Tag Archives: FAWPL South East Division One

Match Report – Actonians Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

  The match action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog at the start of October comes from FAWPL South East Division One. Actonians Ladies at home to Norwich City Ladies the 2 sides serving up a 9 goal thriller at North Greenford United FC, match report below.

Match Report – Actonians Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

 
 Trip down to North Greenford United FC this Sunday to watch some women’s football action from the FAWPL South East Division One, with Actonians Ladies playing Norwich City Ladies.

 Still early days into the season and it’s clear there are going to be few easy games in the league. Actonians Ladies are no longer ‘Old’ as they were in previous seasons listed as Actonians now. Were promoted to the FAWPL South East Division One last season and after a promising start got bogged down in an extended cup run and suffered from several postponements. Games in hand at the end of the season got the points needed to pull them away from the relegation places. Have started promisingly this season too, in 5th place with 6 matches played a record which reads W,L,D,W,L,D so on that form are due a win…

  Travelling to North Greenford United to play Actonians today are Norwich City Ladies, Norfolk’s premier women’s football side arrive having played half the games their opponents have the lowest in the FAWPL South East Division One, 3 so far. started with a home win against Lowestoft Town Ladies, 2 defeats since losing to the 2 sides setting the early pace at the top of the league, Cambridge United WFC and AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Have one of the youngest squads in the division.

  Thought I’d brave the London traffic head down to Actonians Ladies home venue today, North Greenford United, pass The Hive on the way heading for Wembley and Harrow the ground situated at the end of residential area backing onto green fields. !st weekend of October the weather is still holding onto the late summer sun going into autumn a few black clouds around but these would come to nothing. Several postponements last season the pitch like many others in the region suffering due to the heavy rainfall over the winter, looks a picture now the pitch reseeded looked great plenty of grass cover a good size too. Slopes a little from one corner to the other. A small seated stand behind one goal, the clubhouse and bar on the way into the ground, nice layout.

 Actonians Ladies starting XI – Naomi Swift, Sinead Friel (C), Lafe Uche, Jodie Regan, Leah Taylor, Hannah Olofsson, Jessica Byrne, Sinthujah Sooriyakumar, Katrina Marshalleck, Melissa Jung & Carla Williams. 
 subs – Catherine Murphy, Anais Escalona, Rhena Eames & Paige Hornsell.

 Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Erin Wilson, Brooke Osborne, Bryony Radley, Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow, Paige Shorten (C), Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Ellen Swift, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett.
 subs – Rebecca Russell

  Traffic was heavy on the way to the ground I arrived half an hour later than I’d expected to and the Norwich City Ladies minibus heading in the same direction as me wasn’t there yet, arriving late the visitors didn’t have as much warm up time as they’d have liked nevertheless were ready to kick-off come 2 O’clock… ish. It’s Actonians to get the game underway kicking off 1st half are wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks, with Norwich lined up opposite wearing green shirts with yellow vertical piping, yellow shorts and green socks. The visitors win the ball early push into the Actonians half, captain Paige Shorten on the ball in midfield plays a speculative ball forwards to the right of the area looking to pick out Chelsea Garrett, Lafe Uche at left back for Actonians gets across her and wins the ball.

  Direct play from Actonians sees the ball headed on in midfield by Jessica Byrne up the pitch to Sinthujah Sooriyakumar coming in from the right wing to the top of the area gets her foot on the ball turns into the area, Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow in the Norwich defence gets close to her doing enough to put the attacker off the ball running on into goalkeeper Ellie Birds gloves. Brooke Osborne brings the ball forwards from the back for Norwich crossing the halfway line moving left sends it high up towards the area with Garrett breaking forwards to receive controls well as the ball drops in the six yard box the angle acute, gets the shot away early, Naomi Swift in goal for Actonians gets down smartly at her post to make the save.

Actonians Ladies, Melissa Jung 

 An end to end game in the early minutes both sides looking to release their attacking players quickly, Carla Williams moves out to the the left side receiving the ball looks to take it down the line before cutting back inside making a run across the face of the area, reverses the ball sending it into the box with Sooriyakumar looking to spin in behind the Norwich defence, Osborne tracks her run and gets a foot in to take the ball away from her out for the corner kick.

 GOAL! Norwich take the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, have possession inside the Actonians half ex-Nettleham Ladies player Kyla Love travelling with the ball up the right flashes a cross into the area, Actonians Leah Taylor gets up highest to head it on out for a throw on the left. Play is drawn over to that side as Norwich retain possession from the throw the ball rolled into the feet of Natasha Snelling out on the touchline is a good way out takes on the shot regardless sending the ball up towards goal, on target the arc of the shot sees it fly over Swift and drop under the crossbar into the back of the net 0-1.

  Snelling with possession on the left side again prods the ball forwards into Garrett making the run ahead of her left side of the area, is prevented from turning inside to shoot by Jodie Regan the defender tackling to concede the corner. Put into the area from the left the ball drops invitingly at the near post, Bryony Radley up from the back gets her head to the ball sending a looping ball in towards goal, straight and Swift the keeper pushes the ball wide of goal out to the far post Actonians clearing the danger hit Norwich on the break.  

GOAL! The home side move the ball from one end to the other clearing it to the left Katrina Marshalleck on the move has the ball on into the middle the ball comes through to Williams racing forwards right side in front of the area controls well before she unleashes a shot from 25 yards out firing the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner of the net to equalise 1-1.

Actonians Ladies, Carla Williams

  Attacking down the right side Actonians push bodies forwards Jung receiving the ball outside the box helps it on to Marshalleck to the left, bringing the ball down turns and hits the shot, comes at Bird quickly the keeper makes the save the ball spilt, she recovers and grabs it before Marshalleck and get another touch. Actonians have Norwich on the back foot the ball inside their half, Sooriyakumar into Williams on the right, the striker attempts to lob the ball over Bird from outside the area the ball landing on the roof of the net. Williams and Jung look to link up outside the Norwich box exchanging passes Fewkes-Woodrow getting in between the to win the ball before either and get in behind to shoot on goal.

 

  Garrett is the outlet for Norwich in attack plenty of pace she is sent clear on the left side outpacing her marker into the area plants her shot wide into the side netting. Snelling and Shorten combine to win back the ball on the left side, play drawn across there is room for Norwich right back Erin Wilson to bomb forwards, Shorten picks her out with a superb crossfield pass taking the ball on down the wing cuts the cross back in towards the D with Love coming forwards can’t quite take the shot in her stride, Actonians win the ball and are immediately on the counter attack.

 GOAL! Byrne carries the ball forwards for the home side before playing it long up into the area with Sooriyakumar coming in from the right, Bird comes to close her down sliding in, Sooriyakumar bringing the ball down shifts it to her right avoiding the keeper pushes forwards wide of goal sends the shot in Norwich defenders racing back in an attempt to stop it is a handball but doesn’t keep the shot out is turned into the back of the net Actonians lead 2-1.

   Ellen Swift with space to run into on the right for Norwich sends a good cross into the box along to top of the six yard box Swift sets herself to claim the ball isn’t fazed as Garrett racing in throws herself at the ball, doesn’t connect the keeper claims. Hannah Olofsson plays the ball on for Byrne in the centre as Actonians build another attack pushes the ball forwards into Jung ahead of her right of the D one touch to put the ball on into the area, Wilson across just gets her toe to the ball to knock it on for Bird to gather before the shot can be taken. 

  Wilson with the ball out from the back picks out Snelling high on the left nods the ball back to Shorten in the centre looks to release Garrett as the striker gets in behind the Actonians defence, Swift is out of her area quickly to deal with the threat knocking the ball clear. Every attack is met with a counter, Actonians have the ball on the left Uche onto Marshalleck plays it across the face of the area Jung lets it run on with Sooriyakumar racing in behind, shots early the ball off target bouncing across the six yard box, Marshalleck has continued her run is inside the box, Bird scrambling across makes the save at her feet.

Melissa Jung headers the ball on for Actonians Ladies

  Actonians are seeing more possession of the ball in their opponents half, Jung with a drive through the middle releases Marshalleck on the right now, into the area flashes a shot across the six yard box, Sooriyakumar left retrieves and fires the ball back into the danger-zone, Wilson gets it away for Norwich. Olofsson bringing the ball on attempts to thread it on for Jung to burst into the box, under challenge from Fewkes-Woodrow the defender does just enough to kill the pace on the ball prevent Jung carrying it in behind.

 GOAL! Actonians extend their lead with possession on the right have a throw the ball is passed back to Olofsson 30 yards from goal given time and space lines up a shot strikes it well a low drives that bounces once across the area before nestling in the far corner 3-1.

Hannah Olofsson with the strike to make it
3-1 to Actonians Ladies


  Getting the ball up the other end of the pitch Norwich win a corner on the right, Love to take it, her delivery towards the near post is cleared back to her, moving to the top of the area curls a ball back into the centre of the box, Regan rises to clear for Actonians then as the rebound is knocked in towards goal from the top of the area, the defender shields the ball back to her keeper. Swift with a run on the right fires a low cross into the Actonians six yard box is just behind Garrett, Byrne tracking back is behind her clears the ball out of the area runs straight towards Jodie Drake the Norwich midfielder going to strike the ball blazes it wide.

  Actonians have the ball on the right the cross whipped in Jung coming near post stoops to head the ball gets it on target, Bird dives to her right dropping on the ball to make the save. Williams picking up the ball in a central position lines up a shot from 25 yards out a deflection of Fewkes-Woodrow puts it wide for the corner. 

 GOAL! Their is some frantic defending at the top of the area as Norwich struggle to get the ball away finding some space it’s Jung who plays the ball out to the left for Marshalleck left of goal dribbles the ball into the area closing the keeper down tries to lift her shot over Bird as she slides in to make the save does so a stinging shot blasted into her, the deflection falls favourably for the attacker Marshalleck getting in behind the stranded keeper to send the ball into the empty net beyond 4-1. 

Katrina Marshalleck extends Actonians Ladies lead late in the 1st half

  All Actonians in the closing stages of the 1st half, Norwich hanging on concede a corner left the ball is whipped into the six yard box drops onto Williams head, sends the ball wide across the goal.

Half-time Actonians Ladies 4-1 Norwich City Ladies

  A good 1st half display from Actonians Ladies despite suffering an early set back conceding a goal have come back strongly to lead 4-1 their attackers causing the Norwich defence a few problems the game has been open end to end. The better chances falling Actonians way as they get players forwards with pace, Marshalleck and Sooriyakumar providing good outlets on the wings with Jung and Byrne in the centre bringing the ball forwards with purpose. A comfortable lead for the home side at the break the visitors have to improve if they want to find a way back into the match.
  Norwich having stayed out on the field at half-time get the 2nd half underway. Shorten with the ball at her feet brings it on before sending it forwards towards the area, Uche with the interception. The ball is played up towards the Norwich box the clearance falls to Byrne in the centre 25 yards out opens up her body to lift a shot in towards goal goes over the bar. Wilson with a good tackle on Sooriyakumar on the right as the attacker looks to get in behind the defence. 

Norwich City Ladies
Jodie Drake
  Snelling is fouls wide left inside the Actonians half, a chance for Love to play the ball up into the area, amongst bodies Swift calls for the ball and makes the claim. Norwich have started the 2nd half brightly pressing the ball higher up the park getting more of it inside their opponents half, Love plays the ball over the top for Garrett running in behind, Swift is again out of the box quickly to get to the ball 1st kicks clear. Shorten has a go from distance 30 yards out turns the ball away from the target.  
 GOAL! The early pressure from Norwich pays off Drake gets the ball into Snelling over on the right holds it up well outside the box rolling it inside to Shorten getting forwards, Garrett makes a run in between the pair bursting into the area the ball played into her feet shoots and sends the ball under the keeper and into the back of the net 4-2

  Actonians make a double change Uche and Sooriyakumar coming off. Anais Escalona and Rhena Eames coming on. Eames goes to centre back with Regan moving into the left back position. Drake wins the ball in the middle then sends Garrett away on the left side, her pace carrying her into the box driving towards goal, Taylor gets on her the shot wanting to force her wide Garrett manages to shot with the outside of her right boot from 8 yards out sends the ball over the bar. 

