Tag Archives: FAWPL South East Division One

The Round-Up – 20/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th May

The final edition of The Round-Up for the 2017/18 season. 19 games to bring you in one post it’s not quite over a couple to thing’s to still be decided and it is going to go all the way in both the Premier and Division One in Essex, first though we’ll begin with all the action from the final day of the FAWPL season.

FAWPL Southern Division

3 games to wrap up the season in the FAWPL Southern Division, Charlton Athletic Women the Champions of course have a very important Play-off match to come against the Northern Division Champions, Blackburn Rovers Ladies this coming Sunday at Bramall Lane.

This Sunday Charlton were at home for their final game of the season presented with the Southern Division trophy, ended their campaign against Chichester City Ladies. Charlotte Gurr giving Charlton a 1-0 half-time lead scoring in the 13th minute. Strike partner Kit Graham doubling the lead on the hour. Natasha Stephens getting her first goal for Chichester City pulled it back to 2-1 on 77 minutes. Charlton soon restoring their 2 goal advantage Gurr netting her 2nd of the game 4 minutes later. Graham taking her tally to a whopping 46 goals for the season scoring deep in stoppage time to see Charlton end the season with a 4-1 win. Just 2 defeats in the league all season for Charlton a potent strike force in Gurr and Graham have netted 82 goals between them. An 8th placed finish for Chichester City in the finish a solid season following promotion have been comfortable in the top half of the table for much of the campaign dropping a little late on.

Wishing Charlton all the best of luck for this weekends Play-off match.

Pipped at the post Lewes FC Women concede 4th place in the Southern Division table having held it for much of the season as Coventry United Ladies grabbed a last gasp winner to nudge them out on goal difference. Lewes travelled to Coventry United knowing a point or better would secure 4th. Coventry having played twice in midweek in an effort to catch up their games in hand had picked up maximum points one more win would see them overhaul Lewes to 4th spot. Were trailing at the break however Lewes ahead 1-0 after Avilla Bergin had fired the visitors into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Jade Brook levelled thing’s up for Coventry in the 2nd half. 1-1 until the dying moments the game looked to be heading for the draw Lois Jefferies finding the back of the net to grab a late late winner for Coventry United.

Over 1300 spectators were present for West Ham United Ladies final game of the season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies in Sunday. The club having had a fantastic 2018 to date 13 games unbeaten along with 2 cups won along the way. From a precarious position going into the year in the league West Ham United have ended the season comfortable in mid-table. Held 0-0 for the opening half hour it was Rosie Kmita who broke the dead lock for West Ham to put the hosts into the lead, Kelly Wealthall making it 2-0 4 minutes before half-time.

Jasmine Auguste scored a 3rd goal for West Ham United on the hour. Ellie Zoepfl then took over the goal scoring proceedings as she bagged herself a 10 minute hat-trick to put West Ham United 6-0 up. Helen Ogle pulled a goal back for Queens Park Rangers a consolation West Ham United awarded a penalty in stoppage time substitute Rebecca Dunning stepping up to take and scoring her 1st goal for the club the final score 7-1.

FAWPL South East Division One

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have done it are the FAWPL South East Division One Champions! An amazing run of 11 wins to end the campaign have lost just the one league game all season and that was their 2nd game of the season back in August. Have been playing catch up all season but as the title race played out before them knew what they had to do at one point 27 points back on the leaders but a maximum points haul would see them close the gap. That of course is easier said than done, credit to everyone involved a tremendous effort with games coming thick and fast towards the end played themselves into top spot with a game to go and knew just a point away to bottom side Haringey Borough was going to be enough come this Sunday.

A 16-1 win for Milton Keynes just a week ago, Stevenage pushed them hard at Stadium MK in midweek a 1-0 just as good however. With plenty of goal scorers in their side Milton Keynes created plenty of chances and took them to wrap up the title with a big win, Laura Mills and Kim Farrow netting a hat-trick each. Both Leah Cudone and Zoe Boote got a brace. Captain Leanna Doyle and Amy Gooderham also on target along with an own goal in a 13-0 win.

An incredibly tough season for Haringey Borough following their double winning success of the season before. Losing a lot of players to university it was a baptism of fire in the FAWPL so many new players losing a manager during the campaign too. Full credit too though for sticking at it have battled and the spirit remained strong the club.

Congratulations to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on becoming Champions and promotion to the Southern Division.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies the FAWPL South East Division One leaders for so long through out the season ultimately missing out finish as Runners-Up in the league. Two defeats late on in the campaign damaging their own title challenge have nevertheless had a strong season. Ended the season were they began the reverse fixture away to Ipswich Town Ladies who themselves have secured a top three finish in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town beat AFC Wimbledon 3-1 on the opening day of the season. This Sunday the sides were goalless at the break. AFC Wimbledon taking the lead early in the 2nd period awarded a penalty on 47 minutes Caroline Bisson putting the ball into the back of the net for her 11th goal of the season. Ipswich responded quickly getting back on level terms, Zoe Cossey who has been in fine form this season netting her 21st goal of the season to make it 1-1 the sides ended with a point each.

Ipswich Town Ladies manager Ralph Pruden announcing after the game that he would be stepping down from the role after 4 years in charge a successful spell for the club, will still be involved with the club but taking a well earned rest first, has been very helpful to Women’s Football East in that period and wish him all the best for the future.

Leyton Orient WFC were making their debut in the FAWPL this season and right up their amongst the title chasers from an early stage end up with a 4th place finish. A very good first season at this level their campaign ending with a goalless draw away to Enfield Town Ladies who end in 10th position.

Luton Town Ladies have been amongst the top sides in the FAWPL South East Division One over recent seasons clinching two successive 4th placed finishes before a 5th place finish last season. 5th place was the goal too this Sunday as they travelled to Norfolk to play Norwich City Ladies knowing a win would guarantee the place. Women’s Football East was there to watch the action on a hot sunny afternoon at Plantation Park. A flurry of goals in the early stages of the game, Nicola Henman lobbing the keeper to put Luton a goal up Norwich went straight up the other end and scored the equaliser Chelsea Garrett running through to beat the keeper to the ball and turn the ball into the back of the net. Luton soon back in front Henman the provider this time setting up Jess McKay inside the box to make it 2-1.

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

Luton further extending their 1st half lead as they were awarded a free-kick 30 yards from goal central a brilliant strike from their captain Zara Carroll the ball smashing down off the crossbar over the line to make it 3-1. That the half-time score Norwich came out fighting 2nd half Luton soaking up the pressure ready to hit their opponents on the counter. Norwich pulling a goal back late in the match Garrett with her 2nd of the game, Luton keeping their lead to the final whistle and ending their season with a win. Norwich finish 2nd bottom and will have to wait until the upcoming league restructuring to see if they will retain their FAWPL status for next season.

Stevenage Ladies were the side that could have overhauled Luton to 5th spot had they got the win and Luton dropped points as it was Stevenage away to Denham United Ladies on the final day lost out to a narrow 2-1 defeat, captain Donna McGuigan getting the goal Denham ended the season on a positive note Kayleigh Currivan with a double to see them claim the 3 points.

That’s it for the FAWPL as from next season it becomes the FA Women’s National League.

ERWFL Division One South

Just one outstanding fixture left to play in the ERWFL from Division One South, Hutton Ladies double cup winners this season ending with a trip to Hertford Town Ladies in buoyant mood the Essex side ending with a victory. Kate Lowen and Kelly Roberts both scoring 2 goals each with Kaitlin Sugg and Laura Allen also on target in a 6-1 win.

Congratulation too the Harlow Town Ladies who have been promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division. Finishing 2nd in Division One South, Champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves haven’t taken promotion the runners-up going up in their place.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Bungay Town Ladies are the Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions and complete a league and cup double. A nervous wait at the end however as they draw their final game of the season to open the door to 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies. 4 points behind with 2 games left to play a 2-0 win against Thorpe United Ladies meant Sprowston could overtake Bungay and become Champions themselves if they could win their final match of the season away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves who themselves with two games left to play could move up a couple of places with maximum points.

Sprowston having the better start getting themselves into a 2-0 lead Wymondham Town came back into it Hannah Claughton pulling it back to 2-1. The game turned completely around then as Wymondham Town levelled from the penalty spot Emily Anderson scoring added another soon after to put Wymondham Town 3-2 ahead. Sprowston coming back to level it up at 3-3 late on in the game the sides taking away a point each, Sprowston drawing level on points with Bungay who become Champions virtue of a superior goal difference.

Congratulations to Bungay Town Ladies on completing the league and cup double.

Congratulations to Sprowston Ladies to a very young squad challenging for the title all season missing out on a double themselves just on goals scored after winning the Plate Final.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

A double header to bring the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North season to a close, Riverside Ladies needing just a point against their two matches with Hungate Rovers Ladies to become the league champions. Jess Hill and Jade Ramm scoring a goal each in a 2-0 win for Riverside in one game. 6 points won with a 5-1 win in the other match, Samantha Woodham scoring twice with a goal each for Annie Posnett, Lianna Bell and Juliana Lee.

Congratulations to Riverside Ladies on becoming Championship North Champions and promotion to the Premiership. A successful end to a difficult season dropping out of the EMWFL and entering a team into the Championship North.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Still all to play for in both leagues in Essex. In the Premier Division, Hatfield Peverel Ladies maintain the lead moving onto 40 points 5 clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies who have a game in hand. A double header this Sunday for Hatfield Peverel away to another title challenger Corringham Cosmos who even after this weekends double have 5 games left to play. Both sides claiming a win. Christa Osman on target with the winner in Hatfield Peverel’s 1-0 win. Michelle Sumpter grabbing to only goal of the game to win it for Corringham Cosmos who lay in 5th spot on 29 points have 4 games in hand on Hatfield Peverel who themselves have one left play away to Collier Row Tigers this Sunday.

