A county cup weekend this Sunday meaning clubs from the FAWNL and ERWFL had fixtures elsewhere, leaving the fixture list across the league light. 6 games taking place across both the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One aswell as the Plate competition.
A big win at the top of the Southern Premier Division as leaders, Coventry United Ladies open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table beating their closest rivals Watford FC Ladies or the 2nd successive Sunday. In the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup a week ago Coventry securing a 3-2 win away from home against Watford to progress. Were at home this Sunday facing Watford again this time in the league . Amber Hughes striking from outside the box putting Coventry into the lead scoring midway through the 2nd half, the home side awarded a penalty with Jade brook fouled inside the box. Chenise Austin scoring from the spot kick to double Coventry’s lead. 2-0 at half-time the hosts extending the lead just past the hour Marie Gauntlett getting on the scoresheet scoring from a free-kick. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Amy Wathan played through on goal sending the ball past the keeper to see Coventry secure a 4-0 win. 10 wins in a row now for Coventry.
Watford down a place to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that result with Chichester City Ladies fine start to the continued on Sunday a 6th league win of the season seeing them up to 2nd on goal difference. Were away to Queens Park Rangers Women. A devastating 10 minute spell in the 1st half seeing the visitors storm into a 3 goal lead. Hollie Wride scoring the opening goal on 12 minutes, Jade Widdows doubling the advantage just 4 minutes later. Cherelle Khassel making it 3 in the 22nd minute. QPR pulling it back to 3-1 just before half-time Jo Wilson netting the goal. QPR fought well in the 2nd half as the Chichester City defence held firm, Chontele Lawrence getting it back to 3-2 for the hosts the goal in stoppage time Chichester City holding on for the 3 points.
FAWNL Plate
Two 2nd Round ties played in the FAWNL Plate this Sunday. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies progressing with an away victory over South West Division One side Brislington Ladies. Postponed due to the wet weather last Sunday the Southern premier Division side took an early lead in the match with Leah Littlechild scoring in the 5th minute. Leah Cudone making it 2-0 7 minutes later. Alice Hughes putting MK Dons 3-0 in the 35th minute to see them comfortable with a 3-0 lead at the break. No more goals 2nd half with MK Dons defending their lead Brislington unable to find a reply.
Portsmouth FC Women were waiting to see who their opponents would be in the 2nd Round of the Plate with Keynsham Town Ladies playing fellow South West Division One opponents Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies in the 1st Round. Keynsham Town 2nd in the league advancing to set up a home tie with Portsmouth. The sides level at 1-1 at half-time Kerry Bartlett’s 39th minute equaliser cancelling out Katie James 11th minute goal for Portsmouth. 1-1 it remained heading into stoppage time, Ellie Curson finding the back of the net to see Keynsham Town win the match and knock Portsmouth out.
The draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Plate, as well as the Cup made yesterday both draws 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 or Leyton Orient WFC
Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women
Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies
Southampton Women or Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
FAWNL Plate 3rd Round
Liverpool Feds Women v Chester Le Street Ladies
The New Saints Ladies or Bradford City Women v Barnsley Ladies
Morecambe Ladies v Middlesborough Women FC
Sporting Khalsa Women v West Bromich Albion Women
Keynsham Town Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Bedworth United Ladies
Ipswich Town Women v Stevenage Ladies
Gillingham FC Ladies v Chesham United Ladies
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies involved in County Cup action 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies took full advantage winning at home to go top of the table. Their opponents Enfield Town Ladies. It was the 5th placed side that opened the scoring however with Molly Peters running clear to score in the 17th minute. Billericay pulling the scores back level with 6 minutes left on the 1st half Zoe Rushen scoring from close range. Enfield responding well getting themselves back into the lead 3 minutes later, Jodie Southby with her 1st goal of the season putting the visitors 2-1 up. Still time for more drama in the 1st half as less than a minute later Billericay were back level, Rushen again making the near post run and beating the keeper to score. No sooner had the hosts levelled the scores for the 2nd time they went on to take the lead, Rushen on target to complete her hat-trick and see Billericay end the 1st half 3-2 up. No further goals coming 2nd half Billericay returning to the top of the South East Division One table.
A hat-trick for Zoe Rushen securing the win for Billericay Town Ladies
AFC Wimbledon Ladies were away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, Rebecca Sargent’s scoring in the 20th minute the difference between the sides at the half-time interval. Stevenage coming back to level the scores 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Jodie Whitford-Stark scoring her 1st Stevenage goal. A screamer from Katie Stanley in the 69th minute restoring AFC Wimbledon’s lead the visitors holding on to claim the 3 points and climb up a couple of places to 7th in the South East Division One table.
A couple of matches taking place in both the Southern Premier and South East Division One this Sunday. Plymouth Argyle Ladies having a great start to the life in the Southern Premier Division this time around were up to 4th in the table. Travelled to Hampshire at the weekend to take on Portsmouth FC Women. The hosts starting well it was Plymouth who were to open the scoring Jessie Jones an England U21 International nipping in to win the ball at the back scoring for Plymouth in the 15th minute. A diving header from Kayley Lane doubling the visitors advantage 7 minutes before half-time. Portsmouth fought in the 2nd half searching for the goal to get them back into the game Plymouth keeping them out getting the 3rd goal to seal the win 5 minutes from time Jones with her 2nd of the match. Victory lifting the newly promoted side up into 3rd spot a 5th straight win in all competitions as well as their 1st clean sheet of the season.
At the other end of the Southern Premier Division the bottom two were playing each other even this early in the season it had a six point feel to it for C&K Basildon Ladies and Queens Park Rangers Women both adrift at the foot of the table with 1 point each. The home side taking the lead Courtney Clarke scoring the opening goal. QPR coming back to equalise in the 17th minute, Jo Wilson back with the club getting her 1st goal of the season to make it 1-1. Basildon retaking the lead to hold a 2-1 advantage at the break Katie Whitehead getting the goal.
A strong start to the 2nd half from QPR as the visitors got it back to 2-2 4 minutes into the restart Rochelle Shakes netting the goal. 5 minutes later QPR were in front, Whitney Locke finding the back of the net scoring to make it 3-2. Into the closing stages of the game QPR heading for their 1st win of the season, Basildon attacking in the last minute the ball into the area a goalmouth scramble the ball turned home to make it 3-3, Gemma Abela credited with the goal her 1st of the season that sees both sides take a point from the game.
FAWNL South East Division One
With most of the other FAWNL South East Division One sides distracted by the FA Women’s Cup there were 2 matches taking place in the league with both home sides taking full advantage to climb the table. Following a difficult beginning to the season Ipswich Town Women are now up to 3rd in the table. Coming into the match off the back of a good midweek home win over previously unbeaten Billericay Town Ladies, Ipswich were hosting Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The Suffolk side opening the scoring in the 17th minute Lindsey Cooper heading the ball in from a corner kick. Further chances following in the 1st period Ipswich, it was 1-0 at half-time.
Zoe Cossey returning for Ipswich after injury giving the hosts a 2-0 lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Natasha Thomas scoring another 5 minutes later to put Ipswich in control. Into the last 10 minutes Thomas got her 2nd of the game to wrap up a 4-0 win for Ipswich to propel them up the table.
It was a late show at home for Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday that sees them climb the South East Division One table too up into 4th spot with a home win over Actonians Ladies. Hayley Barton putting Leyton Orient into the lead with 20 minutes gone in the 1st half. Actonians came back to level things up Carla Williams on target with a goal in the 35th minute. The sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Actonians went on to take the lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half Jennifer Laidlaw with her 3rd goal of the season making it 2-1. A lead the visitors were to hold onto right up until the final 5 minutes of the match Barton getting Leyton Orient back level making it 2-2 in the 85th minute the home side going on to score a last minute winner 2nd half substitute Tara O’Halloran scoring to see Leyton Orient clinch the 3-2 victory.
A midweek trip East along the A47 this evening to watch some league action from FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC.
A late reversal of the fixture with Norwich City Ladies scheduled to travel to play Cambridge United WFC. The pitch at Mildenhall Town FC unavailable the league asking Norwich if they could host they agreed. A good distance between Norwich and Cambridge for a game under the lights. Both sides looking to get their league campaigns going both with just the single win to date. All very tight in FAWNL South East Division One early in the season the two promoted sides, Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies getting off to a flying start below there are just 4 points separating the sides placed 4th to 12th. Actonians Ladies in 3rd spot proving that if you can get a run going you can quickly climb the table.