  A completely different game of football from the 1st half, Norwich are pushing Actonians back, sharper to close down the ball and enjoying more of it inside the final 3rd. Snelling advances down the right, stops then squares the ball inside coming at Shorten quickly she attempts the volley throwing herself at the ball connects drags the attempt wide at the far post. The tempo of the match has been high all game, Marshalleck with the ball on the right advances into the Norwich half passes inside to Byrne pushing on through the centre sends the ball into the box her shot blocked spinning out to the right picked up by Williams fires a cross/shot back in the ball blocked spins behind for the corner. Comes into the middle of the six yard box from the right, Bird just about gets her fingertips to the ball managing to help it away from goal out to the left, a handball is spotted by the referee Norwich get the free-kick.

Jessica Byrne wins the header

  Marshalleck shows a good turn of pace on the right as Byrne plays her in down the right wing takes the ball into the box, shoots her drive towards goal saved by Birds feet as she goes to ground, the rebound coming back to Marshalleck wide of goal goes to send the ball back into the middle Radley blocks to put it behind for the corner. Floated in near post on the right, Bird gets up to grab the ball.

 GOAL! Friel fouls Love as the Norwich midfielder advances with the ball the free-kick given away 10 yards inside the Actonians half to the left side of the box. Shorten on the free-kick hits the ball long into the box, a bit of back spin on it as it drops over everyone lined up along the face of the area, Swift looks to have it covered coming straight at her, bouncing the ball skips up off the surface, wrong footing the keeper flies up over her looping down into the goal beyond 4-3.

  Love is put clear on the left as Osborne brings the ball forwards taking it down the line Friel gets back on her to put the block in stopping her cross taking it behind for the corner kick. Love to play in is knocked down near post dropping to Rapley inside the area sends the pass it to Love her 2nd attempt to put the ball in is charged down by Williams before being cleared. Norwich push players forwards Osborne coming on to support Garrett as she holds up a Snelling pass outside the area on the left, getting the ball sends it long into the area looking to pick out Shorten at the far post, tries the overhead kick doesn’t come off.
 

Kyla Love bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

 Love and Snelling bring the ball on for the visitors the ball played into the run made by Garrett to get into the box on the right shoots a low drive aiming near post, Swift down quickly makes a great save pushing the ball wide for the corner kick. A good delivery from the corner drops into the middle of the six yard box a shot is sent in, Swift makes the save on her goal-line the loose ball is then flung over the bar.

 GOAL! At this point Norwich are all over Actonians they are giving the ball away, clearing their area the ball drops to Love left side some 40 yards out, time on the ball lines up a shot comes in at a fast pace could well be heading for the top corner, either way an Actonians defender in it’s path tries to get her head to the ball a glancing touch takes it away from one corner deflecting it across goal, Swift can’t adjust her feet in time flails at the ball but can’t keep it out Norwich come back from 4-1 down to make it 4-4.

 GOAL! Just as Norwich celebrate getting it back to 4-4 they are hit on the counter straight from the restart, Actonians pile forwards from catch the Norwich back line a little off guard, Williams receiving the ball central 25 yards out with the centre backs split, Bird has read the threat comes racing out off her line to the edge of her area, Williams bringing the ball into her body, turns quickly and lifts the ball over the advancing keeper, the ball dropping into the six yard box beyond and into the back of the net 5-4.

Carla Williams makes it 5-4 for Actonians Ladies

 Norwich make a substitution 16 year old Rebecca Russell coming on to make her debut for the club replacing Snelling. A free-kick to Norwich in the middle the ball lifted up into the area, Olofsson defends heading the ball out to the right is gathered by Garrett who takes it on down the line before squaring the cross in towards the near post, Osborne having now moved up top to join the attack is there near post sends her header up over the bar. Having gotten there noses back in front Actonians have livened up the game stretched in the latter stages. 

Brooke Osborne attacking for Norwich City Ladies

 Wilson is clipped inside the Actonians half giving Shorten another opportunity to lift the ball up into the area, it runs deeper this time and Swift gets everything behind it to claim the ball. Up the other end Bird’s clearance drops to Byrne in the middle of the Norwich half with the keeper off her line she attempts the lob getting it over her the ball runs wide of goal. Drake with the ball plays it on for Love attacking down the left size fires the ball inside looking for Osborne at the top of the area centrally under challenge from Eames one or the other connects with the ball the result seeing it run into the six yard box for Swift to gather. The referee brings an end to the match as Actonians defend a late Norwich corner.

Full-time Actonians Ladies 5-4 Norwich City Ladies

  What a game, what a result, two completely different halves of football. Actonians dominating it 1st half looked good for their 4-1 lead. Norwich late to arrive not fully warmed up, came back 2nd half applying the pressure to Actonians that the home side did to them 1st half, fighting back to make it 4-4 only to see the home side get back in from straight away and hold onto it this time to take the 3 points with a 5-4 that sees them up to 4th place in the table. Tough for Norwich City Ladies having gotten it back all square only to concede so soon after, showed character to come back into it. Relief for Actonians Ladies having lost their lead to comeback and find another goal so soon after the leveller to retake and hold onto the lead.
  Another entertaining game to watch it was hard to keep up with everything that was happening it’s a good job I can translate my scribbles not sure anyone else could. Thanks to both sides for the entertainment a 9 goal thriller and for their help with the team details today. 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 25/09/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 25th September

Not too many games in the FAWPL this weekend, a couple of league games in both the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One. Attention elsewhere was in the cup competitions the Cup and Plate with the 1st Round ties taking place. Most clubs given a bye to the 2nd Round, just a handful of ties taking place in both.

FAWPL Southern Division

 It was a clash of two unbeaten sides in the FAWPL Southern Division on Sunday with 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women hosting 4th placed Coventry United Ladies. Kit Graham opened the scoring putting Charlton 1-0 up inside 10 minutes. Marie Gauntlett found the back of the net for Coventry 6 minutes later to equalise. On the half hour mark the visitors took the lead, Alison Hall putting the 2-1 in front. 2nd half Coventry went on to dominate the scoreline Gauntlett (pictured below) adding her 2nd goal 3 minutes into the 2nd half going on to score a hat-trick. Hall adding another goal in the last 5 minutes to see Coventry win 5-1 and move above Charlton into 2nd spot in the Southern Division table. 

gauntlett

Cardiff City Ladies move up to 5th in the FAWPL Southern Division after a 2-1 home win over C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. Chloe Chivers scoring the Welsh sides opening goal in the 7th minute. Had a 2-0 lead on the 29th minute, Kerry Bartlett the player on target. C&K Basildon responded captain Zoe Rushen scoring to get it back to 2-1 4 minutes later. 2-1 the half-time score C&K Basildon pressed for an equaliser 2nd half but couldn’t find it the win seeing Cardiff move above them in the table.

FAWPL Cup 1st Round

 FAWPL South East Division One side, Denham United Ladies were at home in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on South West Division One side, Brislington Ladies. Going into the half-time interval the scores were level at 2-2. Jenny Banfield and Rebecca French scoring Denham United Ladies goals. The tie looked like it was heading into extra-time no more goals coming 2nd half then in the last minute Aimee Durn struck in a shot to win it 3-2 send Denham United Ladies into the 2nd Round where they face a tough away trip to Coventry United Ladies.

Two FAWPL South East Division One sides met in the other FAWPL Cup 1st Round tie with Norwich City Ladies making the trip down into Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies. The home side opening the scoring on 15 minutes, Amy Taylor netting the goal 6 minutes later they raced into a 3-0 lead, Emma Tune and April Bowers scoring. Chelsea Garrett pulled a goal back for Norwich with 3 minutes of the 1st half left however Gillingham went into the dressing room at half-time with a 4-1 advantage Emily Symond with the goal in stoppage time. The second haf was a repeat of the 1st Gillingham winning that 4-1 too, Jade Keogh with a goal on 66 minutes, Felicity Gibbons 3 minutes later then Bethany Nugent scoring as the game moved into the last 10 minutes. Garrett scored her 2nd goal of the game for Norwich then Keogh added her 2nd of the game in the last minute to see Gillingham rack up an 8-2 win to progress to the 2nd Round where they have been drawn at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Below are some of the selected ties from the FAWPL Cup 2nd Round draw featuring Southern ad South East Division One sides.

FAWPL Cup 2nd Round (selected ties)

Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Coventry United Ladies v Denham United Ladies

Cardiff City Ladies v Larkhall Athletic Ladies

Portsmouth FC Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Charlton Athletic Women v C&K Basildon Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Crystal Palace Ladies

FAWPL Plate 1st Round

 West Ham United Ladies were drawn at home against fellow FAWPL Southern Division side in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate. Held a narrow advantage at half-time, Charlotte Gurr reunited with manager James Marrs after leaving Brighton to join Millwall Lionesses scoring in 1st half injury time. Swindon Town Ladies came back 2nd half getting themselves into a 2-1 lead with 10 minutes left to play, Georgia Walters scoring both of their goals. West Ham United Ladies came back scoring in injury time again, Chloe Burr with the goal to force the tie into extra-time. No more goals came in the extra 30 minutes and the tie headed into a penalty shootout. Indian International goalkeeper, Aditi Chauhan making her 1st appearance for the club this season was the heroine saving 3 penalties to see West Ham United Ladies win the shootout and advance to the 2nd Round where they will face FAWPL South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies away from home.  Below is a list of the 2nd Round ties in the FAWPL Plate featuring sides in the Southern and South East Division One.

FAWPL Plate 2nd Round (selected ties)

Actonians Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Cheltenham Town Ladies v West Ham United Ladies

Lowestoft Town Ladies v Queens Park Rangers Ladies

Lewes Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies

Exeter City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

FAWPL South East Division One

A 2-0 home win over Denham United Ladies on Thursday night had seen AFC Wimbledon Ladies continue their excellent start to the season since promotion to the FAWPL South East Division One. 4 wins from 4 to move above Cambridge United WFC at the top of the table. Were playing again just 3 days later a long road trip up to the Suffolk coast to play Lowestoft Town Ladies who had picked up their 1st 3 points of the season the previous Sunday at home to Enfield Town Ladies winning 3-0. 

 A fantastic start for the visitors, Sami Bock putting them a goal up inside 3 minutes. Lowestoft kept the lead down to a goal were awarded a penalty with 7 minutes of the 1st half left, Gemma Moore putting the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-1 at half-time. 2nd half the home side struck early captain Hannah Waters lobbing the keeper to make it 2-1 on 47 minutes, the lead didn’t last long Rebecca Sargent making it 2-2 on 50 minutes. Scored her 2nd of the match on 68 minutes to make it 3-1, substitute Sian Wylie scoring direct from a corner to make it 4-2. Lowestoft were awarded another penalty, Moore scoring again to pull it back to 4-3, the final score AFC Wimbledon move 3 points clear at the top with 5 wins from 5.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies returned to winning ways at home in the league after suffering 2 defeats in their opening 3 games. Were taking on Actonians Ladies on Sunday at Newport Pagnell FC. Won the game 4-1 to climb up into the top half of the table. Heather McDonnell scoring a brace with a goal a piece for Charly Clarke and Sophie Watson. Katrina Duncan scoring Actonians Ladies goal early in the 2nd half.

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 18th September

The league action in the FAWPL Southern Division and South East Division One continues this Sunday after the midweek fixtures last week saw a new side take over the lead in both divisions, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies maintaining their 100% start to the season in the Southern Division going above Charlton Athletic Women after they were pegged back from 3-0 away to Crystal Palace Ladies to draw 3-3 drop their 1st points of the season. Whilst in South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC made it 3 wins in a row to move from 3rd to the top with then leaders Luton Town Ladies not in action. 

FAWPL Southern Division

Having gone top in midweek with a 4-0 away win against QPR Ladies on Wednesday, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies were on the road at the weekend travelling down south to play Lewes Ladies who slipped down the table after there 2nd defeat in a row in midweek losing 4-3 to Portsmouth FC Ladies. Bianca Baptiste is in good form at the start of the season as she proved too hot for Lewes too handle scoring a hat-trick. Kelley Blanchflower, Wendy Martin and Nikita Whinnett also on target for Tottenham as they went on to win 6-1 to make it 4 wins out of 4 to maintain their excellent start to the season. Rebecca Carter scoring in the 2nd half for Lewes who having led on the opening day now find themselves back in 8th place.