Lawford Ladies secured the 3 points with a huge home win against Harlow Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Captain, Daisy Canny scoring 5 goals in the game taking her onto 24 for the season, Jasmine Cox keeping just ahead of her as top scorer getting a hat-trick has 26 goals now. Sofia Serghiou on the scoresheet too with 4 goals in the game, Jade Heath and Tyler Christou also on target in a 14-0 win.

Frontiers Ladies in 3rd place in the Premier Division have 3 games left to play as they picked up another win on the road on Sunday to leave them 6 points off the leaders. Taking on Beacon Hill Rovers, were leading 3-0 at half-time before going on to win 4-1, Sharon Ferguson netting a brace along with a goal apiece for Kay Foy and Kelly Holsworth.

Chelmsford City Ladies were playing Collier Row Tigers at home on Sunday, Georgia James scoring a hat-trick along with a goal for Mia Brisley seeing the 6th placed side beat Collier Row Tigers in 4th, 4-2. Emily Dempsey and Laura Bunton scoring for Collier Row Tigers.

I could do the maths but it’ll only give me a headache and leave you confused so for now 4 sides still remain in with a chance of claiming the title, Hatfield Peverel win on Sunday and other results go their way then they will finish top.

Essex Women’s Division One

As competitive for the league title in Essex Women’s Division One going into the final week, a 3 way tie at the top with Hullbridge Sports Ladies ahead on goal difference over Leigh Ramblers Ladies and Southend United Ladies the latter two meeting in midweek. All 3 on 49 points.

Hullbridge Sports Ladies in action on Sunday at home to Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in 5th. A brace from top scorer Broghan Kelly clinching the win for Hullbridge 2-1 the final score. Kelly moving onto an incredible 51 goals for the season from 22 appearances. The win putting Hullbridge back on top of the table crucially have a game in hand on both Leigh Ramblers and Southend United.

One more game from Division One at the weekend Alresford Colne Rangers were at home against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Joanne Harvey, Alresford’s top scorer moving onto 24 goals for the season with a 4 goal haul. Tiffany Reeves with a brace and a goal too for Kirsty Belfall her 1st of the season in a comfortable 7-2 win.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 20th May

It’s the final day of the FAWPL season, ending it with a trip to Plantation Park to watch Norwich City Ladies up against Luton Town Ladies in South East Division One.

The last season in fact for the FAWPL with the women’s football pyramid being restructured from next season it will become known as the Women’s National League and there will be some restructuring amongst the teams that compete in those league too.

Neither of today’s sides can improve on their final placing Norwich City Ladies will finish 2nd bottom in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Have unfortunately been struggling at the wrong end of the table for a few season’s now. Change potentially around the corner. Chairman and General Manager Mel Swift bringing in Grant Palmer to join the club as first team manager assisted by Carla Dickinson, following a successful spell developing and winning titles with Harlow Town Ladies. Since arriving in January results have started to pick up without necessarily picking up the points. Relegation a possibility will come down to the restructuring of the league and at present not known.

Luton Town Ladies are currently 5th in the FAWPL South East Division One can’t finish any higher although they can be caught by 6th placed Stevenage Ladies who are just a point behind ending their campaign away to Denham United Ladies. Have been a regular in the top half of the table over recent season’s finishing 4th, 4th, and then 5th last season in the league. Have brought a number of youth players up through the club to make the 1st team squad this season. Were in action in midweek at home to Cambridge United WFC coming back from a goal down twice to secure a point in a 3-3 draw.

Plantation Park the venue home of Norwich United FC and Norwich City Ladies. A warm sunny May afternoon to end the season the pitch looking in reasonably good shape after seeing alot of football played upon it. Dry however and fairly hard underfoot. Offers plenty of width to. Campers behind the goals getting a ring side seat of the action.

Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Luka Goodfield, Vivian Moyo, Sasha Diston, Emily Moerkerk (C), Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Aimee Durrant, Summer Ward, Brooke Osborne & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Hayley Turner, Natasha Snelling, Eliza McDonald, Paige Shorten & Laura Thacker.

Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Brooks, Rachel Kosky, Lucy Webster, Rachel Carter, Lucy Tape, Lisa Dixon, Zara Carroll (C), Dionne Manning, Jess McKay, Funmi Babalola & Nicola Henman. Subs – Natasha Fensome & Erica Bryon.

It’s Luton to kick off the match wearing orange shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green kit. A quiet opening to the game Luton putting the ball out to the right Norwich winning the throw in concede a free-kick on halfway, to the right the ball flighted in towards the off of the area the Norwich defence deals with it and sending the ball out to the right wing set up a counter attack Brooke Osborne travelling with the ball up the wing sending a cross in across the six yard box the ball dipping as it arrives at the far post so to is Norwich’s Aimee Durrant her touch flicking the ball up over the bar.

Millie Daviss bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

Luton play the ball up to Nicola Henman in attack holding it up plays the ball back to Lisa Dixon rolled into Zara Carroll the Luton captain attempts to play the ball over the top for Henman to run onto, too much weight on the pass runs out for a goal kick. Norwich captain, Emily Moerkerk plays the ball into Summer Ward moving away to the right, Lucy Webster in to tackle the ball out for a throw, high up the pitch Norwich get players forwards the ball into the area cut out by Lucy Tape for Luton, launch a rapid counter through the middle the ball fed through to Funmi Babalola into the left channel gets a shot away from outside the box her low effort running narrowly wide of the near post.

Millie Daviss brings the ball on over halfway for Norwich central on to Chelsea Garrett her back to goal spins the ball away to her right Ward taking it on down the left as Durrant makes a central run into the box the cross squared into her run she shot is placed wide across the face of goal. Norwich build another attack the ball played out to Garrett peeling out to the right wing up the line cuts her cross back towards the top of the area, Carroll getting her foot around it to clear for Luton the clearance runs straight to Norwich’s Jodie Drake 30 yards out takes on the shot the ball skimming in towards goal, Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks diving to her right claims it.

Norwich City Ladies, Jodie Drake

Risky from Norwich goalkeeper Eilish Brogan as she comes racing out of her box to close down Henman as she is put through on goal, does well however controlling the bouncing ball with her chest to take it away from the attacker before kicking it up field. A good tempo to the game certainly doesn’t have that end of a long season feel to it.

Henman is causing the Norwich defence problems early on timing her runs well playing off the shoulder of the last defender, gets away on the left channel in front of goal, Sasha Diston doing well for Norwich recovering the ground lunging in to take the ball away from Henman out for the corner kick. A good delivery into the area from the left the inswinging ball take well by Brogan as she jumps for the ball with Henman coming in on her.

Eilish Brogan claims the ball for Norwich City Ladies

Drake with a good pass out to the right to pick out Osborne the Norwich winger taking it on evades a tackle getting in behind to send a cross in along the edge of the box Garrett meeting it far side sends her shot wide of goal.

GOAL! Luton open the scoring and it’s Henman who gets the goal, a handful for the Norwich defence to deal with the ball played up towards her 25/30 yards from goal to the right sends a chipped effort up high into the air looping over Brogan the keeper caught off her line can’t get back as it falls into the back of the net 0-1.

Nicola Henman opens the scoring for Luton Town Ladies

GOAL! Straight away from the restart however Norwich get the ball up the other end and level the scores the ball lifted up towards the box bouncing as Brooks comes out towards the edge of her area, Garrett in behind challenging the keeper for the ball knocks it past her and taking it away to the right of goal gets her foot up over it to turn it back across the line to score, almost tumbles head over heels over the barrier behind the goal in the process 1-1.

The moment Chelsea Garrett gets past Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks to equalise for Norwich City Ladies

Brooks required treatment after the goal is okay to continue. Carroll playing the diagonal pass out to Jess McKay on the left she looks to cut inside is tackled by Norwich’s Luka Goodfield, Diston clearing the loose ball.

Norwich City Ladies, Luka Goodfield

GOAL! The goals keep coming a 3rd scored in as many minutes and it’s Luton who once again take the lead. Norwich are caught in possession high up the pitch as Luton press the ball, Henman stealing the ball on the right 25 yards out shifting it inside, players drawn across she sends the low cross in across the area McKay free at the far post 10 yards out opens up her body to divert the ball past Brogan to score 1-2. 18 minutes played.

Jess McKay score for Luton Town Ladies to restore their lead

A change for Norwich, Goodfield coming off on comes Laura Thacker. Henman strong on the ball threatens to get in behind once more, Diston doing well to get across her and play the ball back to Brogan to clear inside the box. McKay and Henman combine in attack on the left a give and go between the pair McKay coming infield lines up a shot from distance the ball screwing away from goal. Luton coming forwards with purpose looking to spread the play across the pitch inside the Norwich half.

McKay into the box a similar position to which she scored the ball in from the right dropping the attacker striking it first time the shot spun wide of goal. Dixon winning the ball in the middle for Luton inside to Carroll her pass out to McKay away on he left crosses into the area Henman goes for it Diston challenging the Luton attacker getting a glancing header on the ball places it wide at the far post. Luton on top pushing forwards.

Norwich City Ladies, Sasha Diston

Henman continues to hassle the Norwich defence supported by McKay on the right. Thacker with good defensive work for Norwich to get the ball back to her keeper. Babalola with support from Dionne Manning on the right the ball crossed in towards the top of the area headed on by the Norwich out to the left retrieved by McKay who sends a high ball into the box, Brogan taking it well as she falls forwards. Babalola steals in on the ball taking it off the Norwich defence playing it through for Henman she is flagged offside.

GOAL! McKay is fouled in a central position 30 yards from goal, Luton send players forwards as Carroll places the ball. She goes for goal strikes the ball well, arrowing in towards the top corner Brogan flings herself at it in vain as it smashes down against the crossbar and down, scrambled away the officials though signal a goal scored and Luton extend their lead 1-3.