Norwich City Ladies started the season with a 5-1 defeat to Enfield Town Ladies, before collecting a point in a 2-2 draw with Denham United Ladies. Changes behind the scenes 1st team coach Grant Palmer adding to the coaching team the club fielding a new Development side this season. Heavy defeats in the cup and league followed, their only league win of the season a memorable one away to East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Ladies. Although they have progressed in the FA Women’s Cup with a big win, League points haven’t come losing 2-1 at home to Stevenage Ladies last Sunday. After a couple of lethargic seasons fighting at the wrong end of the table Norwich are rebuilding aiming for better results.
A promising start to the season for Cambridge United WFC, bringing in several new faces to the squad to away trips down to the capital yielding 4 points. A goalless draw in their previous midweek fixture at The Abbey Stadium against Stevenage Ladies earning them a 5th league point of the season. Does tell the whole story however as they have enjoyed success in both the league cup and FA Women’s Cup the latter just this past Sunday a 6-0 win at home to Harlow Town Ladies. Travel to Norfolk tonight missing a few players unable to get to the rearranged game on time due to work commitments.
The league interesting this season has the feel that any team on their day can beat the other. The venue for this evenings fixture, Norwich United FC’s, Plantation Park. It’s a big pitch very wide, under the lights looks even bigger. A bar overlooking one end of the pitch a small seated stand down one side. A mild evening at the start of October, cloud cover but no rain forecast.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Laura Thacker, Sasha Diston (C), Kate Parsons, Ellie Smith, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Emily Moerkerk & Rosie George.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Fran Gough, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Vicky Neal, Faith Hewitt, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Holly Northfield & Charlotte Crisp.
Norwich to have the kick-off in the 1st half wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green socks. Cambridge wearing their white away shirts with black shorts and socks. Cambridge press Norwich for the ball straight away get i forwards into Steph Gale in attack, play halted as she commits a foul trying to turn in behind her marker. Both sides snapping at the ball a little disjointed at the start neither side making progress into the final 3rd. Norwich spreading play out to the left wing players drawn across a cross flung in towards the near post Emma Jenkins getting her head on the ball to clear for Cambridge.
Norwich starting to build momentum come forwards Chelsea Garrett receiving the ball just over halfway Aimee Durrant on the right wing looking to get in behind bursts forwards, Cambridge centre back Kayleigh-Anne Burt reading Garrett’s intention backing up giving herself a better angle to intercept the intended pass. A free-kick awarded to Norwich inside the Cambridge half, midfielder Miller Daviss over the ball her delivery lifted into the area attacked the header taking it behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good delivery into the box a high ball dropping into the six yard box, goalkeeper Liz Pamplin getting her gloves on the ball knocking it down the defence able to launch clear.
Energetic from Norwich at the start of the game pressing forwards have their opponents on the back foot. Jenkins lunging in to tackle Natasha Snelling as the attacker gives chase to a ball played up into the right channel, the left back conceding a corner. Cambridge look to release Becky Shephard on the left wing trues to link up with Gale leading the line, captain Sasha Diston defending for Norwich. Daviss with a great forwards pass has Garrett interested central 20 yards out manages to get in behind her marker through into the area but is halted by the offside flag.
Norwich win a corner over on the left another good delivery angling in under the crossbar, Pamplin with another vital save getting her gloves to the ball, knocked down into the congested box, a shot is blocked at close range from Laura Thacker. Appeals for handball from Norwich but the officials not interested. Snelling takes on a shot from distance 30 yards out lets loose a shot, the ball on target is catch low by Pamplin.
GOAL! Norwich capitalise on their good start to the match taking the lead in the 17th minute the goal coming from another corner on the left the high delivery falling towards the penalty spot is attacked by Norwich’s Kate Parsons getting up well timing her headed connects well the ball looping up and dropping over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.
Cambridge get on the attack straight from the restart play broken up in the middle the ball played up to Shephard coming in field a chase for the ball goalkeeper Hope Armstrong coming to close the attacker down the ball struck against her trickles in behind Shephard keeping up the chase the Norwich defence recovering and getting to the goal bound ball to hook clear before she can apply another touch.
A free-kick wide left for Norwich as they build on the wing, Durrant and Snelling over the ball 30 yards out is driven in low towards goal Pamplin adjusting her body getting behind it pushes the ball out towards the top of the area, picking it up Garrett right of the D, looks to shoot send the ball in towards the far post across the keeper her strike off cue racing wide is met by a Norwich player the ball turned goalwards lacking power safely in Pamplin’s hands.
Parsons defending as Cambridge enjoy a little it of possession on the right wing Amy Howlett playing full back getting forwards to support captain Kelley Blanchflower. Norwich moving the ball well some intricate short triangles in midfield getting players forwards. Fran Gough getting in front of Garrett to defend for Cambridge as Ellie Smith brings the ball forwards. Cambridge struggling to get anything going in attack the passes just not sticking. Vicky Neal winning the ball from Daviss up to Gale closed down quickly. The visitors getting a little frustrated. A free-kick wide right the ball in towards the top of the area held up but not allowed to turn Norwich marking well. Howlett doing well defending against Snelling on the wing as she and Garrett looking to play a one two get Snelling in behind.
GOAL! Norwich double their lead with the game passing the half hour. Attacking on the left players breaking forwards from midfield overloading the box the cross fired in across the top of the area into Ellie Smith controls the ball before striking a low shot past the keeper into the goal at the near post 2-0. Smith’s first goal for Norwich.
Cambridge come close to finding a reply a free-kick wide on the left cleared back out to Shephard pressing down the wig sends an inviting cross racing through the Norwich six yard box, no-one gambling central picked up on the far side brought in close to goal the shot goalwards defended in front of goal. Alice Parker coming on to support Durrant the pair combining Garrett looks to spin in behind, Burt close to her making the tackle prevents her making progress into the box.
Norwich finishing the 1st half strongly Durrant with the ball at her feet 20 yards out driving with it across the Cambridge box on for Snelling far side her shot sliced behind by Burt for the corner. The set-piece defended. Diston misjudging the bounce of the ball as it is played out from the back nevertheless sets up a great attack as it strikes her face, looping on for Durrant on quickly to Garrett, in behind Pamplin coming to close her down, Garrett knocking it past her looking to follow it on into the goal beyond, Gough getting back does enough to get on her shoulder she the striker’s touch take the ball wide for the goalkick.
Pamplin saving at her near post coming out to claim the ball low and Garrett slides in for it getting in behind the defence. Faith Hewitt getting forwards as Gabrielle Whitehurst robs Reeanna Cook in midfield tries to get Blanchflower away on the left Thacker, with Parsons supporting preventing the final ball being delivered. Gough stepping out of the back line for Cambridge intercepting the ball up for Shephard central play spread to Blanchflower on the right, Thacker closing her down wins the challenge.
Cambridge win a throw-in wide right in a deep position play getting drawn across to that side a cross is worked into the area running across the top of the six yard box Shephard free far post, Parker dealing with the threat clearing the ball for a corner. The delivery long to the far post headed wide for the goalkick. A crunching 50/50 in the middle of the park no prisoners taken between Parsons and Neal. The ball just won’t stick for Cambridge, Whitehurst bringing Durrant down as she attacks right side 20 yards out. Taking the set-piece Durrant sends it long to the far post met by a runner turned towards the near post Pamplin well positioned to make the save.
Half-time Norwich City Ladies 2-0 Cambridge United WFC
A good 1st half from Norwich, by far the better side attacking well in numbers at times taking an early lead, adding to the lead looking comfortable for their 2-0 lead. A frustrating 1st 45 from Cambridge players out of position haven’t been able to make the ball stick up front get bodies forwards themselves find a way in behind Norwich who have been solid at the back. 2-0 always an interesting lead Norwich look comfortable for it and a much better 2nd period from the visitors will be needed if they wish to get back into the game.
Positional changes for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half a switch of flanks for Blanchflower and Shephard no operating on the right wing as they take the kick-off. Paying the ball forwards a hand ball is spotted as Norwich look to win the ball, unfairly, Cambridge have the free-kick 30 or so yards out left of the box Jenkins floating the delivery in towards the far post area Armstrong coming for it makes the catch. Cambridge showing more energy at the start of the 2nd half determined to press Norwich on the all higher up the pitch. Gale fouled on halfway trying to hold the ball up.
Good work from Gale back to goal holds the ball up Hewitt coming on looks to play her in, Smith getting back to close her down regain possession for Norwich. Neal getting hold of the ball in the middle long for Gale peeling away into space on the left taking the ball up the pitch sends the cross back in across the front of the area Whitehurst brought down in a dangerous position. 22 yards out Jenkins on it is encouraged to have a go gets the ball past the wall but not Armstrong the keeper well positioned beyond.
Are a few physical challenges both benches showing frustration at some decisions being made, one questioned by the Cambridge management as Howlett is sent sprawling on the right the free-kick played in towards the near post is over Diston, Gale beyond caught a little unaware expecting the defender to get there can’t get off the ground quick enough to meet it. Cook drives forwards with the ball played on for Garrett a dink over the top, Gough doing well getting her head on the ball defending for Cambridge.