 Charlton Athletic Women were cruising at 3-0 away to Crystal Palace Ladies in midweek with 56 minutes on the board, before the league newcomers staged a brilliant comeback pulling a goal back on 58 minutes and another 6 minutes later before substitute Rochelle Shakes scored inside the last 5 minutes to see it finish 3-3. Charlton were on the road on Sunday taking on the Southern Division’s other promoted side Swindon Town Ladies who they had beaten 4-0 at home on the opening day of the season. Jenny Newman and Avilla Bergin had put Charlton into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Newman going on to score another goal 10 minutes into the 2nd half to secure a 3-0 win and the 3 points to keep them 2nd 2 points behind Tottenham.

After their midweek heroics Crystal Palace Ladies are up to 3rd spot in the Southern Division table winning the 3 points on Sunday taking on 2nd bottom side West Ham United away from home. West Ham United Ladies had battled their way to their 1st point of the season in midweek at home to local rivals C&K Basildon Ladies a goalless draw between the pair. Were a goal down inside 2 minutes on Gemma Bryan another striker in good form at the start of the season added 2 more goals to her tally scoring on the 20th and 28th minute respectfully a 3-0 lead at half-time. Shakes having scored to win her side a point in midweek scored in the 2nd half for Crystal Palace this Sunday to see them record a 4-0 away win.

Coventry United Ladies are the only other side bar leaders Tottenham and 2nd placed Charlton with a unbeaten start to the season having played just twice going into the weekend with a draw and a win they were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Ladies who has won 4-3 in midweek at home to Lewes Ladies. After the game made the announcement they had signed striker Emma Whitter, an skilled player with FAWSL 2 experience having played for London Bees and Millwall Lionesses. Have had an up and down start to life in the Southern Division this season and away to Coventry was a down. Captain Natasha Lynch gave Coventry an early lead before going on to score a hat-trick in the 2nd half. Portsmouth FC Ladies were 3-0 down at half-time and own goal and Stephanie Smith goal adding to Lynch’s opener. 2nd half Marie Gauntlett made it 4-0 Amber Hughes and Ashleigh Neville also scoring in an 8-1 victory. Rebekah Tonks scoring Portsmouth FC Ladies goal her 1st goal for the club in her 1st start.

FAWPL South East Division One

Cambridge United WFC went top of FAWPL South east Division One on Wednesday night courtesy of a 3-2 home win under the lights over Stevenage Ladies to move above leader Luton Town Ladies who weren’t playing.  That game was covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and the link to the match report is below 

Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage Ladies 14/09/16

That result was to set up a top 2 clash this Sunday with Luton Town the visitors to Mildenhall Town FC to play Cambridge. Two fierce rivals in the league. Nicole Perschky (pictured below) opened the scoring putting Cambridge ahead on 22 minutes scoring her 6th goal in 6 games since joining the club in the summer from Stevenage Ladies. 

picture credit Gary Reded

picture credit Gary Reed

The lead didn’t last long however Luton getting back on level terms 5 minutes later, Rachel Kosky scoring from a long range free kick. 1-1 the score going into the dressing rooms at half-time Cambridge retook the lead on 58 minutes with Becky Taylor scoring from a corner. With 20 minutes left to play Dawn Mallett added a 3rd goal for Cambridge to make it 3-1 putting a 25 yard free -kick into the back of the net. 4 wins out of 4 in the league a good start to the season for Cambridge recovering from an opening day loss.

 

Newly promoted AFC Wimbledon Ladies are enjoying life in FAWPL South East Division One too are in 2nd place in the table with a 100% winning start played just the 3 league games so far the latest at home to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. Captain Jess Trimnell giving AFC Wimbledon the lead in the 1st half. Kelly-Jade Whelan scored a goal early in the 2nd half to make it 2-0, Caroline Bisson adding a 3rd goal to secure a 3-0 win move them on 9 points 3 behind Cambridge with 2 games in hand. 

Ipswich Town Ladies have shot up the FAWPL South East Division One table picking up 7 points in 3 matches a 1-1 draw at Gillingham FC Ladies followed up with a midweek win over local Suffolk rivals Lowestoft Town Ladies. Took a 90th minute winner to secure the 3 points away from home. Sophie Welton with the only goal in the 1st half the home side came back strong at the start of the 2nd half going 2-1 ahead Aimee Durrant with both the Lowestoft goals. Jade Henry got it back to 2-2 before Natasha Thomas found the winning goal at the death. Ipswich were at home on Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies. Hollie Clement scoring to give Ipswich a 10th minute lead. Stevenage Ladies still in search of their 1st win of the season got it level at 1-1 with Becky Scola on target. For the 2nd game running Ipswich were to find a winning goal late on Sian Fagg netting with 6 minutes left to play to secure a 2-1 win that takes Ipswich up to 3rd.

Carla Williams was the player on target to score the winning goal for Actonians Ladies at the weekend in a 1-0 win at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday as they win for the 2nd time this season move onto 7 points in 5th spot in the table after 4 matches played having a good start to their 2nd season playing FAWPL football.

lowestoft-moore

 

Lowestoft Town Ladies suffering late heart break in midweek going down 3-2 to lpswich Town Ladies in the 90th minute were still without a pint on the board after 4 games played. Were at home at Crown Meadow on Sunday with Enfield Town Ladies the visitors. Lowestoft Town had signed striker Molly Hall from Ipswich Town Ladies earlier in the week. Gemma Moore (pictured right) scored midway through the 1st half to give Lowestoft the advantage at half-time. 2nd half Molly Hall was to score her 1st goals for her new club, scoring 10 minutes into the 2nd half adding a 2nd goal with 10 minutes left to play to see Lowestoft win 3-0 to get their 1st points on the board climb off the bottom of the table too.

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 11/09/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 11th September

Welcome to the FAWPL edition of The Round-Up, bringing you all of the action from this Sunday’s football in the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One, The 11th of September seeing a return to league action with a full fixture programme all bar Southern Division leaders Charlton Athletic Women. 

Before this weekend’s FAWPL a minutes silence was held in remembrance of Sylvia Gore MBE who passed away this week at the age of 71. Made history scoring the 1st ever England Women’s International goal in 1972. 

FAWPL Southern Division

With leaders Charlton Athletic Women not in action it gave the opportunity for the chasing pack to close the gap. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies had won their opening league fixture beating Swindon Town Ladies at home 2 weeks ago, a 10-0 away demolition of West Ham United Ladies followed last Sunday in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup. Wasn’t quite the one sided affair this Sunday as they travelled to Bromley FC to play Crystal Palace Ladies. 

ta1 Tottenham started well with Bianca Baptiste (pictured right) scoring inside the opening 10 minutes to give them the lead. Crystal Palace battled hard to find a reply whilst up the other end goalkeeper Chanell Yardley made some impressive saves to keep the score down to a single goal. Tottenham goalkeeper, Toni-Anne Wayne saved a penalty for the visitors 4 minutes before half-time. The 2nd half remained a tight match Tottenham taking the 3 points to move up to 2nd spot in the Southern Division table level on points with Charlton with 2 wins from 2 the only 2 sides with a 100% record in the league.

 

C&K Basildon Ladies are up to 3rd in the FAWPL Southern Division table as they returned to winning ways on home soil, beating QPR Ladies 4-0 at Canvey Island FC. Sara Sinclair scored 4 goals last Sunday at home in the FAWPL Cup Determining Round, followed that up with a hat-trick this Sunday. Two goals in the 1st half the 3rd after the break, Hannah Porter also scoring in the victory. C&K Basildon have scored 14 goals at home in 3 matches without reply so far this season albeit early days.

Cardiff City Ladies were at home on Sunday for their 2nd league match of the season facing the same opponents they had met away a fortnight ago, Lewes Ladies. Back then their opponents had competed well to earn a point in a 1-1 draw. Now Lewes faced Cardiff on home soil. Was a tense 1st half both sides creating chances it was Cardiff who held the advantage at the break leading 1-0, Abbie Britton putting them in front midway through the 1st half. A completely different story 2nd half as Cardiff took control of the game with a purple patch 15 minutes in, Chloe Chivers doubling the lead, Kerry Barlett made it 3-0 minutes later then Cori Williams made it 4-0 from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. Beth Lloyd and Chloe Lloyd both scoring goals a Cardiff ran away 6-0 winners to lift themselves up to 4th in the table.

Another side playing just their 2nd league match of the season this Sunday were, Coventry United Ladies at home taking on a battered and bruised West Ham United Ladies who have conceded 20 goals in their opening 3 games of the season. The bottom of the table side kept things alot tighter at the back this time keeping the scores at 0-0 at half-time. Coventry did find the back of the net 2nd half Helen Dermody with the goal on 61 minutes enough to secure Coventry the 3 points give them their 1st league win of the season as they move up to 5th.

Newly promoted Swindon Town Ladies left it late as they picked up their 1st win at this level since coming up at FAWPL South West Division One Champions. Was a thriller at Shrivenham FC, Portsmouth FC Ladies their opponents. Abby Picton gave Swindon the early lead getting her name on the scoresheet inside the opening 5 minutes. Charlotte Benson got Portsmouth back on level terms before Chyna Collings scored in 33 minutes to see Swindon take a 2-1 lead into the break. Collings went on to score 2 minutes into the 2nd half to extend Swindon’s lead to 3-1. Portsmouth fought back Gemma Hillier on target pulling it back to 3-2 then Samantha Quayle on loan from Yeovil Town Ladies scored to bring it back to 3-3. Late drama and joy for the home side into stoppage time Alison Witts headed home the winning goal for Swindon to see them celebrate their 1st win in the FAWPL Southern Division.

FAWPL South East Division One

Luton Town Ladies move to the top of the FAWPL South East Division One table winning at home on Sunday unbeaten 7 points from 3 league games played. The visitors to the Stockwood Athletics Stadium, Lowestoft Town Ladies. Gave a good account of themselves 1st half keeping it all square at 0-0, had goalkeeper Eilish Brogan to thank as she saved a Zara Carroll penalty. Luton captain, Rachel Carter gave Luton an early lead 2nd half putting the ball into the back of the net within 2 minutes of kick-off. Aimee Durrant got forwards to level up the scores for Lowestoft on 57 minutes. Luton went on to take control of the game Michelle Byrne restoring their lead on 64 minutes, Joanne Rutherford then Rachel Kosky both scoring as Luton ran out 4-1 winners.

 AFC Wimbledon Ladies climb up to 2nd in the table the newly promoted side playing just their 2nd league match in the division, are now also the only side with a 100% record. On the road travelled to Newport Pagnell FC to play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who with a win would have gone 2nd themselves. Instead they slipped to a 2nd successive league defeat, Emma Keady scoring a goal in either half to secure a 2-0 win for AFC Wimbledon.

co8  Up to 3rd in the table from 8th are Cambridge United WFC recovering from an opening day defeat to win at home twice once in the league then beating Lewes Ladies on penalties in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup last Sunday. Were on the road for their 1st away game of the season this Sunday a trip to Plantation Park to play Norwich City Ladies who like Cambridge were on 3 points going into the game with a win and a loss in the league. Kyla Love gave Norwich the lead netting on 11 minutes. The advantage didn’t last long with Laura Mills levelling things up for Cambridge 3 minutes later. The visitors went on to lead, captain Laura Bright (pictured left) headed home at the far post from a corner on the half hour mark was on hand 5 minutes later to send home the rebound after Dawn Mallett’s free kick came back off the crossbar. No more goals followed 2nd half Cambridge taking the 3 points with a 3-1 win.

Gillingham FC Ladies were the table toppers going into the weekend after a win and a draw from their opening 2 league fixtures. Hosting Ipswich Town Ladies at Corinthians FC this Sunday. Amy Taylor gave them the lead 5 minutes before half-time. Ipswich responded 2nd half scoring 5 minutes in themselves, Joyce Mlambo with the strike. Both sides taking a point Gillingham slip to 4th but remain unbeaten. Ipswich coming back from a goal down to draw for the 2nd successive league game.

Stevenage Ladies promoted to the FAWPL South East Division One as ERWFL Premier Division Champions earned their 1st point in the league at the weekend having lost their opening 2 fixtures. Were at home taking on Actonians Ladies. Plenty of goals in this one too, Carla Williams, Claire Hollingsworth and Katrina Duncan all scored for the visitors. Kristina O’Connell having joined Stevenage from Hoddesdon Town Ladies at the start of the season netted a hat-trick her 1st goals for the club to see then draw 3-3.

