Two league games played in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday and 3 points at home for 2nd placed Crystal Palace Ladies see them close the gap on leaders Charlton Athletic Women to just 2 points. Hosting Gillingham FC Ladies the 2 sides were goalless at the half-time break Ellie Stenning scoring the opening goal for Crystal Palace then top scorer Gemma Bryan made it 2-0 to the hosts with her 30th goal of the season.
Queens Park Rangers Ladies travelled to Wales on Sunday looking to build on last Sundays win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies taking on a side just 3 points ahead of them Cardiff City Ladies. It was advantage to the visitors at half-time with QPR leading 1-0 thanks to a goal from Dominika Netschova in the 38th minute. Cardiff City finding an equaliser in the 63rd Zoe Atkins finding the back of the net to see the sides take a share of the points. Another useful point for QPR nevertheless as it brings them to within 2 points of the sides immediately above them, Gillingham and West Han United Ladies with 3 and 4 matches respectfully in hand on both.
FAWPL Cup
Getting through the ties now with the 2nd Round of the competition heavily affected by the weather in December seeing alot of postponement, the FA Women’s Cup taking precedence last Sunday. Two ties involving sides in the Southern Division and for the 2nd weekend running Charlton Athletic Women were taken into extra-time by their hosts before eventually winning through. Away to one of the sides looking to challenge them for the Southern Division title Charlton were in Essex to play C&K Basildon Ladies. It was Basildon who held the lead at the half-time interval, Angela Addison scoring her 15th goal of the season. It was Charlton’s own top scorer who got the visitors back on level terms 8 minutes into the 2nd half Charlotte Gurr on target with her 23rd of the season. No more goals in the 90 minutes the game went into extra-time and it was another of Charlton’s top shots that scored the winning goal Kit Graham making it 2-1 with her 20th goal of the season.
In the the other all Southern Division tie, Lewes FC Women were at home to Portsmouth FC Ladies in the 2nd Round. Plenty of action in this one, the hosts taking the lead in the 20th minute Portsmouth, Eilidh Currie putting through her own net. Two quickfire goals on the half hour had Lewes storm into a 3-0 lead, captain, Katie McIntyre and then Sarah Kempson scoring. The visitors far from out of it saw Lewes clear twice of the line before the half-time whistle. Rachel Panting was on target for Portsmouth to pull it back to 3-1 on 57 minutes Lewes responding straight away to restore their 3 goal cushion Vicky Carleton with substitute, Georgia Bridges scoring in the last 10 minutes to seal a 5-1 win.
FAWPL Plate
As with the FAWPL Cup competition the Plate was affected too by the weather with 3 ties played this weekend involving sides from the Southern and South East Division One. West Ham United Ladies were on the road in the 2nd Round taking on South West Division One side Brislington Ladies. A brace from Rosie Kmita seeing the Southern Division side leading 2-0 at half-time. The higher league side going on to score more goals 2nd half Molly Peters making it 3-0 on the hour mark. Amber Stobbs and Kelly Wealthall also netting a goal a piece before Kmita wrapped up her hat-trick in the final minutes 6-0 the final score.
Keynsham Town Ladies are going well in South West Division One were away in the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Plate taking on Swindon Town Ladies bottom of the FAWPL Southern Division it was another defeat for Swindon heavy too with Keynsham Town racking up double figures, Kerry Bartlett previously a prolific goal scorer for Cardiff City Ladies scoring 5 of Keynsham Town’s goals in a 10-1 win. Emily Arrell scoring in the 1st half for Swindon.
It was an all Division One clash in the other 2nd Round tie played in the FAWPL Plate at the weekend with South East side Luton Town Ladies hosting their South West counterparts, Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies both at the time 4th in their respective leagues. Natasha Fensome scoring for Luton Town, Jess McKay also scoring to see the hosts hold a 2-0 lead at half-time. Luton extending their lead in the 2nd half with McKay netting her 2nd before Southampton pulled it back to 3-1 with Krystal Whyte scoring the goal Luton going on to win and reach the quarter finals.
FAWPL South East Division One
4 matches played in the FAWPL South East Division one this Sunday. It was 2nd v 3rd with Leyton Orient WFC away to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. 4 points between the sides going into the game. It was the hosts who took an early lead in the game with Charly Clarke putting Milton Keynes in front in the 13th minute. Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half and Leyton Orient pulled it back to 1-1 with Vanessa Wilson getting the goal. Time for Milton Keynes to retake the lead in the 1st half with a minute remaining Louise Naylor on hand to put the ball into the back of the net. 2-1 the half-time score Milton Keynes successfully defending the advantage to claim all 3 points closing the gap on Leyton Orient.
Ipswich Town Ladies move back into 4th place in the South East Division One table following a big win at home against bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Leading 5-0 at half-time the hosts went on to win the game 9-0 to put themselves within reach of the sides above the once again. Sophie Welton (pictured) top scoring in the match with 4 goals. Captain Amanda Crump getting 2 goal in the match too with a goal each for Natasha Thomas, Cassie Craddock and Miagh Downey.
A good result at home for Cambridge United WFC as they put pressure on the sides above them in the top half of the table in 6th were hosting Stevenage Ladies at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday. Amber Cantwell’s goal the difference between the 2 sides at half-time giving Cambridge the lead. A good contest Stevenage with an opportunity to level from the penalty spot in the 2nd half with Amy Makewell brought down. Chloe Gunn stepping up to score to make it 1-1. Cambridge responding promptly however got up the other end of the pitch and Amy Howlett scored to put the back into the lead and go on to win the game 2-1.
Norwich City Ladies 2nd bottom in the South East Division One table know they need points on the board if they are to have any hopes of pulling another side down into a scrap at the bottom of the table, were away on Sunday, Denham United Ladies immediately above them in 10th the gap 9 points. Annie Hewitt with the only goal of the 1st half seeing Denham leading 1-0. Into the 2nd half and Denham were awarded a penalty Alissa own stepping up to take and score. Down going on to score a brace to give the home side a 3-0 lead. A great strike from Natasha Snelling 3 minutes from time for Norwich seeing the game end 3-1. Denham moving above Stevenage into 9th, Norwich 10 points adrift of the sides above them but they have been down and out before and turned it around.
A New Year has begun and there’s plenty of exciting action to bring you over the coming months right across the East. A weather affected end to 2017 saw alot of postponements thankfully 2018 started better weather wise with only a handful of games being called off. Let’s begin proceedings with the weekends action from the FAWPL and 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup.
FA Women’s Cup
There were 6 ties in the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup featuring sides from the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One. It was a big tie at home for South East Division One side Ipswich Town Ladies who over came fellow league side Stevenage Ladies in the previous round hosting Southern Division leaders, Charlton Athletic Women the lower league side pushing Charlton all the way taking the game into extra-time before eventually bowing out. Goalless at half-time it was Ipswich who took an early lead in the 2nd half a strike form Cassie Craddock putting the Suffolk side 1-0 in the 47th minute. Charlton came back to level it at 1-1 with 20 minutes left to play Charlotte Gurr with the goal then just 4 minutes later the visitors were leading Kit Graham sending the ball into the back of the net. Ipswich responded positively coming back to level it at 2-2 just 2 minutes later Craddock with her 2nd of the match to take the tie into extra-time. 2 goals in the 1st period of extra-time saw Charlton in control of the tie Graham with her 2nd of the game followed with a goal a minute later from Samantha Pittuck, then late into the 2nd period of extra-time Charlton made the score 5-2 with Charlotte Lee on target to send the Southern Division side into the 4th Round.
Cardiff City Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division were at home in the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup hosting lower league side Burnley Ladies. Cori Williams giving Cardiff the early lead netting in the 7th minute that the advantage at half-time Ella Powell scored to make it 2-0 to the Welsh side 7 minutes into the 2nd half. The tie was far from settled however as Burnley came back into the game pulling it back to 2-1 in the 63rd minute drawing level in the 81st minute. Cardiff responded and Williams was on hand to score her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes left to send Cardiff through to the 4th Round with a 3-2 victory.