Zara Carroll’s free-kick smashing down off the crossbar

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll

Luton with a throw in on the left inside the Norwich half Dixon making the run in behind takes the ball to the byline before sending in a cross bouncing across the face of goal cleared at the far post. Luton pressing the ball well, McKay always ready to break in behind whenever the ball is played up to Henman. Henman herself charges down a clearance from Brogan top of the area, aims to get the loose ball turned in on goal, Brogan recovering well back pedalling is right behind the strike.

Late into the 1st half the ball with Norwich on the left a foul committed inside the Luton half a chance to send players forwards towards the top of the box, a good delivery into the area bouncing near post, Daviss getting in front of Tape, almost gets on the end of it, Brooks palming it away to her right.

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-3 Luton Town Ladies

A strong first half performance from Luton after an initially flurry of goals taking the lead then conceding straight away, only to score again taking the lead again and dominating from that point on. Henman and McKay causing all sorts of problems for the Norwich defence as they pressed the ball high. Good movement on and off the ball supported by the midfield. Norwich with a couple of great chances themselves in the opening minutes of the match. After conceding the 2nd goal struggled to get the ball out caught in possession created a few of their own problems. Luton on course to secure 5th spot in the table.

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

Norwich to get the 2nd half underway. Drake has the ball in the middle wide to Ward out left taking the ball on sends a cross into the box Durrant with the run gets her head on the ball put straight at Brooks the keeper holding onto the ball. McKay getting forwards with the ball sends a cross into Henman positioned outside the box, Diston closing her down preventing her from attempting the lob. Thacker with a vital interception at the back as Dixon looks to play the ball on through the middle.

Jodie Drake clearing the ball

Norwich starting the 2nd half better getting forwards Osborne seeing a cross go behind for a goal kick on the right. Carroll carrying the ball on over the halfway line for Luton picks out Manning on the right with the pass as she makes a break forwards cutting inside towards the top of the box sends a low shot in towards goal, Brogan getting down gathers the ball into her body.

Luton Town Ladies, Funmi Babalola

Diston slides in on the hard ground to try and take the ball away from Babalola as she makes a run on the right 20 yards out, the defender is hurt making the challenge Babalola retrieves the ball on the byline sends a high ball in across the face of Brogan’s goal the keeper doing well under challenge to get up and claim the ball. Norwich temporarily down to 10 whilst Diston receives treatment Luton press on in attack the ball played into the top of the area cleared back to Webster having gotten forwards the full back slices a 25 attempt well off target.

Diston comes back on but she is unable to continue, the substitution made on comes midfielder Paige Shorten. The tempo remains high Norwich gaining confidence, Shorten not afraid to strike the ball from distance central has a pop at goal from 30 yards out the ball dropping wide of the right post. Ward cutting inside with the ball on the left on to Shorten she dinks the ball over the top of the Luton defence for Durrant to chase, Brooks can reach it first.

Luton come close to extending their lead Manning getting hold of the ball on the right turning in behind to sends a low cross in towards the near post Babalola arriving meets it first time drills the ball narrowly wide. A third change for Norwich, Drake comes off as Natasha Snelling in brought on to support Garrett in attack. A corner for Norwich on the right taken short the ball crossed into the six yard box, Brooks can catch unchallenged.

Luton Town Ladies, Dionne Manning

A powerful run by Henman driving on with the ball up towards the top of the box evades a tackle knocking the ball on into the area fires a cross diagonally across goal from the right. Babalola racing in far post can’t get to the ball as it runs out of play. A throw for Norwich on the left the ball inside to Snelling pushed on for Garrett to attack arriving top corner of the Luton area lets fly with a shot the ball angling in near post Brooks saves well beating the ball away to her right.

Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling

Norwich pressing for a goal risk getting caught on the counter attack Luton timing their attacks the ball played up to McKay clear on the left drives for the box inside Brogan does well to save sliding in at her feet to deny the attacker a shot. End to end Norwich attack coming right side the ball played into the area loops up and on towards Garrett peeling in behind at the far post shapes to shoot deceiving Brooks who dives to her right the ball instead prodded square to her left the keeper reacts brilliantly throwing out her trailing leg to stop the ball getting past her out for the corner.

Norwich are pressing on looking for a goal Ward on the left inside for Shorten good hold up play by the midfielder outside the area left corner turns inside well lifting the ball over the defence into the box Snelling stretching for it sends her shot over the bar, had it been on target wouldn’t have counted as she was offside. Norwich looking strong Luton soaking up the pressure.

GOAL! That pressure increases however as Norwich get the goal they have been pressing for, Snelling with the ball on for Daviss moving left on for Garrett out on the wing she takes the ball on down the line cutting inside to the byline getting in behind and from the angle drills in a shot towards the near post Brooks diving for it can’t get there the ball finds the back of the net 2-3 will a little under 10 minutes left to play.

Chelsea Garrett score a 2nd goal for the game for Norwich City Ladies

Manning looks to get forwards for Luton as Carter wins the ball at the back for Luton on to Carroll out to the right Manning pushing on Moyo getting back with her tackles her to regain possession for Norwich. Tape getting her head on the ball to clear for Luton as Ward plays a ball in from the left. Shorten is brought down by Carroll in the middle top of the circle, Durrant over the ball a great delivery in Brooks takes it well high on her goal line.

Not long left in the match Norwich have a corner everyone goes up including the keeper, the ball from the right goes long headed back across goal in towards the right post, Carter on her line to defend for Luton heading the ball away from danger. Luton have players back defending late on Carroll winning the ball gets it up to Babalola, possession lost Norwich push late on but can’t final a clinical final ball as Luton defend their lead and claim the 3 points on the final day and with it secure 5th place in the FAWPL South East Division One table.

Full time Norwich City Ladies 2-3 Luton Town Ladies

A competitive game to end the season for both sides gave it there all, Luton by far the better the 1st half taking a 3-1 lead. Sat back more in the 2nd half ready to launch a counter attack when on e presented itself Norwich improving 2nd half getting hold of the ball higher up the pitch and gaining confidence as a result creating chances pulling a goal back late in the 2nd half proved too little too late but a positive 2nd half to end their campaign. 5th place for Luton 4 seasons in a row now. Norwich 2nd bottom play the waiting game now to see whether they stay in the Division or drop down. An improved 2nd half of the season lots of positives to build on for next season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

This afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Luton Town Ladies, Nicola Henman proved a real handful for the Norwich defence especially in the first half playing off the last defender moving left and right to receive the ball supported well by McKay scoring the opening goal and setting up the 2nd.

My thanks to both clubs for their help today always appreciated.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

FAWPL Southern Division

Charlton Athletic Women are the FAWPL Southern Division Champion’s. Retaking the lead with games in hand still on their rivals went into Sunday’s game knowing a win would ensure them the league title with 2 games to spare. Were away to 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies who secure runners-up spot themselves if they could win their final game of the season.

Charlton got off to a fantastic start in the game getting into the lead within the opening 10 minutes, Kit Graham finding the back of the net. Charlton created further chances to extend the lead in the 1st half but didn’t take any held a narrow lead going into the break. Just 2 minutes into the 2nd half Charlton doubled their advantage Graham again then just 4 minutes later she completed her hat-trick to move her onto 199 goals for Charlton and put the visitors in control of the game. Closing in on the hour Graham scored a 4th goal for Charlton bringing up her 200th for Charlton from 207 appearance a fantastic achievement massive congratulations to Kit Graham now on 42 for the season. The goals ensuring Charlton got the win that saw them become Champion’s.

Defeat for Crystal Palace in their final game of the season sees them finish 3rd in the table building on 5th in what was their debut season at this level last year. Blackburn Rovers Ladies have secured the FAWPL Northern Division title and will face Charlton in the FAWPL Play-off game held this year at Sheffield United FC’s Bramall Lane on Sun 27th May.

That result coupled with a win for win for C&K Basildon Ladies in their final match of the season away to Chichester City Ladies ensured they ended their remarkable season with a 2nd placed finish in the FAWPL Southern Division table. The Essex side making everyone nervous in the process however as they eventual found a winning goal with 5 minutes of the season left! Captain Zoe Rushen getting the telling touch inside the penalty box to get the crucial goal and see C&K Basildon secure runners-up spot.

A point from their final game of the season will ensure Lewes FC Women finish in 4th place in the FAWPL Southern Division, that is of course if Coventry United Ladies can claim maximum points in their remaining games in hand. A fantastic season for Lewes real progress made on the pitch this season. Playing the final home game of the season against Cardiff City Ladies the sides looked to be heading in goalless at the break until Danielle Lane got the ball over the line for Lewes in the final 5 minutes. 10 minutes into the 2nd half a goal from Rachel Carter made it 2-0 to Lewes. Lane adding her 2nd of the game to make it 3-0 5 minutes later. 3-0 up Lewes’ Georgia Bridges added their 4th goal in the closing stages of the game. Lewes are away to West Ham United Ladies for their final game of the season this coming Sunday. Cardiff City ending their season in 10th spot a difficult campaign but results elsewhere mean they can not be caught.

Portsmouth FC Ladies finished their season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. An opportunity for the club to play at Fratton Park in their final match and put on a show for their fans. Charley Boswell firing Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half two quickfire goals from Samantha Quayle and Daisy McLachlan in the 38th & 39th minute putting Portsmouth into a strong 3-0 half-time lead.

In the 70th minute Portsmouth were awarded a penalty Rachel Panting stepping up to take and scored to make it 4-0. Quayle adding her 2nd of the game in the final 10 minutes, Another penalty awarded to Portsmouth this time the taker Emma-Jane May her shot going in for her first Portsmouth goal. QPR grabbing a late consolation with Chontele Lawrence on target. A 6-1 win for Portsmouth to end the season a pretty good campaign overall and certainly a great platform to build on from next season. QPR will finish 2nd bottom despite having 2 games left to play. Will have to see how the league structure is changed around over the close season to see if it’s enough to stay up.