The match between Denham United Ladies and Enfield Town Ladies was abandoned after Enfield midfielder Nuala McKevitt suffered a nasty head injury. Denham were leading 3-1 at the time. McKevitt suffered a cut across the eyebrow that required stitches. Women’s Football East sends its regards wishing her a speedy recovery.

There is midweek action across the FAWPL this week with a number of sides across both divisions playing league fixtures all on Weds 14th with a 7:45pm KO.

FAWPL Southern Division

Crystal Palace Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women

Portsmouth FC Ladies v Lewes Ladies

Queens Park Rangers Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

West Ham United Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

FAWPL South East Division One

Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage Ladies

Lowestoft Town Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

Luton Town Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

The Round-Up FAWPL 04/09/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 4th Sept

Welcome to the 3rd edition of The Round-Up focusing on the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One the 2016/17 is into it’s 3rd weekend. A different slant on this edition however as the league takes a break with all of the FAWPL sides contesting the 6 leagues across the country enter the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup. You know how it works by now into it’s 3rd season this weekend sees the sides drawn together with the winner of each tie going on to contest the FAWPL Cup proper the losing sides going on to fight for the FAWPL Plate.

Tragically 18-year-old footballer, Zoe Tynan lost her life earlier in the week an U19 England player she had recently signed for Flyde Ladies. In remembrance a tribute of a minutes applause took place before every FAWPL and FAWSL match this weekend.

Cambridge United WFC & Lewes Ladies amongst the clubs paying tribute to Zoe Tynan at the weekend

Cambridge United WFC & Lewes Ladies amongst the clubs paying tribute to Zoe Tynan at the weekend

  A north/south split with the draw with the Northern Division drawn with it’s North and Midlands Division One counterparts. On Women’s Football East it’s the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One that’s focused on for the Determining Round sides from the South West Division One join those leagues in the draw, 16 ties to bring you and some varying and interesting results so let’s get cracking.

 We’ll start with the FAWPL League Cup holders, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies who were to begin the defence of the trophy with a Determining Round tie away to West Ham United Ladies playing at their new home, Thurrock FC’s, Ship Lane. The holders proved to be too much for a young West Ham United side as they stormed into an early lead, Lucia Leon with the opening goal inside 5 minutes, Eartha Pond converted a penalty kick 3 minutes late and Bianca Baptiste was put in on goal to make it 3-0 with 10 minutes gone. Wendy Martin cored from the penalty spot herself in between a brace from Nikita Whinnett that saw the ha-time lead extended to 6-0. New signing Renee Hector headed home to score 7 minutes into the 2nd half then ex-West Ham player Kelley Blanchflower added a brace scoring in the 56th and 71st minute. Captain Jenna Schillaci taking the scoreline into double figures, Tottenham showing they mean to hold on to the FAWPL League Cup with a 10-0 win.

  Last season’s beaten finalists, Cardiff City Ladies made the long trip to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies in the Determining Round proved to strong an opponent for the side a league below them winning the game 5-0 to advance into the FAWPL League Cup proper, Chloe Chivers scoring 2 goals with Chloe Lloyd, Hope Suominen and Cori Williams scoring a goal a piece. 

Not quite reaching double figures were Coventry United Ladies, winners of the FAWPL League Plate last season would love to be in the final of the Cup competition this time around and the FAWPL Southern Division side were too much at home for South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Ladies. Marie Gauntlett scoring 5 goals in the game after Helen Demody had given Coventry an early lead. Laura Cooper netting in the 1st half. Amber Hughes with a strike early 2nd half plus a goal from Jade Brook saw Coventry United Ladies win convincingly 9-0.

The early pace setters in the FAWPL Southern Division welcomed Isle of Wight side Shanklin Ladies to Sporting Club Thamesmead on Sunday. Gemma Shepherd in fine goal scoring form at the beginning of the season plundered 4 more goals against the FAWPL South West Division One side 2 in either half, Kit Graham scored in the 1st half with a goal in each half for new signing Avilla Bergin from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies her 1st goals from her new club, Jenny Newman scoring Charlton’s 8th goal a minute from time. A consolation goal for Shanklin scored by Dani Morris the final score 8-1.

Charlton weren’t the only FAWPL Southern Division side to rack up 8 goals in the Determining Round, C&K Basildon Ladies were at home with South West Division One side, St Nicholas Ladies the visitors. Were leading 7-0 at half-time, Sara Sinclair helping herself to 4 goals with captain Zoe Rushn also scoring with a brace from Charlotte Kellet. Karissa Rodney added an 8th goal early 2nd half, St Nicholas managing to stem the goal flow seeing no more goal the final score 8-0.

Portsmouth FC Ladies were at home on Sunday in the Determining Round, Lowestoft Town Ladies making the long journey down from the Suffolk coast for the match, plenty of goals in the 1st half, Eilidh Currie giving Portsmouth the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Sarah Kempson made it 2-0 on 16 minutes. Lowestoft came back getting themselves back on level terms Gemma Moore pulling a goal back 2 minutes later then Broghan Scully making it 2-2 on 23 minutes. Emma Sherwood restored Portsmouth’s lead with half an hour played Kempson with her 2nd goal of the game seeing the home side lead 4-2 at half-time. All Portsmouth 2nd half as they went on to win the game 8-2, Currie and Sherwood going on to score a 2nd goal each Kempson completing her hat-trick in between before substitute, Gemma Hillier scored in the last 10 minutes.

cc-bryan2  Was a long journey west for Crystal Palace Ladies travelling to South West Division One side, Keynsham Town Ladies for the Determining Round. Gemma Bryan (pictured right) giving the Southern Division one a 1st half lead. Keynsham came back 2nd half to level things up from the penalty spot, however Crystal Palace Ladies went on to win the game 2-1, Rochelle Shakes scoring the winner. Suffered an injury blow during the match, striker Nicha Dyatt fracturing her tibia. Women’s Football East wishes her well in her recovery.

Some strong performances from FAWPL Southern Division sides there however they didn’t have thing’s there own way in all the Determining Round ties. Lewes Ladies had started their league campaign well and were in confident mood as they travelled up from the South to play Cambridge United WFC, had the FAWPL South East Division One side on the back foot early on Georgia Bridges scoring from a corner kick inside 5 minutes. Were dominant at the start of the match going on to add a 2nd goal on 25 minutes through Rebecca Carter. Cambridge fought their way back into the match slowly creating chances, Lewes Dobear saving brilliantly off Nicole Perschky as she was played in behind for a one on one chance. Perschky got another opportunity to run in behind the Lewes defence before half-time sending the ball past Dolbear to score make it 2-1.

An injury time leveller for Becky Taylor

An injury time leveller for Becky Taylor

2nd half was a different story Cambridge began to dominate creating chances but finding the Lewes defence a tough nut to crack, time was almost up when the home side won a corner deep into injury time. The ball came smashing off the crossbar as Faith Hewitt struck it from inside the six yard box, Becky Taylor latching onto the rebound took it on before striking home to see Cambridge force the game into extra-time. No more goals in the 1st period of extra-time. Early in the 2nd period Lewes, Rachel Palmer hit a looping ball into the Cambridge area, defender Paige Logie heading the ball into her own net as she tried to clear. That lead was short lived, Perschky given the ball from a superb long pass from Dawn Mallett turning inside stood tall as Dolbear cam to challenge edge of her box, shifting the ball past the grounded keeper Perschky slid the ball into the empty net beyond. After extra-time the sides couldn’t be separated and the tie went to penalties, two saves from Cambridge goalkeeper before Mallett stepped up knowing her side would be through if she scored she did and was promptly buried under her joyous team-mates. This game is the featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and you can read it by clicking on the link below. 

Cambridge United WFC v Lewes Ladies 04/09/16

Another South East Division One side to win against Southern Division opposition were Denham United Ladies, taking on Swindon Town Ladies at home. Both sides battling their way to a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes the game going into extra-time. Swindon took the lead Chyna Collings getting the goal on 102 minutes. Denham responded Allisa Down scoring to make it 1-1 before Jeta Bytyqi went on to find the winning goal 2-1 the final score.

Norwich City Ladies joined Cambridge and Denham in beating higher league opposition in the Determining Round an away trip to play Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Fell behind early on as Jennifer Critchley gave QPR the lead inside 6 minutes. Norwich were back on level terms 8 minutes later, Chelsea Garrett the player on target. Ebony Wiseman put Norwich into the lead scoring with around half an hour played. Liv Thompson got it back to 2-2 for the home side. Into the last 10 minutes of the game Norwich found the winning goal, scored by ex-Nettleham Ladies player, Kyla Love to see Norwich progress into the FAWPL Cup proper.

Gillingham FC Ladies travelled down to the South Coast in an all Division One tie playing South West side Southampton Saints. Amy Taylor scoring a hat-trick in the game with Katie Hardaker also getting on the scoresheet in a 4-0 win. Not too far for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to travel taking on fellow South East Division One side, Luton Town Ladies advance to the FAWPL Cup competition with a 3-1 victory, Hannah Barrett, Anna Loftus and Heather McDonnell with the goals.

Last season’s beaten FAWPL League Plate finalists, Enfield Town Ladies welcomed South West Division One side, Exeter City Ladies to the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium a long journey, the 1st half remained goalless. Alena Beganovic got Enfield into the lead early in the 2nd half. They couldn’t hold on Sarah Hill netting for Exeter to make it 1-1 the final score after 90 minutes the tie headed into extra-time. Eliza Diaz got Enfield back into the lead with a minute of the 1st half of extra-time left. The win was sealed in the 2nd period of extra-time, Ellie Taladiana with the goal to see Enfield win 3-1.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies also advance into the FAWPL League Cup side newly promoted to South East Division One hosting South West Division One side Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Sian Wylie getting AFC Wimbledon the lead on 25 minutes. Kelly-Jade Whelan making it 2-0 9 minutes later. Plymouth got an immediate response Danielle Salt with the goal the advantage 2-1 to AFC Wimbledon at half-time. Plymouth’s Ezme Wells gets a goal to her name early in the 2nd half to level it all up at 2-2. 20 minutes left on the clock and AFC Wimbledon’s Rebecca Sargent sends the ball over the goal line the winning goal as the home side goes on to win 3-2. 

Two South East Division One sides will have to settle for a place in the League Plate draw as they lose their Determining Round ties. Newly promoted, Stevenage Ladies were at home on Sunday playing Larkhall Athletic Ladies. Carly Bryant, Kate and Krystle German with the goals in a 3-0 away win for the South West Division side. Actonians Ladies travelled south to play Chichester City Ladies. Despite goals from Chelsea Berlin and Carla Williams, Actonians lost out going down 6-2. Chichester City with 5 different goal scorers a brace for Shannon Albuery, plus a goal each for Emma Alexandre, Rebecca Barron, Luci Challen and Cherelle Khassal.

That wraps up this edition of The Round-Up the Determining Round ties settled, 35 sides now go on to contest each competition the Cup and Plate the draws for which will b coming up shortly a preliminary round to whittle each field down to 32 before the 1st Round proper, will update the draws as soon as they’re in.

Match Report – Cambridge United Ladies v Lewes Ladies

Action from the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup this Sunday upon the Supporting Women’s Football Blog a trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on higher league opponents, Lewes Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division the visitors.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Lewes Ladies

 
  This Sunday sees the focus in the FAWPL switches from the league to the Cup with all of the 70 sides contesting the 6 Division’s drawn against each other in a Determining Round to decide which competition they will go on to the winners entering the FAWPL Cup competition which was won Tottenham Hotspur Ladies last season the losing sides going on to contest the FAWPL League Plate won by Coventry United Ladies. 

  Today’s match in the Determining Round sees me travel the short distance to Mildenhall Town FC to watch South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Division side, Lewes Ladies. 

  Has been a fair amount of player movement at Cambridge United WFC over the close season as the club looks to build on last seasons record points haul in the FAWPL South East Division One and achieve their aim of promotion to the FAWPL Southern Division. Dawn Mallett has joined the club having had a brief spell on loan last season, has plenty of WSL 2 experience and will provide added steel to the midfield a useful player with a dead ball too. Nicole Perschky and Hollie Jardine both join the club from Stevenage Ladies. Evie Gallop comes to the club from the Essex Centre of Excellence. Ashleigh Deacon joins from Watford Ladies and just this week the club announced the arrival of Rosie Kmita having left Tottenham Hotspur Ladies a coup for the club, however she was unavailable to play in today’s cup tie. A good test for Cambridge today in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on a side from the league above.