A good start to the 2nd half for Cambridge give away a free-kick wide on the right as Durrant attacks. The delivery defended back with Durrant played inside to Garrett top of the area right side strikes the ball well low in across the keeper, Pamplin down low to her right diving to push the ball away. Norwich make the 1st change of the match, Snelling the player taken off, on comes Rosie George.
Hewitt coming on with the ball for Cambridge sets up an attack playing the ball out wide right to Shephard, taking the ball to the byline, attacked at the near post, both Neal and Blanchflower closing in Armstrong dong well in between the to claim the ball ends up on the deck, the decision going against Neal, clearly frustrated at being shown a yellow card.
Garrett coming for the ball has Smith running beyond her plays the ball on making a run to the left getting the return pass striking from outside the box the ball racing wide across the Cambridge goal. Armstrong rushing out of her box clears as Gale tries to get to a ball put on by Hewitt for Cambridge. Hewitt finding Gale on the left deep play switched to the right Shephard supported well by Howlett the cross in defended well by Parsons cleared central Cambridge have it back the pass out to Blanchflower on the left her 20 yards strike too high goes out for the goalkick.
The referee getting alot of stick from both sides frustrated at a lack of consistency, challenges coming the decisions being questioned. Cambridge much improved 2nd half, Norwich sitting more have the 2 goal cushion, the visitors needing to find a reply. Hewitt is brought down in a clumsy challenge left side. The ball flighted up into the area a defender missing it drops for Neal stooping low into the header can only drop the ball wide of the far post. Parker getting across in intercept inside the six yard box as Shephard plays the ball in from the right.
Burt is cautioned making a rash tackle on Garrett outside the area a free-kick in a dangerous position for Norwich, Parsons over it has a go for goal on target lacking the pace to trouble Pamplin. Parker is brought off by Norwich, Tigi Robson introduced to the action. The benches continuing to be be unhappy with the officials. Burt getting across to deal with Durrant as Garrett looks to find her on the right.
Jenkins winning the ball brings it forwards on the left on for Blanchflower, her diagonal ball long to the right picking out Shephard shoots Parsons blocking once then again as Shephard collects the rebound. George gets played in behind by Garrett left of the D shoots, Pamplin holding onto the ball. Norwich make their final change Jodie Drake on for Cook. A double change for Cambridge, Blanchflower having picked up a knock along with Gale coming off. On come Holly Northfield and Charlotte Crisp. Neal and Shephard up into the area the ball played in the knock down back to Whitehurst her shot charged down by Parsons.
Cambridge having a frustrating night, aggrieved at decisions being made adding to their woes the final ball not coming off, Norwich working hard to defend their lead. Parsons and Diston solid at the back, Garrett always available finding pockets of space ready for any counter attack. Daviss picking up possession on early for Garrett, one on one with the keeper coming to meet her edge of the area the ball past her Gough getting back to put the striker off as they race for goal.
Into the final minutes Cambridge cannot find that telling goal put pressure on Norwich risk getting caught on the counter have to commit player forwards. Whitehurst finding Shephard left side her cross driven in cleared by Parsons back to Shephard the 2nd cross deeper Drake heading clear at the far post for Norwich.
GOAL! The home side break getting the ball up the park quickly on the left the cross put across the face of the area finding Durrant unmarked shifts and shoots wrong footing Pamplin the ball going past her at the near post 3-0 the 3 points assured with so little time left on the clock.
Neal has a strike at goal from distance the attempt over the crossbar. Armstrong dropping a high cross delivered from the right but can pounce on the ball before it is attacked. Hewitt driving on with the ball central on for Whitehurst spreads play right for Howlett her cross in claimed at the near post confidently by Armstrong with Neal closing her down. Crisp getting the ball up into Neal she turns in an attempt to get into the box Parsons getting in the tackle.
Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Cambridge United WFC
Norwich get the win their 2nd of the season both coming under the lights, climb all the way up to 7th position as a result. By far the better side 1st half capitalising with 2 goals. Happy to defend more 2nd half were solid coping with the pressure Cambridge applied getting the 3rd goal at the death. A bad night at the office for Cambridge one to chalk off on the back foot from the start the 1st half not good at all improved 2nd half and had they found a reply may well have gone on to get something from the game. Both are at home in 3rd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, Norwich take on Enfield, Cambridge up against Stevenage Ladies.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Ultimately I’d narrowed this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match down to two contenders by the time the game had finished but not having to choose right away it’s always good to take a look back at the notes still a hard choice Chelsea Garrett doing very well leading the line for Norwich up front creating chances and drawing players out of position, bringing others into good shooting positions. At the back however Kate Parsons was a rock very experienced has been out for Norwich for quite awhile with injury now back she is looking sharp played well putting in the blocks keeping Cambridge’s chances inside the area to a minimum. The Player of the Match goes to the central defender.
Always enjoy a game under the lights not necessarily getting up early to write the report afterwards though. My thanks to both teams for helping me out with the teams always appreciated.
Five straight league wins for Coventry United Ladies now takes them back to the top of the FAWNL Southern Division. Unbeaten in 7 at the start of the season. At home on Sunday taking on C&K Basildon Ladies, goals from Amber Hughes and Jade Brook seeing Coventry start strongly 2 up after 10 minutes. C&K Basildon pulling a goal back before the half-time interval. Brook with her 2nd of the game restoring Coventry’s 2 goal cushion on the hour. Amy Wathan scoring in the last 10 minutes to see Coventry record a 4-1 win to move top ahead of Watford FC Ladies.
Losing to Coventry a fortnight ago Chichester City Ladies unbeaten start to the season came to an end last weeks fixture at home to Cardiff City Ladies falling foul of the weather, Chichester were on the road this weekend back in league action taking on Loughborough Foxes Women. A tight game the sides contesting a goalless first half, Chichester striking early 2nd half Molly Clark on 47 minutes scoring what would prove to be the winning goal, Chichester in 3rd keep the pressure on the leading pair.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies impressive start to the season continues the South West Division One Champions now up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after they won for the 4th successive game. Were on the road taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Helen Bleazard with a 1st half double handing Plymouth a 2-0 half-time advantage, they didn’t have it all their own way 2nd half, QPR fighting back with 2 quickfire goals to level the scores, new signing Whitney Locke scoring her 1st goal for the club on 65 minutes, Rochelle Shakes also newly arrived making it 2-2, 4 minutes later. Plymouth coming back to retake the lead and go on to win the game Zoe Cunningham finding the back of the net to make it 3-2 with 7 minutes left.
A 2nd league win in the Southern Premier Division for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as the newly promoted side winning South East Division One start to find their feet in the league. At home on Sunday at Stadium MK up against Gillingham FC Ladies. Another close contest 0-0 for 75 minutes, the winning goal was struck home by Kim Farrow for Milton Keynes Dons in the 76th minute to win them the 3 points moving them onto 7 points after 7 played.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Kim Farrow
FAWNL Cup
This weekend saw the 1st Round’s of the FAWNL Cup and Plate taking place, a handful of ties in both competitions with most handed a bye to the 2nd Round. Two 1st Round Cup matches featuring South East Division One sides, AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home taking on Buckland Athletic Ladies from the South West Division One. Bernice Tully with her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon giving the hosts a 21st minute lead Laura Quinn-Low also scoring for the 1st time this season seeing AFC Wimbledon leading 2-0 at half-time. Jenny Nagle another scoring her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon to put them 3 up midway through the 2nd half. Georgia Heasman in her 1st game back in Wimbledon colours adding a 4th goal with 5 minutes left.