Coventry United Ladies are in the midst of a hectic schedule as they look to get in all their fixtures before the end of the season in action on Tuesday were at home again on Sunday taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. Stephanie Smith putting Coventry into an early lead. Jade Formaston and Lois Jefferies also with goals in the 1st half to see Coventry into a 3-0 half-time lead. Keeley Davies extending Coventry’s lead further in the 2nd half Marie Gauntlett wrapping up a 5-0 win in the final 5 minutes. Back at it a home again this Tuesday, Coventry taking in bottom side Swindon Town Ladies playing their final game of the season. Another league game on Thursday too at home to Queens Park Rangers as they look to get the season wrapped up by the 20th May. 2 points behind Portsmouth.

FAWPL South East Division One

New leaders in FAWPL South East Division One as Milton Keynes Dons Ladies move into top spot ahead of AFC Wimbledon Ladies on goal difference with a big win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. A busy end to the season for Milton Keynes Dons picking up the 3 points with a 2-0 win away to Actonians Ladies in midweek.

5-0 up against Haringey at half-time, a brace from Leah Cudone along with goals for Laura Mills, Dawn Mallett and Kim Farrow. Milton Keynes adding even more goals in the 2nd half both Louise Naylor and Heather McDonnell scoring a hat-trick each a brace too for captain Leanna Doyle. Alice Hughes, Zoe Boote and Anna Loftus also on the scoresheet in a 16-1 win. Julia Carruthers with the consolation goal for Haringey. Milton Keynes Dons with a game in hand over Wimbledon coming up this Wednesday at the Stadium MK up against Stevenage Ladies a win will see them needing just a point to win the league title in their final game of the season on Sunday away to Haringey.

Ipswich Town Ladies have already secured a 3rd placed finish in FAWPL South East Division One were away to 5th placed Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. A goalless 1st period between the sides it was Ipswich who broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Natasha Thomas on target with her 30th goal of the season to make it 1-0. Miagh Downey doubling the visitors lead with 12 minutes left on the clock. Ipswich going on to win the 3 points despite Luton pulling it back to 2-1 in the closing stages with a goal from Jess McKay.

That result for Luton ensures a top fur finish for Leyton Orient WFC in their debut season playing at this level. They were at home on Sunday playing Stevenage Ladies. Rebecca Scola giving Stevenage the lead in the game late in the first half. Leyton Orient coming back to level the scores and go on to take the lead Sarka Stryhalova and Hannah Porter getting the goals. A chance to extend the lead further too from the penalty spot the chance missed the ball put over the bar. Stevenage getting a penalty up the other end and Amy Makewell making no mistake to level it up at 2-2 and see the points shared.

Norwich City Ladies were hosting Cambridge United WFC on Sunday both playing their penultimate game of the season. Norwich improving under new manager Grant Palmer took the lead in the game in the 20th minute Chelsea Garrett with the goal. The lead doubled on the half hour Aimee Durrant getting the ball into the back of the net. Conceding a penalty right on the stroke of half-time Cambridge reduced the deficit to 2-1 with Amy Howell sending the ball home. Cambridge getting it back to 2-2 midway through the 2nd half substitute Mollie Coupar with her first touch of the game scoring her first goal for the 1st team. Norwich having lost their 2-0 lead kept going to the end and retook the lead with just 2 minutes left on the clock Garrett with her 2nd of the match to see Norwich get the 3-2 win.

The Round-Up – #FAWPL 06/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 6th May

FAWPL Southern Division

Charlton Athletic Women returned to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division with a comfortable midweek away win to Chichester City Ladies. Charley Clifford hitting a brace there were goals too for Nicole Pepper, Charlotte Gurr, Georgia Griffin and Kit Graham in a 6-0 result. The London in Cup Final action this Sunday up against 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies in the Capital Women’s Cup.

There rivals for the league title in Cup action this Sunday it was an opportunity for 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies to return to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division table as they travelled down to the South Coast to play 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies. both sides hitting the woodwork early on in the game it was Portsmouth who would open the scoring awarded a penalty in the 15th minute. Daisy McLachlan stepping up to take putting the ball home for 1-0. Late in the 1st half McLachlan was on target with her 2nd of the game to see Portsmouth leading 2-0 at the break.

C&K Basildon came out strong in the 2nd half Angela Addison pulling it back to 2-1 with 53 minutes played and 2 minutes later had the chance the level from the penalty spot the post struck the follow up put over the bar. Portsmouth going on to win the game 2-1 and put a large dent in C&K Basildon’s title hopes, the Essex side with one game left to play now away to Chichester City this coming Sunday. 2 points behind Charlton Athletic Women who have 3 left to play.

Lewes FC Women are looking strong for a 4th placed finish in the FAWPL Southern Division as they won their 13th league game of the season away to Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday. Avilla Bergin giving the visitors the lead deep into 1st half stoppage time. Katie McIntyre doubling the advantage with 20 minutes left to play to see Lewes win the game 2-0.

Coventry United Ladies in 6th could still potentially catch Lewes if they drop points and they can win theirs have 5 games left to play a busy end to the season. A 15-0 win over Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies saw Coventry United Ladies retain the County Cup in midweek. Were at home on Sunday taking on Cardiff City Ladies. Goals from Helen Dermody, Marie Gauntlett, Stephanie Smith and Jessica Lundle seeing Coventry win the game 4-0.

Chichester City Ladies were hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. The sides goalless at the half-time whistle Chichester City went on to claim all 3 points in the 2nd half. Laura Ingram putting them in front on the hour. Jess Lewry doubling the lead with 15 minutes left Alex Collighan ensuring the 3 points went to the hosts with a 3rd goal in the final moments of the game.

FAWPL South East Division One

Two successive defeats in the league had put the brakes on AFC Wimbledon Ladies title charge at the top of FAWPL South East Division One. A 3 week break without a league fixture they were on the road this Sunday taking on Luton Town Ladies. A good opening 45 minutes saw AFC Wimbledon leading the game 2-0. Katie Stanley and Caroline Bisson the goalscorers. Bisson scored again on the hour to see AFC Wimbledon into a 3-0 lead. Luton Town threatened a comeback however with 2 goals from Funmi Babalola and Nicola Henman to get it back to 3-2. AFC Wimbledon have won several goals by the odd goal this season and that continued this Sunday as they took the 3 points to return to winning ways. Lead the table by 6 points with one game away to Ipswich Town Ladies to come.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have a lot of work still left to do but have now climbed into 2nd place in the FAWPL South East Division One table closing the gap to 6 points on AFC Wimbledon and crucially have 3 games in hand. The games coming thick and fast now at the end of the season their squad will be tested. Were hosting Norwich City Ladies at Stadium MK on Sunday Heather McDonnell getting Milton Keynes off to a great start scoring in the opening minute. Laura Mills with a superb solo goal making it 2-0 past the half hour.

A 2-0 lead for Milton Keynes at half-time Norwich pulled a goal back soon after the restart Chelsea Garrett finding the back of the net. 5 minutes later Milton Keynes restored their 2 goal advantage McDonnell with her 2nd of the game. Charley Clarke making it 4-1 in the 65th minute. McDonnell completing her hat-trick with 20 minutes left. Kim Farrow getting on the scoresheet with 3 minutes left, the final score 6-2 as Norwich City score in the closing minutes through Natasha Snelling. Milton Keynes back in action tonight away to Actonians Ladies a potentially tricky game with Actonians in a good run of form themselves.

One more game from the FAWPL South East Division One at the weekend and it was honours even between hosts Stevenage Ladies and Denham United Ladies the sides drawing 1-1 captain Donna McGuigan scoring for Stevenage.

Capital Women’s Cup

Charlton Athletic Women were playing Crystal Place Ladies in the Capital Cup Final this Sunday. A close contest both sides creating opportunities in front of goal it was stalemate at half-time 0-0. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Crystal Palace took the lead Gemma Bryan scoring from a free-kick just outside the area. Charlton were quick to find a reply levelling it back up at 1-1 6 minutes later Kit Graham with the goal. Olivia Lukasewich the heroine as she scored the winning goal for Charlton in the final minute to see them win the final 2-1 and lift the trophy.

Capital Cup Winners – Charlton Athletic Women (picture credit – Charlton Athletic Women)

Congratulations to Charlton Athletic Women on winning this season’s Capital Women’s Cup.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 29/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 29th April

FAWPL Southern Division

C&K Basildon complete a 100% league record in the league at Canvey Island FC on Sunday to return to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division. Taking on Portsmouth FC Ladies. Goals from Angela Addison, Laken Duchar Clark and a 30 yard strike from Jay Blackie seeing C&K Basildon into a dominant 3-0 half-time lead. Portsmouth pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half Daisy McLachlan the scorer. C&K Basildon restoring their 3 goals lead with Therese Addison getting the goal. Portsmouth getting in back to 4-2 in the final 15 minutes through a Shannon Albuery goal. C&K Basildon went on to make it 11 wins from 11 at home. 2 more games left, the reverse fixture against Portsmouth next Sunday then their final game of the season away to Chichester City Ladies on the 13th.

Charlton Athletic Women also move up the FAWPL Southern Division above previous leaders Crystal Palace Ladies into 2nd spot a point behind C&K Basildon with 2 games in hand. Did their already superior goal difference a massive boost too with a big win on the road in their London derby with Queens Park Rangers on Sunday. Kit Graham moving ahead of Charlotte Gurr as the top scorer as she racked up 5 goals to her name on Sunday for Charlton opening the scoring in the 10th minute went on to score another 3 goals in the 1st half with Georgia Griffin and Hannah Churchill also on target to give the visitors a 6-0 halt-time lead. Olivia Lukasewich making it 7-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half Captain Kim Dixson also getting a goal before Graham added her 5th of the day. Griffin getting another goal taking the score into double figures Charlotte Lee making the final score 11-0 in the closing minutes.

