place any game plan talked about at half-time. Norwich gaining confidence Durrant getting clear on the right wing driving on sweeps a cross in centrally, Cook getting her head on it top of the area left of the D the ball looping up and wide of goal. Cossey as busy as ever in the middle off the park gaining possession running on putting the ball on into Wayne she spins tries to play the ball on for Nash to get in behind on the right, just too much weight on the pass.

Cossey central brings the ball on laying it out to Nash left of her outside the Norwich area Arnoup central, Nash plays her in she sends it out for Thomas breaking into the area to her right comes inside shooting from close range Armstrong making the blocking save. Ipswich make their first change of the game with Craddock coming of Paige Wakefield coming on. Garrett adding a threat centrally in attack for Norwich, Snelling coming left the midfielders sitting back more. Thomas pushes on down the right, in behind Robson, Diston coming across slides into the challenge the ball out for a throw. Cossey gathering the ball turns and drives towards the top of the area, strikes the ball well her effort fired wide across Armstrong’s goal.

Durrant is finding space on the right as Ipswich push up played in behind she is quick on the ball taking it down the line fires an inviting ball into the six yard box Garrett their looks set to turn it in but for the timely arrival of Moore the right back with a fine piece of defensive work in a dangerous area. Ipswich with a throw high on the right into Wayne given to Cossey she comes inside along the top of the area slips as she goes to shoot the ball harmlessly through to the keeper. Nash this time wide on the left for Ipswich taking the ball to the byline fires a ball in across goal Wayne meeting it first time the shot blocked Thomas closed down as she tries to latch onto the loose ball.

Just over an hour played and Nash’s work is done for the evening a good debut. Her replacement Sophie Welton who takes up a position on the right. Soon after Norwich make their 2nd change Snelling coming off on comes Christina Papadopolou, the Greek player making her 3rd appearance for Norwich. 65 minutes played.

Norwich playing the better 2nd half pushing forwards well as a unit win a corner right side the ball delivered into Garrett position central outside the box turns the ball into the box her low strike racing wide of goal. Ipswich win a free-kick inside the Norwich half, Arnoup over the ball plays it high into the box, Diston under it heading firmly clear for Norwich. The game opening up Ipswich counter attack Wakefield getting furthest forwards tries to take the ball on into the area is stopped by Thacker, Norwich turning the attack around counter themselves Durrant still full of energy bursting away right side fires a low cross into the area Cook meeting it 8 yards out her near post shot saved well by Fagg pushed behind for the corner.

Norwich are getting stronger as the 2nd half progresses Ipswich looking a little disjointed are getting out of shape a few last gasp challenges made as Garrett breaks forwards with support to her left and right, Arnoup going into the book following a strong tackle sliding in 25 out. The resulting shot from the free-kick dropping wide of goal. Welton getting forwards on the right for Ipswich her cross into the box gets through the defensive comes into Thomas unexpectedly gets a first time shot away the attempt sliced wide of goal.

Durrant clear again right side as a deflected ball in the middle loops in behind the Ipswich defence, Cage and then Ball get back to defend, trying to get out Norwich close the ball down regain possession in the final third the cross played in Garrett with the shot central the ball claimed by Fagg. Cossey has picked up a knock comes off with 12 minutes to go, Georgia Box coming on to make her Ipswich debut. Durrant is showing no signs of fatigue breaks away right again lays the ball in central Garrett attempting a deft header for Papadopolou, the ball headed clear by Petley.

Wakefield links up with Welton on the right for Ipswich the midfielder laying the ball out to the winger receiving the return pass inside the area her shot held by Armstrong covering her near post. Norwich remain lively win a corner right side a good delivery into the six yard box Fagg doing well amongst the crowd to get a firm fist on the ball. The ball collected far side the ball back in a tackle seeing it deflected behind for another corner, Norwich taking the opportunity to make a change it’s the taker Durrant coming off, on in her place a Keumma Dill for her first Norwich appearance studying at the University of East Anglia is a Burmudian International.

The corner coming in high claimed by Fagg she launches an attack Ipswich getting the ball out to the right, Parker over that side winning the tackle for Norwich the ball out for a throw, end to end in the closing stages of the game, Garrett breaking with the ball tackled by Cage, the ball put up field Box has it left outside the box Ball around her on the overlap played in her low cross fired into the area cleared by the back tracking Drake.

GOAL! Into the final five minutes a free-kick to Norwich on halfway the ball played out to the left onto the path of Cook the young midfielder driving forwards turning towards the area and shoots a powerful strike racing past Fagg into the bottom corner to assure the 3 points for Norwich 3-0.

The hosts remain full of energy Cook combining through the middle with Garrett central Cage putting an end to the move. Dill with the ball right cuts it inside with Cook running on, she attempt to slide the ball into the area for Garrett, Fagg can lay claim to it before the attacker. One last attack for Ipswich the ball played on Wayne doing well chasing it down top of the area holding it up getting the pass into Box arriving left side her shot scooped up into the area taken cleanly by Armstrong.

Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Ipswich Town Women

A 3-0 win to Norwich the 3 points seeing them leap frog Ipswich in the South East Division One and leaves them just a point off the top half. By far the stronger side in the 2nd half an early goal in the 2nd period helping the cause working well together gaining confidence and maintaining great energy levels throughout. Enjoy playing under the lights this their 3rd league win this season in mid-week. Buoyed by a good sized crowd wiling them on. Were clinical in their chances with 3 well taken goals.

Ipswich starting the game well creating opportunities and could have had the lead themselves. Became a little disjointed as the game wore on not reading each other as well as Norwich were, individuals at times plenty of talent it wasn’t happening for them tonight.

Breaking news as I finish up this match report with Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role as Head Coach, sorry to hear and wish Carla all the best for the future.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders for Norwich, will mention Zoe Cossey for Ipswich first some great runs with the ball is hard to tackle when she gets going created several openings. For Norwich a fine double stop from Hope Armstrong. Aimee Durrant might have stopped running by now a threat on the right all game especially 2nd half. Chelsea Garrett with a immediate attack kept the Ipswich defence busy. Reeanna Cook gets the award however with some fantastic work in midfield winning the ball getting involved in the forward play adding pace and urgency to the attack and taking her two goals superbly.

An enjoyable game under the lights good to see a decent crowd, my thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams.

The Round-Up FAWNL 10/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th Feb

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

It was once again another weather affected weekend across the football fixtures lists with games called off at all levels. A limited programme in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with just the two games scheduled. Leaders, Chichester City Ladies were looking to extend their 5 point lead at the top of the table with a win away to mid-table Oxford United Women on Sunday. The sides goalless at half-time Chichester creating the better opportunities, Oxford’s Georgia Timms seeing an effort come back off the woodwork. Lucy Thomas making some excellent saves in goal for the hosts the dead lock was broken in the 66th minute Timms’ heading the ball into the back of the net from a corner her goal proving to be enough as Oxford kept Chichester out at the other end to win their 7th game of the season. Chichester with their 3rd defeat of the campaign.

Plenty of goals in the other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday between Watford FC Ladies and Portsmouth FC Women. The game played at Letchworth’s County Ground a new playing surface. Eilidh Currie was making her 100th appearance for Portsmouth. Watford opening the scoring with Helen Ward making it 1-0 on 21 minutes, and own goal a few minutes later seeing the advantage doubled. Portsmouth reducing the deficit with a minute left of the 1st half with Shannon Albuery scoring to make it 2-1.

Half-time a 2-1 lead for Watford two quick goals at the start of the 2nd period putting the hosts into a strong positing Ward getting her 2nd of the game on 46 minutes, turned assist for Leanne Bell to score just a couple of minutes later. The game far from over however as Portsmouth mounted a strong come back awarded a penalty just past the hour, Rachel Panting firing the ball home to make it 4-2, Rebecca Bath on the scoresheet for Portsmouth soon after to make it 4-3 set up a frantic finish the game in stoppage time when the visitors grabbed the equalising goal Katie James with the finish making it 4-4. Time for a winner with Watford responding straight away attacking the ball crossed along the face of goal finding Ward at the far post to tap the ball in and celebrate her hat-trick and a 5-4 victory for Watford that sees them back up to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table.

Watford FC Ladies, Helen Ward

FAWNL South East Division One

Two of the 4 games scheduled in FAWNL South East Division One beat the weather on Sunday. It was 4th at home to 2nd in the league at the weekend with Enfield Town Ladies hosting Billericay Town Ladies both sides enjoying a good season to date. Opportunities for both in the 1st half the scores remained goalless at the break. Enfield taking the lead early in the 2nd half with Eliza Diaz on target to make it 1-0. Billericay were giving a debut to goalkeeper Gemma Crowe, the Essex side responding quickly to falling a goal behind equalised and then went on to take a 2-1 lead themselves, Lindsey Morgan and Jay Blackie with the goals. Leyla Yahioglu introduced in the 64th minute to make her 1st appearance for Enfield celebrated the occasion by getting a goal with 10 minutes remaining to level the scores and see the sides share the points.

Is a tight race in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC with a chance to climb up into 3rd spot themselves if they could secure the win at home to struggling Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both keepers called into action Leyton Orient saw a Sophie Le Marchand effort ruled off for offside. Denham proving hard to break down took an early lead in the 2nd half with Meila D’Santos finding the bottom corner to make it 1-0 the visitors going 2-0 to the good with Emma Kern’s effort trickling over the line in the 55th minute. Denham working hard to keep their lead and win for just the 2nd time this season the 3 points much needed applying a little bit of pressure to the sides above.

FAWNL Plate

One game from the quarter finals of the FAWNL Pate competition this Sunday with Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies away to Stevenage Ladies from South East Division One. Stevenage having a few missing through injury including captain Paige Logie who has unfortunately suffered an ACL injury that will see her ruled out for the rest of the season. Despite thier injury problems Stevenage started the game well but against the run of play Gillingham took the lead scoring in the 23rd minute. An over the top ball seeing Gillingham double their lead, a 3rd goal coming early in the 2nd half Gillingham going on to win the game 4-0 to book their place in the last four.