Was a 7 goal thriller in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round tie on Sunday, South East Division One side, Enfield Town Ladies hosting, Southampton Women of South West Division One. Nuala McKevitt putting Enfield 1 up within 6 minutes of the start. Southampton coming back equalised through Kayleigh Tonks in the 22nd minute the visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half Natalie Bavister on target. 2-1 the lead for Southampton, Jane Yates gave them a 3-1 lead scoring 2 minutes into the 2nd period. Enfield’s turn to fightback, Sara Degooye pulling it back to 3-2 five minutes later. Molly Peters scoring to see Enfield level it at 3-3 with 15 minutes left. The winning goal coming 3 minutes from the end of normal play, Roxanne Lee-Stewart with Southampton’s 4th and winning goal.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup has been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-
Billericay Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies
Cambridge United Women v Leyton Orient WFC
QPR Women v Loughborough Foxes Women
Oxford United Women v Crawley Wasps Ladies
Larkhall Athletic Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Southampton Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies
FAWNL Plate
In the FAWNL Plate 1st Round, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women were away to Poole Town Ladies from South West Division One. The higher league side proving too strong, Katie James putting Portsmouth into the lead inside 10 minutes. Carla Perkins adding a 4 minute brace with Eilidh Currie making it 4-0 to Portsmouth midway through the 1st half. More goals coming for the visitors 2nd half, Rachel Panting striking early going on to complete a hat-trick. Hannah Geer also scoring with Perkins also adding a 3rd goal to complete her own hat-trick a 9-0 victory seeing Portsmouth progress.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate has also been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-
Maidenhead United Ladies v Denham United Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies or Southampton Saints v Portsmouth FC Women
Brislington Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Actonians Ladies v Chesham United Ladies
Gillingham FC Ladies v Luton Town Ladies
Norwich City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies
Ipswich Town Women v C&K Basildon Ladies
FAWNL South East Division One
A thriller for the neutral at the top of South East Division One on Sunday with 3rd placed Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. An early goal for Jennifer Laidlaw along with a goal for Sara Lopez-Ezzahiri for Actonians in the 1st half they found themselves trailing however with Billericay on target for 3 goals up the other end the visitors adding a 4th goal 2nd half, Actonians hit back to earn a point with Enya Collins and Carla Williams striking to see the game finish 4-4. Billericay’s 100% winning start coming to an end the point nevertheless enough to put the into top position with Crawley Wasps in cup action at the weekend.
Teams clustering below with just 2 points between 4th and 10th in the South East Division One table. Stevenage Ladies moving up into the top half of the table following their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday coming on the road away to Norwich City Ladies, goals from Shona Chitate and Ashleigh Deacon seeing Stevenage hold a 2-0 advantage at half-time. Norwich saw a penalty saved in the 2nd half before pulling a goal back with Laura Thacker making it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the 2-1 win.
A first league win of the season in South East Division One for bottom side Luton Town Ladies. At home on Sunday taking on Ipswich Town Ladies. The visitors taking the lead however Paige Wakefield putting Ipswich in front. Dionne Manning scoring a brace brought Luton back on level terms then gave them the lead. Jess McKay scoring to make in 3-1 and see Luton collect their 1st league points of the season.
New leaders at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division after this weekends results. Coventry United Ladies coming out on top in the clash between the top two and only unbeaten sides in the league on Sunday. A brilliant start to the season for Chichester City Ladies 4 wins out of 4 including a 2-1 home success against local rivals Portsmouth FC Women in midweek were back at home this Sunday hosting Coventry United Ladies who themselves looking to defend an unbeaten start to their league campaign 3 successive wins after a goalless draw on the opening day.
Coventry coming into their top of the table clash with a 4-0 home win over early pacesetters Loughborough Foxes Women. Coventry opening the scoring through a Jade Brook strike in the 8th minute, Chichester responded straight away to get back on level terms Cherelle Khassel making it 1-1. Coventry edging the win in the 2nd half Brook netting again in what would prove to be the winning goal. The 2-1 result taking Coventry top, Chichester City tasting defeat for the 1st time this season.
Chichester City drop to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table after the weekends results as Watford FC Ladies go 2nd on the back of 4 straight wins in all competitions. Needed a late winner to edge out QPR in midweek, 2-1 the final score. And it was a late show again to secure the 3 points again on Sunday away to Portsmouth FC Women. The hosts taking the lead in the 16th minute, Daisy McLachlan smashing the ball home. Katie O’Leary equalising for Watford just 5 minutes later the sides were all square at the break.
With 20 minutes left to play Portsmouth got themselves back into the lead Hannah Geer making it 2-1. Watford responded once again bringing on Anaisa Harney the substitute heading in visitors 2nd equaliser for her first goal for the club on 79 minutes, then Harney struck again to put Watford into the lead with 5 minutes left, Helen Ward scoring late on in midweek finding the back of the net in the 89th minute to secure the 3 points for Watford winning 4-2. 3 straight losses in the league now for Portsmouth after winning their opening 2 fixtures, Shannon Albuery leaving to join FAWSL side Yeovil Town Ladies.
Another side showing great form are Cardiff City Ladies moving up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division with a 4th straight win in all competitions. Were hosting Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday, the visitors holding a 1-0 advantage at the break with Kate Lowder the player on target with the goal on 31 minutes. A strong finish to the game from Cardiff to come back and win, closing in on the final quarter hour Grace Horrell scored to level the scores, soon after Cardiff were in the lead a corner scramble resulting in an own goal. Kelly Issac making sure of the win getting on the scoresheet in the 88th minute. Loughborough hitting the post from a penalty kick in stoppage time. 3-1 Cardiff.
Goals galore at Elberton Villa FC between Plymouth Argyle Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies. A much needed point earned last Sunday, Basildon travelling down to the South West having lost at home to Gillingham in midweek. Plymouth not in action in midweek. Goals from Helen Bleazard and Kayley Lane seeing Plymouth leading 2-0 at half-time. The lead further extended in the 2nd half with Amber Pollock making it 3-0 on 64 minutes. Bleazard with her 2nd of the game scoring to make it 4-0 on 68. Basildon weren’t out of it though getting it back to 4-2 before conceding a penalty, captain Katie Middleton sending the ball past the keeper to make it 5-2. Time for Basildon to get a 3rd goal but they went home empty handed the 5-3 win taking Plymouth up to 5th in the table. A goal for Raquel Murray along with a double for Patricia Gomez the goalscorers for Basildon.
A mixed set of results for Oxford United Women, back to back losses in the league coming into this Sunday’s game including a 3-1 home loss to Milton Keynes Dons on Tuesday. Away to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, Oxford recorded their biggest win of the season so far. Ellie Noble putting the visiting side 1-0 up on 23 minutes, Sophie Baker striking right on the stroke of half-time to give Oxford a 2-0 advantage. 3 more goals coming in the last 15 minutes Florence Fyfe a 2nd half substitute scoring to make it 3-0 on 77 minutes. Lauren Haynes was on target 4 minutes later to break up the 4th goal with Madelene Robertson also introduced in the 2nd half getting Oxford’s 5th goal in stoppage time.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies finally got off the mark in the Southern Premier Division recording their 1st win at this level in midweek away to Oxford United Women. On the road again this Sunday taking on bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Not much in it 1st half Kerry Newman getting a goal just past the half hour to put Milton Keynes Dons into the lead. Going down to a late winner in midweek, QPR scored themselves late on this time to rescue a point their 1st of the season, Rochelle Shakes with her 1st goal for the club.
FAWNL South East Division One
The promoted sides keeping on winning in FAWNL South East Division One, 5 wins out of 5 for both Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies. Crawley Wasps out in front having scored 24 now in their 5 games a 5-2 win in midweek away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Crawley Wasps were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday who themselves earned a point in midweek drawing 1-1 at The Abbey Stadium with Cambridge United WFC. The goals continuing for Crawley Wasps at the weekend 4 in the first half from Sian Heather, Kemina Webber, Faye Rabson and Megan Stow to put the visitors 4-1 up at half-time. Stow struck her 2nd of the game early in the 2nd half with Suzy Davies and Naomi Cole both scoring in the final 15 minutes to secure a 7-2 win for Crawley Wasps. Nicole Emmings with both goals for Stevenage.
A much closer result at home for Billericay Town Ladies as the took on bottom side Luton Town Ladies still in search of their first points of the season. Lucy Jones and Samantha Pittuck with the goals for Billericay Town in a 2-1 with Dionne Manning finding the back of the net for Luton who came close to earning a point hitting the woodwork 3 times, a number of young players stepping up into their 1st team.
A complete turn around for Actonians Ladies 3 defeats to start the season in all competitions, they have now made it 3 wins from their last 3 in the league to climb up to 3rd in the South East Division One table. Fortune in front of goal turned around too having conceded 12 in their 1st 3 matches have since scored 13 in 3 whilst conceding just twice a 5-0 win away to Denham in midweek. This Sunday were at home hosting Norwich City Ladies who themselves were on a high having secured their 1st win of the season against all sides their East Anglian derby rivals Ipswich Town Women. Norwich scoring twice in the 1st half Natasha Snelling and captain Kate Parsons with the goals Parsons 1st since her lengthy lay off from injury. Actonians were in front at the break however scoring 3 times in the 1st half. 3-2 up the hosts had the better of the 2nd half adding a further two goals to record a 5-2 win. Alessandra Barreca netting a hat-trick moving her onto 8 goals already this season with Jennifer Laidlaw and Sara Lopez Ezzahiri both getting their 1st goals of the season.