  Lewes Ladies have in recent seasons established themselves in the FAWPL Southern Division and this season have gotten their season off to a fantastic start winning their opening fixture 7-2 at home to West Ham United Ladies and holding one of the title favourites Cardiff City Ladies to a 1-1 to lay 2nd in the fledgling table. A good start one to build on as their attention switches to the Cup, a long journey up from the South for today’s Determining Round tie. Have a few new signings in their squad too, Rebecca Carter comes to Lewes from Crawley Wasps Ladies. Kim Stenning has playing experience with both Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses prior to joining Lewes Ladies whilst Fliss Love has signed on having been with Brighton’s Centre of Excellence. Have defender Rebecca Thompson back fit to after being out with a long term achilles injury. 

  Mildenhall Town FC is the venue for today’s match, Cambridge United WFC’s new home ground for the 2016/17 season. Easy to find close to the town centre, a fantastic playing surface sloping from one end to the other. Nice clubhouse and refreshments are available hot and cold. A fantastic playing surface the grass lush and green a slope on the pitch from one goal mouth to the other, a good size too. Several dark clouds around, threatening a shower or two, the sun eventually breaking through before kick-off.

  All clubs across the FAWPL holding a minutes applause before their matches in remembrance of 18-year-old Zoe Tynan who tragically passed away on Tuesday. A young talent gone too soon an U19 England International had recently joined Fylde Ladies. Thoughts are with her family and friends.

Applause in remembrance of Zoe Tynan before the match

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Hollie Jardine, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Paige Logie, Tahnee Perfect, Evie Gallop, Laura Mills, Ashleigh Deacon, Becky Taylor & Nicole Perschky.
  subs – Carrie Bennett, Dawn Mallett & Faith Hewitt.

  Lewes Ladies starting XI – Lauren Dolbear, Hayley West, Charlie Carter, Rebecca Thompson, Kelly Newton (C), Georgia Bridges, Katie McIntyre, Kellie Larkin, Rachel Palmer, Rebecca Carter & Gabby Baldock.
  subs – Kim Stenning, Danielle Lane & Fliss Love.

  A slight knock for Cambridge’s captain, Laura Bright saw her sit out the match with vice-captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt wearing the arm band, Paige Logie joining her at centre back for today’s match. A switch of ends at the coin toss sees Lewes take advantage of the slope 1st half with Cambridge kicking off the game wearing the new Cambridge United strip amber shirts with black vertical lines, black shorts and amber socks. Lewes are in their away colours, an all sky blue kit. Referee David Sorensen has a flat whistle as he blows to start the game a vigorous shake later and it’s back in business.

  A free kick straight away in the middle for Cambridge as Tahnee Perfect is bundled over a chance to pile players forwards up to the edge of the Lewes penalty box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt over the set-piece flighted up to the top of the area it’s Lewes Charlie Carter who heads the ball clear. Lewes break down the left with Gabby Baldock on the ball taking it into the Cambridge half turns in field, is tackled by Cambridge’s Evie Gallop the ball going out for a throw in. Lewes make headway down the left before the attempted cross goes out of play for a goal kick.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Evie Gallop contesting the ball with
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre

  Kellie Larkin is busy in the middle for Lewes at the start of the match imposing herself on the ball and driving forwards with it at her feet shifts play out to the right with Hayley West coming forwards from right back sends the ball on down the line for Rebecca Carter who whips a cross into box, Cambridge’s Hollie Jardine lunges at the ball turning it behind for the corner kick

 GOAL! Less than 5 minutes on the clock and a chance for Lewes who have some tall players in their ranks to bring them forwards to attack the corner kick Kate McIntyre takes the corner is a fantastic delivery whipped into the box with pace, finds Georgia Bridges unmarked facing the near post gets her head over the ball knocking it in past goalkeeper Verity Crook and over the player at the post before she can react. 0-1.

  A good start from the visitors are causing Cambridge a few problems, Larkins with support from captain Kelly Newton in midfield in particular with Carter up front moving across the pitch to find pockets of space to receive the ball. It’s Carter in possession around the top right corner of the Cambridge box receiving from a throw-in good footwork as she tries to wriggle her way into the area, Burt comes across to make the tackle the ball isn’t cleared far comes back in Cambridge concede the corner. From the right goes long, however the referee spots a push on Crook the free-kick is awarded to Cambridge.

Kellie Larkin on the ball for Lewes Ladies

  More forceful running from Rebecca Carter down the right wing, drives on before squaring the ball into the Cambridge area, players from both sides have been drawn across the pitch, West has gotten forwards is looking to gt on the end of the cross hit a shot goalwards a yard inside the area, Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins closes her down the opportunity is gone. Cambridge aren’t getting much success up front in the opening 15 minutes Laura Mills right and Deacon left trying to make themselves available aren’t getting much change out of Thompson and West in the full-back positions. 

  Counter attack for Lewes, Baldock sending Rebecca Carter away down the left flank, races after the ball, wants to travel inside towards goal, Burt getting back on her forces her wide gets into the box the angle is against Carter nevertheless the gets a shot away with the outside of her boot, Crook has gotten across to cover her near post the shot lacking the power to beat her. 

Lewes ladies, Gabby Baldoock

  Cambridge having been on the back foot are starting to get some joy on the flanks play drawn inside Jenkins is able to run onto the ball in space on the right side her cross into the box is over Nicole Perschky, is cleared by the defender behind for a throw in the right, put back into the Lewes area West clears out to the middle, Mills latches onto it from 25 yards plus out sends the ball arrowing back in towards goal skims the top of the crossbar as it goes out for a goal-kick.

  A fantastic save from Lewes goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear to keep the 1 nil advantage in tack. Lewes are on the attack the ball is won back as Paige Logie tackles Carter at the back sends the ball long over the top clearing the Lewes defence caught static for a moment not Perschky however as she breaks clear getting her foot on the ball a one on one situation with the keeper developing, carrying the ball inside looks to shoot from outside the box curl the shot around the keeper with her left foot, Dolbear flings herself to her right getting a good glove on the ball turning it wide for the corner kick. Lewes defend the corner at the near post.the ball landing straight at the feet of Becky Taylor 25 yards out left of the box hits the shot back in sending the ball wide across the goal face. 

  This is a busy game alot happening both sides enjoying the pitch the ball travelling well upon it. Baldock has possession wide left for Lewes picks out a great pass to find Larkin central going forwards looks the lift the ball into the area with Bridges trying to steal in behind the Cambridge defence, the lob almost comes off, Logie just stretches her neck muscles to turn the ball away. 

 GOAL! Just as Cambridge look like they might find a way to level things up, Lewes get down the other end and double their advantage getting the ball down the left deep into the Cambridge half win a throw the ball is played into Larkin inside the box her shot is blocked the deflection sends the ball across the six yard box with Rebecca Carter well placed to hit the ball towards goal and score 0-2. 

 Half an hour played and their has been little respite from both sides. Larkin pushes on with the ball taking it to the right as she travels deep into the Cambridge half has Rebecca Carter with her charging on down the wing, has kept Jardine busy on that side the Cambridge left back stops the cross putting the ball out for a corner. Carter breaks from the middle of the area towards the near post to receive the corner lifts her boot connecting with the ball places it wide.

  Cambridge break the ball fizzed into Perschky back to goal inside the Lewes half, sends the ball out to the right with Mills racing into space getting it onto her feet hits the cross early along the face of the box with players from both sides racing up the pitch, it’s Taylor 20 yards out who latches onto the ball hitting it on the volley, plenty of power in the little chance to control it blasts the effort wide. 

 GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of an action packed 1st half, Cambridge regain possession of the ball at the back as Lewes attack, launch a rapid counter move as Taylor brings the ball on picking out Perschky with a brilliant pass the striker turns and sprints towards the Lewes area her run identical to her earlier move only this time travelling into a central position reverses the shot playing it back across the diving Dolbear to her left and scores 1-2.

   Cambridge find time for on more attack in the 1st half Taylor bringing the ball on down the right, Perschky makes a move out to the wing wanting the ball, gets it then tries to pick out Mills making a run through the middle to get up into the area, the cross swerves in towards Dolbear who comfortably gathers

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Lewes Ladies

  A busy 1st half full of entertainment, Lewes getting off to a fantastic start taking an early lead and dominating for a spell took Cambridge a little while to get into the game and just when they did they fell 2 nil down. Kept going and pulled a goal back late in the half to keep this Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup very much alive.
  Lewes get the 2nd half underway, any chance of rain has gone the sun bathing down now. A double change for the visitors at the start Baldock and Bridges are off with Kim Stenning and Fliss Love coming on. Haven’t even picked up my notepad and Lewes have the ball in the back of the net, Carter free on the right whips a cross into the box, Newton I think is the player who bundles it home, however it doesn’t stand as the linesman’s flag is raised.
  Deacon fouls Love wide on the right, McIntyre takes the free-kick playing the ball up the line for West to go after plays an early ball across the top of the box looking for Stenning, instead it’s Logie that gets to it first to head clear. Cambridge bring the ball over the half-way line the pass is to Perschky wide left 25 yards out plays the ball crossfield into Perfect who helps it on to Mills, has Jenkins go beyond her on the overlap plays her puts the ball into the box with Perfect trying to get in there, Charlie Carter charges down the ball and it’s cleared.
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre gets the ball just ahead of Cambridge’s Ashleigh Deacon
 Cambridge are giving a few free-kicks away, gives the chance for McIntyre to play the ball up into the area, is on the ball wide right is virtually a corner kick, is swept into the area at a good height, Taylor back defending for Cambridge heads clear. Love on the ball on the right switches play well putting the ball inside to Larkin who in turn helps it further on for Palmer who strikes from outside the box, slices the ball away from goal. A change for Cambridge as the game approaches the 60 minute mark with Dawn Mallett returning from an injury lay-off coming on to replace Perfect. 
 Cambridge are getting much more possession of the ball 2nd half attacking down the slope, Perschky with the crossfield ball left to right for Mills rolls it back into the middle for Mallett, returns the pass Mills down the wing plays the ball into the box, Charlie Carter near post heads the ball away. Cambridge make a 2nd change Gallop coming off for Faith Hewitt. Cambridge win a free-kick wide right inside the Lewes half Mallett to put the ball in is cleared from the top of the area by Lewes, Jenkins picks it up for Cambridge on the right sends it back in Thompson heads it out this time the counter is on Love travelling with the ball looks to play it on for Carter, the offside flag stops her in her tracks.

Emma Jenkins
  Cambridge are applying much of the pressure 2nd half however Lewes are defending well, deep not allowing any way in behind. Jardine able to get forwards a little more 2nd half sends a long ball up into the area, looking for Perschky, West does well against her heads it back out of the area is gathered by Mallett 35 yards out sends the shot back in held by Dolbear. Cambridge continue to pressurise Perschky gathering the ball on the run taking it into the area from the left hits it towards goal is straight at Dolbear. 
 For a moment there everyone in the crowd thinks Cambridge have been awarded a penalty, as Taylor dribbling the ball towards the Lewes area is fouled by Charlie Carter it’s just outside however inside the D right side. Mallett on the free-kick hit’s it hard and low, the Lewes wall does its job blocking the shot and getting out to clear. Love is energetic finding space with some lively footwork to get clear of her markers for Lewes pushing inside from the right has Newton making a forwards run for her to get into the Cambridge box, Burt stretching just manages to get to it 1st.
  With 10 minutes of normal time left Lewes make their final change bring on Danielle Lane for Larkin. The visitors have a corner on the right the delivery into Rebecca Carter a good header from 10 yards out angling for the top corner, Crook shifting to her left jumps and plants her gloves firmly around the ball.Final change for Cambridge a straight swap at left back with Carrie Bennett coming on for Jardine 7 minutes left still 2-1 to Lewes.
 

Cambridge captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Cambridge continue to push hard for an equalising have to risk getting hit on the counter 
but both sides are tiring. Perschky has been a threat all game for Cambridge manages to get past Charlie Carter at the back for once, Love tracking back lunges in to win the ball put it out for a throw. Left side the ball is played into Mallett central a great turn gives her a half yard of space 25 yards out to shout puts the ball straight into Dolbear’s midriff.