All thing’s come to an end and so it was this Sunday as West Ham United Ladies long unbeaten run since the beginning of the year was brought to a stop by Lewes FC Women. The 4th placed side in the FAWPL Southern Division were trailing at the break however 1-0 down thanks to a goal for West Ham’s Kelly Wealthall in the 14th minute. Katie McIntyre getting Lewes back on level terms on the hour. West Ham were reduced to 10 players going into the final 20 minutes with Andria Georgiou shown a 2nd yellow card. The winning goal coming 7 minutes from the end of the match Amy Taylor finding the back of the net to win the game 2-1 for Lewes.

Coventry United Ladies were on the road this Sunday a trip down South to play Chichester City Ladies. Close the gap to 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies to 2 points as they picked up another win Lois Jefferies with her 1st goal for the visitors putting Coventry United into the lead just past the half hour. A 1-0 advantage at the break Amber Hughes doubled Coventry United’s lead 2 minute into the 2nd half. A goal from Marie Gauntlett midway through the 2nd half securing the win for Coventry United 3-0 the final score. Next up for Coventry United the County Cup Final against Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies on Wednesday night at Tamworth FC.

FAWPL South East Division One

The battle for the title in FAWPL South East Division One is well and truly back on, at one point AFC Wimbledon Ladies were looking like they were going to run away with the title but 2 successive defeats in their run in has opened to door to the chasing pack. Weren’t in action this Sunday as they saw their lead cut to 4 points.

2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies on the road on Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies. Ipswich Town getting off to a great start 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Zoe Cossey putting Ipswich Town 1-0 up inside 4 minutes, Natasha Thomas doubling the lead just 3 minutes later. Miagh Downey making it 3-0 in the 14th minute. Nicole Emmings pulling it back to 3-1 for Stevenage, Ipswich regaining their 3 goal advantage in the closing minutes of the 1st half Thomas’ shot deflected into the goal. 4-1 up at the break Thomas completing her hat-trick on the hour. Kristi Burling getting it back to 5-2 before Thomas scored her 4th of the game with 81 minutes on the clock. Roxanne Small making it 7-2 to Ipswich Town in the last 5 minutes. Both Ipswich Town and leaders AFC Wimbledon have two league games left.

The side that can catch both of them are Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who move up to 3rd place in the FAWPL South East Division One table with victory of previous 3rd placed side Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A special occasion the match being played at The Matchroom Stadium. Milton Keynes starting well getting into a 2-0 lead. Leyton Orient coming back to level it up at 2-2 Sophie Le Marchand and Lisa Holmbeck getting the goals. Milton Keynes retook the lead to hold the advantage 3-2 at half-time the visitors getting the better of the 2nd half with Heather McDonnell scoring two goals to make it 5-2 early in the 2nd half Anna Loftus extending the lead to secure a 6-2 victory for Milton Keynes. a 5 points behind Ipswich and 9 behind AFC Wimbledon have 4 games in hand on both a busy run in but with just one defeat in the league this season their fate is in their hands.

Another side in the FAWPL South East Division One due to play a game at their men’s stadium were Cambridge United WFC, unfortunately the pitch at The Abbey Stadium was deemed unplayable. A shame for the side it was back to their normal home venue Mildenhall Town FC to play Enfield Town Ladies in the A10 derby. Women’s Football East was there to watch. Cambridge starting the game well attacking Enfield getting the ball forwards at every opportunity. A double save from Kerrie Marlborough in the Enfield goal denying the opening goal. Enfield held Cambridge at bay the sides goalless at the break. It was more of the same 2nd half, Kelley Blanchflower with good movement up top fouled inside the box on the hour to see Cambridge awarded a penalty kick, Laura Baker sending it home to put Cambridge into the lead. The single goal enough in the end to secure all 3 points for Cambridge in their final home match of the season.

Laura Baker, scores from the penalty spot for Cambridge United WFC

A run of 4 successive league wins has propelled Actonians Ladies up to 5th spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Collected the 3 points on Sunday after a double figure win away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women. 10-0 the final score.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 29th April

A game from FAWPL South East Division One this afternoon on Women’s Football East back to Mildenhall Town FC for one last time this season to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Enfield Town Ladies.

A change of venue unfortunately Cambridge United WFC as they were scheduled to play at The Abbey Stadium. The pitch deemed unplayable the game switched back to their usual home ground at Mildenhall, that pitch looking in fantastic condition considering the stage of the season at the amount of games played on it. A new metal fence fitted alongside the pitch too since my last visit.

Today’s contest between the sides currently sitting 8th and 9th in the table. The A10 derby the sides have enjoyed many close contests over recent seasons. Cambridge United WFC have been in the top half of the table for much of the season, a transitional season with several new players haven’t captured the form from last season inconsistent haven’t picked up the points where they should recently dropping down the table as others below them find form at the end of the season, all very close in the middle of the table.

Enfield Town Ladies themselves have had an up and down season losing games early on have since stabilised and like Cambridge their results have varied in the bottom half of the table well clear of the danger zone. Playing their penultimate game of the season can’t finish any higher than 9th. Enfield are one of several sides I haven’t been able to get to watch a game this season so will be good to see them today

The Mildenhall pitch a credit to the club especially with The Abbey Stadium pitch unfit. Described it several times before a slope from on goal mouth to the other. Plenty of width on offer. What’s happened to the weather? This time last week needed the suncream, not it’s back to being wet and miserable. Overcast a chilly a few spots of rain around. A monsoon heading our way tomorrow…wonderful…

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Laura Baker, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Carolyn Sarafian, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Lauren Gibson & Mollie Coupar.

Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Kerrie Marlborough, Sheryce Slater, Cally Browne, Laura Elias, Claire Ford, Holly Brandon, Rhiannon Bassett, Olivia Martin, Regan Coleman (C), Lisa Kline & Katherine Long. Subs – Beth Dempsey, Andrea Hunyadi, Kally-Anne Westgarth & Katrina Martin.

It’s Enfield to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks with Cambridge attacking up the slope lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. The ball pinging around in the middle as both sides close the ball down quickly, Cambridge’s Laura Baker knocking it on through the middle for Kelley Blanchflower to run onto peeling away to the right, closed down she takes on the early shot looking to lob the ball in towards goal lacking height and power Enfield goalkeeper can gather safely.

Cambridge regain possession in the centre Charlotte Crisp with the forwards pass Lauren Cartwright picking it up 20 yards out screws a rising shot wide of the target from 20 yards out. Katherine Long nicks in on Cambridge captain Laura Bright to take the ball in behind heads for the box, Bright quick to recover doesn’t let Long get a shot away stepping into the tackle to win the ball.

Enfield Town Ladies, Katherine Long

Cambridge push forwards the ball out to Blanchflower who has moved out to the left turns inside her ball into the area for Cartwright she lays it back to Faith Hewitt outside the area her ball for Amy Howlett to the right just a little too heavy inside the box, Howlett goes after it fires the ball back into the area, the shot is hit the ball heading towards goal Marlborough with the instinctive save stooping to parry the ball back out into bodies in front of her a 2nd shot comes in Marlborough making another reactive save to push the ball away to the left.

Amy Howlett on the attack for Cambridge United WFC

Lisa Kline bringing the ball on inside right lays it on for Coleman ahead of her Bright coming across wins the challenge. Cambridge come forwards on the left the ball played across field Emma Jenkins coming on through the middle helping it on for Howlett breaking clear on the right her cross into the box Blanchflower looking to get on the end of it Claire Ford defends for Enfield putting the ball behind for the corner kick. Long defending at the far post heads the ball clear for Enfield.

Cambridge United WFC’s Emma Jenkins

Enfield with a counter attack Coleman with the ball on the left her pass inside to Long, all of 30 yards out takes a pop at goal, doesn’t trouble Savannah Smith in the Cambridge goal. Smith creates her own trouble not long after a miscued kick from a pass back by Kayleigh-Anne Burt at the back on her left presents the ball straight to Kline, top of the area she looks to take a touch to round the keeper, Smith dives at her feet snatching the ball from the attacker. The match being played at the god tempo both sides exploiting the width on offer.

Enfield Town Ladies captain, Regan Coleman

Howlett with the run forwards the pass on for Blanchflower, Ford in to tackle the Cambridge attacker. Cambridge retain possession in the final third winning a corner on the right. A good delivery into the box Holly Brandon winning the ball for Enfield. Enfield look to build an attack Cambridge win it back turn play around quickly Bright on for Cartwright turning in behind, Laura Elias getting back on her to slide in and tackle.

Cambridge are playing well getting forwards win a corner on the left a good delivery in by Hewitt claimed high by Marlborough unchallenged at her near post. Elias with the tackle to take the ball away from Blanchflower on the right channel as Cartwright attempts to play her in on goal. Howlett looking to keep the ball in on the right is tackled by Cally Browne the ball out for a throw in. Cambridge press Enfield at the back the ball worked around the top of the area. Hewitt with a shot on the left 20 yards out falls wide of the near post.

Enfield chances are rare a spell of possession brings them a corner on the right the ball attacked near post knocked down into the area as Cambridge defend then are awarded a free-kick. Burt defends well up against Kline as high ball is played up to her through the middle. Cartwright on the ball brings it on through the middle, Blanchflower moving right ahead of her helps the ball on for Howlett the cross in too close to the keeper Marlborough gathering at her near post. Hewitt breaking on the left receives a crossfield pass 20 yards from goal attempts to slide Blanchflower in on goal the attacker can’t quite reach it before Marlborough can claim it.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Enfield are restricted to shots from distance, Long’s effort charged down by Burt 25 yards out. Sheryce Slater with good defensive work at right back to get her head on the ball stop Hewitt from running in clear behind her. A good contest between Blanchflower in attack for Cambridge and Ford in defence for Enfield, Ford stands off Blanchflower this time as she shifts the ball outside the area left side gets a shot it bouncing wide across goal out the far side. Kline gathers the ball on the right as Enfield attack Carrie Bennett tackles her, Kline retains the ball coming inside Burt closes her down to deny her a shot on goal.