Enfield Town Ladies are up to 4th in the South East Division One table coming out on top by the odd goal in 5 in the A10 derby between themselves and Cambridge United WFC. Is a long established rivalry between these two sides meaning form goes out the window whenever they meet. A narrow lead for Enfield at half-time with a late goal for Isabella Agus. Molly Peters set up by Agus scoring to make it 2-0 to Enfield, a chance to go 3-0 ahead from the penalty spot, Savannah Smith making the save for Cambridge off Nuala McKevitt. A free kick up the other end just outside the box in a dangerous position Amber Cantwell finding the back of the goal to make it 2-1. Cantwell striking from distance again to bring the scores level at 2-2. Enfield finding the winning goal with 7 minutes left on the clock Claire Ford from a corner heading in at the near post to seal a 3-2 win.
The points shared in the final two matches to bring you from South East Division One. Both losing in midweek Ipswich Town Women made the trip to Carshalton Athletic FC to play AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. Caroline Bisson with the shot scoring to put Wimbledon into the lead midway through the 2nd half, Ipswich responding well to the setback levelling the score just 4 minutes later the ball in the back of the net of a Wimbledon body from a Natalie Richardson free-kick. 1-1 at the break chances for both sides 2nd half but no more goals 1-1 it remained.
1-1 too between Denham United Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday but the visitors left it late to take home a point from the game after Rachel Keightley had given Denham the lead on 53 minutes. Rebecca Hirst introduced to the action from the bench on 80 minutes she netting her 1st goal of the season to earn 5th placed Leyton Orient a point.
Midweek action under the floodlights this Wednesday with a trip to The Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Stevenage Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Cambridge United WFC missing out on the opportunity to play at The Abbey Stadium late last season get an early chance this time round to showcase their talents under the floodlights at the League Two ground. Women’s sides getting more opportunities to play at their respective men’s clubs than ever before.
4 games into the season and Cambridge United WFC have 4 points from 3 league games played, started the season well with a draw and a win away from home a good result in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup followed before they suffered their 1st loss of the season at the weekend going down to a stoppage time winner. The two promoted sides, Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies getting off to a flyer winning all of their games, Cambridge are amongst a cluster of sides below on 4 points looking to catch them.
Stevenage Ladies come in to tonight’s game at The Abbey Stadium on the back of 3 straight defeats in all competitions having won their opening match of the season. Like Cambridge are bedding in a few new signings with Mark Dicker taking up the reins as 1st team manager. As great an opportunity this is for Cambridge, their opponents should relish the chance too.
As you’d expect from a League club ground at the start of the season the pitch is immaculate, no excuses about bobbles tonight. Is a wide pitch so their will be plenty of space to exploit. The mainstand open, hot food and drink available with the Dion Dublin Bar also open. A pleasant evening dry and calm perfect weather for football.
Cambridge United starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Amy Howlett, Kelly Bingham, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Vicky Neal & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Liz Pamplin, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Faith Hewitt, Mollie Coupar & Kirsten Burt.
It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the match underway kicking off 1st half, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Stevenage lining up opposite wearing white shirt with red vertical striping along with red shirts and socks. A couple of strong challenges put in early on from Stevenage as Cambridge look to work the ball forwards, its as the visitors get hold of the ball that Cambridge win it back in the middle of the park Amy Howlett bringing it on central aims to release Becky Shephard making an attacking run on the left cutting inside towards the edge of the area Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis alert out to the edge of her area gathers the through ball before the Cambridge winger can latch onto it.
Play is turned around quickly by Stevenage defending on the left side the ball cleared up to Ashleigh Deacon in a central position she spots striker Nicole Emmings making a run into space on the right sending the ball on for her Emmings takes it on into the box shooting from the angle sends the ball racing low past the the diving keeper Savannah Smith but also wide of the far post. Deacon cutting inside from the right 25 yards out lines up a strike the ball charged down by Fran Gough in the Cambridge defence.
A good tempo to the match both sides relishing the opportunity Kelly Bingham winning the ball in midfield for the hosts lays it back to left back Carrie Bennett, she goes long with Shephard eager to race in behind for the left the bouncing ball too close to the keeper however Vandersluis positioned high catches the ball. No one spending any time on the ball often leads to defence turned into counter attack, Cambridge captain Kelley Blanchflower has a chance a central run into the box the ball driven into her path taking it left of goal looks to put the shot back across the keeper with the outside of her boot, Vandersluis drifting towards her near post can claim the ball.
Up the other end Smith comes out to block Emmings as she is played in behind by Deacon taking up a good central position as Stevenage attack. A set-piece for Stevenage wide on the left the ball delivered high towards those gathering at the top of the Cambridge area, it’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt defending for the hosts that headers the ball clear. Cambridge are looking to peel off the full-backs get in behind Vicky Neal up with Blanchflower the latter almost succeeds central only Vandersluis’ quick reactions coming to the edge of her box to slide in to stop the ball prevents a shot, colliding with Blanchflower the contact accidental.
A good spell from Cambridge, attacking Shephard left sends a pacy ball into the area that evades everyone, the ball retrieved on the right side players are drawn towards it as the driven ball on the diagonal is sent in towards goal running wide Shephard tries to throw herself at the ball with Vandersulis diving for it gets the ball past the keeper lands in the side netting wide. Smith back on her goal line is well placed to catch the ball as Shona Chitate digs a snap shot out of her feet from 20 yards out. Room for Deacon on the right bringing the ball on for Stevenage players breaking into the box her cross sent in low near post is defended by Cambridge out for a corner with Amy Makewell attacking it.
Cambridge break forwards Howlett central carrying it into the Stevenage half has Shepherd ahead of her cutting in behind from the left, Charlotte Ryan defending centrally for Stevenage gets in front of the Cambridge winger inside the area shielding the ball well allowing Vandersluis to gather safely. Neal’s turn to get in behind on the left holding up the ball sends the cross in long across the face of goal Blanchflower coming in far post the target, Stevenage captain Paige Logie does well to intercept and putting behind for a corner so close to her goal.
Neal once again moving to the right to receive the ball wide has Abi Davies breaking forwards inside her lays the ball into the speeding full backs path Davies shot from range charged down the ball rebounding away for a corner on the right. A good deliver in central under the bar Vandersluis doing well to glove the ball up and on towards the far post, Cambridge’s Gough leaping heads the ball back in towards goal blocked Stevenage defend the ball eventually behind for the goalkick.
Is a good contest both sides looking to attack quickly sees the attackers from both sides looking to exploit pockets of space. Dominique Godbeer sliding in to challenge Howlett outside the box left of goal as she looks to burst inside receive the return ball from Shephard on the left. Neal charges down Vandersluis as she attempts to kick the ball long from the top of the area, no control over where the rebound goes it’s deflected behind wide of goal. Bennett with a vital interception as Stevenage play the diagonal ball long from the left with Deacon away on the right.
Breaking Stevenage’s Kristi Burling on for Chitate the pass forwards into Emmings, tries the back heel to try and put strike partner Makewell in behind the Cambridge defence, Gough isn’t fooled turns and cuts the ball out. Shephard and Neal combine in attack Shephard coming forwards passing the ball inside to Neal 25 yards out continues her run past her Neal shifting the ball on into her path edge of the area central Shephard looks to place her shot past the advancing keeper places the ball wide of the goal beyond.
Howlett brought down as she tries to get forwards left side combine with Neal. A good position 25 yards out left of the D, Cantwell on the ball sends a rising ball in towards goal, off target however as Vandersulis coming across to the near post can watch in drop harmlessly wide. Emmings coming near post sees the ball into her low from Ellie Searle on the left, attempting to control and turn goalwards Gough gets the tackle in.
A throw in for Cambridge left as they come forwards the ball finding it’s way into Blanchflower controlling inside the box turns her marker making room for a shot plays the ball straight at the keeper. Burling and Searle working together left side a cross squared inside to Makewell 20 yards out her shot charged down by Burt. Stevenage pressing late on in the first half win a corner right side a good delivery in close to goal Smith gloving the ball away dropping far post little time to react volleys the ball up over the crossbar.
Attacks in the closing moments of the 1st 45 a free-kick played in from wide left for Stevenage Chitate stooping to header the ball right on the edge of the area sees her effort take a deflection wide. Howlett leaning back to strike the ball coming into her from 20 yards out as Cambridge attack across the face of the Stevenage area sees her effort swerve wide of target. A late break Blanchflower picking up the ball looks for options Shephard with a central run Blanchflower tries to play her in Logie doing well for Stevenage sliding in to intercept the ball.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
A good contest ends in stalemate at the break neither side finding a clinical edge both attacking with purpose with no one taking time on the ball a high tempo has seen passes rushed and quality through the middle at a premium defences doing well. The attackers all wanting to drift into space haven’t been able to combine where it matters inside the box. Will that change in the 2nd half?