Crystal Palace Ladies 2nd in the FAWPL Southern Division were hosting 5th placed Coventry United Ladies in the 3rd Round Proper. It was the visitors who took an early lead in the match with Helen Dermody scoring from the penalty spot in the 7th minute. The players returning to the dressing room on 40 minutes due to an injury to Coventry United’s Keeley Davies a lengthy delay followed before the players returned to the pitch Coventry leading 1-0 at the half-time whistle. Chances for both sides in the 2nd half Coventry failing to extend their lead Crystal Place found an equaliser Nikita Whinnett sending the ball in from close range. The game heading into extra-time neither side able to find a winner it went to penalties to decide who would progress in the FA Women’s Cup, Coventry United winning the shootout 3-2 to reach the 4th Round.
A long trip up the country into Lancashire from the South Coast for Portsmouth FC Ladies to take on FAWPL Northern Division side, Blackburn Rovers Ladies. A disappointing result for Portsmouth as they were knocked out of the competition soundly beaten 7-0 by their hosts.
Another FAWPL Southern Division side making the long trip up the country were Lewes FC Women travelling the day before were taking on Huddersfield Town Ladies whom they beat in the FAWPL Plate final last season. Both sides are enjoying good season’s in the league, in the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup it was a goalless 1st half. Into the 2nd half closing in on an hour played the deadlock was broken the visitors taking the lead Rebecca Carter scoring for Lewes, their lead lasted just 2 minutes before Huddersfield levelled thing’s back up Britanny Sanderson with the goal. The winning goal coming with 10 minutes left to play Lewes captain Katie McIntyre finding the back of the net to send Lewes into the 4th Round of the competition.
Chichester City Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division were at home in the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup taking on Luton Town Ladies from the division below. The lower league side pushing Chichester all the way the hosts leaving it very late to get the win to take them through Alex Collinghan scoring in the 86th minute was quickly followed by a 2nd goal from Cherelle Khassel to put them into the 4th Round draw.
The 4th Round Proper draw for the FA Women’s Cup was made on Monday and for the 1st time it will see the sides from both FAWSL 1 and 2 enter at this stage with 32 sides left the 12 sides from the FAWPL getting the opportunity to maybe test themselves against the top women’s sides in the country the draw is listed below.
Durham Women FC v Sheffield FC Ladies
Aston Villa Ladies v Middlesborough
Sunderland AFC Ladies v Derby County Ladies or Brighouse Town Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies v Lewes FC Women
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles
Liverpool Ladies v Watford Ladies
Cardiff City Ladies v Oxford United Women
The New Saints v Chichester City Ladies
Millwall Lionesses v Coventry United Ladies
Reading FC Women v Birmingham City Ladies
Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Leicester City Women
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC v Manchester City Women
Blackburn Rovers Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women
Yeovil Town Ladies v Arsenal Women
London Bees v Chelsea Ladies
Everton Ladies v Bristol City Ladies
The 4th Round ties are scheduled to be played Sunday 4th February with the winners receiving £2000.
FAWPL Plate
The FAWPL Cup and Plate competitions were heavily affected by the weather in December with a number of ties yet to be played with the FA Women’s Cup taking priority this Sunday several remain outstanding. One tie was settled in the Plate competition this weekend with Norwich City Ladies hosting Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Norwich City with some news to searching for a new 1st team manager, Grant Palmer joining the club after an extremely successful time with Essex side Harlow Town Ladies. Also coming in to join the coaching staff is Carla Dickinson.
On the pitch however Norwich couldn’t have gotten off to a worse start as they found themselves 2-0 inside 5 minutes. Heather McDonnell and Sasha Newsome scoring for Milton Keynes. Pulled a goal back late in the 1st half with Chelsea Garrett scoring. 2-1 at half-time Norwich got it back to 2-2 early in the 2nd half with Jodie Drake on target. Milton Keynes finished the stronger going on to the 2nd Round tie 4-2 to reach the next round of the FAWPL Plate, Amelia Hazard and Charly Wright getting the goals.
FAWPL Southern Division
Two games played in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday featuring the 4 sides at the bottom of the table. A frustrating afternoon at home for West Ham United Ladies as they were held to a 0-0 draw against Gillingham FC Ladies.
Queens Park Rangers Ladies travelled to play bottom side Swindon Town Ladies on Sunday Two goals in the 1st half from new signing Helen Ogle her first for the club saw the visitors leading 2-0 at half-time. Ogle going on to complete her hat-trick early in the second half. Kasha Petit also scoring just past the hour to see QPR leading 4-0. Mia Mugford pulling a goal back for Swindon Town in injury are still looking for their 1st league point as QPR winning 4-1 win their 2nd league game of the season moving onto 7 points 3 points behind the sides in 8th, 9th and 10th an have plenty of games in hand on all.
FAWPL South East Division One
AFC Wimbledon Ladies enjoyed a great 1st half of the season leading the FAWPL South East Division One table with a 5 point lead. Started the year at home to Cambridge United WFC. Katie Stanley giving the hosts an early lead netting in the 2nd minute. That was how the score remained for the next 83 minutes AFC Wimbledon only securing the 3 points with 5 minutes left to play in the 2nd half Jenny Banfield making it 2-0.
Leyton Orient WFC are enjoying a great debut year in the FAWPL too going into 2018 in 2nd place in South East Division One. Pulling 3 points away from 3rd placed Milton Keynes Dons at the weekend with a home win over Denham United Ladies . Top scorer Sophie Le Marchand giving Leyton Orient the lead in the 12th minute. Rebecca Hirst with her 1st goal for the club making it 2-0 on 21 minutes. Sophie Cheadle pulled it back to 2-1 for Denham United with 7 minutes left to play in the 1st half. No more goals added 2nd half the 2-1 sealing the 3 points for Leyton Orient WFC
Enfield Town Ladies came back form being a goal down at home to Actonians Ladies on Sunday to secure a point in South East Division One. Catherine Murphy scoring for Actonians to see them lead 1-0 at half-time conceded an own goal 20 minutes into the 2nd half to see the sides share the points.
The final edition of The Round-Up for 2017 and a one off reverting back to the Tuesday Round-Up format with another weather affected Sunday wreaking havoc on the fixture lists with plenty of postponements right across the East. 16 games were played a handful across the divisions makes sense to put them all together, much better than the previous Sunday when just 2 games beat the weather.
FAWPL
Starting with the FAWPL one game played in the Southern Division and it was a great end to the year to cap off a fantastic first half of the season for Crystal Palace Ladies as they climb back into 2nd spot having been amongst the forerunners in the league all season. On the road taking on West Ham United Ladies a goal from Northern Ireland International, Ciara Sherwood midway through the 1st half saw Crystal Palace leading 1-0 at the break, despite looking comfortable with their lead the visitors didn’t double their lead until the 88th minute to secure all three points, Gemma Bryan with her 29th goal of the season. Level on points with C&K Basildon Ladies both on 28 are 5 behind leaders Charlton Athletic Women with both having a game in hand the new year promises to be exciting.
For the 2nd weekend running the FAWPL Cup 2nd Round was heavily affected by the weather several ties postponed once again now rolled over into the new year. One tie did survive the weather however and it was a cup upset with Southern Division side, Cardiff City Ladies knocked out of the competition by South West Division One side, Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The visitors travelling to Wales in excellent form unbeaten in league and cup ended the year with that record intact, a goal from Rebecca Atkins giving Plymouth a 1st half lead. Natasha Knapman doubling their advantage 20 minutes into the 2nd half. Cori Williams pulling it back to 2-1 for Cardiff City, the lower league side progressing through to the next round.
In FAWPL South East Division One, it was a winning end to the year for Enfield Town Ladies the 3 points lifting them up to 7th spot in the league table. At home on Sunday taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. The hosts taking the lead 22 minutes into the 1st half through an own goal. Sheryce Slater making it 2-0 to Enfield just 4 minutes later. Leading 2-0 at half-time Enfield pressed the advantage 2nd half extending their lead in the 66th minute, Daisy Jenkins on target. Andrea Vivas scoring Enfield’s 4th goal with 20 minutes left scored again for her double towards the end of the match along with Danielle Smith the final score 6-0.