  Closing in on the 90 minute mark Cambridge push on the game is stretched, Stenning gets onto the end of a Palmer cross in from the left, looping up Crook holds onto the ball. At the other end Taylor is sent clear through the middle it’s a case of can she be closed down before she gets the ball away into the D, treads on the ball the chance is gone. Into injury time 5 minutes to be added Lewes attack the ball from Lane into Stenning on to Rebecca Carter right she crosses the ball in, Burt gets enough on the ball her deflection taking all the power off the ball runs safely through to Crook. 
 GOAL! A late, late corner for Cambridge players are sent forwards as Mills sends a fantastic ball into the six yard box is headed out of the area by Lewes Cambridge getting hold of it on the left the ball lifted back in is knocked on Hewitt volleys the ball goalwards it rattle the crossbar drops back down into the area Taylor is sharp nipping in to take it then sends the shot into the back of the net to cue wild celebrations as Cambridge make it 2-2. 
 
Becky Taylor scores the equalising goal at the death for
Cambridge United WFC to force the game into extra-time
Full-time Cambridge United WFC 2-2 Lewes Ladies

  That’s virtually it time for Lewes to get the ball up the other end but not enough time to retake the lead the game ends with the scores level at 2-2 and the game will see another 30 minutes of added time played. Cambridge were the stronger side 2nd half pushing forwards creating chance finding hard to break down a resolute Lewes defence time was running out scoring with their last attack in added time. All substitutes played by both sides which side would find the energy for another goal in extra-time.

Extra-time

Lewes Ladies and Cambridge United WFC rest and prepare for an additional 30 minutes
  Cambridge to kick off the 1st 15 minute period of extra-time attacking back up the slope. Have an early chance as the ball is played out to the right Love onto Carter her cross in towards the near post is met by Stenning sends the ball high over the bar. Hewitt for Cambridge launches a shot goalwards from 30 yards out is off target. Cambridge get the ball in from the right win a corner kick Taylor comes towards the ball inside the box drills a head down towards goal is blocked the deflection taking it behind for another corner. 
  Charlie Carter goes into the book as she brings down Hewitt in the centre circle the Cambridge attack almost away after she wins a 50/50 challenge. Mallett plays the ball into the box West and Hewitt go up for it the ball is knocked down across goal Mills meets it on the volley drives over the crossbar. 
 Mallett is fouled in a similar position to the earlier free-kick a little higher up the pitch Players go up into the box, Lewes’ Dolbear claims it they launch a counter attack the ball swept out to Rebecca Carter on the right over half way has support inside from McIntyre plays the ball inside takes on the strike from distance, gets plenty of pace on the ball, Crook leaps across to cover the top corner on her left the shot is just wide. 
  The scores remain 2-2 as the 1st half of extra-time comes to an end, Cambridge to attack down the slope in the 2nd period, Lewes kick-off
 GOAL! There is a goal right at the start of the 2nd period of extra-time the Lewes are on the attack the ball played into McIntyre in the centre brings it on into the Cambridge half passes out to Palmer free on the left, hits the cross early on the diagonal looping the ball up with Stenning going far post. it’s an own goal as Logie attempting to get her head on the ball can only turn it past the stranded Crook and into the back of the net. 2-3.

 12 minutes left to play can Lewes hold on to take the victory. Cambridge come forwards down the right Jenkins plays a long ball up towards the top corner of the area Dolbear coming for the ball claims well with Taylor breathing down her neck. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Dawn Mallett
 GOAL! The lead is sort lived as Cambridge winning the ball back inside their own half have Mallett on the ball plays a fantastic long pass over the top towards Perschky drifting left, receiving the ball turns inside heads towards the box seeing the danger Dolbear comes racing out to meet her goes down as she blocks the ball with her feet, the keeper grounded, the trapped ball hasn’t gone anywhere, Perschky has stayed on her feet can knock it past the keeper on the edge of the area and sends it home to equalise, races over to the bench to celebrate. 3-3

 Neither side settling for the looming penalty shootout Lewes attack Love with the ball up into Stenning right side into the box her shot straight into Crook across to cover her near post. The ball is soon up the other end the pass long into the box looking for Perschky, Thompson gets back on her to win the ball. Pushing forwards little time left Deacon is played in by Perschky down the left Taylor makes a run through the middle into the box left goes to put the ball across the six yard for Mills, Palmer tracking back defends getting there 1st the ball is cleared but only as far as Mallett who strikes from distance the shot wide.

 Full-time extra-time and the game will go to penalties.

Penalties
 
  Cambridge to get the penalty shootout underway the players opting to walk down the slope and take the penalties that end. Taylor up 1st for the home side hits the ball hard to the Dolbear’s right she guesses right but her dive is in vain 1-0.
 
  Stenning is up 1st to take the penalty for Lewes keeps it low and accurate into the bottom corner to Crook’s left 1-1.
 
  2nd penalty taker for Cambridge is Perschky, hits a high penalty into the back of the net evading Dolbear who again guesses the right way 2-1.
 
  Palmer takes Lewes’ 2nd penalty a good penalty kept down to the keepers left 2-2.
 
 Cambridge captain, Burt to take the 3rd penalty lifts her effort up over the keeper and into the top of the net3-2
 
  Lane to take Lewes 3rd penalty, goes to place the ball low into the bottom corner, Crook guesses right throwing herself to her right gets her gloves on the ball to push it away, save the score remains 3-2.
 
  Cambridge’s 4th penalty taker is Jenkins goes to put the ball down the middle, Dolbear makes a comfortable save stays 3-2.
 
  Charlie Carter up next for Lewes again looks to hit the ball low to the keepers right, Crook throws herself at it and saves another still 3-2.
 
  One penalty of the regular 5 left for Cambridge score it and they win the Cup tie. It’s Mallett to take hits the ball low and accurate into the bottom left corner to win it for Cambridge 4-2.
 
Cambridge celebrate after winning on penalties
   That’s it Cambridge win the penalty shootout 4-2 to end a cracking game of football the players race into the area in celebration piling on top of Mallett. It’s a tough way to end a match but has to be settled one way. So Cambridge advance to the League Cup proper whilst Lewes will contest the League Plate not too many sides will fancy drawing them. 35 sides contesting each competition a preliminary round will take place to bring it down to 32 for the 1st round proper.
  A great advert for women’s football the game ebbed and flowed, drama Cambridge coming back from 2-0 to score an equaliser deep in injury time to force extra-time, both sides going on to score in extra-time then the drama of penalties. I’m exhausted writing this match report so can only imagine how the players feel.
  My thanks to Lewes Ladies, Jane Roberts for her help with the team details today. Best of luck to both sides for their respective cup competitions. 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 28/08/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 28th August

Welcome to the 2nd edition of the new 2016/17 new look Round-Up featuring all of the women’s football action in the aforementioned leagues above. Broken down into more concise league categories now we start with the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One Divisions.

 FAWPL Southern Division

   This weekend saw all the sides playing in the FAWPL across the country hold a minutes silence before their matches in honour of Portsmouth FC Ladies President, Dave Coyle who passed away after a long battle with cancer earlier in the week. Been involved with the club for over 25 years and a well respected figure within the women’s game.

   Charlton Athletic Women lead the way in the FAWPL Southern Division after the weekends results having started with an opening day win at home beating newly promoted Swindon Town Ladies 4-0 were at Sporting Club Thamesmead again this Sunday playing C&K Basildon Ladies who themselves had started with an opening day victory beating Portsmouth FC Ladies 2-0.

shepherdThe visitors were soon behind with Charlton opening the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, Gemma Shepherd. Katie Flack doubling the advantage 10 minutes later. 2-0 the score at half-time Kit Graham scored Charlton’s 3rd early in the 2nd half. 3 more goals followed for the home side with Charley Clifford getting on the scoresheet on 64 minutes before Shepherd (pictured left) went on to score her 1st hat-trick of the season netting in the 70th and 78th minutes to complete a comprehensive victory that sees Charlton top of the table 2 wins from 2 scoring 10 goals without reply. 

 

Lewes Ladies were the leaders after the opening day results with a fantastic 7-2 win at The Dripping Pan over West Ham United Ladies. At home again for their 2nd league match of the season were taking on Cardiff City Ladies who were playing their opening match of the season. A good win to start the season Lewes knew they would face a sterner test against Cardiff the Welsh side once again amongst the title favourites. A goalless 1st half, Lewes started strongly 2nd half putting the Cardiff back line under pressure without finding the break through went a goal down as Cardiff took the lead through Kerry Bartlett. Lewes kept attacking finding an equalising goal with 15 minutes to play, Katie McIntyre with the strike to beat Cardiff goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan the final score 1-1 Lewes drop to 2nd in the table.

Crystal Palace Ladies newly promoted to the FAWPL Southern Division after winning the South East Division One title with ease and an unbeaten record began life in the higher tier with a 1-1 draw at home last Sunday against Coventry United Ladies. Were on the road this Sunday travelling to Uxbridge FC’s, Honeycroft Stadium to play Queens Park Rangers Ladies who were beginning their league campaign this weekend. QPR manager, Martino Chevannes with a new look squad to begin the season with many from last season moving on. A tough battle played at a fast pace the score 0-0 at half-time Crystal Palace creating but not converting their chances. The visitors found the back of the net late in the 2nd half 18-year-old Leanne Bell scoring with less than 10 minutes left, her strike enough to see Crystal Palace secure their 1st 3 points in the FAWPL Southern Division see them up to 3rd in the table. 

Another side getting their league season underway this Sunday were Tottenham Hotspur Ladies were taking on Swindon Town Ladies newly promoted to the league as FAWPL South West Division One Champions who had started their season with a tough away trip to play Charlton Athletic Women losing the game 4-0 faced another tough away journey to Brimsdown FC. Tottenham dominated the 1st half however the lead was just by a single goal at the break, Bianca Baptiste scoring on the half hour mark. Swindon got themselves back on level terms as Georgia Walters turned a rebound off the crossbar home on 64 minutes. Tottenham continued to press retaking the lead inside the last 15 minutes before going on to score twice more to win 4-1, new signing Nikita Whinnett formerly with Charlton Athletic Women getting her 1st competitive goal for the club sandwiched between a Wendy Martin brace.

An emotional day for Portsmouth FC Ladies playing their 1st league match at home of the season with the sad news that club President, Dave Coyle had passed away, 25 years with the club after a long battle with cancer. Were taking on West Ham United Ladies who had started the season with a heavy defeat away to Lewes. Portsmouth losing on the opening day themselves got off to a fantastic start, Sarah Kempston firing them ahead on 6 minutes. Went on to dominate the 1st half former West Ham United Ladies player, Emma Sherwood putting them 2-0 up on 22 minutes. Kempston added her 2nd of the match closing in on the half hour mark to see Portsmouth lead 3-0 at half-time. West Ham managed to pull a goal back 15 minutes into the 2nd half, Chloe Burr with the goal, Portsmouth going on to win 3-1 to collect their 1st 3 points of the season.

FAWPL South East Division One

  5 matches in the FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday and it’s all change at the top with opening day leaders Norwich City Ladies not in action, drop down to 4th in the fledgling table with Gillingham FC Ladies taking over top spot. 

Runners-up last season and amongst the favourites to take the title this time around, Gillingham were playing their 1st competitive match of the season at their new home the Corinthians Sports Club taking on another of the title contenders Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Got off to a fantastic start with April Bowers giving them the lead in the 5th minute. Amy Taylor doubling the advantage as the game closed in on the half hour mark. Captain, Lauren Williams making it 3-0 4 minutes before half-time to give Gillingham a comfortable lead at half-time. Milton Keynes Dons pulled a goal back in the 2nd half to see the game finish 3-1. 

Enfield Town Ladies looked to be heading to the top of the FAWPL South East Division One table away from home taking on Ipswich Town Ladies, their captain Regan Coleman having given them the lead 2 minutes before half-time at Felixstowe & Walton FC, but they were denied making it 2 wins from 2 in their opening matches as Ipswich were awarded a penalty deep into time added on at the end of the game. Molly Hall stepping up to take and bury the penalty into the back of the net to earn the home side their 1st point of the season. Coming away with a point Enfield are up to 2nd.