2nd half huddles
Stevenage to get thing’s underway in the 2nd period. Cambridge get hold of the ball and coming forwards win themselves a corner on the left. A long delivery Stevenage can’t get the ball away as Howlett plays it back in towards Blanchflower comes in, Ryan defending for the visitors to prevent a shot on goal. A shirt pull spotted by the referee earns Abi Davies a card for Cambridge joining the Makewell in the book who was cautioned first half. The set-piece wide right driven in low towards the near post Emmings there can’t get a clean connection the chance gone.
Searle picks up the ball driving forwards attempts the diagonal pass out for Deacon on the right, Burt making the interception for Cambridge. Neal is a presence for Cambridge up front working hard to pull the Stevenage defence towards her, her persistence on the left bringing a corner kick. Cantwell to play the ball into the area, Burt coming towards the ball plays it back to the corner taker Cantwell dropping her shoulder cutting past a challenge sends a low cross in towards the near post Gough is there can’t quite get the ball out from under her feet before Stevenage’s Ryan closes her down.
The ball given to her as she breaks clear on the left Stevenage’s Searle looks to strike the ball in towards goal from the top of the area, Smith with the save diving to her right to push the ball away. The tempo reduced 2nd half both sides still attacking and counter attacking the ball is rarely still. Gough fouls Makewell in a dangerous position central 20 yards out. It’s the Stevenage striker to take it striking the ball in low towards goal finds it’s way through unimpeded straight at Smith however back on her line the keeper coming forwards to gather the ball.
Both sides make a change within minutes of each other Deacon coming off for Stevenage is replaced by Amy Josland. Faith Hewitt on for Cambridge replaced Shephard. Blanchflower looks to get in behind on the left Pope and Ryan closing her down.
Penalty! Cambridge are awarded a spot kick as Neal s checked inside the box as she goes to strike the ball played into her from Hewitt on the left. A chance for taker Howlett to put the hosts into the lead, looking to place the ball high to the right misses the score remains 0-0.
Stevenage are fired up now feel aggrieved with the penalty award, Howlett gets back on the ball a strong run into the area right of goal fires a squared ball across the Stevenage six yard box, Ryan clearing for Stevenage. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Cambridge probing put a few long range balls into the Stevenage area, Godbeer and Ryan both winning it for the visitors. A second substitution for Stevenage, Pope coming off with Poppy Bennett. Attacking right side the diagonal ball finding Searle coming in field from the left strikes the ball from the top of the area her effort narrowly over the bar, a corner awarded nicking off a Cambridge body on it’s way through. Gough winning the ball for Cambridge from the set-piece.
Blanchflower breaking away into the clear on the right as the diagonal pass put long picks her out taking the ball on into the box strikes across the ball on the angle Vandersluis throwing her gloves out to make the save deflects it central, Neal in on the follow up, so to is Ryan the defender doing superbly to get the ball clear in front of goal.
A goal now would surely be the winner both sides thinking it is there for the taking Howlett with Cantwell in the middle played on for Blanchflower to the right brings the ball inside across the top of the area determined to get a shot away fired in towards the Stevenage goal Bennett blocks for the visitors. Jodie Whitford-Stark comes on as Stevenage make their final substitution Burling coming off. The substitute with a chance to strike the ball early on laid back to her from inside the box off a throw on the right the ball won’t sit for her as Whitford-Stark sends it over.
A free-kick awarded on half way for Cambridge, Cantwell with a good delivery into the area for a moment it looks like Burt might have stolen in behind to attack the far post, Vandersluis managing to get the ball away. Cambridge come close to breaking the stalemate once more Neal with the chance stooping into a header as she positions herself near post the cross played in from the right, Vandersluis diving for it the ball evading her skips out of play off the base of the post.
Cambridge press late on Stevenage hit them on the break the ball fired long up field Emmings getting the better of the defence to strike the ball from just inside the box sees her attempt whistle over the crossbar. Ryan defending up the other end as Howlett looks to break forwards onto the ball played in from the right the Stevenage centre back putting in the tackle as Howlett lines up a shot.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
The final whistle blows and it’s a point a piece as the sides play out a goalless draw. Another point on the board for Cambridge, Stevenage ending their run of losses. Neither side with be happy with the result as both should feel they could have won the game. Cambridge coming the closet. More clinical finishing was needed however defences on top with little time was devoted to the ball in the middle of the park.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a difficult one, defenders on top ultimately especially through the middle. All did a good job, one edging it for me and that is Stevenage Ladies, Charlotte Ryan who made some well timed and important challenges throughout the match.
Nice to see a game under the lights, a great venue and hopefully Cambridge United WFC will get another opportunity to play there soon. My thanks to everyone for their help this evening.
New leaders in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with Chichester City Ladies making it 4 straight wins to start the season in all competitions as their rivals at the top dropped points on Sunday. Chichester City travelling up to Buckinghamshire to play newly promoted South East Division One Champions at Stadium MK. The 100% percent winning start to the season maintained by a late winner scored by Molly Clark after Chichester City having dominated to game finally broke Milton Keynes Dons Ladies defence to score in the 86th minute. Results going their way to see Chichester City take over at the top. In contrast Milton Keynes are still searching for their first league point of the season.
That came at last for C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday away from home at all places against the then league leaders Loughborough Foxes Women. The home side getting their noses in front midway through the first have with Kate Lowder powering the ball home for her 3rd goal of the season. C&K Basildon getting back on level terms ate in the first period with Madelyn Thomas scoring what was the Essex sides first goal of the season. Loughborough couldn’t find their clinical edge 2nd half and despite hitting the crossbar C&K Basildon defended stoutly to earn a much needed point.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas
Portsmouth FC Women had made it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season were hosting another unbeaten side in the league on Sunday Coventry United Ladies who had earned a draw and win from their opening 2 matches. The away side taking an early lead in the game Helen Dermody tapping the ball home inside the opening 5 minutes. Portsmouth responded well and were back on level terms just 4 minutes later with Rachel Panting on target. Jade Brook getting Coventry United back in front midway through the first half, the visitors awarded a penalty late in the first half after Lois Jefferies was fouled inside the box Dermody missing from the spot. 2-1 to Coventry United at the break, both sides looking for further goals 2nd half defences holding firm however Coventry United climbing up to 3rd in the table as a result.
At home at last for the 1st time this season after 3 successive away trips Cardiff City Ladies are enjoying a much more positive start to the season this time around recovering from an opening day loss well a 3rd successive win in all competitions lifting the Welsh side up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table. Taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies it was the visitors who got off to a flying start Chontele Lawrence sending the ball home in the 5th minute an advantage QPR held going into the half-time interval. Cardiff City started the 2nd half well and were back on level terms 4 minutes after the restart. Took the lead with less than 20 minutes left before running away with the result adding a further 3 goals late on one from the penalty spot to win the match 5-1. Cori Williams and Kylie Rolfe both claiming a brace with Alice Griffiths also on the scoresheet.
Watford FC Ladies were away to Oxford United Women in a Saturday kick-off in the Southern Premier Division. A late winner 3 minutes from time securing the 3 points for the visitors. Oxford United leading at half-time with Georgia Timms scoring in the 19th minute to put them 1-0. Watford were level with 10 minutes played in the 2nd half striker Katie O’Leary pouncing in the box to smash the ball home. The winning goal coming in the 87th minute Watford with a purposeful attack, Helen Ward making the run the ball played into her the Welsh international forward smashing the ball in across the keeper to win the game 2-1.
Newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division, South West Division One Champions are enjoying a good start to the season, A long trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies the venue for Sunday’s match the Medway Priestfield Stadium. Not the result Gillingham would have wanted however as the visitors enjoyed a good first half performance. Zoe Cunningham striking the ball into the back of the net in the 10th minute. Helen Bleazard scoring just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0 to the visitors a goal from Mollie Taylor coming with 5 minutes of the first half left to see Plymouth leading 3-0 at half-time. Captain Katie Middleton making it 4-0 on the hour, Gillingham were awarded a penalty late in the match Maddison Farrand converting what was to be only a consolation goal. The 4-1 win takes Plymouth up into 7th joining 4 sides on 6 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
The excellent start to the season for the clubs promoted to FAWNL South East Division One continues with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies maintaining their 100% winning start to the season. Goals scored seeing Billericay go top last time out, it switches this Sunday with Crawley Wasps hitting Norwich City Ladies for six away from home at the weekend. Goals from Sian Heather and Kemina Webber seeing Crawley Wasps leading the game 2-0 at half-time. Emma Plewa struck to make it 3-0 early in the 2nd half. Heather netting her 2nd goal midway through the 2nd period to make it 4-0 with Naomi Cloe and Suzy Davies striking in the final 10 minutes to seal a 6-0 win.