ERWFL
With all their games postponed last Sunday the ERWFL was trying again to play their League Cup and Plate ties, frozen pitches seeing games called off for a 2nd time just two ties from the 3rd Round of the League Cup were decided with the away side in both games progressing through to the quarter finals. Current ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Cambridge City Ladies were hosting Bedford Ladies both in good form a hard game to call. Cambridge City scoring through Bella Simmons it wasn’t enough as last season’s finalists were knocked out of the competition with Bedford winning the tie 3-1 to advance.
An all Essex affair at the Harlow Arena with ERWFL debutants Harlow Town Ladies entertaining Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies again another tough game to call but with Brentwood getting so recent momentum in the league it was the higher league side who booked their spot in the quarter finals winning the game 2-0 with Marie Barker and Georgia Holdaway scoring their goals.
Norfolk
One game in the Norfolk Women’s Football League survived the weather on Sunday, in Division Two with 4th placed Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Freethorpe Ladies, a great result for the visitors to end the year 2 goals for captain Claire Garner, (one from the penalty spot) along with a goal for Amy Morris seeing Freethorpe win the game 3-1 the 3 points moving them up a place into 5th in the league. Paige Baker with the goal in the 2nd half for Kirkley & Pakefield.
Cambridgeshire
Another heavily affected fixture list across Cambridgeshire on Sunday with 2 games played. In the Women’s Premiership, leaders Netherton United Ladies ended 2017 with a massive 12 point lead at the top of the table. A fantastic opening start to the season were hosting March Town United Ladies at The Grange. The visitors holding the advantage at half-time with a 2-1 lead having scored twice within the opening 10 minutes of the match, Livvi Hodges and Shannon Kelly the goalscorers. Netherton pulling it back to 2-1 with a goal from Emily Johnson in the final minute of the 1st half. The home side equalising early in the 2nd half with Georgina Parrett sending the ball home it make it 2-2. Johnson scored again to put Netherton into the lead with 20 minutes left to play. Yasmin Green making it 4-2 from the penalty spot before Johnson completed her hat-trick with 3 minutes left on the clock to see Netherton win 5-2.
In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup, it was an all Championship South tie with league leaders Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds hosting Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Marie Stubbings scoring a brace for Fulbourn has 25 goals for the season now from just 9 appearances. There were goals too for Emma Clarke and Yasmin Upson along with Marcela Mundz who scored her 1st goal of the season. Fulbourn advancing into the next round with a 5-0 win.
Essex
In Essex the 1st Round of the Women’s League Cup was scheduled to be played again affected by the weather just 3 ties were played on Sunday with big home wins for all 3 Premier Division sides drawn against Division One opponents. Collier Row Tigers reaching the final of the League Cup last season were at home to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. Laura Bunton netting 4 goals for the Premier Division outfit half their tally in an 8-0 victory the other goals shared out between Marta Choruzy, Sarah Finch, Emma Harrison and Rebecca Killington.
Another side to score 8 goals at home on Sunday in the 1st Round of the League Cup were Premier Division side, Eastern Avenue taking on Waltham Forest Ladies. Katie Peers taking her goals scored to 13 so far with a hat-trick in the game. Hannah Warner moving onto 10 goals too with a brace for Eastern Avenue. Amara Drummond, Teliscia Linton and Lorna Huddleston with her 1st goal of the season also scoring in an 8-2 victory.
A potential upset in the League Cup on the cards in the other 1st Round tie played in the League Cup on Sunday with Harlow Town Ladies struggling for points in the Premier Division hosting Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies. In the end a comfortable and much welcome win for the home side as Harlow advanced through to the next round with a 5-0 win, Casey Lunn scoring twice with Rubie Smith, Amber Strows and captain Rebecca Pope all getting on the scoresheet.
One game played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday, 2nd versus 3rd with Leigh Ramblers Ladies hosting Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies both looking to close the gap on Hullbridge Sports Ladies. Both having to settle for a point each as the match ended without neither goal breached 0-0 both having lost just the once this season with be pushing Hullbridge Sports still with a 100% record hard in the New Year.
Beds & Herts
A great end to the year for Houghton Athletic Ladies in Beds & Herts Division One taking their unbeaten run to 4 matches climb up to 4th in the league with a good away win on Sunday against Garston Ladies. Both Ciara Craig and Becky Sullivan scoring a brace in the match for the visitors. Emily Wilson, along with Louise and Rachel Spendelow were also on target in a 7-1 victory.
In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the title race on well and truly on as 2017 ends with leaders Garston Ladies 2nd Xi beaten for the 1st time this season at home to Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires on Sunday the 3rd placed side closing the gap to just 2 points Georgina Harvey scoring a hat-trick. April Spang netting a brace along with Chemise Huitson also scoring in a 6-1 win for Welwyn Pegasus. Maxine Hotz getting Garston’s goal.
In between Garston Ladies 2nd XI and Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires are Royston Town Ladies Reserves winning away from home on Sunday to move level on points with Garston at the top of Division Two. Playing bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues, Samantha Edgar netting a brace for Royston. Paige Rolfe and Jazmin Racher were also on the scoresheet in a 4-0 win.
In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies end the year on a high as they move into 2nd spot in the league table with a comfortable 5-0 win away from home against bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies.
A weather affected end to the year, my thanks to all that have enjoyed reading The Round-Up throughout the year plenty of excitement and action to look forwards too in the New Year. After all nothing is settled at Christmas. Enjoy your festive period and have a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
A full programme of fixtures across both the Southern and South East Division One this Sunday with all 24 sides in action. An emphatic win for Southern Division leaders Charlton Athletic Women at home as they extend their winning run to 4 matches in league and cup. Taking on bottom side Swindon Town Ladies still looking for their 1st league point this season. Kit Graham set the ball rolling opening the scoring in the 10th minute quickly adding a 2nd. Charlotte Lee made it 3-0 on 17 minutes. Charlotte Gurr then got in amongst the goals scoring to make it 4-0. A 5th goal was added in the space of 12 minutes when Hannah Churchill made it 5-0. No let up from Charlton in the 1st half. Gurr scoring her 2nd and 3rd of the game to complete her hat-trick. Grace Coombs scoring in between to make it 8-0 at the break. A quieter 2nd half however Charlton continued to dominate Gurr getting a 4th goal early in the 2nd half. Lee getting her 2nd of the game to take the score into double figures, and Graham getting her hat-trick in the final minute to wrap up an 11-0 win.
C&K Basildon Ladies were also involved in a high scoring match at the weekend getting the win away from home to take them up into 2nd spot in the Southern Division table. Playing local rivals West Ham United Ladies in a game that saw 10 goals scored the home side netting 3 times Basildon were never in danger of losing. Starting the game well April Bowers giving Basildon the lead in the 5th minute. Danica Revell made t 2-0 before Bowers grabbed her 2nd of the game. Therese Addison and then Jay Blackie scored to put Basildon 5-0 up in the 1st half. Molly Peters pulling one back for West Ham to see them trailing 5-1 at half-time. Bowers scoring her 3rd of the match early 2nd half to make it 6-1 and complete her hat-trick. Ellie Zoepfl scoring for West Ham on the hour before Angela Addison made it 7-2 for Basildon. Rosie Kmita scoring in the last 10 minutes for West Ham to see the final score 7-3 in Basildon’s favour taking up 2nd spot 5 points behind the leaders with a game in hand.
Lewes FC Women drop to 3rd after suffering defeat at the weekend away to Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors opening the scoring in the 36th minute holding the narrow advantage at half time. Portsmouth levelled the scores within 5 minutes of the 2nd half starting Samantha Quayle netting the goal. Molly Clark then put the home side into the lead 5 minutes later. Quayle scoring her 2nd of the game in the 66th minute to put Portsmouth 3-1 up. Leeta Rutherford scoring in the closing seconds for Lewes not enough as they suffered a 3-2 defeat.