Claire Ford, defending for Enfield up against Kelley Blanchflower

Elias with a good tackle inside the box as Howlett crosses the ball in from the right looking for Cartwright. Late into the 1st half Cambridge continue to attack Hewitt inside to Blanchflower played on to Howlett right side coming inside Browne puts in the blocking tackle right on the edge of the area, Howlett wriggles free with the ball taking it past her her strike at goal is grabbed by Marlborough. A late free-kick for Enfield inside the Cambridge half a fair way out but that doesn’t stop Slater taking on the shot her effort over.

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

Goalless at the break. Cambridge with an impressive 45 minutes have created most of the chances attacking well. Not using the ball as well as they could in the final third perhaps should have the lead but at 0-0 Enfield are very much still in the game have worked hard at the back defensively haven’t been able to retain the ball going forwards the game played at a high tempo. Will the chances be taken 2nd half.

Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope no changes for either side. Kline with an early opportunity to get on the attack for Enfield on the right receiving the ball from Rhiannon Bassett up the line her cross in won by Bright for Cambridge. The home side counter attack Baker on for Blanchflower her pass inside to Cartwright outside the area, Elias with the tackle for Enfield. A corner kick to Cambridge on the right a good delivery in as players crowd the near post goes long across goal Cartwright there can’t provide the telling touch to divert it over the line.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Lauren Cartwright

Careless at the back form Cambridge attempting the back pas on the left side again Burt getting the ball back to the keeper, out wide the return ball intercepted by Coleman, Burt quickly on her forced to lunge in concedes the free-kick a dangerous position wide of goal, Slater forwards to take it her ball in across the six yard box Bright stepping out puts her head on it to clear for Cambridge. Get the ball up the other end win a corner on the right taken quickly Browne intercepts the ball turning it behind for a 2nd corner.

Enfield Town Ladies, Sheryce Slater

Enfield attack the ball on by Martin into Long right for Kline, Bennett clearing the ball, Long retrieves and is fouled another free-kick for Enfield right side Slater comes forwards to take once again a good ball into the area Long up highest heads the ball towards goal straight at Smith the goalkeeper takes the ball down into her body.

GOAL! An hour played and the dead lock is broken Cambridge taking the lead the home side with a rapid attack have Enfield stretched at the back the ball on through the middle for Blanchflower, top of the area Slater gets across to get her head on the ball knocking it away to the right Blanchflower goes after it is clipped in the process and although she stays on her feet the referee blows up pointing to the spot a penalty to Cambridge. Baker to take it. Coolly sends it low to the keepers left into the bottom corner of the goal 1-0.

Laura Baker, scores from the penalty spot for Cambridge United WFC

Crisp is fouled on the left as she brings the ball on a free-kick to Cambridge players up as Hewitt sends the ball into the area Marlborough able to claim at her near post. Cambridge regain possession winning a throw on the right high up the pitch then get a corner the ball played into the six yard box is knocked out to the edge of the area Burt lashes a shot back in the ball charged down the rebound coming to Crisp her strike blocked at pointblank range as Enfield defend.

Ford with more good defensive work up against Blanchflower as she almost gets through on goal through the middle. A change for Enfield, Elias comes off Andrea Hunyadi on. Crisp with the pass out to Hewitt plays it on for Blanchflower moving left ahead of her, the cross in cut out by Brandon. A shot out of nothing for Enfield from 20 yards out drops wide of the near post as Long and Kline converge on the ball. A warning for Cambridge that for all their attacking play they lead is a slender one.

Holly Brandon on the ball for Enfield Town Ladies

Blanchflower takes the ball on down the left turning inside evading the challenge getting into the box closing in on goal opens up her body to send a shot wide over the keeper, not wide enough as Marlborough is able to pluck the rising ball out of the air. Enfield are pressing more forwards now Hunyadi in midfield getting the ball into Kline on the right, Burt tackling. Kline strong on the ball again the pass inside from the right into Long she chests it down 25 yards out looking to turn and shoot Jenkins gets across to take the ball away from her. Coleman sending the loose ball wide of goal.

A double switch for Enfield, Browne and Bassett coming off, Beth Dempsey and Kally-Ann McGrath coming on. 10 minutes left on the clock Mollie Cougar being readied for Cambridge to replace Blanchflower up top. Cougar with an immediate impact picking the ball up from a throw on the left takes the ball on into the box the challenge against her deflecting the ball straight into the path of Crisp 20 yards out left of the D the ball not troubling Marlborough.

Enfield’s Andrea Hunyadi and Cambridge’s Lauren Cartwright challenge for the ball

Enfield are gaining a little momentum late on sensing they can get something in the closing stages push forwards. Cambridge caught in two minds defend what they have or go for a 2nd goal. Brandon winning the ball at the back on for McGrath she is tackled by Bennett the full back for Cambridge then getting fouled. Enfield on the attack late on win a free-kick on the right wide the ball played into the area plenty forwards Long heading the ball on another touch before Ford sends her header in towards goal Smith catching the ball, the final action of the game as Cambridge win the game 1-0 to secure the 3 points.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Enfield Town Ladies

A good performance from Cambridge deserving of the 3 points creating plenty of opportunities going forwards unlucky not to be leading at half-time finally broke the dead-lock after an hour awarded a penalty and Baker stepping up to score. A narrow lead however and Enfield were never out of the game and one clinical chance might have been all they needed to take something from the game. Cambridge defending from the front turning play around quickly.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower. Led the line well ready for the ball whenever Cambridge turned play around, running into the channels and bringing others into play. Keeping the Enfield defence busy for the whole time she was on the pitch and winning the all important penalty.

Well it wasn’t The Abbey but good to go back to Mildenhall none the less. My thanks to Enfield for their help with the team details this afternoon. Less than a month of the season left, could say I’m winding down but I’d be lying, the next game will soon be around.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 22/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 22nd April

FAWPL Southern Division

C&K Basildon Ladies moves back to within a point of leaders Crystal Palace Ladies in the FAWPL Southern Division with a narrow 1-0 home win over 4th placed Lewes FC Women on Sunday. Ex-Lewes defender Hayley West finding the back of the net following in a scramble for the ball inside the box from a Zoe Rushen free-kick on the half hour. C&K Basildon maintaining their 100% winning home record in their penultimate game at Canvey Island FC. Have a game in hand on leaders Crystal Palace.

Just a point further back behind C&K Basildon 3rd placed Charlton Athletic Women have 3 games in hand of Crystal Palace picking up their 7th away win of the season at Coventry United Ladies on Sunday. Kit Graham netting a goal midway through the 1st half to give Charlton a 1-0 advantage at half-time. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Graham struck again to make it 2-0 with her 31st goal of the season. The points made secure in the last 10 minutes with Hope Nash firing in her 3rd goal of the season to make it 3-0.

West Ham United Ladies incredible run of form continues as they recorded a convincing win at home to 5th place Portsmouth FC Ladies this Sunday. Unbeaten in 2018 defender Hannah Wheeler set West Ham on their way heading home from a corner in the 16th minute. Kelly Wealthall doubling the lead midway through the 1st half. Rosie Kmita adding a 3rd goal with 8 minutes of the 1st period to play. 3-0 up at the break. West Ham started the 2nd half brightly creating further chances before Jasmine Auguste found the back of the net for her 1st West Ham goal to make it 4-0 on 55 minutes. Wealthall struck again for her 2nd of the game soon after to make it 5-0. Daisy McLachan pulling a goal back for Portsmouth from a free-kick with 10 minutes left. West Ham going on to add a further 2 goals in the final 5 minutes to win the game 7-1, Leanne Mabey getting on the scoresheet with Wealthall completing her hat-trick in the final minute.

Playing their penultimate game of a very tough season bottom side Swindon Town Ladies without a point on the board travelled down south to play Chichester City Ladies on Sunday. The visitors holding the advantage at half-time Swindon Town a goal to the good thanks to a strike from Sophie Roberts. Chichester City finding a leveller on the hour with Jade Widdows scoring to make it 1-1. Deep into injury time just as it looked like Swindon might hold on to claim their 1st point of the season Chichester City found the winner, Jess Lewry sending the ball home to win it at the death 4 minutes onto stoppage time.

Gillingham FC Ladies pull further away from the danger zone at the bottom of the Southern Division with a home win against 2nd bottom Queens Park Ladies on Sunday. Gillingham going into the lead on the stroke of half-time awarded a penalty kick, Kallie Balfour from the spot sending the ball into the back of the net. Gillingham then saw themselves reduced to 10 10 minutes into the 2nd period with Courtney Gibson red carded for dissent. Despite the player advantage Queens Park Rangers couldn’t capitalise, Gillingham doubling their lead with 12 minutes left on the clock captain Jade Keogh on target. Keogh making it a brace on the final minute to see Gillingham win the game 3-0.

FAWPL South East Division One

Two matches played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday. 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies hosting 6th placed Luton Town Ladies. The host side taking an early lead in the match with midfielder Cassie Craddock scoring the goal to make it 1-0. Natasha Thomas doubling Ipswich Town’s lead midway through the 2nd half. A 2-0 lead at the break Luton were far from out of the game both sides creating opportunities Luton were awarded a penalty in the 66th minute a chance to make it 2-1 lost the ball put wide. Goalkeeper Sian Fagg with some excellent saves to keep Luton at bay the visitors finally pulling a goal back in stoppage time Funmi Babalola with the goal. Ipswich moving 4 points clear of 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC both with 3 games left to play.