Scoring 19 goals in their opening 3 matches Billericay Town Ladies needed just the 1 goal to claim the 3 points at the weekend. At home taking of AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Megan Jiggins first goal for Billericay midway through the first half enough against a side who won their fair share of matches by a single goal themselves last season. 3 win from 3 in the league for the two promoted sides.
Leyton Orient WFC climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with their 2nd league win of the season away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, a brace from Lisa Fulgence doing the damage, the striker opening the scoring on 11 minutes, struck again to make the lead more secure with a little over a quarter hour left on the clock.
An equalising goal 17 (yes seventeen) minutes into injury time saw Ipswich Town Women grab a point from their home match with Enfield Town Ladies after they found themselves trailing 3-0 at half-time. Enfield enjoying the first half Sara Degooye scoring on 13 minutes to give the visitors the lead was followed by a brace from Molly Peters to put them in a strong lead. Ipswich mounted a come back in the 2nd half scoring early as Natasha Thomas was brought down in the box, captain Amanda Crump making it 3-1 from the penalty spot. Crump getting another goal soon after to make it 3-2 and set up a tense game that unfortunately over-boiled into a mass brawl at the death Tia Bailey shown a straight red card after putting an opponent in a head lock. A bit of sorting out leading to a lot of stoppage time Ipswich with a late corner Crump involved as the ball was put over the line to make it 3-3 and see the sides share the points.
Late drama too at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday with visitors Denham United Ladies striking late to win for the first time this season against Cambridge United Women. Goals for the visitors a both ends of the 90 with Emma Kern scoring to put Denham 1-0 inside the opening 2 minutes. Held onto the advantage going into the dressing room at half-time. Cambridge pushing for the equaliser found it 2nd half with Vicky Neal getting her head to the ball inside the six yard box from a left sided cross to make it 1-1. Denham though won it late into stoppage time Rae Roberts nipping in to send the ball flying past the keeper into the back of the net.
Another side winning for the first time this season are Actonians Ladies taking on Luton Town Ladies at home on Sunday both going into the game without a point on the board. Catherine Murphy scoring a goal on 10 minutes to see Actonians lead. 1-0 in remained going into the final 20 minutes Carla Williams doubling the score in the 73rd minute ensured Actonians their 1st 3 point haul of the season adding her 2nd and Actonians 3rd goal of the game with 3 minutes of normal time left to play. That result leaving Luton bottom now the only side in the league without a point. Still very early days however and results this weekend mean nothing can be taken for granted.
August Bank Holiday weekend saw the 2nd round of league fixtures across the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and South East Division One with newly promoted sides leading the way in both divisions after Sunday’s results. A wet afternoon across the whole of the East very few if any games avoided a drenching.
Loughborough Foxes Women lead the way in the Southern Premier Division jointly with Portsmouth FC Women, making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. Last season’s Midlands Division One Champions were away to former FAWSL 2 side Watford Ladies on Sunday. Rebecca Knight heading Loughborough into the lead in the 22nd minute. Kate Lowder with a strike from the edge of the box making it 2-0 to the visitors 6 minutes later. 2-0 the lead at the break, Watford were far from out of the game chances for both sides 2nd half Leanne Bell pulled it back to 2-1 inside the final 15 minutes for Watford, just 2 minutes later though Loughborough countered to restore their 2 goal cushion, Charlotte Cooper on as a 2nd half substitute making it 3-1, a result that sees Loughborough lead a three-way tie at the top on 6 points.
Goal difference and goals scored identical after 2 matches played Portsmouth FC Women match Loughborough with 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on the South Coast were taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. The sides looked to be going in goalless at the half-time interval until Gillingham broke the deadlock scoring from a free kick late on, Maddison Chamney-Farrand with the goal. Portsmouth were quick out of the blocks 2nd half with Shannon Albuery levelling the scores with a minute played. Portsmouth then went on to take the lead in the 58th minute Katie James on the scoresheet. Jade Bradley striking from long distance to make it 3-1 to Portsmouth 5 minutes later. Daisy McLachlan netting in the final 10 minutes to seal a 4-1 victory.
Also making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season are Chichester City Ladies. Travelled west to play newly promoted Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday. Their new signings doing the damage Molly Clark having opened her account for Chichester in their 1st match of the season added a brace to her tally against Plymouth, with Helen Ogle previously with QPR Women also netting her 1st goal for the club in a 3-0 away victory.
A goalless draw for Coventry United Ladies n their opening match of the season away to Gillingham they were once again on the road again this Sunday a shorter journey to Stadium MK to play newly promoted Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Chenise Austin putting Coventry into the lead in the 20th minute. Marie Gauntlett struck to double Coventry’s advantage with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. The result made more comfortable on the hour mark with Lois Jefferies putting the ball in on the rebound after a strike from Marie Gauntlett had come back to her off the post. Coventry move up to 4th with the 3-0 win.
Cardiff City Ladies climb up to 5th in the fledgling Southern Premier Division table with a comfortable 5-0 away win against Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. A strong 1st half for the side from Wales, Kylie Nolan putting Cardiff into the lead inside the opening 2 minutes. A quick fire double from Hannah Miles midway through the 1st half further extended Cardiff’s lead with Cori Williams striking on 40 minutes to see Cardiff leading 4-0 at half-time. Alice Griffiths on target with a goal in the 2nd half to see Cardiff claim their 1st win of season.
A first win of the season to for Oxford United Women away to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday, the former FAWSL 2 side now 6th in the Southern Premier Division table as a result. All the goals coming in the 1st half Georgia Timms putting Oxford into the lead on 27 minutes. Kerry Walklett and Florence Fyfe both on target late in the half to put Oxford in full control.
FAWNL South East Division One
What are the odds of the two sides newly promoted to a league leading the way with 2 wins from 2 each at the start of the season? Long I should imagine but that is the case in FAWNL South East Division One with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies taking maximum points from their opening fixtures.
Billericay started the season with a 3-0 away win at Denham United Ladies. Were at home for the 1st time this Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies who had started with a 5-2 win themselves. The away side short of numbers going into the Bank Holiday weekend fixture just the bare 11. Billericay with a good start Samantha Pittock (who I called Puttock in the Round-Up last time out) handed the Essex side the lead scoring in the opening 5 minutes. Zoe Rushen doubling Billericay’s lead in the 10th minute. Nicole Emmings scored for Stevenage to see them trail 2-1 at the break. 2nd half Billericay took full control Jay Blackie with a brace scoring on 56 & 66 minutes making it 4-1, Pittock adding her 2nd of the game as the last 15 minutes loomed, Lucy Jones with a long range effort into the top corner sealing a 6-1 win in the 82nd minute.
Crawley Wasps Ladies also started the season with 2 wins from 2 but it was a much closer affair this time out away to Enfield Town Ladies. Both sides having started the season with a 5-1 win. For over 80 minutes the two sides had been locked at 0-0, the winning goal coming 6 minutes from time Rachel Palmer sending home a free-kick to send Crawley home with the 3 points.
Cambridge United Women climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with there 1st win of the season away to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A 2nd successive away day to the capital having earned a point away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the opening weekend. Striker Kelley Blanchflower scoring to put Cambridge into the lead late in the 1st half. New signing Becky Shephard opened her Cambridge account lobbing the ball over the keeper from the top of the box to make it 2-0 to the visitors in the 2nd half, with Blanchflower on target again for her 2nd of the game to seal a 3-0 victory.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower opened her account with a brace on Sunday
AFC Wimbledon Ladies drawing with Cambridge on the opening day also got their 1st 3 point haul of the season this Sunday, away to Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the match however Rachel Carter with the goal to put Luton 1-0 up. Sophie Manzi getting Wimbledon back on level terms midway through the 1st half, less than 10 minutes later the visitors were in front Sian Wylie finding the back of the net. 2-1 the lead to Wimbledon at the break it wasn’t until 4 minutes from time that the visitors made the 3 points secure Manzi with her 2nd goal of the match sealing the 3-1 win.
A 5-1 loss to newcomers Crawley Wasps Ladies on the opening day of the season Ipswich Town Women bounced back with a fine 2nd half performance to claim their 1st win of the season this time away to Actonians Ladies. It was the home side holding the advantage at half-time however Mariko Eagles getting the goal on the half hour for Actonians. Ipswich responding well Nicole Pannifer levelling the scores for the Suffolk side 20 minutes into the 2nd half just 3 minutes later Ipswich were ahead Zoe Cossey with the strike to make it 2-1. New signing Paige Wakefield previously with C&K Basildon Ladies struck to make it 3-1 to Ipswich with 15 minutes left. Natasha Thomas slotting home from the penalty spot to make it 4-1 to Ipswich in the 78th minute with another summer recruit Laken Ducher-Clarke also from C&K Basildon adding a goal in final moments of the game to secure a 5-1 win.