Leesa Haydock with the early goal at home for Crystal Palace Ladies in the 5th minutes saw the 4th placed side leading Cardiff City Ladies at home on Sunday. For much of the game this was how the scoreline remained until the final 10 minutes of the match with Gemma Bryan scoring to put the hosts int a more comfortable position and go on to win 2-0 onto 25 points have games in hand on all the sides above them.
5th placed Coventry United Ladies extended their winning run in league and cup to 3 matches with a big win away from home on Sunday taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Stephanie Smith giving the visitors an early lead scoring in the 5th minute. Goals from Jade Formaston and Alison Hall saw Coventry leading 3-0 at half-time. Dominated at the start of the 2nd half extending their lead, Amber Hughes making it 4-0 with Marie Gauntlett putting them 5-0 up on 50 minutes. Two further goals were added by Helen Dermody to make it 7-0 her 2nd from the penalty spot. Laura Cooper making it 8-0 with 15 minutes left. Queens Park Rangers pulling a goal back in the 82nd minute Pauline Adeyemo the goalscorer. Time left for Coventry to reach double figures Gauntlett with her 2nd of the game making the final score 10-1.
Chichester City Ladies travelled to Kent at the weekend to play Gillingham FC Ladies. A goal from Holly Wride late in the 1st half saw the visitors lead 1-0 at the break. That was how the score remained until the last 15 minutes of the match when a quick burst of 3 goals in 6 minutes saw Chichester take an iron grip on the 3 points. Jade Widdows making it 2-0 her goal quickly added to by Laura Ingram and Jess Lewry to see Chichester win 4-0.
FAWPL South East Division One
AFC Wimbledon Ladies retain the lead in FAWPL South East Division One with another single goal winning them the 3 points for the 4th time this season hosting Denham United Ladies the sides going in goalless at the break. Katie Stanley breaking the dead lock in the 56th minute scoring to give Wimbledon the advantage they held onto their lead to win all 3 points remain 2 points clear at the top of the table.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies were 2nd a point back going into their home game against 4th placed Ipswich Town Ladies on Sunday a close contest looking likely between the sides Charley Clarke putting Milton Keynes into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Ipswich responded quickly levelling the scores 2 minutes later Sophie Welton putting the ball into the back of the net. Amelia Hazard scoring in the 37th minute restored Milton Keynes lead to see the home side 2-1 up at half-time. Worked hard to keep the lead 2nd half however Ipswich came back for a 2nd time to level the scores substitute jade Henry making it 2-2 with 81 minutes on the clock, the sides having to settle for a share of the points extends Ipswich’s unbeaten run to 8 games. A point each both sides drop a place in the table.
Leyton Orient Women win away from home to move above Milton Keynes into 2nd position in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Away to Stevenage Ladies looking to build on a run of 4 straight wins the hosts working hard to see the scores level at 0-0 at the break. A scrappy game with some strong challenges Leyton Orient eventually breaking the deadlock in the 62nd minute. Danielle Griffiths putting them into the lead. Sarka Stryhalova making it 2-0 to the visitors with 3 minutes left to play. Leyton Orient were reduced to 10 in stoppage time Lisa Holmbeck collecting a 2nd yellow card.
Luton Town Ladies won big at home to move above Ipswich into 4th place in the South East Division One table. Taking on Norwich City Ladies the hosts had 7 different scorers on target in an 8-2 win. Nicola Henman claiming a brace in the game there were goals too for Zara Carroll, Jess McKay Lisa Nixon, Amy Summerfield, Joanne Rutherford and the returning Natasha Fensome rejoining the club after a spell back with her old club Bedford Ladies.
Cambridge United WFC parted company with manager Steve Edwards after 4 years in charge last week. Travelling down to London at the weekend to play Actonians Ladies the sides unable to find goal had to settle for a point each in a goalless draw.
Enfield Town Ladies were on the road on Sunday taking on local rivals Haringey Borough Women the visitors leading the bottom side 1-0 at half-time thanks to a goal from Danielle Smith with 35 minutes played. Captain Regan Coleman scoring an early goal in the 2nd half extended Enfield’s lead, added a 2nd in the 88th minute to see Enfield win the game 3-1 and move up a place into 9th in the process moving well clear of the bottom 2.
A huge crowd of 407 came to watch the clash between the top two in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday with 2nd placed Lewes FC Women hosting looking to close the 4 point gap on leaders Charlton Athletic Women. It was home side captain, Kelly Newton who had the fans cheering 1st half as she put Lewes into the lead on the half hour. That the advantage going onto the break Lewes keeping Charlton at bay until the final 20 minutes, the equalising goal scored by Charlotte Lee the game was turned on it’s head 5 minutes later with Charley Clifford scoring to put Charlton into the lead the 2-1 advantage enough to see Charlton win all 3 points and extend their lead at the top of the table.
That loss for Lewes coupled with a win on home soil for C&K Basildon Ladies sees the Essex side move into 2nd in the FAWPL Southern Division their highest ever league placing, a 4th straight league win Basildon were hosting Cardiff City Ladies this Sunday. Jay Blackie putting the home side into an early lead scoring in the opening 5 minutes. Angela Addison continued her fine scoring form making it 2-0 on 20 minutes. Danica Revell adding a 3rd goal before Blackie scored her 2nd of the game to see Basildon in control with a 4-0 half-time lead. Addison scoring her 2nd of the game to see Basildon wrap up a 5-0 win.
A 4th straight league win too in the FAWPL Southern Division for 4th placed Crystal Palace Ladies keeping the pressure on the sides above them. At home this weekend taking on Chichester City Ladies. Gemma Bryan putting the home side 1-0 20 minutes into the 1st half. A brilliant strike from Nikita Whinnett on 32 minutes sending Crystal Palace into the dressing room at half time 2 nil up. A penalty for Crystal Palace with 20 minutes left dispatched by Bryan to make it 3-0. Into the final 10 minutes, Cherelle Khassel pulling a goal back for Chichester City, Crystal Place hit back immediately Bryan netting her 3rd to complete her hat-trick and seal a 4-1 win.
Coventry United Ladies in 5th spot came back from a goal down to return to winning ways at the weekend. Hosting West Ham United Ladies the visitors leading 1-0 after 18 minutes Ellie Zoepfl getting the goal. Coventry levelling the scores in the final minute of the 1st half Helen Dermody sending the ball into the back of the net. The home side finding the winning goal 20 minutes into the 2nd half Marie Gauntlett on target to secure the 3 points with a 2-1 win.
Portsmouth FC Ladies move back up into the top half of the FAWPL Southern Division table with a comfortable win away from home at the weekend a trip to Kent to take on Gillingham FC Ladies. All the damage done in the 1st half. Natasha Stephens setting thing’s rolling scoring the opening goal for the visitors in the 12th minute. Molly Clark making it 2-0 on 25 minutes. 2 further goals scored in the last 5 minutes of the 1st half. Samantha Quayle then Shannon Albuery putting Portsmouth into a 4-0 lead. Successfully defended in the 2nd half 4-0 the winning score.
FAWPL South East Division One
One game played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday and another useful point for Denham United Ladies gained as they held Actonians Ladies at home to a goalless draw.
Eight straight wins at the start of the season had seen Charlton Athletic Women running away with the lead in the FAWPL Southern Division since then 2 successive defeats in the league have followed giving hope to the chasing pack as they look to close the gap. This weekend Charlton Athletic were at home hosting in form Coventry United who came into the game unbeaten in 5 league matches winning the last 4 to move up to 4th in the table. Charlotte Gurr struck 20 minutes into the 1st half to give Charlton the lead her 14th goal of the season. Into 1st half stoppage time the lead was doubled the Kit Graham taking her tally to 12 for the season finding the back of the net. Charlton successfully defending their 2-0 lead in the 2nd half to return to winning ways in the league and remain 4 points clear at the top of the table.