Games running out at the other end of the table for Norwich City Ladies too as the 2nd bottom side 8 points adrift of 10th placed Denham United suffered a narrow loss at home to Actonians Ladies on Sunday. Sara Lopez Ezzahiri with her 1st goal for the 1st team in her 2nd appearance of the season winning it 1-0 for the visitors who climb up to 7th as a result pulling well away from the bottom having slipped down the table now back amongst the sides clustered in mid-table with a 3rd straight league win.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 15/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th April

FAWPL Plate

This Sunday saw the final of this season’s FAWPL League Plate being played at Hednesford Town FC. A late change in the line-up with Southern Division side West Ham United Ladies taking on South East Division One side, Luton Town Ladies after their semi-final opponents Fylde Ladies were removed from the competition. A first ever National final for Luton Town Ladies.

Luton Town the underdogs coming up against higher league opponents West Ham United who had had a terrific 2018 to date unbeaten in the year so far. Winning their 1st piece of silverware too this season the Isthmian Cup. West Ham United taking the lead midway through the 1st half Amber Stobbs striking the ball from 25 yards out the ball kissing the crossbar on its way in. 4 minutes later Kelly Wealthall was on hand to capitalise on a defensive error to make it 2-0. That the advantage at the break.

Ellie Zoepfl running through on goal to extend the lead early in the 2nd half. West Ham United in control of the game went on to score twice more, Rosie Kmita curling a great shot into the back of the net and Zoepfl with her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. West Ham United Ladies this season’s FAWPL League Plate winners. Congratulations to everyone at the club.

West Ham United Ladies 2017/18 FAWPL League Plate Winners (picture credit West Ham United Ladies)

FAWPL Southern Division

In the FAWPL Southern Division it was a meeting between the top two with 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies travelling to Crystal Palace Ladies, a point between the sides. A close game between the sides few chances created in the 1st half the stalemate broken with just 3 minutes left on the clock Ellie Bailes scoring to give Crystal Palace a narrow half-time lead. Crystal Palace started the 2nd half well creating chances C&K Basildon keeping them at bay looking to find a leveller at the other end the lead for Crystal Place made more secure with just 5 minutes left to play the home side awarded a penalty which was coolly dispatched by the clubs top scorer Gemma Bryan. A win for Crystal Palace seeing them go 4 points clear of C&K Basildon who still have two games in hand.

Charlton Athletic Women in 3rd position in the Southern Division table have 4 games in hand on Crystal Palace as they close the gap to 5 points with a victory on home turf on Sunday. A close one however as they left it late to grab a winning goal against 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies. Just 5 minutes left to play when the dead lock was finally broken Kit Graham sending the ball into the corner of the net for the 3 points.

4th placed Lewes FC Women travelled to the capital on Sunday to take on 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Came home with the 3 points secure in what was a bruising encounter! The visitors taking the lead on the half hour top scorer Rebecca Carter netting her 12th goal of the season. Into 1st half stoppage time and the lead was doubled Victoria Carleton making it 2-0 to Lewes at half-time. On the hour Lewes further extended their lead Danielle Lane with her 11th goal of the season making it 3-0. That the winning score.

Coventry United Ladies climb back up into the top half of the Southern Division table with a home win against Chichester City Ladies this Sunday. Alison Hall scoring twice midway through the 1st half to see Coventry United leading 2-0 at the break. Hall securing her hat-trick on the hour for her 20th goal of the season and 3-0 lead for Coventry United. Chloe Tucker netting a late goal for Chichester City on a 3-1 loss.

Cardiff City Ladies move up above Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division table into 9th as they won against the Kent side this Sunday. Cardiff City getting of f to a fantastic start Kelly Issac making it 1-0 in the 7th minute. Estelle Randall with some fine saves keeping Gillingham out. The visitors getting it back to 1-1 eventually in the 25th minute Millie Waud with the goal. 1-1 at half-time Cardiff City started the 2nd half well capitalising as the retook the lead in the 57th minute captain Cori Williams with the goal. Again Gillingham came back to level the scores Maddison Farrand with her 1st goal. Five minutes later and Cardiff City took the lead for the 3rd time in the match Ella Powell seeing the ball cross the goal line to make it 3-2. This time Gillingham could find no reply as Cardiff City won the 3 points.

FAWPL South East Division One

A healthy lead still in FAWPL South east Division One for AFC Wimbledon Ladies however they are stuttering a bit towards the end of the season as they suffer a 2nd successive loss in the league away to 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC this Sunday. New signing Lisa Fulgence was making her first start for Leyton Orient and grabbed her 1st two goals for the club to put the home side 2-0 up against the league leaders inside the opening 25 minutes. Caroline Bisson getting it back to 2-1 for AFC Wimbledon 10 minutes before half-time. No more goals 2nd half as Leyton Orient worked hard to keep their lead and claim the 3 points. AFC Wimbledon Ladies have two games left to play lead the table by 10 points that lead can yet be overhauled if maximum points can be won elsewhere… I won’t say by who…

Ipswich Town Ladies in 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table continue to enjoy a strong season with a confident win away to Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The visitors getting off to a blistering start Zoe Cossey putting Ipswich Town into the lead in the opening 30 seconds. Cossey striking again midway through the 1st half to see Ipswich Town hold a 2-0 lead at the break. Ipswich Town creating chances went further ahead early in the 2nd half awarded a penalty captain Amanda Crump stepping up to score from the spot. Gemma Moore grabbing herself a goal with 20 minutes left to make it 4-0. Lauren Cox pulling a goal back for Denham United with 15 left. Natasha Thomas scoring a 5th goal for Ipswich Town with 5 minutes left to play Cossey going on t complete her hat-trick in the closing minutes and seal a 6-1 win.

Norwich City Ladies were hosting 6th placed Stevenage Ladies on Sunday the game looked to be heading for a 0-0 with minutes left to play Stevenage creating chances but not converting one. Norwich coming close up the other end striking the post. The visitors grabbing a late late winner Nicole Emmings striking the ball into the back of the net with a 25 yard shot. The 1-0 win taking Stevenage back above Luton Town into 5th spot in the table.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 08/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th April

FAWPL Southern Division

Victory for Crystal Palace Ladies away to Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday sees them maintain the lead in the FAWPL Southern Division a point clear of 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies with the Essex side also clinching a narrow home win on Sunday both sides pulling away from 3rd placed Charlton Athletic Women who weren’t in action this weekend.

A trip to Wales for Crystal Palace Ladies this Sunday Amy Green with the only goal in the 1st half to see the visitors leading Cardiff City Ladies by a goal at the half-time interval. Sarah Jones with a strike early in the 2nd half to double Crystal Palace’s lead. Cardiff City captain Cori Williams getting it back to 2-1. Top scorer Gemma Bryan restoring Crystal Palace’s 2 goal lead. Ellie Stenning getting on the score sheet to make it 4-1 to Crystal Palace. Williams with her 2nd of the match reducing the deficit for Cardiff City. Stenning claiming a 2nd goal of the game too late on seeing Crystal Palace win the match 5-2.

C&K Basildon Ladies were hosting Coventry United Ladies at Canvey Island FC on Sunday. Knew this one would be a close one. Proved to be the case goalless at the break the deadlock was broken early in the 2nd half captain Zoe Rushen putting the ball into the back of the net in the 48th minute for CK Basildon Ladies. Coventry United pushed hard to find a reply as C&K Basildon defended resolutely to keep their goal intact and despite a fair bit of stoppage time the hosts claimed their 14th league win of the season to keep pace with Crystal Palace. Coventry United due to results elsewhere slip down to 7th in the league but have plenty of games left to play still having 10 left postponements and cup runs leaving them playing catch up.

4th placed Lewes ladies were at home this Sunday taking in Kent side Gillingham FC Ladies. A goal from Danielle Lane on the half hour putting the hosts into the lead heading the ball into the back of the net from inside the box. 1 nil the advantage for much of the 2nd half Lewes creating chances, Gillingham defending it wasn’t until the final 3 minutes of the match that the result was made more secure the lead doubled as Lane got forwards to send home her 2nd goal of the game a clinch a 2-0 win for Lewes.

A 2nd successive win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies see’s 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies keep up the pressure on Lewes the gap just a point. 5-0 at home to Swindon Town last Sunday Portsmouth were on the road this weekend. Swindon Town still without a point aren’t going out with a whimper however holding Portsmouth to a goalless 1st half the stalemate wasn’t broken until midway through the 2nd half a goal from Daisy McLachlan. Heading into the last 10 minutes Portsmouth doubled their lead Katie James with the goal. The 3 points secured in 88th minute with substitute Samantha Quayle sending the ball home to make it 3-0.

West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continued this weekend as they won big to move up into the top half of the FAWPL Southern Division for the 1st time this season. Were on the road on Sunday taking on Queen’s Park Rangers Ladies. Came into the match fresh from winning the Isthmian League Cup Final coming back for 1-0 down to beat Charlton Athletic Women 2-1. West Ham hit the ground running against QPR taking the lead in the 10th minute Amber Stobbs with the goal. Chantelle Mackie doubling the lead just 3 minutes later. Kelly Weathall putting West Ham 3-0 with just 20 minutes played. A goal from Ellie Zoepfl seeing West Ham leading 4-0 at half-time. The goals continued to flow 2nd half Zoepfl with her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. A 2nd goal for Weathall was quickly followed by a goal for Rosie Kmita on 70 minutes to make it 7-0.Into the final 10 minutes and Weathall wrapped up her hat-trick. The final score 10-0 as Stobbs claimed her 2nd of the game and a strike from Andria Georgiou saw West Ham keep up their unbeaten form since the start of the year.

FAWPL South East Division One

A couple of matches falling foul of the weather in the FAWPL South East Division One at the weekend a very late call off for Stevenage Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies. The hosts missing out on a chance to build on their midweek win over Luton Town Ladies, a goal from Amy Makewell securing a 1-0 making it all very tight in the middle of the table. Stevenage moving above Luton into 5th position after that result.