  A 1-1 draw with Gillingham FC Ladies on the opening day of the season, Luton Town Ladies were in contention for the title themselves for a large part of last season, will be aiming to do so again this time around and like Gillingham got their 1st win of the season this Sunday. Away from home taking on Actonians Ladies a single goal enough to take all 3 points with Michelle Byrne the player on target in the 2nd half to put Luton into 3rd spot.  

Denham United Ladies suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on the opening day. Back at the Middlesex Stadium for another home game were taking on newly promoted ERWFL Premier Division Champions, Stevenage Ladies, who lost narrowly on the opening day themselves going down 2-1 at home to Enfield Town Ladies. Suffered a heavier defeat this time around as Denham got their 1st 3 point haul on the board,  winning the match 5-0 with Lauren Cox and Alissa Down both scoring 2 goals each the 5th scored by Annie Hewitt.

Cambridge United WFC also picked up their 1st 3 points of the season having suffered an opening day loss, at home were playing Lowestoft Town Ladies. Nicole Perschky scored late in the 1st half to give Cambridge the 1st half lead. Went on to double the advantage early in the 2nd half with Becky Taylor on target to win the match 2-0. Lowestoft with Stevenage yet to pick up a point. Early days mind, just Norwich and AFC Wimbledon Ladies have a 100% win record in the league both winning on the opening day. Could take some time for the league to settle down.

The action next weekend in the FAWPL turns to the Preliminary Round of the FAWPL Cup and Plate to see which competition each club will be contesting for.

The Round-Up – FAWPL New Season

 The Round-Up 

FAWPL Sun 21st August

Welcome to the new season and with it a new look to The Round-Up. A change of format for the 2016/17 season as we drop The Tuesday Round-Up covering every match played over the weekend from all of the leagues above, instead a smaller more compact and personal Round-Up featuring the leagues that matter to you. Do not worry you will still see every game covered across the East just in a smaller package 7 Round-Ups a week when the whole region gets into swing instead of one. This one starts with covering the action from Sunday August 21st across the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One Divisions their season kicking-off this weekend.

FAWPL Southern Division

Lewes Ladies are the side sitting proudly at the top of the FAWPL Southern Division after the opening round of fixtures this Sunday. At home at The Dripping Pan hosting West Ham United Ladies with former Brighton & Hove Albion WFC manager, James Marrs now in charge. The visitors looked to be in full control of the match as they stormed into a 2-0 lead inside 15 minutes, Katie Bottom and Whitney Locke with the goals. Danielle Lane pulled it back to 2-1 for Lewes on 21 minutes before Rachel Palmer found the back of the net from a free-kick outside the box. Game on a complete turn around as Kim Stenning struck to give Lewes a 3-2 lead, Palmer with her 2nd goal just before the half-time whistle a 4-2 lead for Lewes. The home side went on to extend their advantage in the 2nd half with Kelly Newton scoring on 48 minutes with both Lane and Stenning finding the back of the net for a 2nd time to see Lewes who spent most of last season in the bottom half of the Southern Division table, top looking down at the rest.

The FAWPL Southern Division could have a number of possible title contenders this season and one of the  favorites for the title are Charlton Athletic WFC, runners-up last season starting their campaign this season at home to newly promoted, Swindon Town Ladies. A convincing 4-0 win sees them pick up there 1st 3 points 2 goals scored in each half. Katie Flack getting there season rolling on 11 minutes, wasn’t long before striker Gemma Shepherd got in on the scoring opening her seasons tally on 17 minutes, forming a formidable attacking partnership with Kit Graham she had to wait until 9 minutes into the 2nd half to score her 1st goal of the season with Charley Clifford adding the 4th goal 20 minutes from time.

  Joining Lewes and Charlton with an opening day win in the Southern Division are, C&K Basildon Ladies as they begin their 2nd season in the league were at home at Canvey Island FC playing Portsmouth FC Women with Craig Taylor now managing the 1st team. Zoe Rushen is C&K Basildon Ladies new captain following the retirement of long serving Claire Lacey. Rushen got her clubs season started scoring to give them the lead at half-time, however it wasn’t until 3 minutes from time the 3 points were sealed Lily Mellors with the goal late on to see C&K Basildon earn the win final score 2-0.

 cc-bryan3 One more game at the weekend at the Bromley Arena as the other newly promoted side to the league, Crystal Palace Ladies took on last seasons FAWPL League Plate Winners, Coventry United Ladies. Unbeaten as they won the FAWPL South East Division One title last season, Crystal Palace Ladies got off to a flying start taking control of the game early on Gemma Bryan  (pictured right) was on hand to steer a Rochelle Shakes cross home inside opening 20 minutes. Slow to get started the visitors picked things up late in the 2nd half, Samantha Smith getting forwards from midfield to head home a Gina Burton cross on 37 minutes. 1-1 the score at half-time.

cc-smith  Coventry United Ladies had an opportunity early in the 2nd half to take the lead from the penalty spot  as Crystal Palace goalkeeper Chanelle Yardley brought down Alison Hall as she came to the edge of her area to clear the ball. Yardley made amends saving the spot kick guessing right diving to her right to grab hold of Marie Gauntlett’s shot. A spell of dominance followed for Crystal Palace in which they were to score again to take the lead, Bryan racing clear of the Coventry United defence to send the ball in off the post from outside the box. 20 minutes left and Smith was to add her 2nd goal of the game too taking aim from 30 yards out sending the ball arrowing into the top corner. That was to be the final score 2-2 the points shared on the opening day. This was were the Supporting Women’s Football Blog began the season and the full match report can be found on this website or by clicking on the link below

Crystal Palace Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

3 sides in the Southern Division sat the opening weekend out, Queens Park Rangers Ladies and Tottenham Hotspur Ladies along with Cardiff City Ladies who were due to play Forest Green Rovers Ladies who have sadly taken the tough decision to pull out of the league having lost alot of senior 1st team players and not wanting to expose a young squad to such a high level of football, wish the everyone involved at the club all the best for the future and hope to see them back soon.

FAWPL South East Division One

Was a full fixture list in the FAWPL South East Division One to start the opening weekend. Several sides in contention for the title and promotion in this league this season, no overall clear favourite and could well be a dark horse too. No easy game that is for certain. We’ll start with a local derby as Norwich City Ladies travelled over the Suffolk border to play Lowestoft Town Ladies at Crown Meadow. Chelsea Garrett got the visitors off to a fantastic start scoring on 7 minutes 2-0 was the score at the break Ebony Wiseman on target on 38 minutes. Norwich hammered home there advantage early on the 2nd half Ellen Swift with 2 goals on 50 and 58 minutes to make it 4-0. Lowestoft captain, Hannah Waters pulled a goal back for the home side with 20 minutes left. Norwich making it 5-1 in injury time with substitute Millie Bales bagging the goal. The +4 goal advantage seeing Norwich top of the league.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have strengthened their squad over the summer have a new 1st team manager too, James Honeyman. Started with an away trip to Denham United Ladies and got their season off to the perfect start taking all 3 points with a 3-0 win the goal scorers Leah Cudone, Kerry Newman and Charly Wright. Ipswich Town Ladies scored 3 goals on the opening day of the season too and still didn’t anything from the game as they travelled to one of the two sides newly promoted to the league, AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Natasha Thomas got Ipswich off to a great start scoring on 2 minutes held the lead for over half an hour before Wimbledon got themselves back level Laura Low scoring in the 35th minute 1-1 at half-time it as a crazy start to the 2nd half a minute on the clock Sian Wylie put Wimbledon into the lead. Ipswich responded immediately, Hollie Clement striking from distance to make it 2-2, 3 minutes later and Wimbledon  were back in front Jess Trimnell with the goal went on to add another on 75 to put Wimbledon 4-2 ahead. Samantha Walker scored on her debut for Ipswich with 5 minutes left however Wimbledon held on to record an opening day win playing their 1st FAWPL match.

 Stevenage Ladies are the other newly promoted side to the league were at home on the opening weekend taking on Enfield Town Ladies both sides with a new manager at the start of the season, Gary Bailey taking over at Stevenage with Marc Nurse formerly of West Ham United Ladies taking over the reigns at Enfield Town. It was the visitors who came away with the 3 points, Elizabeth Kent and Ellie Taladiana with the goals. Stevenage missed an opportunity to score from the penalty spot before, Rebecca Scola a 2nd half substitute scored late on for Stevenage Ladies having joined the club from Hoddesdon Town Ladies. Final score 2-1 to Enfield.

  2-1 was the winning margin for Actonians Ladies too, away from home taking on Cambridge United WFC at their new home for the 2016/17 season Mildenhall Town FC.  Cambridge started the brighter but were to fall behind as Actonians found the back of the net from a set-piece. Becky Taylor drew the scores back to 1-1 before the break scoring from a corner. The game was to see a long delay at half-time due to an injury to Actonians player Anais Escalona an ambulance called a stoppage off over an hour saw play resume at 4pm, Actonians going on to score the winning goal 7 minutes from time Jessica Byrne and Carla Williams the players on target for Actonians. Women’s Football East wishes Anais Escalona all the best and hope she makes a speedy and full recovery. One more game from the South East Division One between two of the sides who will be looking to chase down the title this season with Luton Town Ladies hosting Gillingham FC Ladies. After a goalless 1st half Luton were to get their noses in front at the start of the 2nd half, Dionne Manning making her debut for the club scoring the goal. The lead wasn’t to last long Gillingham equalising on 56 minutes, Felicity Gibbons having returned to the club after a spell with Brighton and WSL side Millwall Lionesses finding the back of the net. 1-1 the final score the points shared.  

Updated league tables, fixtures and results can be found throughout the site the new season has begun in earnest.

 

 

Women’s Football East to Sponsor Cambridge Utd WFC Duo

  Women’s Football East is pleased to announce that it is to sponsor Cambridge United WFC duo Emma Jenkins and Paige Logie for the upcoming 2016/17 season.

  It extends player sponsorship with the FAWPL South East Division One side into a 4th season since becoming involved with the club with Women’s Football East, coming after its sister site the Supporting Women’s Football Blog before. As founder of both and a keen supporter of the women’s game I have sponsored women’s football players for 5 seasons now and am pleased to continue to offer support in this way. Believe it is a positive and rewarding thing to do to show support and help a club and its individual players.

 This season Women’s Football East will be sponsoring two players from Cambridge United WFC, Emma Jenkins and Paige Logie.

 EmmaJenkins1

 

 

Sponsored Emma Jenkins last season too and am pleased to be able to do so again. An attack minded full-back with plenty of pace, likes to get forwards be involved when Cambridge attack. Marks well tracking back and doesn’t make it easy for anyone to get past her. 

 

paige1

 

 

 

 Striker Paige Logie joined Cambridge United WFC last season scoring 7 goals in 11 appearances which went along way to helping the club to achieve a record points haul and finish in the league. Strong on and off the ball often the foil through the middle of the attack.

 

 

 

Cambridge United WFC are looking to build on last seasons superb finish and get up amongst the promotion chasers and both players will be influential in helping them achieve that goal. Best of luck to Emma and Paige for the upcoming season. 

 

 

Match Report – Luton Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

 Latest match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, from Sun 3rd April

Match Report – Luton Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

   Sunday’s women’s football action comes from the Stockwood Park Athletics Stadium a match in the FAWPL South East Division One with Luton Town Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC.

  A clash between 4th and 5th in the FAWPL South East Division One table, both clubs enjoying a good league campaign. Luton Town Ladies got off to a flyer unbeaten in their opening 6 league fixtures and were in amongst the top 3 for a good part of the season have fallen out of the race for the title in recent weeks losing crucial games against the sides battling for promotion. Finished 4th last season on 27 points, have gathered 31 points so far this season and with 4 games left will want to push on. Made probably the best signing in the league at the start of the season bringing in Natasha Fensome from local rivals Bedford Ladies. Was one of the best players in the league during the 2014/15 season, a talent that wouldn’t look out of place in the FAWSL, a goal scoring midfielder/attacker has scored 22 goals in all competitions for Luton Town Ladies so far this season.

  Totally the opposite start to the season for Cambridge United WFC, got off to a poor start failing to win any of their opening 8 league matches, the turn around came in October holding league leaders Crystal Palace Ladies to a draw the club then went on a unbeaten 8 match run that included 6 wins to propel them up the league table, smashing their previous seasons 20 point tally along the way, up to 3rd at one point had played more than others around them that has seen them drop to 5th place as games are caught up. On 29 points with 4 games to go will be looking to finish in 4th place too.