Lewes FC Women remain Charlton’s closest challenges although they had to come back from a 2-1 deficit at half-time away from home to win the 3 points on Sunday. Making the long trip to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies. The hosts getting off to a great start captain Cori Williams latching onto a poor back pass to score. The lead wasn’t to last long Lewes levelling the scores before the 10th minute their captain Kelly Newton with the goal to make it 1-1. That looked to be the score heading into the half-time break but for a terrific 25 yard free-kick from Williams finding the top corner to send Cardiff into half-time with a 2-1 lead. 8 minutes into the 2nd half it was Newton’s turn to find a 2nd goal levelling the scores for Lewes for the 2nd time in the game. With 10 minutes left Lewes went on to score what would prove to be the winning goal. Georgia Bridges introduced from the bench after 3 months out scoring to make it 3-2.
C&K Basildon Ladies continue their great league form in 3rd place in the Southern Division table travelling west to play Swindon Town Ladies on Sunday. The hosts bottom of the table battled hard in the 1st half holding their opponents to a goalless draw at the half-time break. Into the 2nd half and Basildon’s pressure finally told Angela Addison breaking the deadlock with the opening goal of the game. Therese Addison also scoring to make it 2-0 to the visitors the points put beyond doubt by April Bowers netting Basildon’s 3rd.
Amanda Chimbima got Queens Park Rangers Ladies off to the perfect start at home to Chichester City Ladies on Sunday scoring in the 2nd minute her 1st goal for the senior team. QPR working hard held onto their lead despite Chichester creating numerous chances to equalise. The visitors awarded a penalty in the 32 minute Kerrie Ryan sending her effort up over the bar. Chichester continued to create chances 2nd half and into the last 5 minutes of the game QPR conceded the equaliser, Gemma Simmonds scoring for Chichester. The points shared as QPR held on for the draw to take what might yet be a vital point in their battle at the bottom of the table.
FAWPL South East Division One
In FAWPL South East Division One, AFC Wimbledon Ladies had since losing on the opening day of the season gone on to win 8 straight league games to power their way to the top of the table. That run was finally brought to an end on Sunday away to Stevenage Ladies. The Hertfordshire side leading their opponents 1-0 at the break thanks to a fantastic strike from Ellie Searle. Chloe Gunn doubling Stevenage’s lead in the 2nd half. Wimbledon bringing Ingrid Asplund and Sian Wylde off the bench as they looked to get back into the game a dramatic final 10 minutes, Asplund scrambling the ball home in the 84th minute to make it 2-1, Wimbledon levelling it up with 3 minutes left Wylde getting the goal. Stevenage got the ball up the other end and the cross fired into the area Nicole Emmings getting on the end of it to score the winning goal to lift Stevenage into 7th spot taking 7 points from their last 3 league games.
That defeat for Wimbledon saw 2nd placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies close the gap on the leaders to just a point with victory on the road at the weekend away to Norwich City Ladies who are looking for points at the wrong end of the table working hard in the 1st half Norwich kept Milton Keynes at bay the sides drawing 0-0. A single goal scored in the 2nd half enough to claim victory for the visitors Amelia Hazard with her 4th goal of the season the scorer.
Leyton Orient WFC were away to Denham United Ladies on Sunday the 3rd placed side also winning to close the gap on the leaders, goals from Belen Ripoll Douton and Sophie Le Marchand clinching the 3 points.
Ipswich Town Ladies are another side looking to chase down the leaders in 4th position they had to do it the hard way away to Actonians Ladies this Sunday the home side taking an early lead in the match Sinead Friel scoring the goal. As the 1st half drew to a close Ipswich found the equalising goal Zoe Cossey putting the ball into the back of the net. Cossey going on to score another in the 2nd half on 64 minutes, what would prove to be the winner, 2-1 the final score.
Luton Town Ladies were away to Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday and despite creating numerous opportunities the visitors couldn’t breach the hosts defence the 2 sides taking home a point each the game ending goalless.
Cambridge United WFC climb back up into 5th spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table with victory away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Emma Jenkins scoring in the 8th minute to give Cambridge the lead. Jenkins added another goal on 37 minutes to make it 2-0 and move her onto 5 goals for the season. Nuala Wayne also moving onto 5 goals for the season as she scored 2 minutes later to see Cambridge leading 3-0 at the break. A early chance for Cambridge to extend their lead from the penalty spot Lauren Cartwright’s shot was saved. Laura Baker did make it 4-0 for Cambridge however scoring on the hour mark, then Cartwright scored from open play to make it 5-0 on 67 minutes. Lauren Gibson introduced to the action in the 61st minute went on to score 2 goals for Cambridge moving her onto 7 for the season in the final 20 minutes Cambridge winning 7-0.
Hope for the chasing pack in the FAWPL Southern Division as runaway leaders Charlton Athletic Women victorious in their opening 8 league games have now suffered two successive defeats the latest this weekend away to 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the game with Angela Addison scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, April Bowers making it 2-0 to C&K Basildon before half-time. Charlton threatened an immediate comeback with Charlotte Gurr pulling it back to 2-1 a minute into the 2nd half however C&K Basildon defended well to hold on to their lead 2nd half and take all 3 points moving them onto 19 points 5 behind Charlton at the top with a game in hand.
A great result too for 2nd placed Lewes FC Women as they got back to winning ways in the league picking up the 3 points at home on Sunday with a convincing win over bottom side Swindon Town Ladies, scoring 7 goals without reply with 7 different names on the scoresheet. Rebecca Carter getting things started in the 23rd minute. Charlotte Owen doubling Lewes’ lead in the 38th minute her goal quickly followed by a 3rd from Avilla Bergin to put the hosts 3-0 up at the break. Rachel Palmer made it 4-0 in the 58th minute. Darcey James striking 10 minutes later to bring up the 5th goal. Sarah Kempson on target with 5 minutes left and a stoppage time goal for Danielle Lane completed the 7-0 scoreline. Lewes closing the gap to leaders Charlton to 4 points.
Coventry United Ladies are moving in the right direction up the FAWPL Southern Division table up to 4th now as they extend their unbeaten run in league and cup to 6 matches. Away to Portsmouth FC Ladies this Sunday who had beaten them 2-1 in the reverse fixture early in the season. The 2 sides playing out a goalless 1st half, Jade Formaston with a great strike early in the 2nd half giving the visitors the lead. Amber Hughes making it 2-0 with 20 minutes left. Coventry move onto 16 points have games in hand on all the sides above them.
FAWPL Cup
Two games from the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup played this weekend, Leyton Orient WFC from FAWPL South East Division One making the long trip to Wales to play higher league opponents Cardiff City Ladies. Doing well in the league Leyton Orient held the hosts to a goalless 1st half. The hosts getting the better of the 2nd half taking the lead Cori Williams hitting a brace with Ella Powell also getting a goal. Leyre Bastyr with a late goal for Leyton Orient as they exited the competition Cardiff winning 3-1.
3-1 was also the winning score for home side Plymouth Argyle Ladies from South West Division One, taking on Southern Division side, Chichester City Ladies. A 100% winning record in the league Plymouth took that form into the Cup. Striker Natasha Knapman scoring a goal either side of half-time, Tori Marks with a goal on the hour for Plymouth. Jade Widdows netting the goal for Chichester City as they exit the competition.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Cup was made earlier today ties scheduled to be played Sun 10th December:-
Cardiff City Ladies v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Cambridge United WFC v Coventry United Ladies
Lewes FC Women v Portsmouth FC Ladies
Liverpool Marshalls Feds v Blackburn Rovers Ladies
Nottingham Forest Ladies v Guiseley Vixens Women
Leicester City Women v Loughborough Foxes Women
Brighouse Town Ladies v Derby County Ladies
C&K Basildon Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women
FAWPL Plate
One tie from the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate played this weekend two an all Southern Division clash with West Ham United Ladies hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Chloe Burr striking in the 17th minute to put West Ham into the lead. Amber Stobbs making it 2-0 right on the stroke of half-time. Queens Park Rangers pulling it back to 2-1 3 minutes into the 2nd half through a Katie Knell goal it was West Ham who went onto score again Chenise Austin finding the back of the net in the 56th minute to see the hosts through to the 2nd Round of the competition with a 3-1 win.