In the final game to report on from the FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies were denied all 3 points thanks to a late equaliser by visitors Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both sides starting the season with a loss Denham United were to take the lead on 10 minutes with Annie Hewitt getting the visitors goal. Norwich were quick to respond levelling the score less than 5 minutes later, striker Chelsea Garrett sending the ball home to make it 1-0. That the score at the break Norwich went on to take the lead in the game with a little over 10 minutes left to play Garrett on target for her 2nd of the game. The 3 points denied late on however a Denham came back to level the score with just 2 minutes left on the clock, Joanne Torr making it 2-2 to see both sides claim their 1st point of the season.
The new football season began this Sunday and with it comes the first edition of The Round-Up. Women’s Football East will continue to cover the same leagues as last season which are much changed at the top end following the FA’s restructuring of the women’s football pyramid. The FAWSL remains the countries top tier featuring 11 fully professional clubs with FAWSL 2 being renamed the FA Championship again featuring 11 clubs most being semi-professional. The FAWPL below is where The Round-Up coverage begins, renamed this season now known as the FAWNL (Women’s National League).
The two leagues covered by Women’s Football East being the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One below. 12 teams on each at the start of the season several new names feature in the Southern Premier Division as 4 teams from last season were successful in applying for a licence to play in the revamped FAWSL. West Ham United Ladies the most ambitious being the only club outside the FAWSL to apply for a tier one licence. Southern Premier Division Champions, Charlton Athletic Women were victorious in the FAWPL Play-off match to earn promotion whilst Lewes FC Women and after appeal Crystal Palace Ladies also secured a place in the Championship.
There were casualties too with founder clubs from FAWSL 2 opting not to apply for a licence initially in what is an incredibly expensive league. That see’s Watford FC Ladies and Oxford United Women drop down into the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Three promoted sides join the league after the restructure Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Loughborough Foxes Women winners of the FAWPL South East, South West and Midlands Division One’s respectfully.
Onto to the weekend’s football.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
We begin with Loughborough Foxes Women, who were runaway winners of the Midland’s Division One last season, undefeated winning all but one of their 22 league games. Started the new season at home against Queens Park Rangers Women who finished 2nd bottom in the Southern Premier last season. An excellent start for the newly promoted sides, early woes for QPR. Rebecca Mcgrother getting Loughborough off to the perfect start scoring in the 3rd minute of the match. Charlotte Cooper the clubs top scorer last campaign opened her account this season on the 12th minute to put Loughborough 2-0 up, with further goals from Shauna Chambers and Kate Lowder seeing Loughborough leading 4-0 at the break. Mcgrother added her 2nd of the game 2 minutes after the restart with Cooper making it 6-0 with her 2nd of the game with 15 minutes left, QPR going down 7-0 in the finish conceding an own goal in stoppage time. Loughborough the early leaders.
Just a goal less scored for Portsmouth FC Women sees them into 2nd in the Southern Premier Division after the opening round of fixtures. Were away to last season’s runners-up, C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side seeing a lot of changes over the close season with the retirement of Peter King who had invested heavily into the club to make it one of the leading forces in women’s football in the County taking them to the brink of the FAWSL. Now C&K Basildon entering a new era have seen the lost of much of the first team squad along with manager Steve Tilson. A new management team an new look (young) side came up against a strong Portsmouth side. Hannah Greer giving the away side the lead on 12 minutes made it a brace before Daisy McLachlan made it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time. McLachlan an emerging talent last season went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to bag herself an opening day hat-trick with Shannon Albuery on target for a goal in a 6-0 win.
Watford FC Ladies made the decision early not to apply for an FAWSL licence this naturally saw some upheaval at the club costing them their coach and several key players. Also gave them a longer time to prepare for a new era and maybe out of all the former FAWSL sides who drop out of league they are in the best position to mount an immediate promotion push. Got off the the perfect start with an opening day victory at home to Cardiff City Ladies. Welsh international striker Helen Ward opening her account to put the hosts 1-0 up within 7 minutes. Kylie Nolan got it back to 1-1 for Cardiff City midway through the 1st half. Ward restoring Watford’s lead just before half-time from the penalty spot. Andrea Carid Coa came on to make her debut in the 2nd half for Watford and celebrated the occasion by scoring a brace on 64 and 72 minutes. Ward going on to complete a hat-trick in the final 10 minutes. Nolan adding a 2nd goal for Cardiff City late on. Watford clinching a 5-2 win.
Chichester City Ladies began the season at home entertaining the other side dropping out of the FAWSL, Oxford United Women. The debutants doing the damage for Chichester City, Sara Tubby finding the back of the net with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half to hands the hosts a 1-0 half-time lead. Molly Clark too scoring on her debut for Chichester City on 65 minutes to make it 2-0. Oxford pulling a goal back through Ellie Noble to make it 2-1 and set up a tense last 10 minutes Chichester City going on to claim the 3 points.
A 7 goal thriller between the other two sides promoted to the Southern Premier Division this season with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies playing their home games at Stadium MK itself this season entertaining Plymouth Argyle Ladies who finished South West Division One Champions unbeaten with 16 wins from 18 played. Largely due to the incredible 61 goal haul by top scorer Natasha Knapman, and she wasn’t hanging around at the start of this season either, scoring a 1st half hat-trick to put Plymouth 3-0 up. Milton Keynes Dons fought back to reduce the deficit with Kim Farrow and Zoe Boote both scoring to make it 3-2 in the final 5 minutes of the 1st half. Milton Keynes Dons pulled it around to make it 3-3 with 15 minutes played in the 2nd half, Farrow in target for her 2nd goal of the game. Knapman wasn’t finished however as she put the ball home for her 4th of the match 8 minutes later to see the visitors open the season with a 4-3 win.
In the other game played in the Southern Premier Division at the weekend Coventry United Ladies travelled to Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies, the two sides battling out a 0-0 to claim a share of the points.
FAWNL South East Division One
Crawley Wasps Ladies join the FAWNL South East Division One this season and made a positive start to life at a higher level by securing a home win against Ipswich Town Women who were pushing for promotion for a large spell last season. At home it was Ariana Fleischman who claimed Crawley Wasps first goal in the FAWNL netting in the 6th minute. Faye Rabson doubling the advantage for Crawley Wasps on the half hour. Ipswich Town changing their name to Women were to pull it back to 2-1 with 6 minutes left in the 1st half captain Amanda Crump scoring from outside the box. Crawley Wasps were to go it with a 2 goal cushion at half-time with Sian Heather newly joined from Lewes FC Women scoring on her debut. Crawley Wasps going on to made victory comfortable in the 2nd half with both Rabson and Heather getting on the scoresheet once more to seal a 5-1.
5-1 was also the winning score for Enfield Town Ladies as they go joint top with Crawley Wasps in South East Division One after the opening weekend. Began their campaign at home to Norfolk side Norwich City Ladies. Got off the the worst possible start however as Norwich took an early lead in the game Sasha Diston finding the back of the net with just 7 minutes played. Enfield turning the game right around to lead 2-1 at half-time with new signing Jodie Bellinger scoring a brace. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Bellinger had her hat-trick before Danielle Smith scored to make it 4-1 to Enfield. Norwich saw a penalty saved with 20 minutes left before Isabella Agus wrapped up the 5-1 result with 8 minutes left to play.
Also scoring 5 goal on in their opening game of the season were Stevenage Ladies at home to Actonians Ladies on Sunday. Nicole Emmings getting a brace for Stevenage there were opening day goals too for Amy Josland, Amy Makewell and Ellie Searle in a 5-2 victory. Alessandra Barreca top scorer for Actonians last season netting both the visitors goals one in each half.
The other debutant in South East Division One were Essex side, Billericay Town Ladies Champions for the ERWFL Premier Division at last after narrowly missing out on promotion for a number of seasons. Manager Kim Coster has recruited strongly over the close season experience and presence in Zoe Rushen and Jay Blackie from C&K Basildon Ladies along with striker Karissa Rodney, with exciting young talents like Megan Jiggins and Broghan Kelly also coming in amongst others. Started the season perfectly to with an away victory over Denham United Ladies. Lucy Jones, captain Lindsey Morgan and Samantha Puttock all on target in the 1st half in a 3-0 win.
A late winner saw Leyton Orient WFC claim an opening day victory against Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. Chanel Richards with the all important goal to clinch a 1-0 win for the visitors in the 81st minute of the match.
Cambridge United Women began the season with an away trip to the capital to play last season’s South East Division One runners-up, AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Cambridge are another side who have make several new additions over the close season. AFC Wimbledon were holding the advantage at half-time with Katie Stanley putting them 1-0 up inside the final 10 minutes of the half. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Cambridge United were back on level terms new club captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt rising inside the box to head the ball home from a corner kick. An opening day draw to begin the season the game ending 1-1.