  Both Luton Town Ladies and Cambridge United WFC have reached the finals of their respective County Cup competitions.

  The venue for today’s match the Stockwood Park Athletics Stadium situated on the Stoockwood County Park in Luton a multi-purpose facility a large open green space very busy on what was a bright and sunny start to April, 3rd time lucky at reaching the venue bad weather saw the fixture postponed earlier in the year and last season traffic stopped me on the A1 and had to divert but still managed to watch Sandy Ladies in action instead. Here at last the football pitch as you can imagine is in the centre of a running track, seating over looking one side the clubhouse in the corner, under the flight path of Luton Airport planes coming and going overhead. 

  Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Hollie Staples, Rachel Carter, Jessica McKay, Rachel Kosky, Michelle Byrne, Shannon Pratt, Nicola Henman, Zara Carroll, Shanice Jiminez (C), Natasha Fensome & Joanne Rutherford.
  subs – Erica Byron, Kezia Hassell, Samiara Khan, Tamera Bayne & Abbie Luby.

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Emma Jenkins, Lucy Du Plooy, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh Anne Burt, Tahnee Perfect, Hannah Goodchild, Laura Mills, Becky Taylor, Laura Baker & Paige Logie.
  subs – Carrie Bennett, Faith Hewitt & Isabella Simmons.

   It’s Luton to get the 1st half under way wearing orange shirts and socks with navy shorts. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and amber socks. 1st team goalkeeper Verity Crook was unavailable which gave Cambridge’s Reserve side goalkeeper, Tafadzwa Mhunduru a chance to start between the sticks.

  The ball goes out for a Cambridge throw early on, taken on their right the ball is played into Hannah Goodchild in the centre then sent on to Laura Baker, she looks to play the ball into the Luton area with Laura Mills making the run on the right wing, the pass a little heavy gives Luton goalkeeper, Hollie Staples an early touch of the ball.Cambridge come again as Tahnee Perfect tackles to win the ball back in the centre of midfield sends the ball out to Mills on the right, takes the ball on into the corner looking for room to cross, doesn’t get it as Luton left back Jessica McKay stays on her challenges and puts the ball out for a throw.

Coming down the other end Luton win themselves an free kick out on the right 22 yards out, have their captain Shanice Jiminez over the ball, sweeps it in along the face of the area, Rachel Kosky up from the back can’t quite get control of the ball to turn it back into the box, is knocked on for Natasha Fensome on the far side of the area, takes the ball into the area looking for a way round Cambridge right back Emma Jenkins, can’t find room the ball running out for a goal kick.

  Luton get the ball back in midfield play the pass out to Fensome on halfway looks to take on Jenkins, Laura Bright, Cambridge’s captain comes across to help the ball is put out for a corner kick. Played in from the left is a high delivery in swinging towards the far post, Cambridge goalkeeper, Mhunduru goes up for it doesn’t make contact drops down far post the pace takes it out far side before anyone can connect to turn in. McKay wins the ball back from Mills an sets up a rapid counter attack for Luton putting Fensome in down the left, travelling with the ball goes for the early strike long way out sending the ball across goal, Mhunduru dives however the shot is off target going out the far side. A few over zealous tackles are coming in the referee content for now to have a word.

Free kick for Cambridge on halfway, Bright over the ball, Lucy Du Plooy, Cambridge’s left back makes a run up the left side as Bright plays it long to Becky Taylor attacking from that side wins the header, knocks it down for Du Plooy then peels off the Luton defence to get in behind, gets the ball back and flashes a cross along the Luton six yard box, spinning out of play before anyone can arrive to send it in.

  Luton are putting pressure on the Cambridge back line whenever they have the ball their forwards, Fensome left, Jiminez right and Joanne Rutherford through the centre closing the ball down and forcing the error to regain possession, but as yet neither goalkeeper has been forced into making a save. Jiminez slices a shot well wide as she latches onto a header from Kayleigh Anne Burt at the back. Throw for Cambridge on half way the ball put into Perfect onto Taylor left plays it central into Baker up to Paige Logie who holds the ball up long enough for Taylor to make a run to get into the area, tries to play her in, Staples has sharp to it and 1st to the ball. 

Luton’s Zara Carroll with Cambridge’s Tahnee Perfect

Another rapid counter attack Luton work the ball down the other end of the pitch with speed, Zara Carroll onto Jiminez on the right, plays in the early cross sending the ball long to the far post with Fensome having covered alot of ground to get there turns the ball on target dropping inside the post, Mhunduru dives to her right and turns the ball around for a corner kick. Cambridge deal with the initial corner send the ball up to halfway.

   GOAL! No sooner have Cambridge got the ball away from their box from the corner Luton get hold of the ball and sending it back out to the left win themselves another corner. A great delivery swept in across the face of the goal is turned goalwards at the far post headed back in at close range the Cambridge defender covering the post blocks the effort but falling as they do so can’t stop the rebound as it is ends up in the back of the net, Nicola Henman with the headed ball at the far post claims the goal as Luton take the lead 1-0.

  Chance for Cambridge to get straight back on level terms, Perfect playing a great crossfield pass out to Mills on the right gives her a chance to get behind McKay who has offered her little opportunity so far in the match, a good cross fired along the six yard line Logie is there well placed in the centre of goal looks to get her head on the ball turn it wide of Staples, sends it wide at the far post too. Players square up to each other on the far side of the pitch as another strong challenge goes unpunished.

Pressing with the ball in the Luton half, Mills lays the ball into Baker on the right side of the area, she is closed down by  Rachel Carter, the central defender bringing the ball out and setting up a counter attack passing to Shannon Pratt, she has Fensome ahead of her coming inside, given the ball she is allowed to travel along way with the ball, has the option to shoot, instead looks for Rutherford peeling away on the left side of the area tries to pick her out, has strayed half a yard offside.

   GOAL! Another free kick is given away in the middle as Henman fouls Perfect on halfway. Bright delivers the ball long up the right channel looking for Taylor who is peeling round the defence the ball squeezes through players to get to her in behind tries to cross the ball is deflected behind for a corner kick. Mills to take from the left is a fantastic delivery in swinging towards the middle of goal high, Staples goes up for it gets a finger tips to it, not enough as it drops down at the far post where Bright is arriving to bundle the ball over the line get Cambridge back on level terms 1-1.

Michelle Byrne on the ball for Luton Town Ladies


 Michelle Byrne hasn’t had too many opportunities to break from right back for Luton in the game, bringing the ball on over halfway delivers a high ball into the box with both Rutherford and Fensome charging forwards to get into the area, going long Fensome goes up with Bright as both look to get there head on the ball hits one or the others shoulder drops down inside the six yard box, Rutherford gets a foot to the ball trying to get around Burt, can’t get a meaningful touch the ball is gathered by Mhunduru. 

Half-time Luton Town Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC

    Been a lively 1st half, play disrupted by a number of free kick, some robust challenges from Luton in particular but as yet the referee has been happy to keep his cards in his pocket. Luton have pressed the ball well and defending deep, Cambridge have found little opportunity to get in round the back. The full backs on both side having a busy game but for the large part winning the battle.
  Cambridge to kick off the 2nd half. Look for Mills wide right straight from kick off the ball runs long out for a goal kick. Luton play the ball out from the back, McKay sends the ball up the left for Fensome ahead of her, squares the ball early across the face of the area, catches Rutherford by surprise, improvises trying to side foot the ball on into the area, runs out of play on the right for a goal kick. Attacking down the right, Jiminez wins Luton a corner kick. The ball is delivered towards the near post area, Henman goes up for it getting her head on the ball lifts the shot over the crossbar. Fensome has taken up a higher attacking position joining Rutherford up top early in the 2nd half.
Luton Town Ladies, Jessica McKay
  Byrne on the right comes again for Luton up the pitch comes inside plays the ball on to Henman in the centre of the Cambridge half, looks to play the pass into Rutherford ahead of her back to goal, outside the area the striker is looking to hook the ball on into the area send it to her left, Bright is positioned well behind her to intercept the ball play it out into Goodchild to send long for Taylor on the left. Puts the cross into the area near side for Logie, good turn from the striker to deceive her marker, looks to play in Baker free on the edge of the area, the pass is short gives Carter a chance to get her foot on the ball 1st. 

   GOAL! Busy in the midfield, Henman gets hold of the ball bringing in on plays the pass out wide right to Jiminez, she looks to play the early cross in towards the face of the Cambridge area Rutherford and Fensome are inside the D, Rutherford plays a good dummy ducking under the ball letting it fall to Fensome beyond, the no 10 takes the ball on into the area, Jenkins is with her does her best to force her wide of goal as she takes the ball out to the right the angle against her Fensome still manages to get the shot away cutting the ball back across goal, going down Mhunduru gets a glove to the ball but isn’t enough to stop it rolling over the line2-1 Luton retake the lead.

Natasha Fensome with the goal
to put Luton 2-1 up

Free kick for Cambridge wide right, Baker to take 20 yards out, sends it into the area with good height and pace, it’s Carter who rises highest to head the ball clear for Luton. Cambridge make a change bringing off Perfect, sending on Isabella Simmons to join the attack.

   Mass brawl! It had been bubbling up the tackles hadn’t been stamped on by the referee players have been snapping at each other it boils over in the middle, Baker and Pratt go for each other pushing, then everyone else rushes in, ugly scenes totally unnecessary don’t want to see it. Goodchild joins in is shoved to the ground by Carroll, Bright ends up on the ground too, everyone’s there takes the referee a minute to sort it out, going to be repercussions as he talks to his officials, case of what stood out in the melee. Carroll and Goodchild are called over the latter receiving a yellow card, Carroll is shown a straight red as Luton are reduced to 10. Tensions are high all over the park.

  Back to the football. Jiminez goes down in the middle looked innocuous but she appears to be in some discomfort and needs to come off. Luton make the change sending on Erica Byron. Shouts for a penalty from Cambridge as Mills plays a long pass down the centre of the pitch for Logie whose touch places the ball out wide right for Simmons to attack entering the area Carter lunges for the ball, Simmons goes over the ball travels out to Byrne further right, Carter having gotten to it 1st. Byrne clears the ball up the line, Cambridge win it back send it long again Carter needs to keep watch for Simmons closing in Staples as she sets herself to claim the falling ball inside her box. Cambridge bring on Faith Hewitt for Goodchild the move seeing Logie drop into a deeper role.

   Jenkins looks to play the ball across the park pick out Taylor on the far side the ball is intercepted by Luton but knocked down into the path of Baker 25 yards out, looks to lob the ball high into the area, ends up lobbing it over. Cambridge build another attack down the right side Jenkins bringing it on passes into Simmons on the centre sends the ball out to Mills on the wing and turns to head in towards the area. Mills holding the ball up on the wing has Jenkins up with her 20 yards out gets the ball back turns and rolls it into Simmons ahead of her, takes on the shot inside the D with the outside of her boot sending it in on target, Staples is well placed to make the save.

Cambridge United WFC right back, Emma Jenkins

Less than 10 minutes left Cambridge are pushing forwards a free kick on the right put into the area by Baker, once again it’s one of the 2 Luton centre backs who get’s their head to the ball Kosky this time the ball put out of play for a corner. Mills plays the ball long towards the far post, Burt sees her shot blocked at close range. Still the risk of a Luton counter with Rutherford staying up top as Cambridge pile players forwards the home side defend well bodies behind the ball no space available behind. Send the ball long Burt can only get a glancing header on the ball carries through to Rutherford edge of the area, Jenkins gets across in front of her to win the ball prevent the shot.

   Cambridge can’t find a way back into the match late on as the referee blows the final whistle and Luton win2-1 to take all 3 points to open up a 5 point gap over Cambridge to consolidate 4th spot in the table with 3 league games left to play. A scrappy game, competitive shame tempers boiled over but with passionate and committed players on both sides always likely. Two sides that will feel they have the platform to kick on and aim higher. 
Speaking to Luton manager Nikki Baker after the match she certainly feels Luton have had opportunities this season to improve on last seasons 4th placed finish push for the top of the table.

   Good to have finally gotten this match in, thanks to both sides for their help with the teams as always.