Likewise the draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Plate was made today these ties also due to be played Sunday 10th December :-
Norwich City Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Brislington Ladies v West Ham United Ladies
Swindon Town Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies
Luton Town Ladies v Southampton Saints Girls
Fylde Ladies v Leeds United Ladies
Hull City Ladies v Newcastle United Women
Long Eaton United Ladies v Chorley Ladies
Birmingham & West Midlands Women v Crewe Alexandra Ladies
FAWPL South East Division One
5 games played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies leaving it very late away from home against Enfield Town Ladies to keep their winning run going extending to 8 matches. Katie Stanley the heroine scoring in the 86th minute to see the visitors take the 3 points home with them keep them 4 points clear at the top of the table.
A brace from new signing Laura Mills sees Milton Keynes Dons Ladies consolidate 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table the 2 goals enough to claim all 3 points despite a goal from Joanne Rutherford for Luton Town Ladies.
A good result at home for Stevenage Ladies at the weekend at home to 6th placed Actonians Ladies picking up their 3rd league win of the season thanks to goals from Leah Littlechild and substitute, Kristi Burling clinching a narrow 2-1 result. Alessandra Barreca netting for Actonians.
Cambridge United WFC were at home on Sunday hosting Norwich City Ladies, had to comeback from a goal down to win the 3 points Chelsea Garrett scoring in the 7th minute for Norwich. The lead only lasted a couple of minutes however as Cambridge hit back immediately to level the scores Amy Howlett putting the ball home to make it 1-1. With 5 minutes left in the 1st half Cambridge took the lead, recent signing Lauren Cartwright scoring her 1st goal for the club. No more goals scored 2nd half Cambridge climb a place to 6th with the 2-1 win.
Finally Denham United Ladies were hosting bottom side Haringey Borough Women at the weekend. Jenny Banfield scoring twice in the game for Denham their were goals too for Emma Bebbington, Annie Hewitt and Celine O’Halloran in a 5-0 win.
A limited programme of fixtures in the FAWPL this weekend with several sides involved in County Cup action. Two ties taking place in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup with another Chichester City Ladies away tie against Plymouth Argyle Ladies falling foul of the weather with Storm Brian arriving on the South West Coast. Both ties played saw FAWPL South East Division One sides at home to Southern Division opposition.
A good test at home for Ipswich Town Ladies in 4th place in South East Division One at home to C&K Basildon Ladies 4th in the Southern Division both sides enjoying a good start to the season. It was Ipswich Town who went on to cause a cup upset by knocking out their higher league opponents a single goal enough to win the game scored by Zoe Cossey chipping the goalkeeper from outside the box.
Stevenage Ladies were hosting South Division side Coventry United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup. Alison Hall putting Coventry into an 11th minute lead, Stevenage keeping the scoreline down to just a single goal at the break. Helen Dermody doubling Coventry’s advantage 10 minutes into the 2nd half. It was enough to see Coventry advance through to the next round.
FAWPL Plate
3 ties featuring sides from the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate played this Sunday. Luton Town Ladies made the trip down to Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies. It was the South East Division One side who were leading their higher league opponents at half-time a 12th minute goal from Nicola Henman putting Luton 1-0 up. Gillingham getting themselves back into the game awarded a penalty in the 70th minute was duly dispatched by Danielle Farmer to make it 1-1. That’s the way it finished after 90 minutes the tie heading into extra-time. Two quick goals from Henman and then Jess McKay put Luton Town 3-1 up in the extra period. Again Gillingham were to come back an own goal ad then a strike from new signing Kylie Manktelow making it 3-3. It was Luton who would have the final say with Henman scoring her 3rd of the match late in the 2nd period of extra-time to see Luton with 4-3 to progress in the competition.
An all South East Division One clash in the FAWPL Plate 1st Round saw Milton Keynes Dons Ladies at home to Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The two sides had shared the points in the points in the league last weekend with a 1-1 draw at Denham. Another close contest saw the sides go into the dressing rooms goalless at the half-time whistle. The game was heading into the last 15 minutes in the 2nd half before a goal was breached. Amelia Hazard the scorer putting Milton Keynes Dons ahead. A 2nd goal followed Kerry Newman on target to secure the win for the visitors and see Milton Keynes Dons progress.
At last a much welcomed victory for Swindon Town Ladies at the weekend a plenty of goals too for the side bottom of the FAWPL Southern Division at home to South West Division One side Maidenhead United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Plate. Swindon getting the 1st goal on 36 minutes Annie Martin finding the back of the net. Mia Mugford added a 2nd goal for Swindon a minute before half-time. Martin extending the lead to 3-0 just 4 minutes into the 2nd half with her 2nd of the game. Lucy Casey pulling a goal back on 57 minutes for Maidenhead. Swindon then went on to take full control of the tie with a devastating spell of 3 goals in 6 minutes. Mugford adding her 2nd of the game on 59 minutes to make it 4-1 quickly followed by goals for Emily Arrell and newly arrived substitute Natalie Jo Goodright to make it 6-1. Martin going on to complete her hat-trick on injury time to see Swindon advance in the competition with a 7-1 win, great for the confidence they will be hoping to take this on into the league.
FAWPL South East Division One
Just the one league game played across the 2 divisions this Sunday in South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC 7th in the table were hosting league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A battling 1st half saw AFC Wimbledon take the lead late on Rebecca Sargent with her 8th goal of the season putting them in front. Was more of the same 2nd half both sides creating chances but Cambridge weren’t able to find an equalising goal to take anything from the game as AFC Wimbledon made it 7 straight league wins to open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table.
One game in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday and West Ham United Ladies were on a high coming off the back of a sensational win at The Valley in midweek ending leaders Charlton Athletic Women’s perfect start to the season 8 straight wins to start the season West Ham United winning 3-1 coming off the back of a 5-0 win against Swindon Town the previous Sunday. Taking on Coventry United Ladies this Sunday another side building some momentum in the league after a poor start by their standards. It was the visiting side who opening the scoring Alison Hall putting the ball into the back of the net in the 20th minute. West Ham responded to level the scores before half-time Andreya Ezekie-Meade making it 1-1 in the 36th minute. West Ham continued to create chances 2nd half, so to did Coventry finding the winning goal in the 70th minute of the match Hall with her 2nd of the game sealing the 3 points and moving Coventry into the top half of the table.
FAWPL South East Division One
A real title contest shaping up in FAWPL South East Division One after the results in midweek AFC Wimbledon Ladies topped the table but their are just 2 points between them and 4th placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Ipswich Town Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC in between. Leyton Orient WFC on a run of 5 straight league wins were once again playing at The Matchroom Stadium this Sunday hosting Actonians Ladies in 6th looking to make ground on the leading quartet. Both sides scoring plenty of goals this season so far it was no surprise they both found the goals again this time around a 7 goal thriller between the sides. Actonians Ladies beating Leyton Orient 5-1 in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. The scores tied at 1-1 at half-time it was an exciting contest 2nd half. Chloe McNee scoring for Leyton Orient in the 1st half two quickfire goals from Sophie Le Marchand on 67 and newly introduced Sarka Stryhalova on 70 saw the home side score 3. Actonians edged the result to do the double over Leyton Orient winning 4-3 thanks to goals from Claire Hollingsworth, Jessica Byrne and a brace for Alessandra Barreca.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies were away to Denham United Ladies in the league this Sunday in a rich vein of form winning their last 5 league games the latest 2-0 away to Cambridge United WFC in midweek. Denham United Ladies held the lead at half-time 1-0 up thanks to a goal from Alissa Down scoring from a free-kick in the 17th minute. Held onto the lead as the game approached the final quarter hour Milton Keynes Dons levelling the score Alice Hughes netting to make it 1-1 the points shared between the sides who meet again this Sunday in the League Plate. The point enough to lift Milton Keynes Dons up into 2nd.