Will be joined in the hat by West Bromich Albion Women who were 1-0 away winners against Barnsley Ladies this Sunday and Liverpool Feds Women from Northern Division One who beat Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women 2-0. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are at home to Keynsham Town Ladies this coming Sunday in the last Plate quarter final.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 27/01/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 27th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

It was a bitterly cold and windy end to the month , not the best conditions for playing football at all across the region. The weather once again affecting the fixtures although not to as large extend as last weekend this time around 10 games fell by the way side. 3 of those fixtures in the Southern Premier Division with Coventry United, Plymouth Argyle and Watford seeing their home games called off.

With 2nd placed Coventry United not playing that gave a chance for Chichester City Ladies to extend their lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division on Sunday as they played host to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Leading Coventry United by 2 points. The visitors getting off to a great start forcing a save in the opening 2 minutes were awarded a penalty for handball a minute later Charley Clarke striking from the spot to put Milton Keynes Dons into the lead. Both sides creating opportunities Chichester coming back to level the score in 1st half injury time Molly Clark scoring from a 30 yard free-kick.

1-1 at the break it was Chichester who got off to a flyer in the 2nd going 2-1 up Lauren Cheshire getting the goal the hosts racing into a 3-1 lead with Rebecca Barron scoring from a corner kick. Milton Keynes pulling it back to 3-2 on the hour with Amy Gooderham scoring her 1st Milton Keynes Dons goal. Chichester hitting the visitors with 2 quickfire goals to secure the game with a 5-2 lead, Sara Tubby scoring both from corner in the 65th minute then adding her 2nd 2 minutes later. Chichester opening up a 5 point lead at the top of the table.

Good results for the sides chasing the leading pair too at the weekend with both 4th placed Loughborough Foxes Women & 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies getting the 3 points to overhaul 3rd placed Watford Ladies whose game at home to Oxford United was called off on Sunday. Loughborough were away taking on bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side still looking for their 1st league win of the season were doing well holding Loughborough to a goalless scoreline at the break. The stalemate broken with just under an hour played Charlotte Cooper scoring for the 6th time this season to put Loughborough into the lead. Chloe Young making the 3 points more secure as she doubled the visitors lead with 10 minutes left to play. The 2-0 win lifting Loughborough up into 3rd position in the Southern Premier Division table.

A 4th straight league win now for Cardiff City Ladies in the Southern Premier Division, won the 3 points with a emphatic win on the road against Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday. The visitors getting into a comfortable 3-0 lead at half-time went on to double that tally in the 2nd half. Kylie Nolan opening the scoring in the 26th minute. Injuries affecting QPR forced into early changes, Nolan doubled Cardiff’s lead in the 36th minute with Jordan Guard putting the ball into the net in the final minute of the 1st half. Grace Horrell adding Cardiff’s 4th goal early in the 2nd half, Emma Jones making it 5-0 midway through the 2nd period, Nolan completing her hat-trick in the last 10 minutes.

FAWNL South East Division One

10 wins from 10 now in South East Division One for Crawley Wasps Ladies as they continue their excellent season with a flurry of late goals claim the 3 points at home to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A close contest Leyton Orient doing well the sides tied at 0-0 going into the half-time interval. The deadlock broken 10 minutes into the 2nd half with Kemina Webber firing Crawley into the lead. The advantage didn’t last long however with Leyton Orient back on level terms just 4 minutes later Lisa Holmback making it 1-1. The game heading into the final 10 minutes could this be the game Crawley drop points for the 1st time this season… a strong end to the game from the home side with two quick-fire goals from Naomi Cole and Rachel Palmer putting the 3-1 up, Jenny Drury adding a 4th goal in stoppage time to see Crawley keep on their winning run.

Ipswich Town Women were hosting Cambridge United WFC on Sunday in South East Division One both sides involved in the jostle for position in the middle of the table. Captain Cassie Craddock firing Ipswich into the lead midway through the first half scoring from a long range free-kick. A 2nd goal for the hosts added on the stroke of half-time with Toni-Anne Wayne sending the ball home. The visitors coming back to get themselves a point from the game with a quickfire double, Becky Shephard’s ball into the area sliced into the back of the Ipswich net for an own goal. Shephard blasting the ball into the back to the net from the top of the area 5 minutes later to see Cambridge level with 12 minutes left to play. Ciera Flatt coming on late on to make her debut for Ipswich having joined from Acle United Women. 2-2 the final score.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

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.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 13/01/19

Sunday 13th January

FAWNL Cup

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.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Sunday 13th January

FAWNL South East Division One

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.

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…

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.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 06/01/19

Sunday 6th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

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.

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 Round-Up – FAWNL 16/12/18

Sunday 16th December

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

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.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 02/12/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd December

FAWNL Plate

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.