Luton Town Ladies were away this Sunday against bottom side Haringey Borough Women a big win seeing them reclaim 5th position. Natasha Fensome top scoring in the game as she found the back of the net for 5 goals. Jess McKay close behind grabbing 4 goals. Nicola Henman also scoring a brace with a goal a piece for captain Zara Carroll, Dionne Manning and Funmi Babalola in a 14-0 success.

More good news for Luton Town Ladies as they are reinstated to the FAWPL Plate competition and going to be competing in their 1st ever national final after their semi-final opponents Fylde Ladies who narrowly beat them 2-1 were removed from the competition for fielding an ineligible player. Luton Town Ladies with now take on West Ham United Ladies this coming Sunday 15th April in the FAWPL Plate Final to be played at Hednesford Town a 3pm kick-off.

Cambridge United Ladies are another side contested those positions in the middle of the FAWPL South East Division One table and saw another result go against them in their final home match at Mildenhall Town FC this season (a game at The Abbey Stadium to look forwards too) Taking on Actonians Ladies the visitors taking their chances to see them win the game 2-0 Carla Williams and Katrina Duncan Marshalleck scoring the goals. Actonians form improving towards the end of the season now right up with the mid-table battle 2 points behind Cambridge just 4 points separating the sides placed 4th to 8th now.

The Round-Up – 01/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st April

Once again it’s another shortened edition of The Round-Up with just the 12 games to report upon this weekend. Easter weekend was a much reduced fixture schedule anyway but with sides still needing to get a fair amount of games in another bout of wet weather wasn’t welcome as April begins. Half the fixtures suffering the next few weeks are going to be busy indeed.

Some bad news to bring you all at the start of this week’s Round-Up with the sad news that another 2 sides have withdrawn from their respective leagues, an unprecedented number this season already. Another side withdrawing from the ERWFL, Premier Division side Writtle Ladies. The news has been out there for a bit but only recently confirmed, the Essex side reaching the County Cup Final 3 season’s ago had enjoyed a rapid rise through the leagues in their short history, many of their players representing the county too. No doubt a very talented squad of players but had struggled to field a side in recent weeks. The news a bit of a shock because the side you felt had further to go but it has come to an end, will no doubt see their players feature for various sides come the new season and all will be an asset where ever they go wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.

Also withdrawing from their league are Essex Division One side, Waltham Forest Ladies. Again another side that has struggled for numbers all season getting behind with there fixtures and made every effort to try and find new faces for their squad. Hopefully they will feature again in the Essex county leagues soon and again wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.

There is some good news on the horizon I am aware of at least 3 new sides that are looking to start up next season and hopefully more new sides will be appearing too.

FAWPL Southern Division

On to the football, there was one match played in the FAWPL Southern Division on Sunday with Portsmouth FC Ladies hosting Swindon Town Ladies at Bognor Regis Town FC. The fifth placed side beating the side bottom of the Southern Division 5-0 to move to within a point of 4th placed Lewes FC Women. Shannon Albuery putting Portsmouth into the lead 22 minutes into the 1st half added a 2nd goal 5 minutes later with Samantha Quayle also on target with a goal 6 minutes before the break to see Portsmouth into a comfortable 3-0 half-time lead. Swindon Town remain without a point in the league with 3 matches left to play battled hard in the 2nd half to keep the scoreline down Portsmouth getting 2 more goal in the closing minutes Albuery completing her hat-trick. Katie James making it 5-0 in stoppage time.

FAWPL South East Division One

One match also in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies the away side having several 1st team players unavailable with the match being arranged at short notice travelled with a good portion of their Reserve side. Ipswich Town taking the lead in the 19th minute, Sophie Welton quickest to the rebound after Natasha Thomas’ shot was saved to turn the ball into the back of the net. Their lead didn’t last long however and Enfield Town got themselves back on level terms a few minutes later Katherine Long with the goal. Long was on target again with 6 minutes of the 1st half left to put Enfield Town into a 2-1 lead. Ipswich’s turn to hit back with a quick reply were awarded a penalty up the other end, captain Amanda Crump tucking the ball away for 2-2.

Ipswich Town Ladies captain, Amanda Crump

All square at half-time Ipswich Town were back in front 5 minutes into the 2nd half defender Lindsey Cooper heading the ball home from a Crump corner. This time there was no quick reply Ipswich Town having the opportunity to go further ahead with 20 minutes left awarded a 2nd spot kick. Crump again delivering to make it 4-2. Gemma Moore scoring in the final minute for Ipswich Town to see them win the match 5-2 the 3 points lifting them back up to 2nd place in the South East Division One table.

ERWFL Premier Division

One match in the ERWFL Premier Division this weekend the table adjusted once more following Writtle’s withdrawal. League leaders Billericay Town Ladies travelling to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. The home side haven’t had the best of luck with injuries this season and were missing a few again but put on a valiant display nevertheless, Nicola Hollicks scoring the only goal of the 1st half to see Colney Heath leading 1-0. Summer Muir doubling the home sides lead early in the 2nd half. Billericay Town pulling it back to 2-1, managed to salvage a point with just 2 minutes left on the clock scoring to make it 2-2. Hayley Piggott and captain Lindsey Morgan with their goals. The point see’s Billericay Town leading the way by 8 points from 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies with 2 matches to play. Cambridge City have 4 left maximum points will leave them on 35 points. 4th placed Acle United Ladies have 6 left to play however and should they and Billericay Town both claim maximum points in the run in they will both finish on 37 points going all the way once again.

ERWFL Division One North

In the ERWFL Division One North their was the one game played at the weekend, Histon Ladies at home to Silver End United Ladies the away side playing their last league fixture of the season a tough campaign a bottom place finish settled a while back. Lack of numbers earlier on in the season and injuries contributing. A goal in the opening fifteen minutes by Abigail Davies putting Histon into a 1-0 half-time lead. A strong finish in the 2nd half seeing Histon go on to secure all 3 points, Sophie Lanham scoring from the penalty spot with fifteen minutes left. A goal each for Hannah Gordon and Katie Webb in the final 10 minutes seeing Histon Ladies win the game 4-0 and move up into 3rd position in the table with a game in hand on 4th placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Silver End United Ladies season isn’t done quite yet have a Cup Final to play this coming Sunday are taking on Hutton Ladies for the Essex Women’s Trophy at Saffron Walden FC a 3pm kick-off.

ERWFL Division One South

One match in ERWFL Division One South too this Sunday with runners-up spot clinching promotion for whoever can claim it. Far from settled yet though Harlow Town Ladies are in possession at the moment 3 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies who saw their match away to leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves called off due to the weather. Harlow Town Ladies were at home taking on Hutton Ladies in 4th spot. The point’s were shared with the sides finishing at 2-2. Chloe Bassett and Lily Bruno scoring for Harlow Town. Kaitlin Sugg and Amy Crumpler on target for Hutton.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Two matches in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Unbeaten Thorpe United Ladies move into 2nd spot in the table after claiming all 3 points away from home against Stalham Town Ladies this Sunday. Shanice Sutton moving past 30 goals for the season as she rattled home another hat-trick for Thorpe United. Lisa Ferdani also scoring in their 5-2 win.

5-2 was also the winning score for Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves at home to Fakenham Town Ladies on Sunday. The sides were level at the break drawing 2-2, before Wymondham Town ran out 5-2 winners in the 2nd half, Gemma Hamilton-Rout with a penalty amongst Wymondham Town’s goalscorers. Rochelle Woods and Natalie Wright with the 1st half goals for Fakenham Town.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

10 win out of 10 for FC Sprowston Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two as they recorded another comfortable win on the road away to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the only game in the league on Sunday. Katie Fray scoring a hat-trick in the match. There were goal too for Melissa Belsey, Charlie Head and Rebecca Kirby in a 6-0 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A six point haul in a double header in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership saw new leaders in the table as St Ives Town Ladies moved above Netherton United Ladies on goal difference. This Sunday they were away to fellow title hopefuls, 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies in the only game in the Cambridgeshire leagues. Always a competitive tussle between the sides the pair were drawing goalless at the break. The win secured in the 2nd half Hannah Seymour-Shove and Katie Stancombe scoring for St Ives Town to see the away side win 2-0 and move into a 3 point lead at the top of the table. A 7 point gap between them and Newmarket Town now both have 3 to play.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

The weather played havoc with the fixture list in Essex once again with just 3 games surviving all featuring Chelmsford City Ladies, and it was bed news in all 3 as the point went the way of their opponents. In the Essex Women’s Premier Division, Chelmsford City Ladies 1st team were at home to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Goals from captain Gaby Freedman and Georgia James for Chelmsford in the 1st half they found themselves trailing 2-3 thanks to a Jo Smeaton hat-trick for Beacon Hill Rovers. Smeaton adding a 4th goal in the 2nd half to secure the 3 points now has 21 goals for 12 appearances for Beacon Hill Rovers this season.

Essex Women’s Division One

A double header in Essex Division One, featuring Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves taking on high flyers Leigh Ramblers Ladies 4th in the table going into the match 3 points behind leaders Southend United Ladies. All very tight at the top. Leigh Ramblers are scoring plenty of goals only 2nd to Hullbridge Sports Ladies in the goal scoring charts before Sunday, their young squad up against the side bottom of the league this weekend scored another 15 goals in the 2 matches to claim all 6 points and take a 3 point lead at the top of the Division One table. A brace each for Abbi Brown and Amber Denton in the 1st match along with a goal each for Chloe Gilligan, Sasha Vail and Paige White seeing Leigh Ramblers win the match 7-0. Denton getting 5 more goals to her name in the 2nd game Leigh Ramblers winning 8-0. Their other goals scored by Rebecca Dalgarno, Molly Giles and Jordan Castle.