FAWPL Cup
4 ties played this weekend in the FAWPL Cup 1st Round it was a top of the tables clash between Charlton Athletic Women of the Southern Division hosting South East Division One leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies at Thamesmead. An exciting game between the sides with a dramatic finish. Rebecca Sargent getting Wimbledon off to a great start putting them 1-0 inside the opening 5 minutes. Charlotte Lee getting Charlton back on level terms on the half hour. 1-1 the scores at half-time Lee scored again in the 61st minute to put Charlton 2-1 up looked to be heading for the win deep into injury time 90+7 and Wimbledon levelled it at 2-2 Katie Stanley scoring, time left for another goal just when Wimbledon thought they’d forced extra-time Charlton went straight up the other end to score win the game 3-2 Charlotte Gurr getting the goal to send them through.
Crystal Palace Ladies and Lewes FC Women met for the 3rd time this season, currently 3rd and 2nd in the Southern Division table have beaten each other in their respective league games before this Sunday’s FAWPL Cup 1st Round tie both in good form it was Lewes FC Women who had the best of the 1st half goals from Amy Taylor on 14 minutes and Avilla Bergin on 32 giving them a 2-0 lead at the break. Crystal Palace pulling it back to 2-1 on 58 minutes Gemma Bryan with the goal Lewes defended well to win through to the next round.
A South Coast derby in the FAWPL Cup 1st Round between Southampton Women at home to Portsmouth FC Ladies. The Southern Division side taking the lead in the 13th minute Gemma Hillier scoring, Shannon Albuery also finding the back of the net in the 24th minute to make it 2-0 at the break for the visitors. Laura Vokes got it back to 2-1 early in the 2nd half for Southampton before Natasha Stephens scored for Portsmouth to restore their 2 goal cushion and see them through to the next round of the competition.
The last of the FAWPL Cup 1st Round ties featuring sides from this region was an all South East Division One clash the A10 derby between Enfield Town Ladies and Cambridge United WFC. 2 goals in the 1st half won it for Cambridge United WFC. A rare goal for midfielder Laura Baker along with a goal from striker Kelley Blanchflower securing the victory.
FAWPL Plate
One 1st Round tie from the FAWPL Plate this weekend an all South East Division One clash between the bottom two in the league with Haringey Borough Women travelling up to Norfolk for the 2nd time this season to face Norwich City Ladies. In their league encounter Norwich ran out 7-0 winners to claim their only league win of the season. Were dominant once again Natasha Snelling opening the scoring on 13 minutes to give Norwich the lead. Charlotte Broad on the half hour making it 2-0. Aimee Durrant extending Norwich’s lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half adding another with 5 minutes left to play. Laura Thacker sealing a 5-0 victory with the final kick of the game deep into injury time to send Norwich into the 2nd Round. Haringey ending the game with 10, Naomi Graham sent off.
A midweek trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch a game under the lights from the FAWPL South East Division One with 6th placed Cambridge United WFC hosting 4th placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.
Shaping up to be an interesting league at the top with the lead changing hands several times early on. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies amongst those looking to challenge for the title. Cambridge United WFC having had a lot of new faces come into the squad well placed to get amongst the top teams. Both sides in good form come into the game on the back of a home win in the FA Women’s Cup at the weekend.
A bit of rebuilding going on at Cambridge United WFC as they look to bed in several new players, quality signings started the season with a 0-0 draw at home to newly promoted Leyton Orient WFC who have since gone on win 5 league games in a row to top the table. Cambridge were unbeaten in their 4 opening league game a win and 3 draws their unbeaten run coming to an end away to tonight’s opponents, Alice Hughes scoring a late winner for Milton Keynes. Cambridge bouncing back are 3 games unbeaten in league and cup since. Have further added to their squad bringing in goalkeeper Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford. Striker Kelley Blanchflower ex-Tottenham and West Ham brings experience and skill to the attack. Lauren Cartwright is another new addition to the squad from Watford making her debut at the weekend.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are on a run of wins 5 in a row in league and cup going into tonight’s match beating Cambridge in that run too. Manager James Honeyman has brought in players with FAWSL 2 experience to strengthen the squad that finished runners-up last season defender Mollie Burgess ad midfield Dawn Mallett who had a spell at Cambridge last season. Most recently the club as signed another Cambridge player, attacker Laura Mills moving on scored at the weekend in the FA Women’s Cup for her new club.
As ever the pitch at Mildenhall Town FC looked immaculate sees plenty of action is well maintained sloping from one goalmouth to the other. A hint of rain in the air a breeze keeping the clouds moving quite mild and fingers-crossed in stayed dry.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Nettie Stillinger, Carolyn Sarafian, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Laura Baker, Lauren Cartwright, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Faith Hewitt & Lauren Gibson.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies starting XI – Savannah Smith, Leanna Doyle (C), Vicky Holland, Sasha Newsome, Mollie Burgess, Charley Clarke, Dawn Mallett, Charly Wright, Alice Hughes, Amelia Hazard & Laura Mills. Subs – Sammy Gillings, Kerry Newman & Lauren Goodier.
Its Milton Keynes in their all white away lit to get the 1st half underway attacking down the slope. Start at a furious pace pushing players forwards to join Laura Mills in the central attacking role. A through ball has her in behind right side to attack, Shayla Burgess comes racing out to the edge of her area to meet her sliding on the ball is knocked past her, no pace on it however the Cambridge defence recovering can get to the ball Kayleigh-Anne Burt clearing it out to the right wing. Milton Keynes regaining possession Alice Hughes firing a cross into the area the ball bouncing across the six yard box is claimed by Burgess.
Cambridge are penned back in their own half early on Milton Keynes committing numbers forwards, pressing the ball well in the middle of the park, Charley Clarke with a strong challenge gets hold of the ball drives forwards puts the ball into the path of Hughes wide right the cross fired into the box taken cleanly by Burgess.
Milton Keynes with a free-kick on half-way left side Charly Wright to play the ball in high into the box Cambridge get a head on the ball the clearance falling to Clarke outside the area lays the ball off to Hughes wide right closer she takes on the shot a vicious drive in towards goal, Burgess makes a fantastic save throwing herself up and tipping the ball wide across her goal conceding the 1st corner of the game. A good inswinging delivery into the middle of the six yard box from the left a good fist on the ball from Burgess to get the ball out of the area dropping to a white shirt the shot is taken on the volley the ball flying over the crossbar.
Cambridge relieve the early pressure Milton Keynes have put them under the ball played up field Kelley Blanchflower chasing the Milton Keynes defence forces an error as the ball played forwards falls goes straight to Emma Jenkins operating in a left side attacking role tonight, 25 yards out goes to shoot doesn’t get a good connection the ball running wide of goal.
Wright, Clarke and Mallett all press forwards from midfield to join the attack for Milton Keynes whenever they have the ball making it difficult for Cambridge to get out of their half the game played at a furious pace, a few out of control tackles being made decisions not being made by the referee in the middle upsetting the Cambridge bench. Hughes breaking clear of her marker on the right plays an early cross into the area coming to Mills the attacker lets the ball run across her as she holds off her marker knocking it on for Amelia Hazard inside the box with her, leaning back into the shot as the ball comes to her Hazard sends her effort high and wide of the top corner.
Another out of control tackle infuriates the Cambridge bench but such is the pace of the game little time to dwell the ball up the other end it’s the Milton Keynes benches turn to protest at another down the other end. Burt with a headed clearance as Hughes puts another cross from the right into the box following good work from Clarke in the middle. Cambridge play the ball out from the back Lauren Cartwright into Jenkins then Amy Howlett, Blanchflower making a run into the left channel ahead of her receiving the ball takes in on down the line evading a tackle on the byline comes back up the line to the top of the area taking on the shot is gathered on the bounce by Milton Keynes goalkeeper Savannah Smith covering her near post.
GOAL! Almost 20 minutes played in the 1st half and Milton Keynes high tempo start brings them the opening goal winning a free-kick wide on the right inside the Cambridge half players come forwards from the back loading the area is a great ball in Hughes escaping her marker inside the six yard box gets her head on the ball knocking it past Burgess into the back of the net to score 0-1.
Cambridge look to get forwards from the restart Amber Cantwell’s ball played into the middle from the right intercepted by Sasha Newsome at the back for Milton Keynes. Laura Baker with a strong challenge brings the ball on trough the middle sending it forwards is knocked on almost putting Blanchflower in on goal through the middle her 1st touch too heavy Smith with a good starting position is able to gather. The goal scored Milton Keynes are sitting back as a unit the midfield not looking to get up field with such intensity. Howlett strikes the ball on the half volley left side 30 yards out as Jenkins gets forwards on the wing her shot off target.
Both sides demanding more from the referee Cambridge win a free-kick inside the Milton Keynes half top of the circle, captain Laura Bright to play the ball into the box, headed clear by Mollie Burgess for Milton Keynes, Cambridge regain possession, Hazard working hard to win the ball back on the right as Cantwell looks to link up with Blanchflower. The game continues to be lively Cambridge growing a little frustrated. A throw in on the right Baker with a one two with Nettie Stillinger the full back takes the ball in field driving into the middle fires it forwards into the area with Jenkins making a left side run into the box, closing in on the keeper she forces the error Smith spilling the ball running behind for the corner.
Possession for Cambridge in and around the Milton Keynes area however there is little room in front of them Milton Keynes keeping a disciplined shape not leaving the slightest pocket for a shooting opportunity. Launch a counter attack the ball with Mallett in the centre she surges forwards Mills ahead of her peels right the pass finding her inside the box shoots 1st time her effort lacking pace is straight and Burgess the Cambridge goalkeeper behind the ball dropping forwards to claim.
Clarke is booked for a robust challenge as she attempts to prevent Cambridge bringing the ball out from the back. Getting forwards on the right side Stillinger cuts inside and fires a diagonal ball into the area Smith just about has the ball in her gloves as the challenge comes in from the left side on her the ball knocked out of her hands the referee awards the free-kick in the keepers favour.
Mallett comes on for Milton Keynes with the ball through the middle sends the pass out wide to Wright moving down the left wing she fires the ball in towards Mills positioned inside the box seeing the ball into her body work it out to Mallett closing in on the top of the area right of the D shot shoots pulling her effort wide across goal. Late into 1st half stoppage time Cambridge work the ball up the left Blanchflower moving into space on the left channel again puts a great ball into the box runners there near and far post it’s Mollie Burgess in between the Cambridge attackers that wins the header 2 yards from goal to clear the threat for Milton Keynes.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
A 1-0 lead for Milton Keynes who started the game at a furious pace pressing bodies forwards attacking Cambridge keeping them pinned in their own half eventually bringing the goal then with the lead have settled back keeping a solid shape not committing so many forwards ready for the counter attack. Cambridge having the ball but not doing much with it little room in behind the fast pace of the game hasn’t allowed them to settle down but with just a 1 goal lead all to play for 2nd half.
No changes for either side as Cambridge get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope now the breeze has picked up but still very mild. A relatively quiet opening to the 2nd half compared to the 1st Cambridge looking to build down the left Milton Keynes captain Leanna Doyle breaking up the attack. The visitors get forwards Mills picking up the ball as she comes over the the right turn looks to feed the pass central into Mallett as she makes a good forwards run Stillinger sliding in tackles well to stop the midfielder getting into the box with the ball.
Cambridge coming onto Milton Keynes more in the 2nd half as the visitors are prepared to sit deep soak up the pressure. Blanchflower receiving the ball from Jenkins on the left side drives towards the box looking to plough her way through the Milton Keynes defence, Newsome tackling wins the ball back. A free-kick awarded to Cambridge inside the D numbers forwards is taken quickly passed to the right the shot comes in Smith right behind it can gather cleanly.
GOAL! For all Cambridge’s positive endeavours at the start of the 2nd half they are hit on the counter attack Milton Keynes getting up the other end to score and double their lead. The ball played up into the Cambridge half, bouncing Sarafian comes to get the ball moving into the middle is challenged by Hazard the attacker winning the ball, sends in through to Mills who has made the run into the space vacated by the left back driving forwards into the box right of goal shoots putting the ball across the keeper and into the far corner of the net 0-2.
Not long after going 2-0 up Milton Keynes make a change bringing of Hazard sending on Lauren Goodier to join Mills in attack. Normal service resumed as Milton Keynes sit back invite Cambridge onto them. A good run from Blanchflower getting free on the right receives the ball takes on the shot running along the ground is straight at Smith. Cartwright getting further forwards screws a 25 yard shot wide of target. Howlett with the ball right side crosses the ball into the box Blanchflower letting the ball roll across her body turns and sends a looping ball in towards goal on target but a save catch for Smith.
Cambridge make a substitution Sarafain coming off as Cambridge go to 3 at the back bring on another attacker striker Lauren Gibson who scored twice in Cambridge’s 4-0 FA Women’s Cup win on Sunday. Milton Keynes bring on Sammy Gillings the defender going into right back as Newsome moves forwards into a midfield role. Further forwards Newsome wins the ball higher up the pitch plays it forwards for Mallett ahead of her Goodier breaking into space wide right Mallett plays the ball onto her Goodier taking the ball on inside the area right of goal Stillinger recovers the ground sliding in to take the ball away from Goodier behind for the corner kick. A inswinging delivery into the middle of the area Cambridge head clear.
Baker is cautioned after diving in to try and regain the ball after losing possession. Cambridge are able to get forwards but finding it tough to break down the wall of white shirts in front of them. Cantwell to deliver the ball into the area from a free-kick won on the right wing. Newsome back to defend gets up highest to head the ball behind for the corner. the game moving into the last 15 minutes Cambridge’s Blanchflower is down struggling a little after treatment comes off Faith Hewitt joining the action.
Mallett is tugged back as she threatens to counter attack for Milton Keynes the free-kick in a central position 40 yards out the shot is attempted a dangerous ball looping in towards goal dropping fast but no enough to creep under Burgess’ crossbar just over. Milton Keynes make a 3rd substitution Mallett coming off Kerry Newman coming on with around 8 minutes left. Gibson breaking down the right with the ball sends the cross in square to the near post defended the ball drops for Baker top of the box, rushing to shoot before being closed down slices the ball wide of target.
It’s all Cambridge in the final minutes pressing forwards Milton Keynes looking composed and comfortable. Cantwell inside to Bright the ball played wide for Howlett on the right down the line sweeps the cross into the area Smith confidently claims it with Gibson rushing in.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
A good result for Milton Keynes winning the 3 points away from home with a superb performance from start to finish. Came with a game plan and sticking to it with a disciplined and solid shape. Started at a breakneck tempo pushing forwards getting the goal they desired then prepared to sit back from then on soak up the pressure not committing too many forwards from then on in. Just went Cambridge looked to be getting on top 2nd half Milton Keynes hit the home side on the counter and presented with the chance Mills took it well. Move onto 16 points stay 4th in the FAWPL South East Division One table as both Ipswich Town Ladies in 3rd and AFC Wimbledon Ladies taking over top spot also won this evening just 2 points separating the top 4 however the battle for top spot come the end of the season will be very interesting.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Sasha Newsome thought she was excellent in the heart of the defence with great position and timing of challenges then pushed into midfield later on helped disrupt Cambridge’s build up play through the middle.
Good to get a game in under the lights after missing a few. Thanks to both clubs for their help tonight.
Ipswich Town Ladies move back into 4th place in the South East Division One table following a big win at home against bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Leading 5-0 at half-time the hosts went on to win the game 9-0 to put themselves within reach of the sides above the once again. Sophie Welton (pictured) top scoring in the match with 4 goals. Captain Amanda Crump getting 2 goal in the match too with a goal each for Natasha Thomas, Cassie Craddock and Miagh Downey.